<h4>A comprehensive analysis of renewable fuel testing technologies, automation, and ISO-compliant proximate analysis</h4>The growing demand for renewable energy has increased the importance of accurate biofuel characterization. Biomass feedstocks and finished fuels must be carefully analyzed to ensure quality, efficiency, and compliance with international standards. LECO analytical instrumentation supports this work through automated and highly reliable analytical technologies.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/TGA_801_Termogravimetricka_analyza_vlhkosti_popela_tekavych_latek_a_ztraty_zihanim_b73c4cf493.jpg" alt="LECO: Advancing Biofuel Characterization with LECO Analytical Instrumentation: LECO’s TGA801, used for automated biofuel analysis." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_TGA_801_Termogravimetricka_analyza_vlhkosti_popela_tekavych_latek_a_ztraty_zihanim_b73c4cf493.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1164" height="435"><h3>Automated Proximate Analysis with LECO’s TGA801</h3>The<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1877"> LECO TGA801 thermogravimetric analyzer </a>is designed for automated determination of moisture, volatile matter, and ash content in solid fuels. The system can analyze up to 19 samples simultaneously and combine all three parameters into one automated run, improving efficiency and reproducibility.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/LECO_Advancing_Biofuel_Characterization_with_LECO_Analytical_Instrumentation_31e96f1c96.jpg" alt="LECO Advancing Biofuel Characterization with LECO Analytical Instrumentation: TGA801 system with ceramic turntable and crucibles for ISO 18123 volatile matter determination." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_LECO_Advancing_Biofuel_Characterization_with_LECO_Analytical_Instrumentation_31e96f1c96.jpg 235w," sizes="100vw" width="860" height="573"><h3>Comparison with ISO Reference Methods</h3>To validate the performance of the automated TGA801 system, comparative studies were conducted using internationally recognized ISO reference methods. Moisture determination was compared with ISO 18134, ash content with ISO 18122, and volatile matter with ISO 18123. These standards prescribe specific temperatures and analytical procedures, but also permit automated systems if equivalent performance can be demonstrated.The comparison included a broad range of materials such as wood pellets, peat, coal, plastics, and waste-derived fuels. Moisture and ash results generated by the TGA801 showed extremely close agreement with the manual ISO procedures. This strong correlation confirms that automated thermogravimetric analysis can provide the same reliability as conventional methods while greatly increasing throughput and reducing labor requirements.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/LECO_Advancing_Biofuel_Characterization_with_LECO_Analytical_Instrumentation_2_3887128788.jpg" alt="LECO: Advancing Biofuel Characterization with LECO Analytical Instrumentation: ISO method crucibles for manual volatile determination." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_LECO_Advancing_Biofuel_Characterization_with_LECO_Analytical_Instrumentation_2_3887128788.jpg 172w," sizes="100vw" width="1264" height="1145"><h3>Volatile Matter Correlation Results</h3>For volatile matter analysis, both ISO and TGA procedures measure mass loss during a fixed period at 900 °C. The TGA method introduces an additional heating ramp from the moisture determination step at approximately 105 °C to the higher volatile matter temperature. Despite this procedural difference, the resulting data demonstrated excellent agreement.Testing performed on wood pellets showed a strong linear relationship between the ISO and TGA methods with an R² value of approximately 0.94. The maximum deviation observed was only 1.06%, while the average difference between methods was approximately 0.1%. These results confirm the ability of the TGA801 to produce highly accurate volatile matter measurements across a variety of biomass and fuel matrices.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/LECO_Advancing_Biofuel_Characterization_with_LECO_Analytical_Instrumentation_2_40f7189cef.jpg" alt="LECO Advancing Biofuel Characterization with LECO Analytical Instrumentation: Correlation and comparative data between ISO methods and LECO TGA analysis." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_LECO_Advancing_Biofuel_Characterization_with_LECO_Analytical_Instrumentation_2_40f7189cef.jpg 172w," sizes="100vw" width="1065" height="967"><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/LECO_Advancing_Biofuel_Characterization_with_LECO_Analytical_Instrumentation_1_7519e8e646.jpg" alt="LECO Advancing Biofuel Characterization with LECO Analytical Instrumentation: Correlation and comparative data between ISO methods and LECO TGA analysis." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_LECO_Advancing_Biofuel_Characterization_with_LECO_Analytical_Instrumentation_1_7519e8e646.jpg 228w," sizes="100vw" width="1641" height="1120"><h3>Advantages of Automated Biofuel Analysis</h3><ul><li>High sample throughput with simultaneous multi-sample analysis.</li><li>Fully automated workflows reducing operator involvement.</li><li>Integrated determination of moisture, ash, and volatile matter in one run.</li><li>Excellent reproducibility and data consistency.</li><li>Strong agreement with ISO reference methods without additional calibration.</li><li>Improved data security and laboratory efficiency.</li><li>Suitable for research laboratories, industrial quality control, and fuel certification.</li></ul><h3>Automate Your Lab Today</h3>LECO analytical instrumentation provides a comprehensive solution for modern biofuel characterization. From calorific value determination and elemental composition analysis to ash fusibility and automated proximate analysis, these technologies support both scientific research and industrial production with fast, reliable, and reproducible results. The TGA801 demonstrates how automation can significantly improve laboratory efficiency while maintaining full compliance with ISO reference methods. By integrating moisture, ash, and volatile matter analysis into a single automated workflow, the system reduces labor requirements, increases throughput, and enhances data quality. As renewable energy continues to expand globally, advanced analytical systems will remain essential for ensuring fuel quality, supporting regulatory compliance, and driving innovation in sustainable energy technologies. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1877">Explore the features of the LECO TGA801 today.</a>

