Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezICPMS Library in the week of 16th February 2026? Check out new documents from the field of spectroscopy/spectrometry and related techniques!<blockquote>👉 <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library">SEARCH THE LARGEST REPOSITORY OF DOCUMENTS ABOUT SPECTROSCOPY/SPECTROMETRY RELATED TECHNIQUES</a></blockquote><blockquote>👉 Need info about different analytical techniques? Peek into <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/library">LabRulezLCMS</a> or <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library">LabRulezGCMS</a> libraries.</blockquote>This week we bring you application notes by Agilent Technologies, Metrohm, Shimadzu and Thermo Fisher Scientific!<h3>1. Agilent Technologies: Quality Assessment of Saffron by UV‑Vis Spectroscopy in Accordance with ISO 3632</h3>Integrated quantitative analysis using an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=Cary+3500+UV-Vis">Agilent Cary 3500 UV-Vis</a> and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=Cary+UV+Workstation">Cary UV Workstation</a><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_saffron_uv_vis_cary_5994_8611en_agilent_92d74b2cbd.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Saffron is the world's most expensive spice, with its price per gram dependent on quality, origin, and purity. It is renowned for its vibrant color and distinctive flavor—attributes that contribute significantly to its culinary appeal. However, saffron's high market value and limited production make it vulnerable to adulteration, quality degradation, and mislabeling, all of which pose a risk to consumer health, safety, and trust.&nbsp;Ultraviolet-Visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy is a rapid, reliable analytical technique suitable for assessing spice quality by quantifying bioactive molecular markers. In saffron, crocin is the carotenoid compound responsible for color intensity, picrocrocin is the primary bittering agent, and safranal is the key contributor to aroma.&nbsp;In this application note, we used an Agilent Cary 3500 UV-Vis spectrophotometer and Agilent Cary UV Workstation software to analyze a commercial saffron sample. The aim of the study was to grade the quality of the sample in accordance with ISO 3632-1:2025 and ISO 3632-2:2010 Spices — Saffron (Crocus&nbsp;sativus L.).1,2 These well-established industry standards provide specifications and test methods for the analysis of dried saffron, including filaments, cut filaments, and powder. The standardized test methods outlined in ISO&nbsp;3632-2 support the classification and quality evaluation of saffron. The methods relate to the determination of moisture and volatile matter content (clause 7), crushing and sieving of samples for tests (clause 10), and the determination of the main characteristics using a UV-Vis spectrometric method (clause 14). Based on these evaluations and the quality criteria defined in ISO 3632-1:2025, saffron samples can be categorized into four commercial grades: Extra Class (EC), I, II, and III, with EC indicating the highest quality. &nbsp;<h4>Experimental</h4><h5>Instrumentation&nbsp;</h5>The blank cuvette and aqueous extract of sample cuvette were loaded in the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=Cary+3500+UV-Vis">Agilent Cary 3500 Multicell UV-Vis</a> (Figure&nbsp;1), which was operated using the parameters listed in Table 1. The instrument is powered by a xenon flash lamp that requires no warmup time and enables a full spectrum scan to be collected in under a second. The lamp includes a 10-year replacement warranty, minimizing the frequency and cost of replacement. The Cary 3500's modular design approach enables the spectrophotometer series to be configured towards varying sampling flexibility and scalability needs. For single sample applications and laboratories with reduced bench-space, the Cary 3500 Compact UV-Vis allows a user to measure a single sample and reference in ambient or temperature-controlled configuration. This application can also be conducted on the Cary 3500 Flexible UV-Vis, which has a larger-sized compartment for liquid and solid sample measurements, and for use with accessories.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>The Agilent Cary 3500 Multicell UV-Vis spectrophotometer combined with <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=Cary+UV+Workstation">Agilent Cary UV Workstation software</a> provided precise quantification of color, taste, and aroma through the measurement of crocin, picrocrocin, and safranal compounds, respectively. The method supports the quality assessment of saffron in accordance with the ISO 3632 industry standard, enabling reliable grading of commercial samples while also flagging potential cases of adulteration, degradation, or mislabeling.&nbsp;The Cary 3500 UV-Vis uses a reliable, long-lasting xenon flash lamp that requires no warmup time, allowing immediate operation and acquisition of full spectral scans for blank and saffron samples in under a second. These capabilities support high-throughput analysis of spices through the precise measurement of compound-specific absorbance&nbsp;peaks.&nbsp;Using built-in spectral tools, automated calculations, and clear reporting features, the Cary UV Workstation significantly simplified the sampling-to-reporting workflow for saffron analysis. Customized calculations defined in ISO 3632 accelerate data processing and reduce calculation errors. The software also delivers results via a user-friendly interface, ideal for traceability.