Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezICPMS Library in the week of 19th January 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 and Shimadzu and brochure by Thermo Fisher Scientific!<h3>1. Agilent Technologies: ICP-OES Analysis of Copper Recovered from Li-Ion Batteries for Foil Manufacturing</h3>Automated characterization of materials for battery remanufacturing using the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=5800+VDV+ICP-OES">Agilent 5800 ICP-OES</a><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_copper_recycled_batteries_5800_icp_oes_5994_8850en_agilent_1318ecdd02.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>The main goal of lithium-ion battery (LIB) recycling is to recover essential elements so they can be reused in the production of new batteries.1 This cyclic process not only reduces waste and environmental impact but also helps lower manufacturing costs and supports the growing demand for battery materials.The key elements recovered during LIB recycling include lithium (Li), manganese (Mn), cobalt (Co), and nickel (Ni), which are used in cathode production, as well as copper (Cu), which is critical for making Cu foil.&nbsp;On average, LIBs contain around 10–15% Cu by weight, making it an ideal metal for recovery. During remanufacturing, the recycled Cu is dissolved in sulfuric acid (H2SO4) to produce an aqueous copper sulfate solution (CuSO4), commonly referred to as a Cu electrolyte. Once this solution reaches the desired concentration, Cu is electroplated to produce high-purity Cu foil.2 After Cu removal, the remaining electrolyte still contains valuable metals, such as Co, Ni, and Li, which can also be recovered and refined for reuse. The process is summarized in Figure 1.In this study, a fully integrated system comprising the Agilent 5800 VDV ICP-OES, Advanced Valve System (AVS 7), Advanced Dilution System (ADS 2), SPS 4 autosampler, and instrument software was used to quantify 23 elements in three real-word recycled copper electrolyte samples. The elements included: aluminum (Al), antimony (Sb), arsenic (As), bismuth (Bi), cadmium (Cd), calcium (Ca), chromium (Cr), Co, Cu, iron (Fe), lead (Pb), Li, magnesium (Mg), manganese (Mn), sodium (Na), Ni, phosphorus (P), selenium (Se), silicon (Si), silver (Ag), tin (Sn), potassium (K), zinc (Zn).&nbsp;The copper electrolyte samples were analyzed as received. The method’s accuracy, robustness, and stability were assessed via a spike-recovery test on actual samples and a five-hour long-term stability test of 187 samples.<h4>Experimental&nbsp;</h4><h5>Instrumentation&nbsp;</h5>All measurements were performed using an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=5800+VDV+ICP-OES">Agilent 5800 VDV ICP-OES</a> configured with an AVS 7 switching valve, ADS 2 autodilutor, and SPS 4 autosampler (Figure 2). Combined with Agilent ICP Expert Pro software, these components represent the Agilent ICP-OES Automation System. The sample introduction system consisted of a SeaSpray nebulizer, double-pass cyclonic spray chamber, argon humidifier accessory, and Agilent semi-demountable VDV torch with a 1.8 mm internal diameter (id) injector.&nbsp;An internal standard (IS) solution comprising 5 mg/L scandium (Sc) and 100 mg/L rubidium (Rb) was prepared in 3% H2 SO4 using Agilent single element standard solutions. The ISs were used to account for any matrix effects that may arise from the sample matrix. The seven-port AVS system enables the IS solution to be directly plumbed into the valve so it can be introduced with the sample.<h4>Method development&nbsp;</h4><h5>IntelliQuant Screening&nbsp;</h5>As part of the ICP Expert Pro software, the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=IntelliQuant">IntelliQuant Screening</a> routine can be used to collect full-spectrum data of a sample, requiring only a few seconds analysis time and with little input from the analyst.9 The IntelliQuant algorithm then processes the full-spectrum data against premeasured calibrations, generating a semiquantitative reading for every element present in the sample.IntelliQuant Screening was used in this study during method development to determine the approximate concentration of elements in the three Cu electrolyte samples. The data informed the selection of the calibration range, internal standards, and emission lines best suited for accurate quantitative analysis.&nbsp;The software can display the data in various ways, including as a periodic table heatmap or pie chart. Figure 4A shows a pie chart of the elemental composition of the Cu electrolyte 3 sample. As expected, Cu and S were the predominant elements. To better understand the trace components of the sample, Cu and S were excluded from the graphic, revealing the presence of additional elements such as Na, Ca, Fe, Li, Si and Ni, among others (Figure 4B).Yttrium (Y), a widely used internal standard, was detected in the sample (Figure 4C). This guided the selection of Sc and Rb as internal standards.&nbsp;The IntelliQuant star rating system further supported method development by recommending optimal emission lines and identifying potential spectral interferences. For instance, in this sample, the Zn 213 and Zn 202 nm lines were affected by interferences from Fe and Cu, and Cu, respectively (Figure 4D). Based on this valuable information, Zn 206 nm was selected as the most suitable line for the quantitative method.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>The Agilent ICP-OES Automation System—a combination of the Agilent 5800 VDV ICP-OES with the AVS 7 switching valve, ADS 2 autodilutor, SPS 4 autosampler, and ICP Expert Pro software—provides a powerful solution for elemental analysis in lithium battery recycling and copper foil remanufacturing. The system delivered accurate, precise, and reproducible results across a wide concentration range, even in challenging high-matrix copper electrolyte samples. Automated prescriptive and reactive dilutions minimized manual sample handling, reduced errors, and ensured that all analytes were reliably quantified within calibration limits.&nbsp;Spike recovery and long-term stability tests further demonstrated the robustness of the method, with recoveries within 100 ±5% and precision better than 1.3% RSD over five hours of continuous operation. These results confirm that the ICP-OES Automation System not only streamlines sample preparation and analysis but also enhances laboratory productivity, data quality, and confidence in results.&nbsp;By simplifying the analysis of complex matrices while maintaining accuracy and throughput, the system enables laboratories in the energy and chemicals sector to efficiently support the recovery and reuse of critical elements from lithium-ion batteries, contributing to sustainable battery manufacturing.<h3>2. Metrohm: Paprika powder analysis with NIR spectroscopy</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_nir_134_download_9720122671.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Paprika powder is a common cooking spice. The bright red color makes paprika powder an ideal natural colorant in seasonings, sauces, confectionary products, processed cheeses, etc. Its quality is directly associated with the presence and proportions of flavoring, coloring, and pungent compounds. Paprika's pungency is primarily attributed to capsaicinoids. Capsaicin accounts for ~71% of the total capsaicinoids in the most pungent paprika varieties [1].Spiciness is measured using the Scoville Heat Unit (SHU) scale (sweet paprikas &lt;500 SHU, hot paprikas 2500–8000 SHU). The color is determined according to the American Spice Trade Association (ASTA) [2]. In this study, quality parameters including the capsaicin content, ASTA color, SHU, water activity (aw), and ash content were measured simultaneously in paprika powder samples using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS).<h4>EXPERIMENTAL EQUIPMENT&nbsp;</h4>Paprika samples were measured using a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=220&amp;search=NIR+Analyzer">Metrohm NIR Analyzer</a>. No sample preparation nor solvents were required. All measurements were performed in reflection mode (1000–2250 nm) using the large cup accessory. The samples were measured in rotation to collect spectral data from several areas. Spectral averaging of signals from different spots helped to reduce sample inhomogeneity. Metrohm software was used for all data acquisition and prediction model development.<h4>CONCLUSION&nbsp;</h4>This Application Note displays the benefits of analyzing paprika powder with NIR spectroscopy. NIRS allows all the mentioned quality parameters (i.e., capsaicin content, ASTA color, SHU, water activity (aw ), and ash content) to be measured simultaneously in only a few seconds. Measurements performed with NIR spectroscopy do not need any sample preparation nor solvents, unlike other conventional analytical methods (Table 1). This ultimately leads to a reduction in workload and related costs, and also keeps lab personnel safer.<h3>3. Shimadzu: Torsional and Pinching Dynamic Characteristics Testing of Rubber Vibration Isolators [JIS K6385]</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_01_01035_en_164ff9c18a.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul><h4>User Benefits</h4><ul><li>Dynamic characteristic tests based on JIS K6385 can be performed.</li><li>Frequency sweep tests automatically measure dynamic characteristic values at each frequency.&nbsp;</li><li>Tests in both torsional and pinching directions can be performed simply by changing the jig.</li></ul>Rubber vibration isolators are a product designed to prevent or mitigate the transmission of vibration and shock and are widely used in various fields such as transportation equipment, construction, and industrial machinery.&nbsp;JIS K6385 “Rubber vibration isolators - Testing methods” specifies several test methods and termsfor evaluating the performance of rubber vibration isolators1). Among these, tests in the torsional direction around the central axis and tests in the torsional direction around an arbitrary axis perpendicular to the central axis (pinching test) are defined for cylindrical rubber vibration isolators. Cylindrical rubber vibration isolators are used for supporting and coupling vibration sources such as engines and motors, and play an important role in reducing noise and stabilizing performance. When mounted on a vehicle, loads are applied in both the torsional and pinching directions, so it is necessary to evaluate the characteristics of each.&nbsp;This article introduces examples of dynamic characteristic tests in the torsional and pinching directions for cylindrical rubber vibration isolators. International standards corresponding to JIS K6385 have not been established at present.<h4>Calculation of Various Dynamic Characteristic Values&nbsp;</h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=JIS+K+6385">JIS K 6385</a> specifies calculation methods for various dynamic characteristic values, referring to JIS K6394. Absolute spring constant, storage spring constant, loss spring constant, damping factor, and loss factor are each calculated from Formulas 1 to 5 respectively. Like energy, these can be calculated by frequency sweep test and resonance frequency tracking test software. For torsion and pinching tests, test force is converted into torque and displacement into angle. The international standard corresponding to JIS K6394 is ISO 4664-1.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>Using a combined axial force and torsion testing machine, torsional and pinching dynamic characteristic tests were conducted on cylindrical type vibration isolators based on JIS K6385. By using the frequency sweep test software, it was possible to quickly confirm the dependence of various dynamic characteristic values on the excitation frequency.<h3>4. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Thermo Scientific X-Ray Sources: Flexible and robust performance for industrial and medical imaging applications</h3><ul><li>Brochure</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/x_ray_sources_product_family_brochure_6252fe8b12.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Thermo Scientific X-Ray Sources provide flexible, high-performance solutions for a wide range of industrial and medical imaging applications. Designed for reliability and long-term operation, these sources are used in testing, inspection, and imaging tasks ranging from printed circuit boards, semiconductor devices, and batteries to medical fluoroscopy and dental quality control. The portfolio comprises four distinct microfocus x-ray source families, each offering multiple variants to closely match performance to specific application requirements.All Thermo Scientific x-ray sources are based on sealed microfocus x-ray tube technology with beryllium windows, enabling robust uptime, precise electron beam control, and exceptionally small focal spot sizes for high-resolution imaging. Key design advantages include controlled focal spot performance, optimized geometric magnification, and configurable cone-of-illumination options, allowing users to balance resolution, penetration depth, field of view, and throughput. These characteristics are critical for both low-energy, high-resolution imaging and high-voltage inspection of dense materials such as electric vehicle battery cells.The brochure also explains the fundamental principles of x-ray generation and interaction with matter, highlighting how voltage, power, focal spot size, and focus-to-object distance (FOD) directly influence image quality, contrast, and detectability of internal defects. Understanding these parameters enables users to select an optimal source configuration for non-destructive testing, automated inspection, or medical imaging workflows.Thermo Scientific supports customers throughout the full lifecycle of their x-ray systems, offering expert application guidance, global service coverage, and reliable supply chains. With a comprehensive range of microfocus x-ray sources—from compact, cost-effective models to high-power, wide-beam solutions—the portfolio delivers dependable performance, scalability, and flexibility for demanding industrial and medical imaging projects.