Advancing Biofuel Characterization with LECO Analytical Instrumentation

Researchers&nbsp;Tereza Nešporová and Jaroslava Večerková from Brno's RECETOX explain why failures are also a valuable part of gaining knowledge, how they study the effects of chemical substances on the hormonal system, and why they apply their professional insights to their everyday lives.<h5>How did you get involved in research at RECETOX?&nbsp;</h5>Jaroslava: I actually joined RECETOX by chance during my follow-up Master's studies in Environmental Chemistry, back when Professor Holoubek was still leading the institute. I wrote my thesis under Klára Hilscherová and simply stayed here ever since, except for a break during maternity leave. I have been part of her team the whole time, focusing on endocrine disruptors.&nbsp;What has changed over the years is the focus of our research. We used to study surface waters, particularly the presence of substances with endocrine-disrupting potential and their effects on organisms. Today, the research has shifted more toward humans and the interactions between chemical substances and the endocrine system.&nbsp;Tereza: I came from a completely different field. I studied molecular biology and worked on chronic lymphocytic leukemia for my Master's thesis at CEITEC. I used genetic engineering methods such as CRISPR/Cas9 for gene editing—activating, suppressing, or completely removing genes.&nbsp;At the time, Klára Hilscherová’s group needed to create cellular models with increased production of deiodinase enzymes, which I still work on today. I had heard only positive things about the team, and when I finished my Master's degree, I wanted to move beyond my original field. The connection between hormones and neurodevelopment attracted me, and RECETOX became the obvious choice.&nbsp;<h5>So you are in the same research team. How do you collaborate?&nbsp;</h5>Tereza: We sit in the same office. And that’s probably the main thing (laughs).&nbsp;Jaroslava: We discuss things a lot. Some mechanisms repeat across experiments, so we talk about how each of us evaluates data and why. We inspire each other, even though we do not directly collaborate on the same laboratory work.&nbsp;<h5>How does your work differ?&nbsp;</h5>Tereza: Our team is highly interconnected. We all work on developing assays for detecting endocrine-disrupting substances, specifically those affecting thyroid hormones. However, each of us focuses on a different part of the system.&nbsp;I focus on deiodinase enzymes, which regulate the activation and deactivation of hormones. Recently, I have been spending more time analyzing data and designing experiments than working directly in the laboratory.&nbsp;Jaroslava: Within the team, I mainly participate in testing different types of samples—from individual chemicals and mixtures to real environmental samples such as household dust—using the assays mentioned above.&nbsp;It is important to note that chemicals can affect the hormonal system at different levels. They can bind to or block nuclear receptors, affect hormone transport in the bloodstream, or interfere with hormone metabolism. In the past, only one part of this process was monitored. Today, we aim to cover the full spectrum of these interactions.&nbsp;Tereza: And that is crucial. A substance may appear negative in one test, yet affect another part of the system, producing a significant impact on the organism. That is why current research focuses on the entire range of possible mechanisms.&nbsp;<h5>Why did you choose endocrine disruptors as your research topic?&nbsp;</h5>Jaroslava: For me, it was more or less a coincidence while choosing my thesis topic. But it turned out to be a fascinating area, so I stayed with it.&nbsp;Tereza: I had been interested in it for a long time. I also like that our work has a concrete outcome—we develop tests that can realistically be used in decision-making regarding the safety of chemical substances. Compared to my previous research, I feel this work has a much more direct application.&nbsp;<h5>What about your PhD studies?&nbsp;</h5>Jaroslava: My PhD studies are currently on hold. After maternity leave, I returned as a laboratory technician, and my project work gradually shifted away from my original doctoral topic.&nbsp;Tereza: I am currently in the fourth year of my PhD studies. I also completed a research stay in Germany, where I learned to work with neuronal cells.&nbsp;As part of my studies, I focus mainly on deiodinases—the enzymes that act as the “on and off switches” of thyroid hormones. We are developing a test that can measure the effects of chemical substances on their activity.