&nbsp;Together, the Cary 3500 UV-Vis and Cary UV Workstation delivered significant time-savings by minimizing time spent analyzing data and allowing more time for quality assurance of samples. The Cary 3500 system provides an efficient solution for the determination of the main characteristics saffron in accordance with clause 14 of ISO 3632-2:2010.<h3>2. Metrohm: Feed analysis with near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS)</h3>Simple, fast multiparameter determination of animal feed<ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_nir_127_download_b6b6969944.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Livestock production is a complex process involving many independent and integrated operations. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the foundations for successful livestock production are the availability of animal feed and efficient feeding. Quality control (QC) of feed and feed ingredients is crucial to ensure the production of safe and nutrient-rich animal feed. Typical QC parameters measured during the production of feed are fat, moisture, protein, fiber, ash, and starch. However, analyzing these parameters is usually done with wet chemistry, requiring different time-consuming procedures, complex analysis methods, and costly chemical reagents. Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) offers rapid and reliable prediction of fat, moisture, protein, fiber, ash, and starch content of different feed types in a few seconds without any sample preparation.<h4>EXPERIMENTAL EQUIPMENT</h4>Around 500 samples of feed (e.g., for poultry, swine, cattle, goats, and sheep) were analyzed on a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=56&amp;search=OMNIS+NIR">Metrohm NIR Analyzer</a>. All measurements were performed in reflection mode using the large cup. The samples were measured in rotation to collect spectral data from several areas. Spectral averaging of signals from various spots helped to reduce influences from sample inhomogeneity. Metrohm software was used for all data acquisition and prediction model development.<h4>CONCLUSION</h4>This Application Note demonstrates the feasibility to determine multiple key quality parameters of feed with NIRS analysis. Several analytical methods are usually required to measure starch, ash, fiber, protein, moisture, and fat in animal feed (Table 4). NIR feed analysis offers an easier alternative with high accuracy and real-time results.<h3>3. Shimadzu: Online TOC Measurement for Ultra-pure Water in Semiconductor Industries</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_01_01068_en_169a321574.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul><h4>User Benefits</h4><ul><li>Enables stable measurement of ultra-pure water with TOC concentrations below 1 μg/L.</li><li>The large color touch panel and compact body make operation easy.</li><li>The Active-Path structure, which integrates the lamp and sample flow path, enables high oxidation performance.</li></ul>The semiconductor manufacturing process involves various stages such as wafer production, film formation, photolithography, etching, and resist stripping, each of which involves cleaning steps. Even minimal contamination on the semiconductor surface can impact product quality and yield, making it crucial to effectively remove dirt and impurities during cleaning. For this reason, the purity of the cleaning water used in these cleaning processesis extremely important. The recent trend towards ever-smaller, higher-capacity semiconductors means that ultra-pure cleaning water, thoroughly free of organic and other impurities, has become essential.Typically, ultra-pure water is produced by first purifying tap or groundwater to produce pure water, and then further refining it into ultra-pure water. Impurities in water include organic and inorganic substances, particles, as well as microorganisms. Various methods, such as activated carbon filters, reverse osmosis (RO) membranes, ultraviolet lamps, and ion exchange resins, are used in combination to purify water into ultra-pure water.&nbsp;Maintaining the quality of ultra-pure water used for semiconductor cleaning is critical. The online TOC analyzer for ultra-pure water, TOC-1000e S (Fig. 1), enables highly sensitive TOC measurement with a detection limit of 0.02 μg/L using UV oxidation and conductivity measurement methods. This application presents the features and functions of the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=TOC1000e+S">TOC1000e S</a>, along with examples of online measurements of ultrapure water.<h4>Features of <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=TOC1000e+S">TOC-1000e S&nbsp;</a></h4>The TOC-1000e S is an ultra-compact device that can be installed on a tabletop, wall, or pole mount. The front panel features a large color touch panel that is highly visible even in dark environments, enabling easy operation. An excimer lamp (mercury-free) that emits high-energy ultraviolet light with a wavelength of 172 nm is used as the light source for the oxidation section. To ensure the oxidation of organic compounds, TOC-1000e S uses a unique structure called Active-Path, which integrates the excimer lamp and the sample flow channel. In a typical ultraviolet irradiation section, an air gap between the lamp and the sample flow channel results in inefficient ultraviolet light transmission and the generation of ozone within the device. However, in Active-Path, a sample flow path within the light-emitting part enables efficient irradiation of the sample with ultraviolet light while preventing ozone generation (Fig. 2).