News from LabRulezICPMS Library - Week 04, 2026

Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezICPMS Library in the week of 26th January 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 and Shimadzu and brochure by Thermo Fisher Scientific!<h3>1. Agilent Technologies: Thin Multilayer Analysis Using the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=8700+LDIR">Agilent 8700 LDIR</a> Chemical Imaging System</h3>Rapid micrometer-scale measurement of layer thickness and composition identification in laminated materials<ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_thin_multilayer_materials_8700_ldir_5994_8799en_agilent_892afacbb6.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Multilayer laminate materials represent a structurally and chemically complex system. They often comprise several distinct polymer layers that are engineered for specific functional roles, despite having total thicknesses of only a few hundred microns. Each layer contributes unique properties such as mechanical strength, barrier performance, or environmental protection, depending on its chemical composition and thickness. Accurate identification and measurement of these thin layers is therefore critical, as defects or deviations in layer thickness can compromise product integrity. Weaknesses can cause failures through damage, potentially resulting in safety issues for the user.Precise mapping and micrometer-scale thickness analysis is essential during the development, quality control, and troubleshooting of multilayer materials. The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=8700+LDIR">Agilent 8700 Laser Direct Infrared (LDIR) chemical imaging system</a> offers a powerful solution for this application. By combining IR spectroscopy with high-resolution imaging, the system enables chemical identification and visualization of polymer layers with exceptional spatial detail. Enhanced by the intuitive Agilent Clarity software, the 8700 LDIR delivers a fast and effective workflow for multilayer material characterization, addressing key needs in quality assurance, failure analysis, and reverse engineering.&nbsp;<h4>Results and discussion&nbsp;</h4><h5>User-generated spectral library&nbsp;</h5>Following sample preparation, the 8700 LDIR high‑magnification visible camera provided an overview of the laminate structure of sample 1, revealing three distinct layers. The total thickness of the sample and each layer was measured using the Clarity software ruler feature. As shown in Figure 3, the total thickness of sample 1 based on the visible image was measured to be 150 µm (layer 1: 50 µm; layer 2: 50 µm; layer 3: 50 µm). A high‑resolution IR image was then acquired at 1,442 cm–1 with a 1 µm pixel size, enabling detailed visualization of the layer morphology under infrared light (Figure 3).<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>The Agilent 8700 LDIR chemical imaging system provides a powerful, non-destructive solution for multilayer analysis across diverse applications ranging from food packaging to battery separators. By combining a laminate holder, high-magnification imaging, IR imaging, and line profile spectral collection, the method delivers clear insights into layer thickness, morphology, and material composition. The ability to quickly build custom spectral libraries within the Agilent Clarity software further enhances its utility, especially for identifying unknown materials or contaminants in multilayer&nbsp;materials. The 8700 LDIR multilayer analysis workflow supports both R&amp;D innovation in advanced materials and routine quality assurance across different industries.<h3>2. Metrohm: Almond analysis with near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy</h3>Multiparameter determination of moisture, fat, and protein<ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_nir_132_download_ab5d492c05.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Almonds are nutritious edible nuts from the almond tree and can be eaten whole or processed in other foods. During processing, quality control (QC) parameters like moisture levels are checked to ensure that the correct percentage is reached before moving on to other stages (e.g., grinding or packaging). When determining almond quality, destructive analytical techniques are helpful but can involve extensive sample preparation and solvent extractions. These traditional techniques are also slow and expensive. Nondestructive near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) is a great alternative because it is fast, simple, and cost effective [1]. In this study, almond moisture content (water content), protein content, and fat have been measured using NIRS. NIR spectroscopy offers the rapid and reliable prediction of several quality parameters in seconds without any sample preparation.<h4>EXPERIMENTAL EQUIPMENT&nbsp;</h4>60 samples of ground almonds and 60 samples of whole almonds were measured 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 (1000–2250 nm) using the large cup accessory. The samples were measured in rotation to collect spectral data from diverse areas. Spectral averaging of signals from several spots helped to reduce sample inhomogeneity. Metrohm software was used for all data acquisition and prediction model development.<h4>CONCLUSION</h4>This Application Note demonstrates that almond protein content analysis, almond fat content analysis, and almond water content (or almond moisture content) analysis can be done with NIRS. NIR spectroscopy offers users a faster, simpler, highly accurate alternative to standard analytical methods for the analysis of ground and whole almonds during processing and final product quality control (Table 1). By using NIRS, all of these parameters can be measured simultaneously without sample preparation, saving time and money.<h3>3. Shimadzu: Technique for Measuring Microplastics Collected on Various Filters Using a Particle Filter Holder</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_01_00976_en_155bd58551.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul><h4>User Benefits</h4><ul><li>Particle filter holders provide clear microscope images of samples, enabling highly accurate measurements.</li><li>Microplastics can be analyzed accurately and efficiently by using a particle filter holder with a high-speed mapping program and a particle analysis program.</li></ul>Since microplastics (MPs) (with diameters ranging from a few µm up to 5 mm) are widely recognized as an environmental problem in marine environments, Japan’s Ministry of the Environment has issued guidelines for preparation and measuring MPs in environmental surface waters. 1)&nbsp;The guidelines include examples of using a Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometer (FTIR) to identify plastics by the total reflectance measurement method. However, to identify fine MPs, they recommend using instruments like infrared microscopes.&nbsp;In recent years, an increasing number of studies have analyzed fine MPs smaller than 100 µm. Measuring MPs with an infrared microscope requires collecting samples on a filter. Various types of filters can be used for infrared microscopes, each with unique characteristics. But if a filter cannot be held horizontal during drying or measuring, it can develop wrinkles that might decrease measurement accuracy. Therefore, a particle filter (PF) holder was developed that can be placed directly on an infrared microscope stage while holding the filter horizontally. This article describes using the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=IRXross">IRXross Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometer</a>, an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=AIMsight">AIMsight infrared microscope</a> (Fig. 1), and a PF holder to evaluate the properties of various filters and measure a standard sample of MPs.<h4>Example of Measuring MPs&nbsp;</h4>Polystyrene (PS), polyethylene (PE), and polypropylene (PP) particles that fell through a 100 µm mesh were dispersed in purified water. They were then collected by suction filtering through PTFE, Al2O3, Au/PC, and stainless steel filters (Table 1). After collecting the particles, the filters were dried using a PF holder. Fig. 5 shows the filter holder placed in the infrared microscope. Measurement condition settings are indicated in Table 2. The PTFE and Al2O3 filters were measured by the transmission method, whereas the stainless steel and Au/PC filters were measured by the reflection method. For the highspeed mapping program in this measurement, a peak detection range of 3,400 to 2,400 cm-1 was specified for detecting the signal from hydrocarbons (C-H). If there are peaks in that range, the range will be scanned the specified number of times. A tiled image of each filter is shown in Fig. 6. The areas marked with a yellow box were measured. For more information about the high-speed mapping program, refer to <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_01_01001_en_79904665ce.pdf">Application News No. 01-01001-EN</a>.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>This article describes using a PF holder to collect fine microplastic particles on various types of filters, and it provides a summary of the characteristics of each filter. Since there are differences in the wavenumber ranges and data acquisition methods for each filter type, users need to understand the individual characteristics of a filter when using it. The results also show that by using a PF holder to hold the filter flat, fine microplastic particles can be conveniently measured with an infrared microscope to obtain clear images and accurate measurements. Furthermore, a highspeed mapping program and particle analysis program can be used to accurately and efficiently analyze microplastics.<h3>4. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Raman at the speed you need - Thermo Scientific DXR3 Raman Family</h3><ul><li>Brochure</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/SS_53191_DXR_3_raman_family_spec_sheet_896bbe523e.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>The Thermo Scientific DXR3 Raman Family is a versatile portfolio of Raman spectroscopy instruments designed to deliver high-quality chemical information quickly and reliably across a wide range of applications. Built on a shared, modular platform, the family includes the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/2239">DXR3 Raman Microscope</a>, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/2237">DXR3xi Raman Imaging Microscope</a>, and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/2235">DXR3 SmartRaman Spectrometer</a>, enabling users to choose the optimal configuration for point analysis, high-resolution imaging, or bulk sample characterization. All systems emphasize ease of use, reproducibility, and rapid data acquisition, making advanced Raman analysis accessible to both expert spectroscopists and routine laboratory users.The DXR3 Raman Microscope provides research-grade performance with sub-micrometer spatial resolution and intuitive point-and-shoot operation, supporting demanding analytical tasks such as microanalysis, depth profiling, and chemical mapping. For applications requiring fast, high-resolution chemical imaging, the DXR3xi Raman Imaging Microscope delivers exceptional stability, automated feature identification, and rapid image acquisition over both small and large areas. Its advanced EMCCD detector technology and intelligent autofocus significantly reduce experiment time while maintaining high data quality, making it ideal for materials research, pharmaceuticals, and life sciences.The DXR3 SmartRaman Spectrometer is optimized for high-performance bulk sample analysis in busy analytical laboratories. Featuring a large sampling compartment and flexible accessories, it accommodates a wide range of sample formats—from powders and tablets to liquids in bottles or vials. Variable Dynamic Point Sampling (VDPS) technology enables representative averaging over large sample areas, improving reproducibility and reducing sampling bias. Together with multiple excitation laser options and interchangeable gratings, the system supports diverse analytical workflows with minimal maintenance.Across the entire DXR3 family, pre-aligned, user-exchangeable Smart Components, automated alignment and calibration, and powerful OMNIC™ software ensure consistent performance and simplified operation. Extensive microscopy, macro-sampling, and automation options allow systems to be tailored to specific applications, while robust system qualification and diagnostics support long-term reliability. Overall, the DXR3 Raman Family combines speed, flexibility, and analytical confidence, making it a comprehensive solution for modern Raman spectroscopy in research, quality control, and industrial environments.

