A Method for the Detection of Tire Wear Microplastics in Zebrafish Guts by Laterally Resolved LA-ICP-MS-Based Elemental Fingerprinting and Chemometrics

This leaflet is intended to help participants in quantitative proficiency testing (PT) schemes to better understand the performance assessment made by the PT provider [1-4].<h3>Performance assessment parameters&nbsp;</h3><h4>Assigned value&nbsp;</h4>In order to assess individual performances, the results reported by participants are compared to the value assigned by the PT provider (xpt). ISO 13528 [1] suggests five different ways to obtain xpt (Figure 1). In this context, the design of the PT scheme must reflect the objectives of the scheme, comparing results either to a predetermined xpt (independent from the participant results), or to a value derived from the reported results. The PT provider is responsible for defining xpt , taking into account the advantages and disadvantages of the various possibilities when establishing metrological traceability or estimating the uncertainty of the assigned value, u(xpt).<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Eurachem_Figure_1_e5ef5d1f9c.jpg" alt="Eurachem - Figure 1 Options for obtaining the assigned value, Xpt" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Eurachem_Figure_1_e5ef5d1f9c.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="640" height="382"><h4>Uncertainty of the assigned value&nbsp;</h4>The uncertainty of the assigned value u(xpt) can be estimated in at least five different ways [1], each corresponding to the value assignment strategy illustrated in Figure 1. The different uncertainty evaluation methods are listed in Figure 2. This uncertainty can be reported as a standard uncertainty (u (xpt)), or as an expanded uncertainty U (xpt) with a coverage factor k, where U (xpt) = k . u (xpt). The choice of k will impact the level of confidence (e.g. approximately 95 % for k = 2).<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Eurachem_Figure_2_f41ebc0c61.jpg" alt="Eurachem: Figure 2 Options for obtaining the uncertainity of the assigned value, u(Xpt)" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Eurachem_Figure_2_f41ebc0c61.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="727" height="378"><h4>Standard deviation for proficiency assessment&nbsp;</h4>Five possibilities are suggested by ISO 13528 to set the standard deviation for proficiency assessment spt (Figure 3). The chosen approach must comply with the objectives of the PT scheme.&nbsp;<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Eurachem_Figure_3_f09cb3969e.jpg" alt="Eurachem: Figure 3 Options for obtaining the standard deviation for proficiency assesment" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Eurachem_Figure_3_f09cb3969e.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="638" height="355">Two approaches for performance assessments use spt as shown in Table 1.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Eurachem_Table_1_Scoring_for_performance_assessment_3dd03aa3fb.jpg" alt="Eurachem: Table 1 - Scoring for performance assessment." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Eurachem_Table_1_Scoring_for_performance_assessment_3dd03aa3fb.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1390" height="571"><h3>Performance assessment&nbsp;</h3>All performance assessments are based on the difference between the participant’s results (xi) and the assigned value (xpt) divided by a normalisation factor (Table 1).&nbsp;<ul><li>The percent difference D% is the normalised difference expressed as a percentage of xpt , for which a prescribed maximum relative permissible error (dE% = dE / xpt) is defined by the PT provider.&nbsp;</li><li>The z score (unitless) compares the participant’s deviation from the assigned value with the standard deviation for proficiency assessment (spt). When the uncertainty of the assigned value is significant (u(xpt) &gt; 0.3 spt), the z’ score should be used instead, to include the contribution of u(xpt) in the denominator.&nbsp;</li><li>The zeta (ζ) score (unitless) states whether the laboratory’s result agrees with the assigned value within the respective uncertainty. The denominator is the combined (standard) uncertainty of the assigned value u(xpt) and the (standard) measurement uncertainty reported by the laboratory u(xi). An unsatisfactory zeta score can either be caused by an inappropriate estimation of the measured quantity value (e.g. concentration, content), or of its measurement uncertainty, or both.&nbsp;</li><li>The En score (unitless), unlike the zeta score, uses a combination of expanded uncertainties as the normalisation factor. This combination corresponds to a confidence interval of approximately 95 %. En scores are often used in metrology comparisons among calibration laboratories.</li></ul><h3>Interpretation of performance scores&nbsp;</h3>According to ISO 13528:2022 clause 9.4.2, the conventional interpretation of the z, z’ and ζ scores is as follows:&nbsp;<ul><li>A result that gives |score| ≤ 2.0 is considered to be acceptable, indicating satisfactory performance.&nbsp;</li><li>A result that gives 2.0 &lt; |score| &lt; 3.0 is considered to give a warning signal, indicating questionable performance.&nbsp;</li><li>A result that gives |score| ≥ 3.0 is considered to be unacceptable (or action signal), indicating unsatisfactory performance.&nbsp;</li></ul>Similarly, |En| &lt; 1 and |D%| &lt; dE% indicate successful (acceptable) performance.