<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>TOC-1000e S enables the monitoring of TOC of ultra-pure water used in semiconductor manufacturing. The compact body and user-friendly interface assist usersin their routine operations.<h3>4. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Analyzing SiC/Co materials for radar absorption and EMI shielding using ARL X’TRA Companion XRD</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/sicco_materials_an41524_en_8ad5cc0d6f.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>SiC–Co composites represent a new class of engineered materials designed to combine dielectric and magnetic loss mechanisms for effective absorption of electromagnetic radiation. By dispersing cobalt or cobalt ferrite phases within a silicon carbide or SiOC matrix, these composites achieve tunable permittivity and permeability, enabling efficient impedance matching across radar and microwave frequencies. For defense and aerospace applications, where low radar cross section and stable electromagnetic shielding are critical, such composites are attractive because they also retain thermal and mechanical stability beyond the capabilities of polymer-based absorbers.&nbsp;X-ray diffraction (XRD) plays a central role in the development and quality control of these materials. It allows unambiguous identification of SiC polytypes that influence dielectric behavior, while simultaneously detecting cobalt, cobalt oxide, or ferrite phases that govern magnetic response. XRD quantification provides insight into crystalline-to-amorphous ratios, crystallite size, and micro strain directly linked to electromagnetic performance and high-temperature durability. By correlating phase composition with measured S-parameters, researchers can optimize absorber formulations and processing conditions to achieve reliable, broadband EMI shielding.<h4>Instrument &amp; software&nbsp;</h4>The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=3&amp;search=ARL%E2%84%A2+X%E2%80%99TRA+Companion">Thermo Scientific™ ARL™ X’TRA Companion X-Ray Diffractometer</a> (c.f. Figure 1) is a simple, easy-to-use benchtop instrument for routine phase analysis as well as more advanced applications. The ARL X’TRA Companion XRD uses a θ/θ goniometer (160 mm radius) in Bragg-Brentano geometry coupled with a 600 W X-ray source (Cu or Co). The radial and axial collimation of the beam is controlled by divergence and Soller slits, while air scattering is reduced by a variable beam knife. An integrated water chiller is available as an option. Thanks to the state-of-the art solid state pixel detector (55x55 μm pitch), the ARL X’TRA Companion XRD provides very fast data collection and comes with single-click Rietveld quantification capabilities and automated result transmission to a LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System) seamless integrated into Thermo Scientific™ SolstiX™ Pronto instrument control software.<h4>Your benefits&nbsp;</h4>The ARL X’TRA Companion XRD system delivers high-quality data in 10 minutes, enabling phase quantification, reliable identification of SiC polytypes, and advanced interpretation of anisotropic micro strain in Co. With the PONKCS method, the amorphous fraction can be quantified accurately. These structural insights directly link to physical properties such as dielectric–magnetic balance, EMI shielding efficiency, and radar absorption performance, providing a basis for fine-tuning materials to application needs.

News from LabRulezICPMS Library - Week 08, 2026

Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezICPMS Library in the week of 23rd February 2026? Check out new documents from the field of spectroscopy/spectrometry and related techniques!<blockquote>👉 <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library">SEARCH THE LARGEST REPOSITORY OF DOCUMENTS ABOUT SPECTROSCOPY/SPECTROMETRY RELATED TECHNIQUES</a></blockquote><blockquote>👉 Need info about different analytical techniques? Peek into <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/library">LabRulezLCMS</a> or <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library">LabRulezGCMS</a> libraries.</blockquote>This week we bring you application notes by Agilent Technologies, Metrohm, Shimadzu and Thermo Fisher Scientific!<h3>1. Agilent Technologies: UV-Vis Spectroscopy for Quality Assessment of Paprika as per ASTA Method 20.1</h3>From sample prep to analysis using the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=Cary+3500">Agilent Cary 3500 Multicell UV-Vis</a><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_paprika_uv_vis_cary_5994_8612en_agilent_d903914b39.