<p><strong>Labs&nbsp;that rely on helium gas are&nbsp;facing a major crisis…unless they have LECO instruments.&nbsp;Due to the military conflict in the Middle East, Qatar’s Ras Laffan Industrial City,&nbsp;the world’s largest helium production hub, providing one-third of the world’s helium,&nbsp;has&nbsp;shut down operations.&nbsp;To make matters worse,&nbsp;the Strait of Hormuz,&nbsp;the shipping lane used to&nbsp;export helium, has also been closed,&nbsp;meaning&nbsp;even pre-filled helium containers are stuck&nbsp;with&nbsp;no&nbsp;viable&nbsp;route to customers.&nbsp;Naturally,&nbsp;the price&nbsp;of helium has now risen&nbsp;dramatically;&nbsp;most spot prices have doubled.&nbsp;A&nbsp;critical&nbsp;scarcity&nbsp;issue&nbsp;is looming as&nbsp;the world must now&nbsp;operate&nbsp;on&nbsp;roughly 5.2&nbsp;million cubic meters&nbsp;per&nbsp;month&nbsp;less of helium.&nbsp;</strong></p><h3><strong>Why Helium&nbsp;Cost and Supply&nbsp;Matters&nbsp;to Labs</strong>&nbsp;</h3><p>Although many people may recognize helium&nbsp;as the gas that fills party balloons,&nbsp;it&nbsp;plays a&nbsp;critical&nbsp;role in much&nbsp;more serious&nbsp;matters.&nbsp;Helium&nbsp;has&nbsp;unique properties, like an extremely low boiling point, inertness, and high thermal conductivity, which&nbsp;makes&nbsp;it indispensable in several high-tech applications.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>For example, research labs&nbsp;may use helium as a&nbsp;carrier&nbsp;gas&nbsp;when performing&nbsp;elemental analyses or&nbsp;gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, which is used&nbsp;to&nbsp;separate and&nbsp;identify&nbsp;chemical compounds in samples.&nbsp;But research labs&nbsp;are&nbsp;often&nbsp;government-funded and run under strict budgets,&nbsp;so&nbsp;the price hike&nbsp;on&nbsp;helium could&nbsp;mean labs have to&nbsp;pause&nbsp;their research until everything falls back&nbsp;under control,&nbsp;which could be months or longer.&nbsp;Even well-funded labs could suffer if the supply is simply too stretched to&nbsp;equip&nbsp;the lab with&nbsp;what&nbsp;they need, as medical uses are given top priority.&nbsp;This could have a serious impact on accuracy and compliance with regulated methods.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><h3><strong>The Consequences&nbsp;Reach Farther</strong>&nbsp;</h3><p>When helium becomes unavailable or prohibitively expensive, the ripple effects are immediate and far-reaching. It affects more than&nbsp;just&nbsp;balloons and research labs:&nbsp;</p><ul><li><strong>Delayed Medical Diagnostics</strong>: MRI machines, which rely on helium to cool their superconducting magnets, may be taken offline, delaying critical scans.&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Semiconductor Bottlenecks</strong>: Chip shortages could worsen,&nbsp;impacting&nbsp;everything from smartphones to electric vehicles and AI infrastructure.&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Industrial Disruption</strong>: Welding, aerospace, and fiber optics manufacturing&nbsp;face rising costs and potential production halts.&nbsp;</li></ul><h3><strong>LECO’s Solution: Instruments That&nbsp;Don’t&nbsp;Rely on Helium&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;</h3><p>Amidst this pending&nbsp;crisis, LECO offers a practical and forward-thinking solution.&nbsp;This marks the 5<sup>th</sup>&nbsp;major helium supply crisis since 2006,&nbsp;and&nbsp;it’s&nbsp;likely there will be more after this. Helium&nbsp;supply is concentrated&nbsp;to&nbsp;just a few regions, meaning that any time there is a disruption to one of these, it can create a large effect on the industry.&nbsp;That’s&nbsp;why we designed our innovative analytical instruments&nbsp;to&nbsp;operate&nbsp;using alternative carrier gases.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Depending on the instrument, alternative gases&nbsp;such as nitrogen,<strong>&nbsp;</strong>argon,&nbsp;or hydrogen may be used in place of helium. These gases are&nbsp;abundant, cost-effective, and&nbsp;less prone&nbsp;to the geopolitical volatility that plagues helium supply chains.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>LECO’s helium-free&nbsp;options&nbsp;ensure that operations stay online, efficient, and future-proof&nbsp;in a world where helium is becoming increasingly scarce and expensive.