News from LabRulezICPMS Library - Week 05, 2026

Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezICPMS Library in the week of 2nd 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: High Precision Analysis of Major Components in Precious Metals by ICP-OES</h3>Determination of major components in jewelry alloys by ICP-OES and standard bracketing per ISO methods<ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_precious_metals_standard_bracketing_5800_icp_oes_5994_8849en_agilent_5260c9c8be.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Accurate quantification of major components in precious metal alloys can be challenging due to high precision and accuracy requirements, often to stringent industry-specific standards. This challenge is particularly relevant for the precious metals industry, where the stoichiometric composition and purity of metal alloys define both product quality and commercial value. A technique for high-precision measurements developed specifically for the precious metals industry is standard bracketing. As described in ISO methods 11494 and 11495 for ICP-OES analysis,1,2 this technique employs standard–sample–standard sequencing, which improves control over instrumental fluctuations and matrix effects, ensuring high levels of accuracy and precision.Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES) is a powerful technique that is often used to analyze trace impurities in a broad range of samples. Both the Agilent 5800 and 5900 ICP-OES instruments are inherently precise, as discussed elsewhere.3 However, precision is further improved when the instruments are operated with the ISO-compliant standard bracketing feature within the Agilent ICP Expert Pro software version 7.8 onwards. The software provides additional useful features for jewelry assaying, catalyst refining, and material recycling. These functions include built-in automated result summarization, reporting in fineness (‰), karat (k), or concentration units, and processing tools specifically for determining major components and purity analysis. Standard bracketing is also applicable to other demanding applications, such as semiconductors, fertilizers, and the emerging battery materials sector.&nbsp;In this study, the Agilent 5800 Vertical Dual View (VDV) ICP-OES with Agilent SPS 4 autosampler and ICP Expert 7.8 Pro software4 was used to determine the purity of gold (Au), palladium (Pd), and platinum (Pt) in three precious metal alloys. The analytical procedure was in accordance with ISO methods 11494 and 11495.<h4>Experimental&nbsp;</h4><h5>Instrumentation&nbsp;</h5>The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=5800+VDV+ICP-OES">Agilent 5800 VDV ICP-OES</a> was configured with the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=SPS+4+autosampler">Agilent SPS 4 autosampler</a>, which provided automated sample delivery to the instrument (Figure 1). The 5800 ICP-OES was equipped with a SeaSpray nebulizer, double-pass cyclonic spray chamber, and Agilent one-piece VDV torch with a 1.8 mm internal diameter (id) injector. All components were controlled by Agilent ICP Expert Pro* 7.8 software. Instrument operating parameters are listed in Table 1.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>This application demonstrates the effectiveness of highprecision standard bracketing calibration for the quantification of major components in gold, palladium, and platinum alloys using the Agilent 5800 VDV ICP-OES.&nbsp;By employing gravimetrically prepared standards and integrating internal standard correction, the method improves analytical precision (RSD) more than threefold compared to conventional external calibration. It also reduces sample-tosample fluctuations, resulting in a 400× improvement in RPD values between duplicate measurements.&nbsp;The high precision and reproducibility of the standard bracketing method enable accurate assaying of precious‑metal samples, making it ideal for quality control of high‑value materials where composition control is often required within ±0.1%.&nbsp;The latest version of <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=+ICP+Expert+Pro+software">Agilent ICP Expert Pro software</a> facilitates the standard bracketing method and includes tools for in-worksheet calculations and custom result displays. This approach simplifies metal-alloy purity testing, enables direct interpretation of sample purity in industry-standard terms, and provides confident, traceable quantification in accordance with ISO methods.&nbsp;The method is useful in other applications that require tight composition control, such as battery materials, catalysts, semiconductors, and fertilizers.<h3>2. Metrohm: Biodiesel content in diesel with nearinfrared spectroscopy</h3>Monitor the fuel blending process within seconds<ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_nir_126_download_800056c376.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>The properties of biodiesel fuel, which is produced from vegetable oils or animal fat, are very similar to petroleum-derived diesel, but biodiesel pollutes less. In most countries the common biodiesel blend is B20, which ranges from 6% to 20% biodiesel content. Measuring the biodiesel content in diesel is important, as higher levels can cause deposits in older diesel engines, clogging the fuel filters and pumps. Fuels with high levels of biodiesel also tend to absorb more moisture compared to petroleum-derived fuels. With near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), the biodiesel content is determined in seconds without any sample preparation. Compared to other test methods like those used in ASTM D7467, biodiesel content analysis with NIR spectroscopy saves time and enables the implementation of online process monitoring with fiber optics.<h4>EXPERIMENTAL EQUIPMENT&nbsp;</h4>Twenty-one diesel samples with varying biodiesel content from 0% to 20% were measured on the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=220&amp;search=OMNIS+NIR">OMNIS NIR Analyzer</a> Liquid (Figure 1) in transmission mode (1000–2250 nm) using 8 mm disposable vials. The vial temperature was set and monitored at 30 °C with the built-in vial sensor to ensure consistent measurement performance. OMNIS Software was used for all data acquisition and prediction model development.<h4>CONCLUSION</h4>This Application Note shows the results of a biodiesel content analysis test without the need for any sample preparation, using near-infrared spectroscopy in place of other more time-intensive analytical techniques. This ultimately leads to a reduction in workload and the related costs. Alongside the biodiesel content test, additional fuel quality parameters like cetane number, moisture, or flash point can be determined with NIRS.<h3>3. Shimadzu: Quantitative Analysis of Lead (Pb) and Arsenic (As) in Cosmetic Raw Material Powders</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_01_00965_en_dc464e4caa.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul><h4>User Benefits</h4><ul><li>&nbsp;With simple sample preparation, lead and arsenic in cosmetic raw material powder can be quantified simultaneously.</li><li>Increased X-ray tube output and optimized optical design have improved sensitivity for heavy elements.</li><li>Continuous analysis of up to 48 samples is possible, improving analysis throughput.</li></ul>The management of lead and arsenic contained in cosmetics raw materials is important for protecting people's health. Although colorimetric methods have been used for these analyses, there is a growing need for trace control due to tighter regulations in recent years, leading to a consideration of a shift to instrumental methods that enable quantification. Candidates for instrumental methods include ICP optical emission spectrometry/mass spectrometry and X-ray fluorescence spectrometry. While the former method is highly sensitive, powder and solid samples need to be dissolved in an acid such as nitric acid or hydrochloric acid. In contrast, X-ray fluorescence analysis is convenient because it can be analyzed without dissolving the sample.&nbsp;This application news introduces the analysis of two inorganic oxide powders (talc and titanium oxide) using the energydispersive <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=ALTRACE">X-ray fluorescence Spectrometer ALTRACE</a> (Fig. 1).<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>This application news reports on the quantitative analysis of lead (Pb) and arsenic (As) in two types of inorganic oxide powders: talc and titanium oxide. The analysis was performed using the energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometer ALTRACE, which allows for the analysis of powders without dissolving them. ALTRACE enables simultaneous analysis of Pb and As, unlike traditional colorimetric methods that test them separately. Additionally, ALTRACE can analyze 48 samples continuously, significantly improving the efficiency of the testing process.<h3>4. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Advantages of coincident XPS-Raman in the analysis of mineral oxide species</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/advantages_xps_raman_analysis_mineral_oxide_an52950_d492664cb5.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>XPS is an extremely versatile technique that has found widespread use in a myriad of application areas, from contact lenses to aerospace materials. XPS is unique in that it can quantify the elemental and chemical composition of a material’s surface with extreme selectivity, since the typical information depth of XPS being less than 10 nanometers.&nbsp;Raman spectroscopy is utilized in many similar application areas as it requires little sample preparation, is nondestructive, provides information on molecular structure, and enables users to identify materials quickly, thanks to extensive spectral libraries.&nbsp;The implementation of XPS and Raman with other analysis techniques is well established; XPS has a long history of complementary use with related ultra-high vacuum (UHV) analysis techniques, such as UV photoelectron spectroscopy, Auger electron spectroscopy, and ion scattering spectroscopy. In these cases, additional equipment is added to the spectrometer to give coincident, complementary information.To overcome these problems, the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=3&amp;search=ARXPS">Thermo Scientific™ Theta Probe Angle-Resolved X-ray Photoelectron Spectrometer (ARXPS) System</a> has been integrated with the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/2238">Thermo Scientific iXR™ DXR3 Flex Raman Spectrometer</a> to provide a multimodal analysis platform. The system aligns the XPS analysis position exactly with the Raman analysis position, ensuring that the data is collected from the same position.&nbsp;The coincident XPS-Raman removes any requirement to transfer the sample from one instrument to the next between analyses, minimizing additional sample handling and exposure to different conditions that can lead to sample contamination or degradation.<h4>Summary&nbsp;</h4>In conclusion, XPS is used for quantitative determination of both elemental and chemical composition for any solid material compatible with UHV analysis, whereas Raman spectroscopy is used for identification of referenced compounds by careful spectral matching that searches algorithms and spectral databases. The combination of XPS and Raman spectroscopy on the DXR3 Flex Raman Spectrometer integrated with the Theta Probe ARXPS System, allows more powerful analysis of a material than either technique in isolation, with the cleanliness, purity and stoichiometry of a sample determined using XPS, and identification and quantification of molecular structures determined using Raman spectroscopy. As both techniques are aligned to the same position within the vacuum system, all the time-consuming aspects of locating the same analysis point when transferring between instruments is removed, giving absolutely certainty that all the information acquired has come from the same region of sample, which is particularly useful when studying nonuniform samples.