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Paprika is a widely used spice valued for its deep red color and characteristic flavor, contributing to its prominence in both culinary and commercial applications. As a high‑demand commodity produced from dried capsicum pods, paprika is subject to quality variation and adulteration, which can compromise product authenticity, consumer trust, and regulatory compliance. UV-Visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy is a rapid, reproducible analytical technique for evaluating paprika quality by quantifying pigment concentration. In paprika, color intensity primarily arises from carotenoid compounds, and is commonly assessed using the ASTA Method 20.11 – a well-established industry standard that commercially grades paprika samples as a numerical ASTA color value.In this application note, we used an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=Cary+3500">Agilent Cary 3500 Multicell UV-Vis spectrophotometer</a> and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=UV+Workstation+software">Agilent Cary UV Workstation software</a> to determine the ASTA color value of two commercial paprika samples. The measurements were performed in accordance with ASTA Method 20.1 for the determination of extractable color in capsicums and their&nbsp;oleoresins.<h4>Results and discussion</h4><h5>Paprika samples' analysis&nbsp;</h5>ASTA Method 20.1 measures the color intensity of paprika by extracting pigments with acetone and recording absorbance at 460 nm. The absorbance reading, along with sample weight is then used to calculate the ASTA color value. The ASTA color value is a crucial quality parameter for paprika and other spices, as it indicates the intensity and vibrancy of the red color, which is a key characteristic for consumers and food manufacturers. In this study, the two extracted paprika samples were each measured three times to produce triplicate results (Table 4). Sample 1 had a corrected ASTA color value of approximately 103, and sample 2 had a corrected ASTA color value of approximately 61, indicating a lower color intensity. The corrected ASTA color value was automatically generated in an easy-to-read table of values, and a scan report was automatically exported into a user-defined location.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>The Agilent Cary 3500 Multicell UV-Vis spectrophotometer with Agilent Cary UV Workstation software enabled fast, reliable, and standardized quality assessment of paprika samples. Using the well-established industry method, ASTA 20.1, the Cary 3500 system provided precise quantification of carotenoid pigments, supporting grading categorization. The high-throughput multicell design of the Cary 3500 Multicell UV-Vis spectrophotometer allows simultaneous measurement of up to seven samples and a reference, improving efficiency and minimizing variability. The Cary UV Workstation software simplifies data acquisition and analysis with intuitive spectral features such as the End of sequence analysis tool, which can be applied automatically to any scan method, and spectra comparisons through the Load spectrum tool. From sample absorbance measurement to final reporting, the Cary 3500 system eliminated the need for manual data processing or external tools, minimizing complexity and facilitating confidence.<h3>2. Metrohm: NIRS analysis of forages</h3>Multiparameter determination in a few seconds<ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_nir_131_download_2f897ff7f5.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Forages are plants or parts of plants eaten by both livestock and wildlife. Forages provide bulk, help with weight maintenance, and combat several issues [1]. Alfalfa forage is high in protein—well-suited to promote muscle mass in beef cattle or to increase the production of dairy cows [2]. Alfalfa is also commonly used for horse feed. These animals require forages with good palatability along with high digestibility, intake potential, and protein levels, thus increasing the demand for alfalfa and other high-quality feeds. Farmers have responded by producing even higherquality alfalfa in recent years. Since forage quality depends on chemical, biological, and dynamic properties, both measured and calculated methods must be used. Standard alfalfa assays measure neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), crude protein (CP), ash, moisture, and protein. For alfalfa pellets, the mean particle size is also important. Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) offers rapid and reliable prediction of fat, moisture, crude protein, fiber, ash and starch in a few seconds and without sample preparation.<h4>EXPERIMENTAL EQUIPMENT</h4>Samples of alfalfa (including fresh alfalfa, alfalfa pellets, and alfalfa cubes) were analyzed on a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=220&amp;search=NIR+Analyzer">Metrohm NIR Analyzer</a>. All measurements were performed in reflection mode using the large cup. The samples were measured in rotation to collect spectral data from several areas. Spectral averaging of signals from several spots helped to reduce sample inhomogeneity. The reference values were measured according to ISO norms described at the end of this Application Note. Metrohm software was used for all data acquisition and prediction model development.<h4>CONCLUSION&nbsp;</h4>This Application Note demonstrates the feasibility to determine multiple key parameters of alfalfa forage with NIR spectroscopy. Several analytical methods are usually required to measure key quality parameters for forage (Table 4). NIRS forage analysis enables a highly accurate, cost-effective, and fast alternative.<h3>3. Shimadzu: Analysis of Heavy Metals in Baby Food Using ICP-MS</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_01_01039_en_c563bb1b82.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul><h4>User Benefits</h4><ul><li>Heavy metals in various baby foods can be analyzed simultaneously with sufficient sensitivity.