&nbsp;This flexibility is no longer a luxury—it’s&nbsp;a necessity.&nbsp;If your lab or facility is feeling the pressure of helium scarcity, now is the time to explore alternatives.&nbsp;This&nbsp;isn’t&nbsp;the first helium shortage, and it&nbsp;won’t&nbsp;be the last.&nbsp;Is your lab prepared?</p><h3><strong>LECO Instruments Supporting Non-Helium Carrier Gases</strong>&nbsp;</h3><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/36"><strong>Pegasus BT</strong></a> (Bench-Top GC–TOFMS, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/37"><strong>incl. BT 4D</strong></a>)</h4><ul><li><strong>Supported Carrier Gases:</strong> Helium or Hydrogen</li><li><strong>Notes on Usage / Limitations: </strong>Supports H₂ as GC carrier with a retrofit kit for safety. Performance on hydrogen is on par with helium – the Pegasus BT series meets its full sensitivity specs with either gas.</li><li><strong>App Note:</strong> <i>“</i><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/PEGBT_TEA_TREE_ESSENTIAL_OIL_HYDROGEN_CARRIER_GAS_203_821_651_95c7a05807/PEGBT_TEA_TREE_ESSENTIAL_OIL_HYDROGEN_CARRIER_GAS_203-821-651.pdf"><i><strong>A Rapid, Robust and Sensitive Analysis of Tea Tree Essential Oil Quality by GC-TOFMS with Hydrogen as Carrier Gas</strong></i></a><i>”</i></li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/LECO_Pegasus_BT_2_bc8a8d0505.jpg" alt="LECO: Pegasus BT" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_LECO_Pegasus_BT_2_bc8a8d0505.jpg 238w," sizes="100vw" width="932" height="612"></p><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/1097"><strong>Pegasus BTX</strong></a><strong> </strong>(Next-gen BT, incl. BTX 4D)</h4><ul><li><strong>Supported Carrier Gases:</strong> Helium or Hydrogen</li><li><strong>Notes on Usage / Limitations: </strong>Designed for seamless helium-to-hydrogen use. The Pegasus BTX series maintains trace-level sensitivity with either helium or hydrogen carrier gas, a rare capability in GC–MS. No hardware changes needed beyond standard setup.&nbsp;</li><li><strong>App Note:</strong> <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/PEGBTX_GINGER_OIL_HYDROGEN_CARRIER_GAS_203_821_694_1685d36546.pdf"><i><strong>“Ginger Oil Analysis and Grade Differentiation with Pegasus BTX Using Hydrogen Carrier Gas”</strong></i></a></li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/LECO_LECO_PEGASUS_BTX_GC_TOFMS_cover_image_34704e689d.jpg" alt="LECO: Pegasus BTX" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_LECO_LECO_PEGASUS_BTX_GC_TOFMS_cover_image_34704e689d.jpg 235w," sizes="100vw" width="416" height="276"></p><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/38"><strong>Pegasus&nbsp;HRT</strong></a><strong>&nbsp;</strong>(High-Resolution TOF-MS,<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/39"> incl. 4D</a>)</h4><ul><li><strong>Supported Carrier Gases:</strong> Helium or Hydrogen</li><li><strong>Notes on Usage / Limitations: </strong>High-resolution GC–TOFMS systems support H₂ as a carrier gas as well as He.&nbsp;<strong>Note:</strong>&nbsp;Strict safety protocols apply due to&nbsp;hydrogen’s&nbsp;flammability. Hydrogen use is not recommended in instruments/configurations where gas could accumulate (e.g.&nbsp;very long, vertical&nbsp;flight tubes), but LECO’s HRT instruments&nbsp;utilize&nbsp;Folded Flight Path technology, which&nbsp;eliminates&nbsp;this concern.&nbsp;</li><li><strong>App Note:</strong> <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/GC_MS_Analysis_Hydrogen_Carrier_Gas_MMS_Ion_Source_HRT_G_Cx_GC_TOFMS_SA_ASMS_23_LPSS_310_6247a1baaf/GC-MS_Analysis_Hydrogen_Carrier_Gas_MMS_Ion_Source_HRT-GCxGC-TOFMS_SA_ASMS23_LPSS-310.pdf"><i><strong>“GC–MS Analysis with Hydrogen Carrier Gas on GC×GC-HRTOFMS (MMS Ion Source)”</strong></i></a></li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/LECO_Pegasus_GC_HRT_831fcb6d1e.jpg" alt="LECO: Pegasus&nbsp;HRT" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_LECO_Pegasus_GC_HRT_831fcb6d1e.jpg 226w," sizes="100vw" width="3600" height="2487"></p><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1884"><strong>LECO 828 Series</strong></a> (Nitrogen/Protein/Carbon/Hydrogen)</h4><ul><li><strong>Supported Carrier Gases:</strong> Helium or Argon&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Notes on Usage / Limitations: </strong>The LECO 828 Series&nbsp;supports&nbsp;argon as an alternative&nbsp;carrier gas&nbsp;to helium. Helium provides higher TCD sensitivity (important for low-N samples),&nbsp;whereas&nbsp;argon operation raises the nitrogen detection limit and slightly reduces low-range precision. Switching gas type simply requires updating the method and flow settings (no hardware change&nbsp;required).