&nbsp;In addition, we are now studying how these substances affect neurons and their development, because proper thyroid hormone levels are crucial for nervous system development.&nbsp;<h5>What is the most challenging aspect of laboratory work?&nbsp;</h5>Tereza: Probably unpredictability. Cells do not always grow as expected, instruments have their bad days, and human error also plays a role. The important thing is to document all mistakes and complications and learn from them.&nbsp;Jaroslava: I agree with Tereza. The biggest challenge is unpredictability. Cells are living systems and do not always behave the same way.&nbsp;<h5>Can a career in science be combined with parenthood?&nbsp;</h5>Jaroslava: At RECETOX, definitely. There is a great deal of flexibility, and managers are very supportive. When necessary, it is possible to work from home. We help each other a lot within the team.&nbsp;Tereza: It also depends on the type of work and whether it can be planned according to your needs. Our team collaborates closely and tries to help one another whenever necessary. That is key. And when needed, data analysis and manuscript writing can also be done from home.&nbsp;<h5>Is your work more routine or highly varied?&nbsp;</h5>Jaroslava: Very varied. Laboratory work alternates with computer-based work. We are constantly learning new things. It is definitely not repetitive or boring, and that is what I enjoy about it.&nbsp;Tereza: The only routine in my work is taking care of cell cultures. Otherwise, the work is constantly changing. That is also what I enjoy most about it.&nbsp;<h5>What are the biggest challenges in your work?&nbsp;</h5>Jaroslava: Data evaluation. Measuring something is one thing; evaluating and interpreting it correctly is another.&nbsp;Tereza: Implementing new methods. And also those moments when you do everything correctly according to a published protocol, yet the results still do not match expectations.&nbsp;In science, you have to learn to accept that not everything works the first time. The important thing is not to give up, to continue optimizing, and to keep hoping for success.&nbsp;<h5>What role should open science play?&nbsp;</h5>Tereza: A huge one. If we had access to detailed protocols and original datasets, it would save enormous amounts of time and money during the implementation and optimization of new methods. Scientific papers often omit details that are actually critical for experimental success.&nbsp;Jaroslava: It is also important to share failures. A negative result is still a result, and it can provide valuable information.&nbsp;<h5>You are both mothers. Does your work influence your personal lives?&nbsp;</h5>Jaroslava: Absolutely. For example, we pay close attention to washing fruit because of chemical treatments. I encourage my children to think about what they consume, what it contains, and where it comes from. We try to avoid plastics and consistently separate waste.&nbsp;Tereza: Definitely. Even before having a child, I paid close attention to the composition of cosmetics, food, and other products. After becoming a parent, my caution multiplied.&nbsp;I was especially careful during pregnancy because a developing organism is most sensitive to harmful substances. Sometimes relatives raise their eyebrows at this, but when we have information firsthand, we cannot simply ignore it.&nbsp;Jaroslava: We also pay attention to toys, clothing, and materials used in the home. It is a kind of professional deformation (laughs).&nbsp;<h5>How can your research contribute from a broader perspective? How can others build upon it?&nbsp;</h5>Jaroslava: We are gradually optimizing methods that may eventually be used routinely. That is probably our greatest contribution.&nbsp;Tereza: Yes, our methods could help identify undesirable effects of substances before they reach the market, potentially leading to regulation of their production.&nbsp;<h5>Would you like to continue working on this topic in the future?&nbsp;</h5>Jaroslava Večerková: The topic of endocrine disruption is extremely interesting and very broad. The direction of research may change depending on current projects, but I would like to remain part of the team.&nbsp;Tereza Nešporová: I am very interested in uncovering how substances affect human health, and I believe I will want to continue working in this area. I like how dynamic the research is and that it has direct practical applications. I do not mind change, but I am happy within this team and would like to stay. We work together as a well-coordinated group.&nbsp;