</li><li>Stable analysis can be performed even for baby foods with high matrix content.</li><li>Using the standard LabSolutions ICPMS rinse function, the time to clean the sample introduction system is minimized, which prevents carryover.</li></ul>Infants’ metabolic pathways are still developing, and because of their lower body weight, they are known to be more susceptible to the effects of harmful substances. In the United States, the Baby Food Safety Act 20211), and in the EU, Commission Regulation (EU) 2023/9152) and Commission Regulation (EU) 2024/19873) require the control of toxic metals contained in baby foods. ICP-MS is suitable for the analysis of trace amounts of toxic metal elements because it can perform multi-element simultaneous analysis with high sensitivity.However, baby foods vary in matrix composition, which raises concerns about non-spectral interferences and long-term stability during ICP-MS analysis. This Application News describes the analysis of five baby foods with different matrices using the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=ICPMS-2040%2F2050">ICPMS-2040/2050</a> (Fig. 1). Additionally, spike recovery tests and long-term stability were assessed based on the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Elemental Analysis Manual (EAM) Section 4.74).<h4>Equipment Configuration and Analysis Conditions&nbsp;</h4>The equipment configuration is shown in Table 2. To reduce running costs, a mini-torch with lower argon gas consumption compared to conventional torches was used for analysis. Additionally, to streamline sample preparation, an Online Internal Standard Kit was utilized for online addition.&nbsp;The analysis conditions are detailed in Table 3. After analyzing high-concentration samples, the sample introduction system can influence the analysis values of subsequent samples (carryover). If carryover occurs, re-measurement is necessary, which consumes additional time and samples. With LabSolutions ICPMS, rinse solutions can be set for each sample, enabling effective cleaning in minimal time. Normal cleaning was performed using pure water (Rinse solution 1), and an additional acid rinse solution (Rinse solution 2) was introduced only after high-concentration samples.For example, Table 4 shows the difference in carryover concentration when measuring a blank sample after introducing a sample with a CCV concentration, comparing the case where rinse solution 2 is added for an additional 240 seconds to the case where it is not. Among the elements measured this time, Se and Hg tend to have a higher risk of carryover, but by introducing rinse solution 2, carryover was reduced to below the detection limit. Moreover, even if unexpectedly high-concentration samples are introduced, the Extended Rinsing function allows for automatic additional rinsing (Fig. 3). This eliminates the need to repeatedly check analysis values or to set a uniform cleaning time uniformly, thus reducing the verification effort, the amount of rinse solution required, and the analysis time while preventing carryover.&nbsp;Furthermore, to minimize time spent cleaning the sample introduction system, ProActive Rinsing was used (Fig. 4). When measuring multiple samples, starting the rinse in advance during measurement reduces the measurement time for subsequentsamples.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>In this Application News, elemental analysis of baby food was conducted using the ICPMS-2040/2050. We achieved detection limits that met stringent standards. The spike recovery tests yielded good results for all samples with different matrices, confirming the validity of the analysis. Additionally, we analyzed 50 samples of infant formula with a high matrix over approximately six hours and confirmed good stability. The ICPMS-2040/2050 offers high sensitivity, accurate analysis, and good stability. Its Extended Rinsing and ProActive Rinsing functions effectively clean the sample introduction system, preventing carryover. Therefore, the ICPMS-2040/2050 is a suitable instrument for elemental analysis in baby food.<h3>4. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Food protection methods assessed by Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/food_protection_methods_surface_enhanced_raman_spectroscopy_an54670_en_5c5e701389.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Lipid oxidation is a major issue for the meat industry as it can not only affect&nbsp;sensory quality in terms of flavor and odor but can also lead to the formation of toxic compounds such as malondialdehyde (MDA) and cholesterol oxidation products, as well as the accumulation of carbonyls, alcohols and volatile acids. The degree of oxidation depends on various factors such as the type of meat, the fat content, the storage temperature, the availability of oxygen and the type of packaging1, 2. To prevent oxidation, synthetic antioxidants are commonly added to meat products, but consumers are now demanding more natural products3. Several studies have been carried out to evaluate the antioxidant activity of many essential oils or extracts from plants or spices such as rosemary, cinnamon or oregano, and the new trend is to develop innovative packaging by adding these natural antioxidants directly to the packaging materials4–6. These materials, often films, are known as “active packaging” because they enable the controlled release of active agents either on the surface or in the internal atmosphere of the product, or by trapping the radicals responsible for harmful effects on food quality. However, the antioxidant performance of these films must be accurately determined to enable the selection of the right packaging for each foodstuff.