</li><li><strong>App Note:</strong> <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.leco.com/documents/203-821-665/?_gl=1*1d6stb6*_up*MQ..*_ga*MTMwMjg4MTUxNC4xNzc2MTAzOTU0*_ga_K8NYKVEKHY*czE3NzYxMDM5NTQkbzEkZzAkdDE3NzYxMDM5NTQkajYwJGwwJGg0NTY2NjUwNjk.*_ga_KRDSR1XM7X*czE3NzYxMDM5NTQkbzEkZzAkdDE3NzYxMDM5NTQkajYwJGwwJGgw"><i><strong>“Carbon, Hydrogen, and Nitrogen in Biomass using CHN828”</strong></i></a>&nbsp;</li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/LECO_rada_828_Makroanalyza_spalovanim_pro_analyzator_uhliku_vodiku_dusiku_a_bilkovin_e86acd897e.jpg" alt="LECO 828 Series" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_LECO_rada_828_Makroanalyza_spalovanim_pro_analyzator_uhliku_vodiku_dusiku_a_bilkovin_e86acd897e.jpg 137w," sizes="100vw" width="454" height="516"></p><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1885"><strong>LECO 928 Series</strong></a> (Nitrogen/Protein/Carbon/Sulfur)</h4><ul><li><strong>Supported Carrier Gases:</strong> Helium or Argon&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Notes on Usage / Limitations: </strong>The LECO&nbsp;928 Series&nbsp;also&nbsp;supports&nbsp;argon carrier gas as an alternative to helium. Helium use gives the best sensitivity and lowest detection limits for nitrogen, while argon use increases analysis time slightly and raises the nitrogen detection limit (due to the smaller thermal conductivity difference). The 928-series instruments have built-in&nbsp;settings for either gas; when switching, users adjust flow&nbsp;and select&nbsp;the appropriate carrier gas&nbsp;in the system settings. Users also have the option to select&nbsp;a larger aliquot loop&nbsp;in the analysis method&nbsp;to improve&nbsp;precision.&nbsp;</li><li><strong>App Note:</strong> <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CN_928_CN_CARBON_BLACK_GRAPHITE_203_821_684_c2224fa8be.pdf"><i><strong>“Determination of Carbon and Nitrogen in Carbon Black and Graphite”</strong></i></a></li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/LECO_rada_928_Stanoveni_makrohodnot_pomoci_spalovani_3_74de99f8e5.jpg" alt="LECO 928 Series" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_LECO_rada_928_Stanoveni_makrohodnot_pomoci_spalovani_3_74de99f8e5.jpg 216w," sizes="100vw" width="711" height="513"></p><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1880"><strong>736</strong></a><strong>/</strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1882"><strong>836</strong></a><strong> Series</strong>&nbsp;(Inert Gas Fusion O<sub>2</sub>/N<sub>2</sub>&nbsp;/H<sub>2</sub>&nbsp;&nbsp;analyzers)</h4><ul><li><strong>Supported Carrier Gases:</strong> Helium or Argon&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Notes on Usage / Limitations: </strong>LECO’s inert gas fusion analyzers for oxygen and nitrogen in inorganic materials (e.g.&nbsp;models ON736, ON836) traditionally use helium as the carrier for the TCD measuring N<sub>2</sub>. These systems can run on argon as well, provided the appropriate He/Ar&nbsp;dual-purpose TCD is installed. Switching from He to&nbsp;Ar&nbsp;in these instruments is a one-time setup change;&nbsp;both gases are supported in the software (selectable “Gas Type” setting).&nbsp;When using argon, the furnace runs hotter&nbsp;and produces more soot, so maintenance (filter changes, cleaning)&nbsp;becomes more frequent.&nbsp;Low-level nitrogen precision is also slightly&nbsp;lessened&nbsp;with argon.