Researchers Tereza Nešporová and Jaroslava Večerková: In science, we must learn to work with failure

Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezICPMS Library in the week of 6th July 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 brochure by Agilent Technologies, application note by Shimadzu and other document by Thermo Fisher Scientific!<h3>1. Agilent Technologies: The Easiest Smart Decision You Can Make - The Agilent 9500 ICP-MS</h3><ul><li>Brochure</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/br_9500_icp_ms_5994_9160en_agilent_240554d484.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>The brochure presents the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=9500">Agilent 9500 ICP-MS</a> as an ICP-QQQ system designed to bring triple quadrupole performance into routine laboratories without adding unnecessary complexity. It addresses common ICP-MS challenges such as spectral interferences, complex matrices, method development, re-runs, and the limitations of single quadrupole ICP-MS. The 9500 is positioned as a system that delivers reliable, interference-free trace element data while simplifying operation, method setup, and troubleshooting.A central feature of the system is Agilent’s proprietary Dual-Cell System (DCS), which combines Advanced Helium Mode (AHM) and Air mode. AHM replaces multiple traditional tune modes with one streamlined mode, helping reduce acquisition time by more than 33% while improving sensitivity, especially for low-mass elements. Air mode uses ambient air for oxygen mass-shift reactions, enabling effective removal of difficult on-mass interferences without the need for additional oxygen cylinders or related safety infrastructure.The brochure also highlights the system’s practical design improvements. These include Easy-fit sample introduction, automatic gas connections and torch alignment, improved access to the spray chamber, torch, cones, and peristaltic pump, reduced power consumption, lower exhaust flow, enhanced corrosion resistance, and a smaller footprint compared with previous ICP-QQQ systems. The 9500 also supports demanding applications such as high-salinity seawater analysis, rare earth element interference removal, and sub-ppt impurity analysis in high-purity titanium.Software and automation are presented as key parts of the workflow. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=OpenLab+ICP-MS">OpenLab ICP-MS </a>provides method development tools such as Method Advisor, preset methods, batch conversion from existing single quadrupole ICP-MS methods, guided diagnostics, reporting, and IntelliQuant screening. The 9500 can also be integrated with Agilent autosamplers, the AVS MS switching valve, and ADS 2 autodilutor to automate calibration, dilution, analysis, and reporting. Overall, the brochure positions the Agilent 9500 ICP-MS as a more accessible, productive, and future-ready ICP-QQQ platform for laboratories needing reliable results across complex sample types.<h3>2. Shimadzu: Continuous Automatic Measurement of Static Spring Constant and Dynamic Properties before and after Durability Tests on Rubber Vibration Isolators by Combination Test Software</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_01_01061_en_7301fb4069.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>A rubber vibration isolator is a product designed to prevent or mitigate the transmission of vibration and shock. It is widely used in various fields such as transportation equipment, construction, and industrial machinery.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=JIS+K+6385">JIS K 6385</a> “Rubber vibration isolators - Test methods” defines several test methods and terms for evaluating the performance of rubber vibration isolators. In order to estimate the fatigue life of rubber vibration isolators, a durability test method is specified in which the rubber vibration isolator is subjected to repeated loads to evaluate the presence of failure, cracks, or changesin properties. It is extremely important to evaluate the durability of rubber vibration isolators because deterioration in their performance can cause noise and instability.&nbsp;Shimadzu’s fatigue and endurance testing machine Servopulser’s Windows Software for 4830 has a function called a combination test, which automatically combines several tests and continuously executesthem. This article introduces an example of continuous automatic measurement of static spring properties and dynamic properties of rubber vibration isolators before and after durability tests, by using a combination test.<h4>Testing Equipment&nbsp;</h4>The EMT-1kNV-50 electromagnetic fatigue and endurance testing machine was used in these tests. Fig. 2 shows a photograph of the testing machine. The electromagnetic actuator with extremely high frequency response enables highly accurate dynamic testing. In these tests, the maximum test frequency was 100 Hz. The EMT series is most suitable for testing at such high frequencies.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>A fatigue and endurance testing machine was used to compare the static spring properties and dynamic properties of rubber vibration isolators before and after durability testing based on JIS K 6385. Combination testing software enables continuous and automatic execution of each test, thus reducing work time. The highly responsive EMT series also enables high-frequency testing with amplitudes of 0.05 mm and 100 Hz.<h3>3. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Enhancing Monoclonal Antibody Yield and Quality Through Automated Multi-Component Feedback Control Loops Using the MarqMetrix All-In-One Process Raman Analyzer</h3><ul><li>Other document</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/monitoring_polymer_extrusion_wp1275_en_19f05a5436.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Understanding the structural changes of polymers during the extrusion process is essential for optimizing the manufacturing of extruded products. Extrusion can alter a polymer’s structure and properties in ways that can enhance its performance and functionality. Changes such as the transition from crystalline to amorphous phases or shifts in vibrational modes can be leveraged to tailor the end-polymer’s mechanical, thermal, and optical properties to meet specific application needs.&nbsp;Polymer extrusion is a high-volume manufacturing process where raw plastic materials, such as low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and polylactic acid (PLA), are melted and pushed through a shaped die to create specific and continuous profiles. In twin-screw extruders, this is accomplished using two intermeshing screws and a heating system to increase temperature, shear forces and pressure, in order to efficiently melt and homogenize the polymers. This process allows for the production of a wide range of plastic products with consistent shapes and properties.&nbsp;In addition to polymeric applications, twin-screw extruders are commonly used in pharmaceutical applications for mixing active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) with excipients. In battery manufacturing, extruders are used to thoroughly mix anode and cathode materials needed for homogeneous end products. The Thermo Scientific™ Process™ 11 Parallel Twin-Screw Extruder is an ideal tool for processing and compounding various materials in this manner.Vibrational spectroscopic techniques such as Raman spectroscopy are often utilized for off-line evaluation of extrusion products. However, if such techniques can be integrated in line with the extruders, it can facilitate real-time measurements of many qualitative and quantitative aspects of the process.&nbsp;Raman spectroscopy is a technique used to observe vibrational, rotational, and other low-frequency modes in a material. Raman spectroscopy works by shining a monochromatic light source, typically a laser, onto a sample. The light interacts with the molecular vibrations within the sample, causing the light to scatter. Most of the scattered light has the same wavelength as the incident light (Rayleigh scattering), however, a small portion of the scattered light has different wavelengths due to interactions with molecular vibrations. This change in wavelength provides a unique spectral fingerprint of the material, which can be used to identify and characterize the sample’s molecular composition and structure. This data can be translated into quantitative or qualitative information with the use of chemometric modeling techniques such as partial least squares (PLS) regression or principal component analysis (PCA).The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/2233">Thermo Scientific™ MarqMetrix™ All-In-One Process Raman Analyzer</a> allows users to implement Raman spectroscopy directly in line with an extrusion process by using strong and chemically resistant optical probes. MarqMetrix probes can be integrated in line with extruder barrels allowing the continual monitoring of the extrusion process to make quantitative and qualitative decisions in real time.This white paper highlights the integration of the MarqMetrix All-In-One Process Raman Analyzer with the Process 11 Parallel Twin-Screw Extruder to observe polymer processing in real time, directly within the barrel of the extruder. Raman spectroscopy was first used to characterize the differences between the virgin material prior to extrusion, and the same material during extrusion. It was then utilized to indicate when materials had been mixed and then to track the transition from one polymer to another within the extruder system using qualitative chemometric models.&nbsp;The materials used in this study were LDPE and PLA. These materials were chosen due to their popularity in end-products across multiple industries as well as their well-characterized Raman spectra.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>The integration of the MarqMetrix All-In-One Process Raman Analyzer with the Process 11 Parallel Twin-Screw Extruder has demonstrated significant benefits for real-time, inline process monitoring in polymer extrusion. This study highlighted the capability of Raman spectroscopy to effectively differentiate between solid and molten states of polymers and provided clear identification of transitions from one polymer to another using PCA models. Such information can be utilized to ensure no cross-contamination during polymer change overs and to ensure the quality of the extruded polymers. This proofof-concept study can be further applied to quantify the composition of the composite polymer materials using PLS models. Additionally, the MarqMetrix All-In-One analyzer can also be integrated mid-barrel to understand the reactive extrusion in real time.&nbsp;Overall, the implementation of Raman spectroscopy into polymer extrusion processes offers a multitude of benefits, ranging from real-time monitoring and quality control to process optimization and cost savings. These advantages make Raman spectroscopy an invaluable tool for enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of polymer extrusion operations