&nbsp;Among all the techniques available, Raman spectroscopy is a promising candidate for detecting most molecular species with high specificity and sensitivity, particularly in the presence of Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS). Indeed, SERS is a physical phenomenon that occurs in the presence of a rough nano-structured metallic surface that causes the intensification of Raman signals from molecules adsorbed to the surface thanks to the combination of a chemical effect and an electromagnetic effect7 . The metals used are generally gold or silver, which can be prepared by electrochemical roughening, metallic coating, or deposition of nanoparticles (often in a colloidal form). Commercial solutions are available, but many researchers prefer to create their own SERS substrates. The scope of this work is to investigate the potential of a home-made SERS substrate to compare the lipid oxidation over time in ground pork preserved either in a low-density polyethylene (LDPE) conventional packaging or in an active packaging containing oregano extract.<h4>Material and method&nbsp;</h4>Fresh ground pork meat was purchased in bulk from a local supermarket and 22 g samples of meat were placed in 5-cm diameter polystyrene Petri dishes. Each sample was covered with an active film and packed in an LDPE bag under a normal atmosphere. Reference samples were also prepared using conventional LDPE films. All samples were stored in a refrigerator at 5 °C and their lipid extracts were analyzed after 0, 7, 9, 11, 14 and 16 days using a home-made SERS substrate based on silver nanoparticles deposited on a glass Petri dish. A special home-made cooling system was used to perform the analyses at low temperature and SERS spectra were measured at -2 °C on a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/2239">Thermo Scientific™ DXR3 Raman Microscope</a> (Waltham, MA, USA) with a 532 nm laser source, a 900 lines/mm grating covering the 50-3500 cm-1 spectral range and an x10 objective (NA 0.40). The laser power was set at 5&nbsp;mW, and 20 exposures of 30 s each were selected to acquire all data. Thermo Scientific™ OMNIC™ v. 9.2 software was used for data collection and analysis. All the measurements were performed in triplicate. As the decrease in the peak at 1655&nbsp;cm-1 (stretching of C=C bonds from unsaturation) can be attributed to lipid peroxidation, and the 1439 cm-1 (scissoring deformation of CH2) is not affected by it, the area ratio between 1655 cm-1 and 1439 cm-1 bands was calculated to follow the lipid oxidation.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>The effectiveness of a home-made SERS substrate coupled with a home-made cooling system was demonstrated for monitoring lipid oxidation in packaged ground pork meat over time. The advantages of this technique are its speed and the minimal sample handling requirements. An improvement factor of the order of 107 over conventional Raman was observed. This study also confirmed the greater efficacy of active packaging containing oregano extracts against lipid oxidation in ground pork, compared to conventional LDPE packaging.

News from LabRulezICPMS Library - Week 09, 2026

Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezICPMS Library in the week of 27th April 2026? Check out new documents from the field of spectroscopy/spectrometry and related techniques!<blockquote>👉 <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library">SEARCH THE LARGEST REPOSITORY OF DOCUMENTS ABOUT SPECTROSCOPY/SPECTROMETRY RELATED TECHNIQUES</a></blockquote><blockquote>👉 Need info about different analytical techniques? Peek into <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/library">LabRulezLCMS</a> or <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library">LabRulezGCMS</a> libraries.</blockquote>This week we bring you application notes by Agilent Technologies, LECO, Shimadzu, and Thermo Fisher Scientific!<h3>1. Agilent Technologies: Ethanol Impurity Analysis Using the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=Cary+3500">Agilent Cary 3500 Flexible UV-Vis Spectrophotometer</a></h3>The use of long-path-length cells in pharmaceutical QC<ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_ethanol_impurity_analysis_cary_3500_flexible_uv_vis_5994_9041en_agilent_3980fa0dc8.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy is a rapid, sensitive, and nondestructive test widely used in the pharmaceutical industry for quality control (QC). This method typically involves using a standard 10 mm path length cuvette to measure absorbance of materials, which can then be used in QC labs to quantify or qualify an analyte of interest.