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li><strong>App Note:</strong> <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/ONH_836_O_N_H_IRON_STEEL_NICKEL_COBALT_ALLOYS_COMPARISON_203_821_601_3c9836f4b4.pdf"><i><strong>“Determination of Oxygen, Nitrogen, and Hydrogen in Iron, Steel, Nickel-base, and Cobalt-base Alloys: Comparison of Analytical Performance Between Argon and Helium Carrier”&nbsp;</strong></i></a></li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/LECO_rada_736_Analyza_kysliku_a_dusiku_roztavenim_vzorku_v_inertnim_plynu_3_0ec033bbbb.jpg" alt="LECO 736 Series" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_LECO_rada_736_Analyza_kysliku_a_dusiku_roztavenim_vzorku_v_inertnim_plynu_3_0ec033bbbb.jpg 151w," sizes="100vw" width="825" height="852"></p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/LECO_rada_836_Analyza_prvku_pro_detekci_kysliku_dusiku_a_vodiku_5_8011397ce6.jpg" alt="LECO 836 Series" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_LECO_rada_836_Analyza_prvku_pro_detekci_kysliku_dusiku_a_vodiku_5_8011397ce6.jpg 134w," sizes="100vw" width="657" height="764"></p><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1850"><strong>DH603&nbsp;Hydrogen Determinator</strong></a></h4><ul><li><strong>Supported Carrier Gases:</strong> Nitrogen (carrier), Helium (calibration gas)&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Notes on Usage / Limitations: </strong>The DH603 measures diffusible and residual hydrogen in metals by hot extraction. It does&nbsp;<i>not use helium as a carrier&nbsp;</i>during analysis—instead&nbsp;it uses nitrogen as the purge/carrier gas in the TCD system. A small helium dose is used only for calibration and system checks (to introduce a known H<sub>2</sub>&nbsp;quantity via He-H<sub>2</sub>&nbsp;mix). In routine operation, the furnace is purged with N<sub>2</sub>&nbsp;and any hydrogen released from the sample is carried to a TCD that&nbsp;references against&nbsp;the nitrogen background. This design avoids flammable gas in the instrument entirely.&nbsp;</li><li><strong>App Note:</strong> <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/DH_603_H_STEEL_SAMPLES_203_821_376_68e63cfea2.pdf"><i><strong>“Hydrogen Determination in Steel Samples Using DH603”&nbsp;</strong></i></a></li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/LECO_DH_603_Stanoveni_zbytkoveho_a_difuzniho_vodiku_horkou_extrakci_d968c7c42b.jpg" alt="LECO: DH603&nbsp;Hydrogen Determinator" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_LECO_DH_603_Stanoveni_zbytkoveho_a_difuzniho_vodiku_horkou_extrakci_d968c7c42b.jpg 237w," sizes="100vw" width="1325" height="875"></p>

As Helium Prices Rise and Supply Shrinks, LECO Customers Have Reliable Alternatives

<p><strong>It is our great pleasure to invite you to attend and contribute to the 19th International Symposium on Hyphenated Techniques in Chromatograph and Separation Technology (HTC-19), which will take place from May 26 to 29 in Leuven, Belgium.</strong></p><p>The HTC symposium series started in 1990 and is the ideal meeting place for scientists and practitioners from academia and industry and vendors to discuss and gather new insights in emerging technologies, instrumentation, workflows, and applications. Organized under the auspices of the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), the Catholic University of Leuven (KU Leuven), Ghent University (UGhent), and the Separation Science Group of the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC), HTC-19 is expected to gather over 300 participants.</p><h3><strong>Registration</strong></h3><blockquote><p class="cke-user_style-important"><strong>👉</strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.kuleuven.be/register/en/htc-19-19th-international-symposium-on-hyphenated-techniques-in-chromatography-and-separation-technology/step1"><strong>Register HERE</strong></a></p></blockquote><h4><strong>Registration Fee</strong></h4><h5><strong>Regular (From 14 March 2026)</strong></h5><ul><li><strong>Industry / Academic:</strong> € 775</li><li><strong>Student:</strong> € 425</li></ul><h5><strong>Conference dinner / Tasting Event</strong></h5><ul><li>Participants: € 95 / € 50</li><li>Accompanying persons: € 110 / € 60</li></ul><h5><strong>Short courses (CE, GC and GCxGC, NANOLC-MS, 2D-LC)</strong></h5><ul><li>Academic: € 500</li><li>Industry: € 500</li><li>Students: € 350</li></ul><h5><strong>Short course (AI MD Development)</strong></h5><ul><li>Academic: € 250</li><li>Industry: € 250</li><li>Students: € 125</li></ul><h3><strong>Programme</strong></h3><h4><strong>Plenary Spekares</strong></h4><h5><strong>Under pressure: bringing supercritical fluids to multi-dimensional analysis systems</strong></h5><ul><li>Caroline West, Université d’Orléans, France<ul><li>Caroline West is a full professor in analytical chemistry at the University of Orleans, France, where she is teaching separation science. Her main scientific interests lie in fundamentals of chromatographic