News from LabRulezICPMS Library - Week 28, 2026

Article

Product

Application

Scientists

RECETOX (Research Centre for Toxic Compounds in the Environment) is an independent department of the Faculty of Science of Masaryk University in Brno, which has been established in 1983. RECETOX is focused on the research and education in cross-cutting area of Environment and Health. It addresses interactions among chemicals, environment, and biological systems, including consequences at local, regional, and global levels.

RECETOX - Centrum pro výzkum toxických látek v prostředí

Everything from the world of analytical chemistry in one place. We connect people in solving their problems. At Labrulez you will find all the necessary information easily, quickly and clearly. Stop searching and start finding.

LabRulez

In 1936, the Laboratory Equipment Company introduced the first rapid carbon determinator for the American iron and steel industry.  Today, almost 80 years later, LECO is recognized globally as a leader in the development of high-quality analytical instrumentation, mass spectrometers, comprehensive two-dimensional chromatography, metallography & optical equipment as well as consumables.

LECO

Thermo Scientific™ ARL™ iSpark Plus Fire Assay Analyzer

Thermo Scientific™ ARL™ iSpark Plus Fire Assay Analyzer – fast and accurate spark-OES system for direct precious metals analysis in lead buttons without cupellation.

<h4>Efficient and Clean Alternative to Traditional Fire Assay</h4>Traditional fire assay analysis is labor-intensive, expensive and environmentally harmful. The Thermo Scientific™ ARL™ iSpark Plus Fire Assay Analyzer provides a simple and clean alternative to traditional cupellation and analysis stages by using spark optical emission spectrometry (OES) to determine precious metal concentrations directly in lead buttons.With this system, you can achieve simultaneous quantitative determination of all precious metals in fire assay lead buttons in less than a minute. The ARL iSpark Plus is a high-end spark OES spectrometer specially optimized for lead button analysis.<h3>Applications and Detection Capabilities</h3>The analyzer is ideal for various types of samples in:<ul><li>Gold and platinum mining (plant control, exploration, metal accounting)</li><li>Precious metals refining and recycling</li><li>Contract laboratories</li></ul>Thanks to:<ul><li>1-meter focal length Paschen-Runge optics</li><li>High-performance photomultiplier tubes (PMTs)</li><li>Advanced signal processing technologies</li></ul>…it offers excellent detection limits for trace levels of gold, silver, and platinum group elements in lead buttons.<h4>Key Benefits and Technical Highlights</h4><ul><li>Unmatched hardware for long-term stability and reliability</li><li>Exceptional performance in detection limits, precision, accuracy and speed</li><li>Minimal training required for operators</li><li>Automation-ready: streamlined sample prep and high throughput</li><li>Factory-calibrated for fast commissioning</li><li>Compatible with automated fire assay labs</li></ul><h4>Advanced Technology Inside</h4><ul><li>Current Controlled Source (CCS): Flexible spark discharge control for high sensitivity, reproducibility and small sample geometry</li><li>Time Resolved Spectroscopy (TRS): Signal acquisition at optimal timing for improved sensitivity and precision</li><li>1-meter Paschen-Runge vacuum polychromator for excellent resolution</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/2028">Thermo Scientific™ OXSAS™ software</a>: Powerful and intuitive interface</li><li>Temperature-controlled cast iron cabinet: ±0.1°C at 38 °C</li><li>Argon-flushed, water-cooled table with closed-loop coolant system</li></ul>

Thermo Scientific ARL iSpark Plus Inclusion Analyzer

High-performance spark OES analyzer enabling ultra-fast simultaneous analysis of elemental composition and non-metallic inclusions in steel for improved process control and product quality.

The Thermo Scientific™ ARL iSpark Plus Inclusion Analyzer with Spark-DAT technology provides ultra-fast and comprehensive analysis of non-metallic inclusions in steel. It enables simultaneous determination of elemental composition and inclusion characteristics within a single spark OES measurement. This capability allows near real-time monitoring of inclusion content during steel production, supporting process optimization, improved product quality, and prevention of costly issues such as nozzle clogging during continuous casting.Designed as a complete solution for steelmaking applications, the analyzer integrates advanced optical design, high-sensitivity detection, and dedicated software tools to evaluate inclusion type, size, concentration, and volume fraction.<h4>Key features</h4><ul><li>Trusted ARL iSpark Plus spark OES platform for advanced inclusion and elemental analysis</li><li>1 m Paschen-Runge optical system with photomultiplier tube (PMT) detectors</li><li>Full elemental coverage including gas elements</li><li>Ultra-fast inclusion analysis combined with elemental determination</li><li>Determination of inclusion type, number, size, concentration, and volume fraction</li><li>Dedicated software tools: Spark Explorer, Inclusions Report, SPC</li><li>Customizable inclusion analysis methods with expert training support</li><li>Compatible with ARL SMS (Sample Manipulation System) for automated workflows</li></ul><h4>Technical specifications</h4><ul><li>Frequency: 50/60 Hz</li><li>Detector type: Photomultiplier Tubes (PMT)</li><li>Application: Steelmaking</li><li>Instrument type: Inclusion analyzer</li><li>Exterior dimensions (H × W): 1200 mm × 860 mm</li><li>Weight: Approx. 500 kg</li></ul>

Products from category Glow-discharge OES focused on Optical Emission Spectroscopy (OES) - page 1

Related content

Researchers Tereza Nešporová and Jaroslava Večerková: In science, we must learn to work with failure

News from LabRulezICPMS Library - Week 28, 2026

Advancing Biofuel Characterization with LECO Analytical Instrumentation