Understanding PT performance assessment

Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezICPMS Library in the week of 15th June 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 technical note by Agilent Technologies, application note by Shimadzu and other document by Thermo Fisher Scientific!<h3>1. Agilent Technologies: Smooth Migration from Single Quadrupole ICP-MS to the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=9500">Agilent 9500 ICP-QQQ</a></h3>Automated method transfer using the Batch Conversion Tool of Agilent OpenLab ICP-MS software<ul><li>Technical note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/te_batch_conversion_tool_9500_icp_ms_5994_9214en_agilent_0a1bba76e2.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Transitioning from a single quadrupole (SQ) ICP-MS to a triple quadrupole ICP-MS (ICP-QQQ) might appear daunting or disruptive, usually requiring the redevelopment of analytical methods and workflows. Users often wonder if they can reuse existing batches and whether routine processes will be interrupted during this switch.&nbsp;Switching from SQ ICP-MS to the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=9500">Agilent 9500 ICP-QQQ</a> involves minimal disruption. Agilent provides a solution that enables smooth, automated transfer of existing SQ ICP-MS methods to the 9500 ICP-QQQ, all while preserving the current batch logic and analytical purpose.This note explains how the Batch Conversion Tool in Agilent OpenLab ICP-MS software facilitates automated batch conversion. It allows users to seamlessly transition from SQ ICP-MS to the 9500 ICP-QQQ without needing to rebuild methods or alter their existing workflows.&nbsp;Three key aspects of method migration are addressed in this document:&nbsp;<ul><li>The design concept and conversion behavior of the Batch Conversion Tool, detailing which batch elements are preserved or adapted during conversion.&nbsp;</li><li>It also explains the rationale behind the available conversion options and how the advanced cell technologies of the 9500, such as Advanced Helium Mode (AHM) and Air cell mode, support operational continuity and potential performance improvements after migration.&nbsp;</li><li>Additionally, it outlines a typical end-to-end migration workflow, including methods for reviewing the postconversion process and assessing data quality using built-in indicators.&nbsp;</li></ul>These points collectively show that switching from SQ ICP-MS to the 9500 ICP-QQQ can be seamless. They also illustrate how to carry out method transfer in a controlled and transparent manner, providing a practical framework for refining the method when necessary.<h4>What is the Batch Conversion Tool?&nbsp;</h4>The Batch Conversion Tool is a feature of OpenLab ICP-MS software that transforms batches created for Agilent SQ ICP-MS systems into formats compatible with the 9500 ICP-QQQ (see Figure 1).&nbsp;Batches made for <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=7700">Agilent 7700</a>, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=7800">7800</a>, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=7850">7850</a>, and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=7900">7900 </a>ICP-MS instruments using Agilent ICP-MS MassHunter or OpenLab ICP-MS software can be imported and converted. During this process, the tool applies predefined rules to produce a batch suitable for the 9500, all while maintaining the original batch setup.&nbsp;These conversion rules are based on Agilent’s over 10 years of experience in ICP-QQQ development and applications. By harnessing this expertise, the Batch Conversion Tool automatically implements optimal measurement conditions and reaction strategies for each analyte, ensuring strong interference control and consistent analytical performance post-migration.Manually recreating batch components like element selections, isotope settings, and QC configurations can be time-consuming. Alternatively, the Batch Conversion Tool automates this process, usually finishing within seconds.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>The Batch Conversion Tool in Agilent OpenLab ICP-MS software allows for easy, automated transfer of existing SQ ICP-MS batches to the Agilent 9500 ICP-QQQ, without affecting current analytical workflows.&nbsp;By maintaining batch structure and analytical intent, users can switch to the 9500 ICP-QQQ without needing to rebuild methods or disrupt daily operations. The tool also offers structured conversion options to help users harness the advanced features of the 9500 platform.&nbsp;Additionally, migration from non-Agilent ICP-MS systems can be streamlined through element list import via the Method Advisor, providing an efficient way to create methods when transitioning to Agilent equipment. Overall, moving from SQ ICP-MS to the 9500 ICP-QQQ is a smooth, controlled process that ensures continuity and offers opportunities for method enhancement.<h3>2. Shimadzu: Static Puncture Strength of Geotextile Products Usinga 50mmProbe</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_07_2603_en_2470aa6ee5.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Geotextiles are permeable geosynthetic materials, typically made from polypropylene or polyester, available in woven and non-woven forms. They provide separation, filtration, drainage, and reinforcement, improving soil stability, load distribution, and the durability of infrastructure such as roads, railways, embankments, landfills, and retaining structures.