selectivity, both in the achiral and chiral modes, in SFC and LC. She is also applying these methods, with or without hyphenation to extraction methods and/or MS, to samples of pharmaceutical interest and natural products. She has authored about 120 papers in international peer‐reviewed journals and has presented about 120 lectures in conferences. In 2015, she received the “LC‐GC Emerging Leader in Chromatography” award. She was ranked several times among the most influential people in analytical chemistry by “The Analytical Scientist” magazine (“Top 40 under 40” 2014 &amp; 2018, “The Power List” 2019, 2020 &amp; 2021), received the Jubilee medal from the Chromatographic Society (2021) and JFK Huber Lecture award from the Austrian Society of Analytical Sciences (2025). She is also an advisory board member for several journals in separation science.</li></ul></li></ul><h5><strong>Open Science Cheminformatics Resources Supporting Hyphenated Non-target Screening Efforts</strong></h5><ul><li>Emma Schymanski, University of Luxembourg, Luxembourg<ul><li>Professor Emma Schymanski is head of the Environmental Cheminformatics (ECI) group, FNR ATTRACT Fellow and special advisor to the rector for Open Science and Research Data Management. She has a double degree in Chemistry/Environmental Engineering from UWA, Perth, completed her PhD at UFZ Leipzig and postdoc at Eawag, Switzerland. Her research combines cheminformatics and computational (high resolution) mass spectrometry approaches to elucidate the unknowns in complex samples, primarily with non-target screening, and relate these to environmental causes of disease. She is involved in many collaborative efforts, with &gt;16,000 citations, &gt;100 publications and a book. An advocate for FAIR and open science, she is involved in several European and worldwide activities to improve the exchange of data, information and ideas between scientists, including the NORMAN Suspect List Exchange, MassBank, MetFrag, PubChemLite for Exposomics, the PubChem PFAS Tree, patRoon, ShinyTPs and the Chemical Stripes.</li></ul></li></ul><h5><strong>The challenges of scale for meaningful environmental research</strong></h5><ul><li>Leon Barron, Imperial College London, United Kingdom<ul><li>Professor Leon Barron leads the Emerging Chemical Contaminants group at Imperial College London. His research aims to further our understanding of complex chemical exposures on environmental and public health. He gained his PhD in 2005 from Dublin City University and in 2009 moved to King’s College London as an academic in Forensic Science until 2020. He moved to Imperial in 2020 and was recently promoted to full professor of Analytical and Environmental Sciences in 2025. He has pioneered several (bio)analytical methodologies especially the development and integration novel passive sampling tools, liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry methods and predictive machine learning for contaminant identification, monitoring and risk assessment. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry and is the current Chair of its Separation Science Interest Group. His work has been recognised particularly for its large-scale applicability including in national and international monitoring campaigns in partnership with academia, government, industry and the general public.</li></ul></li></ul><h5><strong>Hyphenated methods in chromatography: Innovations realised and challenges remaining</strong></h5><ul><li>Hans-Gerd Janssen, Unilever, The Netherlands<ul><li>Prof. Hans-Gerd Janssen obtained his MSc and PhD degree in analytical chemistry from the Eindhoven University of Technology. After having worked at this university for another 8 years as an assistant/associate professor, he moved to Unilever R&amp;D in 1999 and currently holds the position of science leader Food Compositional Analysis. From 2004 to 2019 he was a part-time professor at the University of Amsterdam at the chair ‘(bio-)macromolecular separations’. In 2019 he moved to Wageningen University where he now holds a part-time professor position in ‘recognition-based analytical chemistry’. Prof. Janssen has published more than 230 papers including six patents and seven book chapters. He is a member of the editorial advisory board of several scientific journals. He has been, or is, a member of the board of the Analytical Chemistry division of the