News from LabRulezICPMS Library - Week 06, 2026

Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezICPMS Library in the week of 9th 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: Black Pepper Origin Differentiation Using Large ICP-MS Datasets and Chemometric Tools</h3>Elemental profiling using an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=1&amp;search=7850+ICP-MS">Agilent 7850 ICP-MS</a> and Agilent <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=1&amp;search=Mass+Profiler+Professional+software">Mass Profiler Professional (MPP) software</a><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_black_pepper_origin_7850_icp_ms_5994_8741en_agilent_7c190968ef.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Black pepper’s high value and global demand are drivers for economically motivated adulteration, a fraudulent practice that can pose public health risks. Because black pepper is most often sold in ground, crushed, or mixed forms, its supply chain is difficult to monitor and manage. Also, consumer campaigns against deforestation and the European Union Regulation on Deforestation-free (EUDR) products have increased calls for greater sourcing transparency. Products with a known geographical indication can demand a higher price. Companies do not want to become implicated in false claims about the sourcing of products, and many are keen to have full visibility of their products’ origin. To address this need, the European Commission has established the Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) system to protect regional specific products, thereby promoting their unique characteristics based on geographical origin and traditional competence of production. The PGI scheme has increased the demand for detailed information regarding the geographical source of food products, a trend that is likely to continue as EUDR is implemented across the EU and associated markets. Verifying the geographical origin of black pepper using elemental fingerprints is highly relevant to protecting value chain stakeholders, ensuring both quality and traceability while upholding the principles of food integrity.&nbsp;Several analytical methods can be used for profiling certain elements in foods. However, inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) is unique because of its rapid throughput, multi-element capability, ultratrace sensitivity, isotopic analysis, versatility across sample types, low sample volume requirements, compliance with regulatory requirements, and low cost.3&nbsp;The Agilent 7850 ICP-MS is equipped with an Octopole Reaction System (ORS4 ), a collision/reaction cell (CRC) that uses helium (He) gas and Kinetic Energy Discrimination (KED) to remove polyatomic interferences on key analytes.4 If left unchecked, these interferences can affect data accuracy in complex food products. The integration of the 7850 with Agilent ICP-MS MassHunter software streamlines data analysis. When integrated with chemometric analysis, ICP-MS demonstrates high precision in multi-elemental profiling of diverse food matrices, effectively distinguishing their geographical origin.5&nbsp;In this study, 150 black pepper samples from five countries (Brazil, Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Vietnam) were analyzed using the 7850 ICP-MS to obtain elemental fingerprints of the samples. Agilent Mass Profiler Professional (MPP) software was used to process the ICP-MS elemental data and to construct chemometric models for distinguishing the geographical origin of the samples, as adapted from Chilaka et al.5<h4>Experimental&nbsp;</h4><h5>Instrumentation&nbsp;</h5>An <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=1&amp;search=7850+ICP-MS">Agilent 7850 single-quadrupole ICP-MS</a> was used for the analysis of 38 elements in the black pepper samples. Sample introduction was performed via a peristaltic pump connected to an Agilent MicroMist nebulizer and an Agilent SPS 4 autosampler. All elements were measured using helium collision (He KED) mode, except for boron (B), which was analyzed in no gas mode. Instrument control was performed using <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=1&amp;search=MassHunter">Agilent ICP-MS MassHunter 5.1 software</a>, and data processing was conducted using <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=1&amp;search=Mass+Profiler+Professional+software">Agilent MPP software</a>, version 15.1. Instrument operating conditions as shown in Table 1.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>This study investigated the potential of ICP-MS elemental profiling coupled with chemometric analysis for geographical origin discrimination of black pepper samples from five countries, including Brazil, Cambodia, India, Indonesia, and Vietnam. A total of 38 elements was measured in 150 black pepper samples using the Agilent 7850 ICP-MS. Chemometric analysis was performed on the ICP-MS elemental data using Agilent Mass Profiler Professional (MPP) software. The PCA analysis exhibited satisfactory reliability and classification rates and demonstrated potential for the authentication of the geographical origin of black pepper. However, the separation of the Cambodian and Vietnamese samples was less distinct than the other groups, revealing potential similarities in elemental profiling between the bordering countries, which share similar climatic, geological, and agricultural conditions. Using LDA and RF classification models on the black pepper test set, we achieved a high overall accuracy in determining the geographical origin of the samples. These findings provide empirical support for the combined use of elementomics and chemometric techniques in black pepper authentication, contributing to fraud prevention. The study also demonstrates the potential of the method for application to other food types.<h3>2. Metrohm: Milk powder analysis by near-infrared spectroscopy</h3>Determination of moisture, fat, lactose, and protein content<ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_nir_128_download_867321cfb0.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>For milk powder producers, final product control is essential to meet strict regulatory standards, guarantee comprehensive quality assurance, ensure consistent nutritional quality, and extend shelf life. These are all especially important for infant formula and dairy ingredients used in sensitive applications. Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) is a fast, reagentfree method for measuring key quality parameters such as moisture, protein, lactose, and fat content directly in milk powder. The NIRS solution requires no sample preparation, enabling real-time monitoring either in the lab or directly on the production line. This allows producers to react quickly to process variations, minimize waste, and maintain product integrity batch after batch.<h4>EXPERIMENTAL EQUIPMENT&nbsp;</h4>More than 600 samples of powdered milk from different suppliers were analyzed on an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=56&amp;search=OMNIS+NIR">OMNIS NIR Analyzer</a> (Figure 1). The different milk powders were placed into an OMNIS sample cup and analyzed in diffuse reflection mode. To include sample variety, the sample rotated during measurement to collect spectra from different locations. The automatically averaged spectra were used for model development. Reference values were obtained by official methods, e.g., AOAC 927.05 (moisture), AOAC 939.02 (protein), and AOAC 932.06 (fat). For the lactose content determination, a phenol-sulfuric acid method was used.<h4>CONCLUSION</h4>This Application Note presented the analysis of milk powder using NIR spectroscopy. Models for several quality parameters (fat, protein, lactose, and moisture content) were created. Independent validation samples confirmed the robustness and reliability of the models, with high correlation coefficients and low prediction errors achieved across all parameters. Notably, the dataset included samples from diverse global origins, capturing a broad range of product variability. This study shows that NIRS can be successfully integrated into the quality control workflow for dairy powder analysis.<h3>3. Shimadzu: Analysis of Electrolyte and Electrode in LIB Degraded by Overcharge and High Temperature</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_01_01064_en_b4f9f4330a.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul><h4>User Benefits</h4><ul><li>ICP-AES enables accurate quantification of cathode material dissolved in electrolytes.</li><li>GC-MS assesses degradation from components in electrolytes with unknown usage.</li><li>EDXRF easily evaluates transition metals, phosphorus, fluorine, and other elements deposited on electrodes</li></ul>When lithium-ion batteries are used in EVs or ESS applications, numerous cells are connected in series and parallel to form modules, and multiple modules are further connected to construct a pack. In such configurations—where many cells are connected in series—the state of charge of individual cells varies, as shown in Figure 1. Moreover, because the cells are densely packed to reduce volume, the ambient temperature experienced by each cell also varies. In this application, we conducted cycle tests under overcharged or high-temperature conditions, disassembled the degraded pouch cells, and analyzed both the electrolytes and the electrodes.<h4>Analysis of electrolyte and electrode</h4>Electrolytes and electrodes were extracted from the batteries degraded through the cycle tests (hereafter referred to as “degraded cells”) and analyzed using the instruments shown in Figures 3–5. It is known that electrolytesin degraded cells contain transition metals (Ni, Co, Mn) dissolved from the cathode active material1). In addition, electrolyte solvents are known to generate characteristic degradation products as deterioration progresses2). By analyzing these degradation-related elements and compounds, the degradation state of the battery can be assessed. In this article, we propose a multifaceted evaluation of electrolytes using <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=3&amp;search=ICPE-9820">ICP-AES</a> and GC-MS. On both the cathode and anode, insulating layers known as CEI/SEI form on the electrode surfaces. Under improper charging conditions, excessive formation of these layers can lead to capacity loss. Furthermore, the dissolved metals from the cathode deposit and precipitate on the anode. These deposits can cause internal short circuits, posing risks such as fire hazards. While such electrode conditions are typically evaluated by ICP-AES or XPS to examine elemental content or surface chemical states, this article introduces a simpler evaluation method using <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=3&amp;search=EDX-8100">EDXRF</a>.<h4>Summary</h4>Analysis of the electrolytesfrom degraded batteries using ICP-AES and GC-MS revealed dissolution of transition metals as well as the formation of degradation products. Furthermore, EDXRF analysis of the electrodes enabled straightforward detection of changesin elemental composition, including transition metals, fluorine, and phosphorus. These analytical techniques allow for a multifaceted evaluation of battery degradation. In real-world battery operation, fluctuations in charging conditions and ambient temperature introduce variability in degradation states. By assessing degradation mechanisms individually, as demonstrated in thisreport, it is possible to obtain insights that contribute not only to improving intrinsic battery performance but also to optimizing implementation methods and control conditions.<h3>4. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Analyzing Spinel refractory MgO-Al2O3 premix using <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=2&amp;search=ARL%E2%84%A2+X%E2%80%99TRA+Companion">ARL X’TRA Companion XRD</a></h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/spinel_refractory_xrd_an41525_en_75f2527e78.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Spinel refractories—primarily magnesia–alumina (MgAl₂O₄)— are the workhorses of high-temperature linings in steel ladles, cement rotary kilns, glass tanks, and non-ferrous smelters. Their appeal lies in a combination of shock resistance, chemical stability against basic slags, and an expansion behavior that mitigates cracking. Depending on the duty, they are used as bricks, castables, or gunned repairs, sometimes with engineered microstructures that blend spinel with periclase, corundum, or zirconia to tune creep, corrosion, and spalling performance.&nbsp;X-ray diffraction (XRD) underpins manufacturing control from raw mix to fired product. During synthesis, XRD tracks the solid-state reaction of MgO and Al₂O₃ into spinel, verifying the disappearance of periclase and alumina and quantifying the spinel fraction by Rietveld analysis. Lattice parameters reveal cation stoichiometry and solid-solution effects; peak breadth trends indicate crystallite growth and microstrain, proxies for sintering progress. In finished components, XRD detects secondary phases such as calcium aluminates introduced by binders, slags, impurities, and it provides fingerprinting for batch-to-batch consistency after thermal exposure. Embedded into routine QA/QC, XRD shortens feedback loops, stabilizes recipes, and links processing conditions to the microstructure that governs refractory life.<h4>Instrument &amp; software&nbsp;</h4>The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=2&amp;search=ARL%E2%84%A2+X%E2%80%99TRA+Companion">Thermo Scientific™ ARL™ X’TRA Companion</a> X-Ray Diffractometer (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 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 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 workflow delivers answers in minutes, quantifying MgO, α-Al₂O₃, and MgAl₂O₄ while resolving Ca–Si silicates and trace Fe-spinels. Subtle differences between corundum and spinel are cleanly separated, and LOI drivers—carbonates, brucite, and Mg-sulfates—are identified and trended. These insights let you compute spinel potential, anticipate pore-closing expansion, and set the right pre-dry / prefire schedule to avoid spalling. You can clearly distinguish mid-grade, ore-derived feeds from premium low-silica materials, tighten incoming QA, and optimize formulations for cement/lime kilns, tundish linings, and other carbon-free basic applications.