&nbsp;During transportation, installation, and service geotextiles can be exposed to concentrated loads and sharp objects which can reduce the effectiveness of materials therefore puncture resistance is a critical parameter for evaluating geotextile durability. The puncture resistance of geotextiles are commonly determined as per ASTM D62411) and ISO 122362), which measures the force required to penetrate the fabrics using a standard plunger. Overall, puncture resistance testing plays a vital role in ensuring the long-term durability and reliability of geotextilesin demanding engineering applications.&nbsp;The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=AGS-X2">Shimadzu AGS-X2 series Universal Testing Machine </a>is a high-precision universal testing system designed for accurate evaluation of mechanical properties such as tensile, compression, and puncture resistance. It features advanced control technology, high data acquisition rates, and reliable load measurement, ensuring consistent and reproducible results. The system is operated using TRAPEZIUMX-V software, enabling efficient test control, data acquisition, and analysis that complies with national and international standards.<h4>2. Test Method&nbsp;</h4>The test was conducted on the non-woven geotextile using the AGS-50kNX2D UTM, shown in the Figure 1. Two different samples (1000 and 400 GSM) were procured from the market and five specimens were prepared from various areas of each sample. Table 1 shows testing apparatus and test conditions and Figure 2 shows the typical clamping and loading system.<h4>4. Conclusion</h4>The test results are consistent across multiple specimens and exhibit gradual deformation behavior. This indicates that the material can withstand high penetration forces without sudden failure, demonstrating its ability to effectively resist localized stresses.&nbsp;Geotextiles are available in different GSM values, representing mass per unit area and directly influence their mechanical and physical performance. Lower GSM geotextiles are lighter, flexible and lower thickness making them suitable for applications involving moderate loads. In contrast higher GSM geotextiles are thicker and denser, offering significantly higher puncture resistance and making them suitable for heavy duty applications.&nbsp;The Shimadzu’s universal testing machine AGS-X2 series demonstrated accurate, stable, and repeatable performance for conducting puncture resistance testing in accordance with ASTM D6241 and ISO 12236. The system provided precise control of crosshead speed, reliable load measurement, and clear identification of the initial peak load as required by the standard. The high-resolution load–displacement data acquisition enabled accurate determination of puncture strength and displacement at maximum force. Overall, the Shimadzu system ensures compliance with ASTM D6241 and ISO 12236 requirements and offers a dependable solution for quality control, research, and material comparison of geotextiles.¨<h3>3. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Small parts analysis with the Niton Apollo LIBS Analyzer</h3><ul><li>Other document (Smart note)</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/small_parts_analysis_with_the_niton_apollo_libs_analyzer_sn1608_en_c69d4c0695.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Small parts and precision components are critical to product quality and safety. Their limited surface areas and complex geometries make them some of the most challenging items to analyze accurately. Traditional optical emission spectroscopy (OES) delivers excellent accuracy but often lacks the portability needed for challenging environments.&nbsp;The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/2000">Thermo Scientific™ Niton™ Apollo™ Handheld Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) Analyzer</a> changes the equation by delivering accurate analysis of steel and stainless steel in a portable format.<h4>A lower cost of ownership, with repeatability and reliability you can trust&nbsp;</h4>For industries where a single incorrect part can have significant consequences, consistency is crucial. The Apollo analyzer delivers the dependable features you need, in a unit designed to save users time and money over the long term:&nbsp;<ul><li>Carbon detection – Detects carbon for equivalent carbon content (C.E.) for welding &amp; L/H grade ID of stainless steel&nbsp;</li><li>Efficient argon use – Optimized purge minimizes gas consumption.&nbsp;</li><li>Reduced downtime – Portable OES-like accuracy eliminates long lab lead time.</li><li>Rugged durability – Field-ready build lowers repair and replacement costs.&nbsp;</li><li>Ease of training – Intuitive interface reduces errors and onboarding costs.</li><li>Designed to perform – Reliable data across a wide range of finishes and geometries&nbsp;</li></ul>By combining technical performance with durability and efficiency, the Apollo analyzer delivers the lowest total cost of ownership in its class.&nbsp;<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>The Niton Apollo LIBS analyzer sets the standard for small parts analysis. With its unique argon seal and updated small nose design, it delivers repeatable, OES-like accuracy unmatched by any other handheld LIBS device for the analysis of steel and stainless-steel including carbon. Add in a lower total cost of ownership, and the Apollo analyzer becomes the clear choice for manufacturers and inspectors who demand precision, reliability, and value.

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Eurachem is a European network promoting international traceability of chemical measurements and good analytical practice. It provides expert guidance, supports method validation, uncertainty evaluation, proficiency testing, and facilitates discussion on technical and policy issues in analytical quality.

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