Dutch Chemical Society and of the working group Separation Methods. He also is a member of the scientific or organizing committee of several symposia. Prof. Janssen was awarded the 2020 GC×GC scientific achievement award in recognition of his contribution to the field. In 2023 he was awarded the H.J. Dutton Award from the American Oil Chemist’s Society. In his research he focuses on the development of chromatographic methods and theories for the reliable, rapid and automated analysis of complex samples. Much of his work was on edible oils and fats, but also other food related samples including packaging materials and food processing got his attention. More recently his work focusses on food flavour analysis and understanding sensory perception from detailed chemical analysis.</li></ul></li></ul><h5><strong>Delicious Science: A Chemical Journey Through the Kitchen</strong></h5><ul><li>Peter Van Broeck, WM-Lightning B.V., Belgium<ul><li>Dr. Peter Van Broeck has more than 30 years of experience in analytical chemistry, process control, and technological innovation within the pharmaceutical and chemical industry. Since 2023, he has been Managing Director of WM-Lightning B.V., a consultancy firm specialized in innovation, interim management, and strategic support. He spent a significant part of his career at Johnson &amp; Johnson, where he held leadership roles in Analytical Development and Chemical Process Control. As Scientific Director, he was end-to-end responsible for the analytical strategy within continuous manufacturing, the implementation of Process Analytical Technology (PAT), and the introduction of new analytical technologies. He developed extensive international academic and industry networks and represented the organization in various innovation programs and conferences. Earlier, Dr. Van Broeck led the Chemical Process Control Lab, where he drove the global adoption of PAT. At Amylum NV and BetzDearborn Inc., he focused on analytical method development, laboratory setup, and the introduction of advanced techniques such as HT-GPC, NIR and hyphenated GC and HPLC techniques. He also served as a Guest Professor at Hasselt University, teaching Industrial Chemistry to Business Engineering students. Beyond his scientific career, Dr. Van Broeck has a long-standing passion for wine, gastronomy, and the chemistry of flavor. Building on early academic and R&amp;D experience in food analytics, he actively explores the intersection of taste, chemistry, and sensory experience, and is frequently invited as a speaker on topics such as food pairing and the science of brewing and winemaking.</li></ul></li></ul><h5><strong>Shaken, not stirred – James Bond in the spotlight of physics</strong></h5><ul><li>Metin Tolan, Faculty of Physics, TU Dortmund University, Germany<ul><li><p>Main areas of research: Investigation of the interfacial behavior of so-called “soft matter” (polymers, liquids, biomaterials), phase diagrams and stability of proteins, use of synchrotron radiation for materials research in general and further development of investigation methods, more than 200 publications in refereed journals</p><p>Professional career: Since April 2025: Professor of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, TU Dortmund University 2021–2025: President of Georg August University of Göttingen (on leave from TU Dortmund University) 2008–2020: Vice Rector for Research (3 years), for Studies (5 years), for Finance (4 years) at TU Dortmund University, permanent representative of the Rector 2003: Admitted as a full member of the North Rhine-Westphalian Academy of Sciences and Arts Since 2001: full professorship (C4) for experimental physics at TU Dortmund University. Chair of Experimental Physics I 1998 – 2001 Habilitation in experimental physics. Lecturer at Christian Albrechts University of Kiel 1994 – 1998: Research stays in the USA at Brookhaven National Laboratory (1994), Exxon Research Laboratories (1994), State University of New York at Stony Brook (1995 and 1998) and Argonne National Laboratory (1996 and 1997) 1990–1993: Research assistant, Institute for Experimental Physics, Christian Albrechts University of Kiel. Doctorate in physics (dissertation: “X-ray scattering on laterally structured surfaces – experiment and theory”) 1984–1989: Studied physics with a minor in mathematics, Christian Albrechts University of