News from LabRulezICPMS Library - Week 07, 2026

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 2nd March 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: Routine Analysis of Rare Earth Elements in Basalt using ICP-MS</h3>Accurate, precise, and stable results in a basalt sample matrix with the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=7850+ICP-MS">Agilent 7850 ICP-MS</a> in helium collision mode&nbsp;<ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_rare_earth_metals_7850_icp_ms_5994_8963en_agilent_07d5eb637c.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Rare Earth Elements (REEs) play a vital role in numerous industrial applications, including advanced materials, electronics, renewable energy technologies, and geochemical research.1 Precise and routine quantification of REEs in geological matrices such as basalt is essential for understanding magmatic processes, resource assessment, and environmental monitoring. ICP-MS is suitable for the analysis of trace REEs in basalt. However, the sample poses significant analytical challenges due to its complex matrix, high concentrations of major elements, and the risk of polyatomic interferences such as oxides and hydroxides of barium (Ba) and REEs that can compromise accuracy.1–3 Because it contains high levels of alumina, silica, and refractory metals, basalt can also compromise plasma robustness due to matrix-induced signal suppression.Various techniques have been used to measure REEs in geological samples, including multicollector (MC-) ICP-MS detection following α-hydroxyisobutyric acid (HIBA) separation.4 Instrumental Neutron Activation Analysis (INAA) offers excellent sensitivity for many lanthanides (and long lived actinides like thorium and uranium) but is constrained by long irradiation times and the need to access nuclear reactors.5 Thermal Ionization Mass Spectrometry (TIMS) provides highly precise isotopic measurements; however, it requires complex sample preparation and is unsuitable for routine multi-element analysis.6 Laser Ablation ICP-MS (LA-ICP-MS) enables direct, spatially resolved measurements of geological samples but demands careful matrix matching of standards and is sensitive to variations in ablation behavior.7 High-Resolution ICP-MS (HR-ICP-MS) improves spectral resolution, yet its high cost, lower throughput, and operational complexity limit its widespread use. While these techniques remain valuable for specialized applications, they often fall short when laboratories require rapid, routine, and interference-free determination of lanthanides and actinides in rock matrices.&nbsp;ICP-MS has become the preferred technique for routine REE analysis due to its exceptional sensitivity, wide linear dynamic range, and multi-element capability. In this study, REE measurements were performed using an Agilent 7850 ICP-MS with an Agilent SPS 4 autosampler and controlled using Agilent ICP-MS MassHunter software. A preset method enabled the accurate and precise determination of 16 lanthanide and actinide elements in a single run, supporting high sample throughput. The 7850 includes Octopole Reaction System (ORS⁴) cell technology and optimized helium (He) collision mode to effectively remove polyatomic ion interferences using Kinetic Energy Discrimination (KED). Common interferences can be eliminated by the 7850 using default He KED tuning conditions, ensuring reliable analysis in complex matrices.8,9 As polyatomic ions pass through the ORS⁴ cell with an optimized helium flow, their larger collisional cross sections cause them to lose more kinetic energy via frequent collisions. Upon exiting the cell, these lower energy polyatomic ions are filtered out by the KED barrier, while analyte ions retain enough energy to pass through the quadrupole for detection by the electron multiplier detector. This process enables accurate multi element analysis using a single gas mode.<h4>Experimental&nbsp;</h4><h5>Instrumentation&nbsp;</h5>The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=7850+ICP-MS">Agilent 7850 ICP-MS</a> equipped with the ORS4 cell and an Agilent SPS 4 autosampler was used for all the measurements of the basalt sample. (The same 7850 ICP-MS setup is also installed at Geochemistry and Geochronology facility of the Institute of Seismological Research, India.) Because ammonium fluoride (NH4 F) was used during sample preparation, the 7850 ICP-MS was fitted with the optional PFA kit and platinum sampling and skimmer cones. All 16 elements were measured using one set of He KED collision cell mode conditions. He KED ensures effective control of most background and matrix-based polyatomic interferences, such as ArO, ArCl, and BaO. The instrument was controlled using ICP-MS MassHunter software. Typical instrument operating parameters are listed in Table 1. The highlighted parameters were predefined by selecting the General Purpose preset method, while lens voltages were automatically tuned for optimal performance using the software’s autotune feature.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>The Agilent 7850 ICP-MS successfully quantified all 16 lanthanides and actinide elements in the basalt CRM using a single helium KED cell method. The use of a General Purpose preset method and automated lens tuning routine within the Agilent ICP-MS MassHunter software streamlined the analytical workflow, minimizing instrument setup time and ensuring consistent instrument performance. These ease of use features simplified instrument operation while maintaining accurate, interference free results. Internal standard stability over three hours of continuous operation demonstrated the robustness of the 7850 under routine, high throughput conditions. This level of instrument stability is important for maintaining productivity, as it reduces drift, QC failures, sample reanalysis, and instrument maintenance. The 7850 ICP-MS method supports laboratories conducting routine, high-throughput multi-element analyses of demanding geological matrices.<h3>2. Metrohm: Flour analysis by near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS)</h3>NIR flour analysis determines moisture, protein, ash, gluten, starch, and rheological properties within seconds<ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_nir_123_download_f35ec480b3.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Monitoring ash content, along with key quality parameters such as protein and moisture content, can significantly enhance the milling yield of flour. Next to these chemical parameters, rheological parameters like baking strength or tenacity influence the product quality. Near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy enables chemical-free quality control of both chemical and rheological parameters, producing results within seconds. This simple, efficient, and rapid analysis method is ideal for continuous quality checks and can be implemented in laboratory settings or atline, requiring minimal training for effective use.<h4>EXPERIMENTAL EQUIPMENT&nbsp;</h4>A total of 237 flour samples, including wheat flour, spelt flour, and other types, were analyzed on a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=220&amp;search=omnis+nir">Metrohm OMNIS NIR Analyzer Solid</a> (Figure 1) with the large cup OMNIS NIR, 100 mm and OMNIS software. The samples were filled into the sample cup and analyzed in diffuse reflection mode. To include sample variety, the sample cup rotated during measurement to collect spectra from different locations. The automatically averaged spectra were used for model development. Reference values for moisture, protein, and ash content were obtained with the respective primary methods: moisture analysis followed AOAC 953.10, protein according to AOAC 2001.11, and ash content followed AOAC 923.03.<h4>CONCLUSION</h4>This Application Note shows the feasibility of using NIR spectroscopy for the analysis of several quality parameters in flour. With no chemicals involved, nearinfrared spectroscopy is an ideal way to avoid timeconsuming sample preparation and reduce costs. NIRS instruments from Metrohm allow users to not only to monitor the flour milling process, but also to predict the rheological properties of the dough the flour is produced with.<h3>3. Shimadzu: Observation of Expansion/Contraction Process of Bubbles in PVA Gel</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_01_00855_en_d5da0bf713.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul><h4>User Benefits</h4><ul><li>The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=HPV-X3">HPV-X3</a>, with a maximum framerate of 20 Mfps, is suitable for observation of high-speed phenomena such as cavitation.</li><li>The HPV-X3 provides 3 times higher resolution than the conventional device, enabling detailed observation.</li><li>Since the image sensor of HPV-X3 is burst-type, the HPV-X3 enables image acquisition with constant resolution, regardless of the recording speed.</li></ul>When laser-induced shock waves and cavitation are applied in the medical field, it isimportant to understand the actual phenomena. Here, a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) gel was irradiated with a laser, and the condition of the shock wave and cavitation generated upon laser light condensation (LC) was observed. PVA gel has high biocompatibility and is known as a promising biomaterial which is suitable for tissue mimicking. In this experiment, the newlydeveloped Hyper Vision HPV-X3 high-speed video camera was used to observe bubble expansion/contraction in PVA gel. In comparison with the conventional device, the recording speed (framerate) of the HPV-X3 is 2 times faster. The new HPV-X3 also provides 3 times higher resolution, supporting more detailed observation.<h4>Comparison of HPV-X3 and HPV-X2</h4>Fig. 2 shows images captured by the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=HPV-X3">HPV-X3</a> and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=HPV-X2">HPV-X2</a>. The images show the condition of the bubble and shock wave after laser irradiation captured at 500 kfps (HP mode of HPV-X2). As can be seen in Fig. 2 (a) and (b), assuming the same device composition, the HPV-X3 can capture a wider field due to its larger sensor size. In Fig. 2 (c), the image has been partially cropped from Fig. 2 (b) to show the same field of view as the HPV-X2. It can be understood that the information in the cropped image is also clearer due to the three-fold improvement of the resolution of the HPV-X3. Thus, when a wide field of view is captured in order to check the phenomena and the image is then cropped to show only the phenomenon of interest, the HPV-X3 is the more suitable device thanks to its excellent resolution.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>Hyper Vision and HPV are trademarks of Shimadzu Corporation or its affiliated companies in Japan and/or other countries. Using the new HPV-X3 high-speed video camera, the expansion/contraction of a bubble and shock wave when a laser was irradiated on PVA gel were observed. Because the resolution of the HPV-X3 is 3 times higher than that of the conventional device, resolution is adequate, and it is possible to obtain clear and distinct images, even when a wide angle of view is observed and the image is partially cropped. The HPV-X3 also has a maximum recording speed of 20 Mfps, which enabled detailed observation of the shock wave and the process of bubble collapse.<h3>4. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Analysis of rare earth elements in clay using XRF and XRD</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/analysis_of_rare_earth_elements_an41526_en_df78e144e1.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Rare earth elements (REEs) are 17 elements used in dozens of high-tech applications. The global demand for REEs has surged in recent years, driven by advancements in technology and the transition towards green energy solutions. REE magnets are compact, efficient, and hard to replace. Electric vehicles (EVs) and wind power are the main growth industries for these use cases.&nbsp;Although rare earth elements are relatively abundant in the earth’s crust, they are rarely concentrated into mineable ore deposits. REEs are associated with alkaline rocks, carbonatite (bastnäsite, monazite, parisite, and synchysite), pegmatite, and placer deposits (residual deposits formed from deep weathering) and are often discovered via geochemical exploration. They may also be absorbed in clay minerals or ion adsorption clays (IACs) such as kaolinite, illite and smectite. The ores of rare earth elements are mineralogically and chemically complex and commonly radioactive. REE mining is challenging because REEs are concentrated in more than one mineral, and each mineral requires a different costly extraction technology and mineral processing.&nbsp;For companies operating in REE exploration and mining, the accuracy of geochemical analysis is critical to assess the viability of deposits, respectively targeting REE rich areas for extraction. The Thermo Scientific™ ARL™ X’TRA Companion X-ray Diffractometer detects and quantifies mineral phases that contain REEs such as kaolinite, smectite, monazite and bastnasite. Thermo Scientific™ ARL™ PERFORM’X WDXRF Spectrometer on the other hand provides fast, accurate major/minor oxides analysis on the REE ores.<h4>Instrument and software&nbsp;</h4>The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/2296">ARL X’TRA Companion X-Ray Diffractometer</a> (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). Both capabilities are seamlessly integrated into <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/2297">Thermo Scientific™ SolstiX™ Pronto Instrument Control Software</a>.&nbsp;The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1211">ARL PERFORM’X series spectrometer</a> (Figure 2) used in this analysis was a 2500-watt system. This system is configured with 6 primary beam filters, 4 collimators, up to nine crystals, two detectors and our 5GN+ Rh X-ray tube for best performance from ultra- light to heaviest elements thanks to its 50 microns Be window. This innovative, ultralight X-ray tube fitted with a low current filament ensures an unequalled analytical stability month after month. When paired with industry-leading Thermo Scientific™ UniQuant™ Software the ARL PERFORM’X spectrometer provides the best limits of detection and accuracy in standardless analysis up to element Am.<h4>Your benefits&nbsp;</h4>The ARL X’TRA Companion XRD workflow delivers answers in a few minutes, quantifying the mineral phases available in the ion adsorption clay samples. Users are able to identify the type of mineral phases associated with REEs such as kaolinite, halloysite, smectite, illite. They are also able to verify the ion adsorption clay (IAC) mechanism due to absence of monazite/ xenotime peaks &amp; availability of kaolinite &amp; smectite which supports ion-adsorbed REE.&nbsp;ARL PERFORM’X WDXRF spectrometer together with UniQuant standardless analysis software enables the users to screen through REE ores for up to 79 elements without the need for conventional calibrations. Well suited for mining ore analysis which will have varying sample matrices. UniQuant software is fully calibrated and installed from the factory. Hence the ARL PERFORM’X spectrometer is ready to perform meaningful analysis of unknown samples directly after installation at the customer’s site.