&nbsp;In UV-Vis measurements, the photometric response of the spectrophotometer follows the Beer‑Lambert law, where a linear relationship exists between the sample absorbance and sample path length. The path length is the distance that the incident light travels through a sample. Increasing the cuvette path length from 10 to 50 mm increases the absorbance of a sample, aiding in more accurate quantification of components with low peak intensity. Alternatively, if the sample concentration is high and exceeds the linear dynamic detection range of the system, a cuvette with a shorter path length can be used instead.1In the pharmaceutical industry, ethanol is widely used in manufacturing as a disinfectant, solvent, and preservative. Due to its amphipathic structure, ethanol can dissolve both hydrophilic and lipophilic substances, serving as a medium to dissolve key components for a broad spectrum of drug formulations. The dual nature of ethanol also allows it to inhibit microbial growth by disrupting cellular membranes and denaturing proteins, processes that are vital for disinfection and the preservation of&nbsp;medications.2&nbsp;As a result, ethanol used in pharmaceutical manufacturing must comply with pharmacopeia standards to ensure drug safety, efficacy, and quality. The United States Pharmacopeia (USP)3, European Pharmacopoeia (EP)4, and Japanese Pharmacopoeia (JP)5 all specify using an ultraviolet absorption test to measure impurities in ethanol at designated wavelengths (Table 1). In this test, the absorption spectrum should show a steadily descending curve with no observable peaks or shoulders, which serve as qualitative indicators of impurities present in the sample. Since the impurities have low absorbance levels, the USP, EP, and JP require the use of a 50 mm cell to improve sensitivity and detection levels.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=Cary+3500">Agilent Cary 3500 Flexible UV-Vis spectrophotometer</a> with variable-path-length cell holder demonstrates exceptional performance in the measurement of ethanol impurities according to global pharmacopeia standards. This underscores the system's suitability for pharmaceutical‑grade quality control. Combined with Agilent Cary UV Workstation software and a 10-year xenon flash lamp replacement warranty, this system delivers a user-friendly interface and global pharmacopeia-compliant hardware (USP, EP, JP), providing long‑term stability and low maintenance. Optimized workflows enable precise, routine photometric quality checks to ensure products are in compliance with pharmaceutical-grade standards.<h3>2. LECO: Determination of Nitrogen/Protein in Whey and Powdered Dairy Products</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/FP_928_NITROGEN_PROTEIN_WHEY_POWDERED_DAIRY_203_821_671_1ecb5b0d95.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Two of the main types of proteins in milk are casein and whey. Whey protein is a co-product of cheese production and represents the water-soluble protein remaining in the solution after the milk has been acidified or a coagulation agent has been added. The removal of the non-soluble casein protein portion is referred to as curds. Whey protein is a common ingredient in many dietary supplements due to its availability, solubility, and unique functional characteristics.&nbsp;The accurate and precise determination of protein in whey and powdered dairy products not only plays a role in the characterization of nutritional or dietary value in dairy products, but may also be key in determining the quality or category of the dairy product. Protein in whey and other dairy products is most commonly calculated using the measured Nitrogen in the sample and a protein factor multiplier (protein factors vary according to the sample matrix).<h4>Instrument Model and Configuration&nbsp;</h4>The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1885">LECO FP928</a> is a macro combustion Nitrogen/Protein determinator that utilizes a pure Oxygen environment in a high-temperature horizontal ceramic combustion furnace, utilizing ceramic boats designed to handle macro sample masses (~ 1.0 g). A thermoelectric cooler removes moisture from the combustion gases before they are collected in a ballast. The gases equilibrate and mix in the ballast before a representative aliquot (3 cm3 or 10 cm3 volume) of the gas is extracted and introduced into a flowing stream of inert carrier gas (Helium or Argon) for analysis. The aliquot of gas is carried through a heated reduction tube, filled with Copper, to convert Nitrogen Oxide combustion gas species (NOx) to Nitrogen (N2). The aliquot gas is then carried to a thermal conductivity cell (TC) for the detection of Nitrogen (N2).&nbsp;Thermal conductivity detectors work by detecting changes in the thermal conductivity of the analyte gas compared to a reference/carrier gas. The greater the difference between the thermal conductivity of the carrier gas and the analyte gas, the greater the sensitivity of the detector. The FP928 supports either the use of Helium or Argon as the instrument's carrier gas. When used as a carrier gas, Helium provides the highest sensitivity, and the best performance at the lower limit of the Nitrogen range. The thermal conductivity difference between Argon and Nitrogen is not as great as the thermal conductivity difference between Helium and Nitrogen; therefore, the detector is inherently less sensitive when using Argon as a carrier gas.<h4>TYPICAL RESULTS&nbsp;</h4>Data was generated utilizing a linear, force through origin calibration using ~0.75 g of LECO 502-896 (Lot 1007) LCRM EDTA (9.59% N). The calibration was verified using ~0.1 g of LECO 502-688 (Lot 1004) LCRM Nicotinic Acid (11.37% N). Samples were weighed and analyzed at ~0.5 grams. A protein † factor of 6.38 was used for all samples to calculate the protein content.<h3>3. Shimadzu: High-Temperature Gigacycle Fatigue Test of Inconel 718 and Element Distribution Measurement on a Fracture Surface</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_01_01082_en_37d9ba3a1a.