Kiel. Diploma in mathematical physics<br>Awards: 2024 Culture Prize of the Eduard Rhein Foundation 2018 Awarded the Badge of Honor of the German Physical Society 2017 Robert Wichard Pohl Prize of the German Physical Society for outstanding contributions to physics 2013 Communicator Prize of the DFG and the Stifterverband der Deutschen Wissenschaft 2010 Awarded the Silver Badge of Honor for special services to the DESY Research Center in Hamburg 2010 Professor of the Year elected by magazine “UNICUM Beruf” in the field of natural sciences and medicine</p><p>Popular Books: 5 books published, among them “Shaken, not stirred! – James Bond in the Spotlight of Physics” Springer (2020) (in German: “Geschüttelt, nicht gerührt! – James Bond im Visier der Physik”, Piper 2008)</p></li></ul></li></ul>

Plenary speakers at the 19th International Symposium on Hyphenated Techniques in Chromatography and Separation Technology (HTC-19)

<p><span><strong>Sabina Cerulová originally planned to study veterinary medicine, but coincidence, the covid‑19 pandemic, and her bachelor’s project led her to research at RECETOX. Today, as a PhD student, she studies a rare genetic mutation responsible for severe symptoms in a specific patient, and she works with animal models, microbiome, and advanced imaging methods. What motivates her in science is the variety of work, the opportunity to constantly learn, and the hope that her work will one day help real people.&nbsp;</strong></span></p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/RECETOX_MUNI_Ph_D_studentka_Sabina_Cerulova_Veda_da_strasne_moc_ale_strasne_moc_si_taky_vezme_Musi_vas_to_bavit_2_1ad2382856.jpeg" alt="RECETOX-MUNI: PhD student Sabina Cerulová: Science gives you so much, but it also takes a lot — you really must enjoy it" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_RECETOX_MUNI_Ph_D_studentka_Sabina_Cerulova_Veda_da_strasne_moc_ale_strasne_moc_si_taky_vezme_Musi_vas_to_bavit_2_1ad2382856.jpeg 117w," sizes="100vw" width="738" height="984"></p><h5><strong>How did you get into studying biochemistry and later into research at RECETOX?</strong></h5><p><span>I went to grammar school and for a long time I had no idea what exactly I wanted to do. It wasn’t until my final year that I realized I was drawn to veterinary medicine. But high school was wild. I had good grades, but I didn’t study much, and I thought the entrance exams would be similar. I was very wrong.&nbsp;</span></p><p><span>I applied to veterinary schools and biochemistry at the Faculty of Science, where I was luckily accepted, so I enrolled. Originally, I planned to transfer to veterinary medicine the next year, but then covid came, and admissions were based on high school grades, usually only straight A’s, so I didn’t get in.&nbsp;</span></p><p><span>In my second year, I started working on my bachelor’s thesis, and something just clicked. I got better at it, I understood more, my grades improved, and I decided to finish my bachelor’s degree. And then I was offered an amazing project.&nbsp;</span></p><h5><strong>Before we get to that project, what did you work on in your bachelor’s thesis</strong></h5><p><span>My bachelor’s thesis focused on analyzing the microbiome in the root canal of teeth in patients with apical periodontitis. I worked on it here at RECETOX under Associate<strong> Professor Petra Bořilová Linhartová</strong>. It was incredibly interesting — completely new work, new analyses. Because of covid, we had fewer lab classes, but I still really enjoyed it. After my bachelor’s, I received an offer from my supervisor, who knew I was interested in animals and veterinary science. For my thesis, she offered me the project we’ve already mentioned, which we work on in collaboration with the<strong> Institute of Histology and Embryology</strong>, in <strong>Associate Professor Křivánek’s group</strong>. They work with animal models, mainly mice, and study the effect of a genetic mutation found in a specific patient.&nbsp;</span></p><h5><strong>Why were you so drawn to animals? Have you ever considered studying medicine?&nbsp;</strong></h5><p><span>I’ve been close to animals since I was little. I used to ride horses, and at home we had hamsters, chinchillas, cats, and dogs. Everyone asked me why I didn’t go into medicine, but I guess I just like animals more than people (laughs). I liked the idea of having my own veterinary practice and being close to them.