News from LabRulezICPMS Library - Week 10, 2026

Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezICPMS Library in the week of 9th March 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: Spectral Transmission Measurements of Pharmaceutical Packaging</h3>Using the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=Cary+60+UV%E2%80%91Vis">Agilent Cary 60 UV‑Vis</a> Diffuse Reflectance Accessory following EP &lt;3.2.1&gt;, USP &lt;660&gt;, and USP &lt;661.2&gt;<ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_pharmaceutical_packaging_transmission_cary_60_uv_vis_dra_5994_8889en_agilent_2c933e5576.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Pharmaceutical containers play a significant role in maintaining final drug stability, integrity, and safety, from manufacturing to distribution to the end user. The ability of the packaging system to protect the drug from external agents is critical for quality assurance. Therefore, all pharmaceutical packaging systems must conform to stringent standards.&nbsp;Plastic and glass are commonly used materials for packaging, and they are typically transparent or opaque. Transparency to ultraviolet (UV) light can pose a risk to light‑sensitive pharmaceuticals, as exposure can initiate adverse—and sometimes harmful—photochemical reactions that can significantly affect drug quality and reduce shelf-life.1&nbsp;The EP and USP define well-established standards, designed to measure physiochemical and functional properties of packaging components intended to contain a drug product (pharmaceutical containers), to meet regulatory requirements. The EP Chapter &lt;3.2.1&gt; Glass Containers for Pharmaceutical Use includes a functionality test method to demonstrate adequate light resistance of colored glass containers through spectral transmission measurement. An included acceptance criterion specifies the allowed maximum amount of light transmitted by the tested material, defined by the drug product dosage administration form. For example, for glass containers that package oral drug products, the acceptance criterion defines that the observed spectral transmission should not exceed 10% at any wavelength in the range of 290 to 450 nm (&lt; 10%T).2 The identical test and criterion are found in USP Chapter &lt;660&gt; Containers – Glass.3 In addition, the USP Chapter &lt;661.2&gt; Plastic Packaging Systems for Pharmaceutical Use also includes the analogous functionality test method and acceptance criterion for plastic pharmaceutical packaging.4&nbsp;The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=Cary+60+UV%E2%80%91Vis">Cary 60 UV-Vis spectrophotometer</a>, equipped with the Cary 60 UV-Vis DRA, was chosen for measurement due to its extended ability to reliably measure precise transmission of scattering materials (Figure 1). The Cary 60 UV-Vis is a versatile spectrophotometer; however, measuring materials like plastics and glass, which are textured, translucent, or opaque in a manner that scatters light can result in challenges in satisfactorily measuring light transmittance with standard techniques. In a standard spectrophotometer, scattering materials tend to diffuse transmitted light, deviating an unquantifiable amount of light from the direct optical path of the detector. The detector may not collect all the scattered (lost) light, resulting in inaccurate measurements and results.&nbsp;For this reason, the Cary 60 UV-Vis was equipped with an internal DRA, which uses a 50 mm integrating PTFE-coated sphere that easily sits inside the spectrophotometer's sample compartment. For these applications, using a DRA can optimize light collection. The sphere's design captures all scattered light uniformly, overcoming scattering losses for accurate measurement of transmitted light. In applications where total transmission is crucial for quality assurance, the DRA is an essential tool for accurate measurements.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>In this application note, an Agilent Cary 60 UV-Vis spectrophotometer, fitted with an Agilent Cary 60 UV‑Vis DRA, was used to reliably and quickly determine the spectral transmission of packaging systems used for pharmaceuticals, following the EP &lt;3.2.1&gt;, USP &lt;660&gt;, and USP &lt;661.2&gt; test methods for functionality of light-resistant packaging systems. The integrating sphere enabled the instrument to accurately measure total transmittance of plastic and glass (scattering) materials.&nbsp;All containers presented less than the defined maximum %T specification, demonstrating light-resistance functionality for containing light-sensitive drug products for oral administration. This method illustrates the importance of accurate testing for quality assurance of pharmaceutical packaging. The Agilent Cary 60 UV-Vis spectrophotometer, paired with Cary WinUV Pharma software, delivers secure data management and compliance for regulated pharmaceutical labs.<h3>2. Metrohm: Multiparameter hops analysis by near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS)</h3>Rapid determination of alpha acids, beta acids, cohumulone content, total oil content, HSI, and moisture<ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_nir_130_download_6177b89ee1.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>The quality of hops and hop pellets is vital across the entire brewing supply chain. Traditional methods used for quality control (e.g., titration and HPLC) are highly accurate and widely accepted. They are also time consuming, labor intensive, and dependent on chemical reagents which not only incur ongoing material costs but also require careful handling and proper disposal. Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) offers a compelling alternative when ultra-high precision is not necessary. It enables the rapid analysis of multiple parameters within a minute without using any chemicals. This Application Note outlines the measurement setup and the results of cohumulone, hop oils, and moisture content, the hop storage index (HSI), and hops acids analysis with NIRS.<h4>EXPERIMENTAL EQUIPMENT&nbsp;</h4>More than 500 fresh hop samples and ground hop pellets were analyzed on an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=220&amp;search=omnis+nir">OMNIS NIR Analyzer Solid</a> (Figure 1). The samples were added to an OMNIS sample cup and analyzed in diffuse reflection mode. To include sample variety, the sample rotated during measurement to collect spectra from different locations. The automatically averaged spectra were used for model development. Spectra acquisition, model development, and validation were carried out with the OMNIS Software.&nbsp;Reference values for alpha acids were obtained using various official methods, including EBC 7.4, EBC 7.5, and EBC 7.7. Total oils and beta acid content were determined using EBC 7.4, while EBC 7.7 was employed for cohumulone analysis. Moisture content and the hop storage index (HSI) were measured using a halogen moisture analyzer and a UV-VIS photometer, respectively.<h4>CONCLUSION</h4>This Application Note demonstrates the feasibility of using NIR spectroscopy for the analysis of freshly harvested hops and ground hop pellets to determine cohumulone, moisture, and total oil content, HSI, and alpha and beta acids. Using alpha acids as an example, the difference between a prediction model covering the full concentration range and a model specific to a narrower range was highlighted. The latter reduced the prediction error by a factor of two.&nbsp;Users can apply this approach to maximize accuracy. In the OMNIS Software, both models can be combined to automatically perform the following sequence. First, the alpha acid concentration is estimated using the broad-range model; then, a more precise prediction is made using the restricted-range model.<h3>3. Shimadzu: Observation of Acrylic Block Fracture during Impact Compression Using the Hopkinson Bar Method</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_01_01146_en_dc42e77a9c.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul><h4>User Benefits</h4><ul><li>The HPV -X3 offers three times the resolution of conventional models, enabling observation of specimen fracture at much higher resolution.</li><li>With a maximum frame rate of 20 Mfps, the HPV-X3 is well-suited for observing high-speed phenomena such as an impact test</li></ul>Understanding materials properties is critical to product design. In particular, for applications such as transportation equipment, where materials may be subjected to impact loads, it is essential to evaluate not only static properties but also impact properties. When subjected to impact, materials may exhibit stress and strain characteristics different from those under static loading, making it essential to quantify these characteristics through impact testing.&nbsp;The Hopkinson bar method is a well-established technique for impact compression testing. Proposed by B. Hopkinson, this method enables detailed analysis of a material’s impact response and evaluation of its fracture properties by subjecting the specimen to a sudden force using a bar-launching device. This paper presents an example of an impact compression test on an acrylic specimen with a central circular hole, recorded with an HPV-X3 high-speed video camera (Fig. 2) using the Hopkinson bar method.<h4>Imaging System&nbsp;</h4>The imaging devices are listed in Table 1, and the imaging conditions are listed in Table 2. As shown in Fig. 4(b), laser illumination was directed from the rear of the specimen toward the lens, and imaging was performed with the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=HPV-X3">HPV-X3</a> using a close-up ring, bellows, and macro lens. This setup enabled observation of the fracture process in the acrylic block. Two types of imaging were conducted: observation of crack propagation immediately after loading, and observation of subsequent fracture.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>The impact compression test of an acrylic specimen using the Hopkinson bar method was observed using the HPV-X3 highspeed video camera. Inside the compressed specimen, the propagation of a wavefront believed to be a stress wave was first observed. Subsequently, cracks propagated from the central circular hole toward the left and right surfaces, and finally, diagonal cracks formed, leading to complete fracture. The progress of this series of fracture processes was clearly captured.&nbsp;The HPV-X3 has three times the resolution of the previous <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=HPV-X2">HPVX2 model</a>, enabling more detailed observation of specimens during impact tests, including the Hopkinson bar method. Furthermore, because fracture phenomena during impact testing occur at high speeds, the HPV-X3, which can record images at up to 20 Mfps, is ideal for capturing them.<h3>4. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Analysis of silica in air filters using ARL X’TRA Companion X-ray Diffractometer</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/analysis_of_silica_in_air_an41521_a3b8eb33d5.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>The analysis of silica in air filters is a critical aspect of occupational health and safety, aimed at protecting workers from the harmful effects of inhaling crystalline silica particles, which can lead to diseases such as silicosis and lung cancer. The NIOSH 7500 method (NIOSH, 2003) provides a detailed and standardized procedure for the determination of crystalline silica in air samples using X-ray diffraction (XRD). This method involves the collection of air samples on filters, which are then analyzed to identify and quantify the crystalline silica phases, including quartz, cristobalite, and tridymite.&nbsp;XRD is chosen for its high specificity and sensitivity in distinguishing different crystalline forms of silica, making it a reliable analytical technique. The method outlined in NIOSH 7500 requires meticulous sample preparation, including the proper collection and handling of air filters, calibration with known standards, and strict adherence to analytical parameters to ensure accurate and reproducible results. Following the NIOSH 7500 norm and equivalent standards helps ensure the reliable monitoring of workplace air quality, thereby safeguarding workers’ health. The use of XRD in analyzing silica in air filters is an essential component of industrial hygiene and environmental monitoring programs, facilitating the detection and control of hazardous silica exposure in occupational settings.<h4>Instrument and software&nbsp;</h4>The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/2296">Thermo Scientific™ ARL™ X’TRA Companion X-ray Diffractometer</a> (c.f. Figure 1) is a simple, easy-to-use benchtop XRD 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 on demand. Thanks to the innovative solid state pixel detector (55 x 55 μm pitch), the ARL X’TRA Companion XRD provides very fast data collection and comes with one-click Rietveld quantification capabilities and automated result transmission to a LIMS (laboratory information management system).<h4>Your benefits&nbsp;</h4>The ARL X’TRA Companion XRD provides data perfectly suited to quantify respirable quartz in air filters. Utilizing a calibration curve in a one-click refinement delivers results within minutes, ensuring ease-of-use for operators and reducing training requirements. XRD analysis of air filter samples complies with the NIOSH 7500 standard.