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul><h4>User Benefits</h4><ul><li>Fatigue testing at 20 kHz can be performed using an ultrasonic fatigue testing machine, and 109 cycle fatigue tests can be completed in about 14 hours.</li><li>High-temperature fatigue tests can be performed by using a combination of an ultrasonic fatigue testing system and an induction heating furnace.</li><li>The origins of fatigue fractures and inclusions can be identified by observations and element distribution measurements using an electron probe microanalyzer.</li></ul>Inconel 718 has excellent heat and corrosion resistance and high strength. Its mechanical properties can be maintained even under high-temperature environments, which is why it is used in harsh environments, such as in the jet engines and turbine blades in the aerospace industry, and in gas turbines and nuclear power plant parts in the energy industry. In these applications, long-term reliability is crucial, making fatigue testing essential. However, this can be time-consuming; for example, gigacycle fatigue testing exceeding 109 cycles takes three to four months at a frequency of 100 Hz when using a conventional fatigue testing machine. But with the USF-2000A ultrasonic fatigue testing system, tests performed at a frequency of 20 kHz can be completed in approximately 14 hours.&nbsp;This article describes using the USF-2000A to perform gigacycle fatigue tests on Inconel 718 at 600 °C. In addition, the EPMA8050G, which is an electron probe microanalyzer (EPMA ), was used to observe the fatigue fracture surfaces and measure the element distribution.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>Gigacycle fatigue tests were performed on Inconel 718 at 600 °C, using the USF-2000A ultrasonic fatigue testing system. Good results were obtained since the number of cycles to fractures fell in the range 106 to 109 for their respective loading conditions. The EPMA-8050G electron probe microanalyzer was used to perform elemental mapping analysis of fractures originating from inclusions, and the elements of the inclusions were identified.<h3>4. Thermo Fisher Scientific: XPS depth profiling of coated nitrided steel using femtosecond laser ablation</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/xps_depth_profiling_coated_nitrided_steel_appnote_d19841e6c9.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) is a powerful surface analysis technique that provides essential information about elemental composition along with chemical and electronic states. Depth profiling, a process in which material is repeatedly and sequentially analyzed with XPS and removed, provides access to buried features, layers, and interfaces. Traditional ion sputtering methods for depth profiling can, however, lead to preferential sputtering and chemical damage, impacting the reliability and accuracy of results. This is particularly problematic for complex, multi-layered structures and coatings, where it is crucial for the stoichiometry and chemical integrity to be maintained throughout the depth profile.&nbsp;This application note explores the use of femtosecond laser ablation (fs-LA) as an alternative to conventional ion sputtering for XPS depth profiling. Specifically, this approach is used to analyze a nitrided steel surface coated with a titanium-doped molybdenum disulfide (MoS₂:Ti) layer, which was applied with physical vapor deposition (PVD). Nitriding is typically used in applications where durability is critical, such as in the production of gears, as it increases surface hardness and wear resistance. The addition of a MoS₂:Ti coating offers additional benefits such as enhanced lubrication and wear resistance. Molybdenum disulfide is well-known for its lubricating properties, and doping with titanium improves mechanical strength and adhesion to the substrate. Accurate depth profiling is essential for unraveling how these structures increase performance and for their further optimization and improvement.<h4>Experimental</h4>A <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/2206">Thermo Scientific™ Hypulse™ Surface Analysis System,</a> equipped with both traditional ion sputtering and fs-LA capabilities, was utilized for the analysis. XPS data was collected in SnapShot mode using a 30 µm X-ray spot size. A 500 eV monoatomic Ar⁺ beam from a Thermo Scientific™ MAGCIS™ Dual Beam Ion Source was used for sputter depth profiling. The fs-LA depth profiles were generated using a 1,030-nm laser operating at a 160 fs pulse length. The pulse energy was increased from 83 µJ to 250 µJ when transitioning from the MoS₂:Ti coating into the bulk steel material.<h4>Summary&nbsp;</h4>XPS depth profiling with femtosecond laser ablation offers a robust alternative to traditional ion sputtering, particularly for materials sensitive to preferential sputtering and chemical damage. The technique provides accurate stoichiometric analysis and preserves chemical state information, making it ideal for complex, multi-layered structures with deeply buried interfaces. The fs-LA method can offer comparable depth resolution to ion sputtering while being able to profile greater depths in a fraction of the time.&nbsp;This application note demonstrates the effectiveness of fs-LA in maintaining the chemical integrity of a nitrided steel material with a MoS₂:Ti coating throughout a depth profile, providing accurate and reliable results in a practical timeframe.

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