News from LabRulezICPMS Library - Week 11, 2026

Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezICPMS Library in the week of 16th March 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 Metrohm, Shimadzu, Thermo Fisher Scientific and Waters Corporation!<h3>1. Metrohm: Soil analysis with NIR spectroscopy</h3>Multiparameter determination of soil 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_133_download_31cf2564fd.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Soil is a complex matrix made of organic and inorganic mineral matter, water, and air. The organic material ranges from decomposed and stable humus to fresh particulate residues from different sources [1]. Texture affects soil behavior (e.g., water holding capacity, nutrient retention and supply, drainage, and nutrient leaching [2]) and depends on the proportion by weight of the sand, silt, and clay it contains. Cationexchange capacity (CEC), a measure of the ability to hold positively charged ions, influences soil structure stability, nutrient availability, pH, and its reaction to fertilizers and other ameliorants. The main ions associated with CEC in soils are Ca2+, Mg2+, Na+ , and K + [3]. Soil pH directly influences the availability of nutrients to plants, microbial activity, and overall soil health, affecting plant growth, crop yields, and the sustainability of agricultural practices. This study describes how organic matter content, pH value, silt, clay and sand content, exchangeable calcium and magnesium, and limestone content were measured in soil in seconds by using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS).<h4>EXPERIMENTAL EQUIPMENT</h4>Air-dried samples of soil [4] were measured on a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=220&amp;search=omnis+nir">Metrohm NIR Analyzer</a>. All measurements were performed in reflection mode (1000–2250 nm) using the large cup accessory. 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. Metrohm software was used for all data acquisition and prediction model development.<h4>CONCLUSION</h4>This Application Note displays the benefits of using NIR spectroscopy for soil analysis. All the presented soil quality parameters can be measured simultaneously in only a few seconds. Compared to other conventional methods (Table 1), near-infrared spectroscopy soil analysis requires no sample preparation nor solvents. This ultimately leads to a reduction in workload and related costs, as well as keeping lab personnel safer.<h3>2. Shimadzu: Observation of Shock Waves Using the Schlieren Method with the HPV-X3</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_01_00983_en_c64bbf91c4.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul><h4>User Benefits</h4><ul><li>HPV-X3 offers three times the resolution of conventional models, enabling high-speed imaging at much higher resolutions.</li><li>With a maximum frame rate of 20 Mfps, the HPV-X3 is well-suited for observing high-speed phenomena such as shock waves</li></ul>Shock waves are characterized by abrupt changesin pressure and density and are generated when an object travels faster than the speed of sound or during explosive phenomena. They are important research subjects in fields such as aerospace and fluid dynamics. In particular, accurately characterizing the structure and temporal evolution of shock waves generated around projectiles is a crucial issue directly related to vehicle design, behavior prediction, and safety evaluation. Optical techniques capable of detecting minute changes in refractive index are effective for visualizing such phenomena. Among these, the Schlieren method is widely used to visualize density variations in fluids. 1)&nbsp;In this paper, the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=HPV-X3">HPV-X3 high-speed video camera</a> (Fig. 1), which provides three times the resolution of conventional models, was used to observe shock waves generated by a pellet launched from a gas gun using the Schlieren method.<h4>Imaging System&nbsp;</h4>The pellet shown at the center of Fig. 2 was placed in the firing chamber of the gas gun, sandwiched between two plastic holders. The holders were used to position the pellet in the firing chamber; after firing, the holders fell away, allowing only the pellet to be captured by the camera.&nbsp;The imaging system is detailed in Table 1, the imaging conditions are shown in Table 2, and the experimental setup is shown in Fig. 3. Light from the laser source was reflected by Concave mirror (1) and collimated between Concave mirrors (1) and (2). The HPV-X3 captured images of shock waves generated along the projectile path through a mirror and a knife-edge.&nbsp;The experiment was conducted twice: in the first trial, two rubber bands were placed in the projectile path; in the second trial, an obstacle with ten circular holes (Fig. 4) was placed in the path. This allowed us to observe phenomena such as fragmentation and shock wave reflection.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>Using the HPV-X3 high-speed video camera, shock waves generated by pellets fired from a gas gun were observed using the Schlieren method. This approach enabled close observation of phenomena, including shock waves generated as the pellet passed through or was reflected by rubber bands placed in the projectile path, as well as pellet fragmentation by impact with an obstacle and the subsequent generation of shock waves from each fragment.&nbsp;The HPV-X3 high-speed video camera has three times the resolution of the previous, HPV-X2, model and is well-suited for detailed observation of high-speed phenomena such as shock waves.<h3>3. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Raman Spectroscopy: Deciphering the Structural Dynamics of 2D Semiconductors</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/deciphering_structural_dynamics_of_2d_semiconductors_an1525_en_e5c8ca420c.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Semiconductors form the foundation of all modern electronics. As industries constantly seek to make their technological devices even smaller and more efficient, and manufacturers continue to strive for more compact device architectures, the key to future develops may prove to be new, thin film materials. Thin film or twodimensional (2D) semiconductors have unique properties and perform robustly even at monolayer thicknesses, allowing for complex electronic device performance at extremely small scale.¹ For example, the current silicon “2 nm” transistors used in the semiconductor industry have channel lengths of 10+ nm. Studies on 2D semiconductor transistors, especially MoS₂, show promising scalability to physical channel lengths below a 5 nm threshold—less than half the size of current transistors.¹ These materials have very well-defined crystal structures which make them excellent candidates for characterization through Raman spectroscopy. A common class of these materials is the transition metal dichalcogenide (TMDC) family such as molybdenum disulfide (MoS₂).², ³ 2D semiconductors, like TDMCs, are characterized by two major structural elements: the in-plane lattice bonds and out-of-plane van der Waals (vdW) forces that bind the stacked layers of crystalline monolayers.²<h4>Crystal Structure and Raman Signal&nbsp;</h4>A naturally formed sample of MoS₂ is studied here using the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/2237">Thermo Scientific DXR3xi Raman Imaging Microscope </a>with a 455 nm excitation laser. The MoS₂ is manually exfoliated to thin the crystals from bulk form down to a two-dimensional, thin film layer.³ This creates a very simple crystalline structure with simple vibrational modes. Indeed, MoS₂ has only two dominant Raman peaks, the E¹2g, in-plane vibration at 381 cm-1, driven by the lateral oscillation of S atoms, and the A1g, out-of-plane mode at 408 cm-1.⁴ In thin / 2D samples, the A1g peak (linked to the out-of-plane S vibrations) is significantly weaker than it is in the bulk crystal due to many fewer vdW forces between the layers (Figure 1). This out-of-plane peak also displays a redshift (to lower wavenumber values) in the thinner samples (Figure 2).⁴ By taking a single crystal and repeatedly thinning it we can see the clear trend in these spectral changes produced by manual exfoliation (Table 1).<h4>Tracking Structural Variations&nbsp;</h4>The Raman peaks of MoS₂ can reveal much more information than simply layer thickness. The shifting ratio of the out-of-plane A1g peak to the in-plane E¹2g peak can be used to study interlayer physics in these 2D crystal structures. For example, a Raman peak ratio analysis can reveal interfacial boundary conditions (Figure 4). In this sample, there is a stronger out-of-plane component to the lattice vibration along the crystal face boundaries. Given that there are no obvious peak shifts from differing layer thicknesses, the increased vdW forces at the boundaries may be due to another phenomena, such as a localized electronic charge accumulation in the boundary region.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>Even with a seemingly simple molecular structure such as MoS₂ there is a huge wealth of information that can be gleaned from Raman spectroscopic analysis. Layer thicknesses, interlayer forces, and in-plane strain can all be quickly analyzed based on the two MoS₂ peaks. Monitoring changes in these in-plane and out-of-plane vibrations for this 2D semiconductor allows a researcher to characterize numerous properties with a rapid, non-destructive analysis.<h3>4. Waters Corporation: A New Method for Measuring Particulates in Protein Drug Formulations with Complex Excipients</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/720009131_en_987cda2d15.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Protein drugs need to be highly stable in order to increase product shelf life and inhibit protein aggregation which presents an immunogenic risk1. To achieve protein drug stability, formulators use an array of water-soluble excipients including various buffers, detergents, sugars and other compounds to inhibit protein aggregate formation2.&nbsp;Measuring the quality and the state of the excipients in a formulation is a big challenge. Each formulation parameter plays a key role in determining its stability, but due to the nature and sheer variety of excipients, these materials can often confound protein particle measurements3. This measurement gap is accentuated in flowbased subvisible particle analyzers, where the protein sample cannot be reanalyzed to gain greater insights of the formulation’s state. Running subsequent measurements enables formulators to gain greater insights on the state of the protein formulation’s components and its overall stability.The HORIZON system, powered by backgrounded membrane imaging (BMI), enables users the unique ability to conduct serial wash measurements of protein formulations filtered on a membrane, to dissolve water soluble excipients and reveal the hidden insights of a formulation’s state. In this application note, we present three independent case studies that leverage the HORIZON system’s unique capability to analyze samples after serial washes to investigate the impact on the number of protein and excipient particulates in the sample to gain a clearer understanding of the formulation state.<h4>Results and Discussion</h4><h5>Study 2 — Protein Aggregate Solubility and Adsorption to the Surface</h5>In this case study we used IgG aggregates using the same sample preparation procedure described above and created two stock IgG solutions using PBS and DI water respectively. We ran 2X serial dilutions of the samples in their corresponding buffers from stock (1X) down to 32X dilutions. Samples were filtered through a HORIZON filter plate and subsequently measured using 50 µL of sample per well, measuring N = 4 samples per condition. For this experiment, the background of the software plate was cloned 3 times. All the wells were washed with 50 µL DI water, and remeasured, and this process was repeated 3 times for each wash step.&nbsp;Serial dilutions of IgG aggregates in both buffers showed linear counts drop behavior (R2 &gt; 0.99), and very similar counts with stock IgG concentrations hovering close to 1E5 particles/mL for both stock conditions (Figure 4). After the first wash, both buffer types saw at most 20% of the counts drop for concentrated samples, potentially from the dissolution of soluble aggregates. Additional washing resulted in no counts increase or decrease within measurement error.&nbsp;<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>Serial membrane washing can help unveil critical details of a formulation. In the first two case studies, we explored how irreversible protein aggregates tend to be dense (dark in the image), amorphous, and do not disappear upon membrane washing as verified by visual microscopic membrane inspection and by counts analysis. Protein aggregates’ lack of solubility and their strong binding to the membrane surface allow one to count them reliably while uncovering the presence of other water-soluble excipients particles. This is important since the key objective of particle analysis in protein drug samples is to measure the insoluble protein aggregates since they tend to be immunogenic5.&nbsp;With protein aggregates being insoluble, this helped us deduce in the first case study that the faint, directional and water-soluble particles were salt crystals. Their presence also coincided with the age of the buffer (30 days), potentially pointing to time-related buffer degradation. The second case study confirmed the insolubility of the aggregates, with virtually no change in counts even after 3 serial washes. The third case study uncovered that protein solutions formulated in concentrated excipient conditions can show elevated counts. However, the excipient particle counts, arising from sucrose or polysorbate particles, could be washed away with a single wash to enable counting of the true protein aggregates. Also of interest in the third case study is that the IgG solution that was formulated without concentrated excipients showed significantly lower particle counts (nearly half) than those that were formulated in 10% sucrose and 0.05% polysorbate. This is a reminder that a higher excipient concentration does not necessarily result in higher formulation stability. The ability to get to the right formulation as quickly as possible requires one to obtain deep insights into all components of the formulation. The HORIZON system’s ability to clone original plate backgrounds to rapidly reanalyze the samples enables an unprecedented opportunity to learn more about the state of a proteindrug formulation. Key insights to your formulations are only a single 50 µL membrane wash away.

News from LabRulezICPMS Library - Week 12, 2026

Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezICPMS Library in the week of 23rd March 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 LECO, Shimadzu and Waters Corporation and brochure by Thermo Fisher Scientific!<h3>1. LECO: Determination of Nitrogen in Fertilizer</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CN_FP_928_NITROGEN_FERTILIZERS_203_821_615_4d4b013a08.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Nitrogen is one of the most important elements for plant development and is the macronutrient that is most often found to be deficient in arable soils used for crop production. Nitrogen plays a key role in the formation of enzymes and proteins, which promotes lush, vigorous growth and development in plants that often leads to an increase in the yield from the plant. Fertilizers are utilized to re-introduce nitrogen back into arable soils. Fertilizers can be grouped by their makeup and/or origins into categories including inorganic and/or synthetic (including nitrates, ammonium, and urea) and organic (including compost materials and manures). The accurate and precise determination of nitrogen in all fertilizer types is not only important in the process of blending and preparing the fertilizer material for use, but also will have significant impact on the commercial value and guarantee of the fertilizer.&nbsp;The CN928/FP928 is a macro combustion carbon and nitrogen/protein determinator that utilizes a pure oxygen environment in a high-temperature horizontal ceramic combustion furnace designed to handle macro sample mass. 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 gas (helium or argon) for analysis. The aliquot gas is carried to a thermal conductivity cell (TC) for the detection of nitrogen (N2).<h4>Instrument Model and Configuration&nbsp;</h4>Thermal conductivity detectors work by detecting changes in the thermal conductivity of the analyte gas compared to the constant thermal conductivity of the 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 <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=24&amp;search=CN928">CN928</a>/<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=24&amp;search=FP928">FP928</a> 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 single standard, forced through origin calibration using ~ 0.1 g of NIST 913b Uric Acid (33.23% N). Alternatively, LECO 503-530 LCRM Urea may be used for calibration.<h3>2. Shimadzu: Evaluation of Microscopic Foreign Matter in Recycled Plastics Using Dynamic Image Analysis, Infrared Microscopy, and SEM-EDS</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_01_00861_en_7485baba21.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul><h4>User Benefits</h4><ul><li>&nbsp;It is easy to evaluate the size and quantity of microscopic foreign particles, which are key quality criteria of recycled plastics.</li><li>With the microcell method of DIA, microscopic foreign matter can be detected and counted quickly using a small sample quantity.</li><li>Infrared microscope and SEM-EDS systems provide information about the morphology and composition of microscopic foreign matter that is useful for improving recycling processes.</li></ul>One of the quality criteria for recycled plastic flakes and pellets is the content of foreign matter. Quantitatively evaluating the size and quantity of foreign particles contained in flakes and pellets is important for examining foreign matter removal processes intended to improve pellet quality and optimize manufacturing processesfor products made with recycled materials.&nbsp;In this article, pellets of virgin and recycled polyethylene terephthalate (hereafter PET) were dissolved in hexafluoro-2-propanol (hereafter HFIP), a solvent for dissolving PET, to prepare suspensions of insoluble microscopic foreign particles. These suspensions were measured with a dynamic particle image analysis (DIA) system (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=iSpect+DIA-10">iSpect DIA-10</a>) to evaluate the size and number of insoluble microscopic foreign particles (patent pending). In addition, part of the suspensions were diluted tenfold and filtered through a membrane filter to collect the insoluble microscopic foreign particles on the filter. The morphology and composition of the collected microscopic foreign particles were evaluated using a digital microscope, an infrared microscope system (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=IRTracer-100">IRTracer-100</a> and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=AIM-9000">AIM-9000</a>), and an SEM-EDS system. These evaluations enabled comparison of the sizes, quantities, and types of foreign particles contained in virgin and recycled materials.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>By using an iSpect DIA-10 system to measure suspensions prepared by dissolving two types of PET pellets (virgin and recycled) in HFIP, we obtained particle images of insoluble foreign matter and evaluated size and concentration of particles. That enabled quantitative comparison of particle size and count in microscopic foreign matter contained in virgin and recycled materials.&nbsp;In addition, after diluting the pellet suspensions, the insoluble microscopic foreign matter in the diluted suspensions was collected on filters. The morphology and composition of the microscopic foreign matter were evaluated using an infrared microscope and SEM-EDS system. The results indicated that the suspensions contained organic substances, such as cellulose and amide-based compounds, and inorganic substances and metals that contain elements such as C, O, Ca, and Al (suggestive of carbonates and metallic aluminum).&nbsp;Thus, the iSpect DIA-10 enables simple quantitative evaluation of the size and number of microscopic foreign particles in PET pellets using only small sample quantities. Furthermore, composition evaluation by infrared microscope and SEM-EDS systems provides useful information for investigating the origin of foreign matter, examining measures to reduce foreign matter, and evaluating impacts on final products. If similarities in size and shape are observed, particle images obtained with iSpect DIA-10 can also potentially be used to estimate particle composition.<h3>3. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Ensuring safer and effective pharmaceutical formulations by X-ray diffraction</h3><ul><li>Brochures and specifications</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/PF_41381_xrd_solutions_pharma_9b89684165.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>From drug discovery and preformulation studies to the efficient scaling up in the manufacturing process in the plant and finally through QA/QC validation, X-ray diffraction (XRD) is a vital analysis method in the characterization of different physico-chemical properties of the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API). XRD is a gold standard method and required technique in the determination of polymorphic and salt screening, % of crystallinity and stability/reactivity studies of the final API.&nbsp;<h5><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/2297">Thermo Scientific™ SolstiX™ XRD Software</a> with Security Suite extends ARL EQUINOX 100 X-ray Diffractometers to 21 CFR Part 11 regulated labs&nbsp;</h5><ul><li>Protect stored electronic data related to quality assurance within manufacturer’s computer systems&nbsp;</li><li>Put controls in place to keep records authentic, incorruptible, and confidential&nbsp;</li><li>Electronic signatures for the user to take responsibility for the electronic data in the system&nbsp;</li><li>Requirements in the data record: date and time of scan, name of the unique signer, and technological controls to ensure security (e.g. passwords)&nbsp;</li></ul><h5><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/2143">Thermo Scientific™ ARL™ EQUINOX 100 X-ray benchtop diffractometer</a> is designed to exceed your analytical needs&nbsp;</h5><ul><li>Ideally suited for rapid screening of various formulations, finger printing or detection of counterfeit products&nbsp;</li><li>Polymorphism and crystallinity determination, crystallite size calculation, quantitative phase analysis, reactivity and stability of materials, etc.&nbsp;</li><li>XRD experiments on standard powders, bulks, tablets, small quantities, etc.&nbsp;</li><li>Real-time full pattern XRD based on our unique PSD detector technology&nbsp;</li><li>X-ray source based on micro-source technology with no external water cooling</li><li>Unique dual-mode capability: reflection and/or transmission&nbsp;</li></ul><h5>Thermo Scientific™ ARL™ EQUINOX 100 XRD for structural analysis&nbsp;</h5><ul><li>Easy-to-use simultaneous full pattern XRD based on unique real time PSD detector technology&nbsp;</li><li>Unique dual-mode capability on a benchtop XRD instrument: reflection and/or transmission mode&nbsp;</li><li>XRD experiments on various samples with sample spinner, capillary stage, sample changer or in controlled environment</li></ul><h5>Top XRD benefits for pharma&nbsp;</h5><ul><li>Structural characterization technique&nbsp;</li><li>Nondestructive technique&nbsp;</li><li>Small amount of sample needed for analysis&nbsp;</li><li>Unique diffraction patterns and quick response&nbsp;</li><li>Analysis on mixtures as well as amorphous content&nbsp;</li><li>Easy determination of induced structural changes</li></ul><h3>4. Waters Corporation: SIMI: A Different Approach to Revealing Dangerous Subvisible Impurities</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/720009094_en_fb955e89ec.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Foreign particulate matter, also known as extrinsic particles, has become a serious threat to patient safety in recent years, with cases linked to severe immunogenic reactions, deaths, and costly recalls.1 In 2021 alone, Takeda recalled 1.6 million doses of the Moderna COVID-19 mRNA vaccine in Japan after several patient deaths were linked to steel particulates shed from a malfunctioning pump.2 Over the span of seven years, from 2014–2017, there were more than 110 drug recalls as a result of glass delamination,3–4 and several more due to remnant crystals,5 owing to the difficulty of identifying the presence and source of foreign particulate matter. To prevent against such threats, manufacturers require high throughput technologies to better identify foreign particulate matter in real time.<h4>Results and Discussion</h4><h5>Shining a Light on Extrinsic Particles with SIMI</h5>Side illumination membrane imaging (SIMI) is a proprietary illumination, imaging, and analysis technique exclusively available to <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/2190">Aura instruments</a>. Utilizing the principles of darkfield microscopy,6 SIMI is conducted on an Aura membrane plate using an oblique illumination source which emits light at an angle parallel to the surface of the plate.&nbsp;Compared to backgrounded membrane imaging (BMI), which utilizes brightfield microscopy (epi-illumination) where particles scatter the incident light isotropically (i.e., at all angles), side illumination membrane maging (SIMI) is a technique that is specifically designed to detect light scattering from high refractive index particles, as well as those that protrude out of the plane from the membrane surface. A particle’s average SIMI intensity is measured in a relative scale where the inherent SIMI scattering of the membrane is defined as SIMI = 0. Positive SIMI values indicate particles protruding out of the membrane, as is the case with microplastics, fibers, and other common extrinsic particles, whose average SIMI intensities vary from 0–255. On some occasions, like with metallic particles and absorbing oils, particles will have reduced light refraction relative to the membrane and thus display negative SIMI values, varying from 0 to -122.&nbsp;The majority of foreign, extrinsic particles exhibit a high refractive index and are mechanically rigid in structure, causing them to protrude from the membrane surface and scatter side illumination to a high degree, ideal for SIMI analysis. In contrast, biologic particles exhibit the opposite properties—low refractive index and malleable structures, causing them to lie flat with minimal side scatter profiles, which is best analyzed with BMI or fluorescence membrane microscopy (FMM). Utilizing all three microscopy approaches is most ideal to facilitate the determination of all extrinsic (non-biologic) and inherent (biologic) particles in biologic formulations.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>SIMI is a unique approach to providing additional characterization of subvisible particles and is available in all Aura models to help rapidly identify foreign material in biological samples with a high degree of specificity. A key tertiary imaging mode in addition to BMI and FMM, SIMI provides selective, orthogonal morphological information to identify tall and rigid materials, a defining feature of most extrinsic particles (Figure 11). While particle sizing and counting is done via BMI, SIMI provides illumination, imaging, and analysis that can be useful across a variety of biological products to reveal foreign subvisible particles from the earliest to the latest of stages in the bioprocess.

News from LabRulezICPMS Library - Week 13, 2026

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LECO Training Course FP/CN/CHN-828 Series Advanced Maintenance & Troubleshooting

PerkinElmer DG Technical Center Open House & User Group Meeting

Analytica 2026

Thermal Analysis for Safety Evaluation of Chemical Processes

Solving Aluminum Challenges with Modern Characterization Tools

Grade Search or Grade Control: Choosing the Right Method for Reliable Metal Verification