&nbsp;</span></p><p><span>Biochemistry was more of a backup plan; I didn’t really know what I was getting into. And I don’t regret it. Veterinary medicine will probably always be a dream, but I’m glad I stayed here.&nbsp;</span></p><h5><strong>Could you describe the project in more detail? If I understand correctly, you’re continuing the same topic in your dissertation.&nbsp;</strong></h5><p><span>Yes, that's right. Our research group collaborates with a hospital, which provided us with results from a patient who had numerous pathological findings since childhood: bone lesions, shortened tooth roots, enamel hypomineralization, joint pain, high phosphate levels in the blood.&nbsp;</span></p><p><span>Whole‑exome sequencing was performed, and a very rare mutation was identified in the gene that I study. In collaboration with other institutions, we created a mouse with the same point of mutation. It underwent phenotyping screening, and its symptoms were very similar to the patient’s. That was a huge success. Now we’re trying to further characterize the model and, in the future, test treatment options on it — diets, DNA modification, anything that could help not only her but also other patients with similar symptoms.&nbsp;</span></p><h5><strong>Do you work only with that one mutation, or with other models as well?</strong></h5><p><span>Primarily, I focus on one specific point of mutation, but we also worked with knockout mice where the gene is completely switched off. The results were quite variable, so we now study both lines. Thanks to our collaborations, we also have access to data from other mouse models with mutations in genes closely associated with hyperphosphatemia, which helps us put our results into a broader context.&nbsp;</span></p><h5><strong>Are you planning to study additional patients as well?</strong></h5><p><span>Yes. We want to publish a paper on additional patients, especially those on dialysis, and examine their phosphate levels and potential genetic modifications. Phosphate is not routinely tested, so similar disorders may be hidden. We’d like to find out whether their problems could be related to this gene and thus make our project applicable to a larger group of patients.&nbsp;</span></p><h5><strong>Do you use imaging methods? With what goal?</strong></h5><p><span>Yes. We wanted something non‑invasive, because microCT requires euthanizing the mice. In collaboration with the core facility, we’re testing MRI to observe manifestations of the mutation over time — in bones, soft tissues, kidneys. We obtained a grant for this, currently for one year. We need to observe progression, and then we can apply for further funding.&nbsp;</span></p><h5><strong>What surprised you most about working with animal models?&nbsp;</strong></h5><p><span>The time. Everything takes so long. Mice are living organisms, sometimes they’re born and then eat each other. It’s unpredictable. And we got our first shock when we were expecting offspring and nothing happened. Only later we found out that males with this mutation are infertile. As an animal lover, I cried over the first mouse I lost. But then you remind yourself that you're doing this to help patients. And you look for ways to use as few mice as possible.&nbsp;</span></p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/RECETOX_MUNI_Ph_D_studentka_Sabina_Cerulova_Veda_da_strasne_moc_ale_strasne_moc_si_taky_vezme_Musi_vas_to_bavit_1_787855e117.jpeg" alt="RECETOX-MUNI: PhD student Sabina Cerulová: Science gives you so much, but it also takes a lot — you really must enjoy it" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_RECETOX_MUNI_Ph_D_studentka_Sabina_Cerulova_Veda_da_strasne_moc_ale_strasne_moc_si_taky_vezme_Musi_vas_to_bavit_1_787855e117.jpeg 117w," sizes="100vw" width="450" height="600"></p><h5><strong>Why don’t you use vitro approaches instead, such as testing outside a living organism?&nbsp;</strong></h5><p><span>Because of speed and complexity. Mice reproduce quickly, live for about two years, and share 99% of their genes with humans. Using cells would be much slower, and we wouldn’t see the full picture of how the organism behaves.&nbsp;</span></p><h5><strong>What do you enjoy most about the work?</strong></h5><p><span>The variety. That I can tailor my day to what I have the capacity for. Sometimes I prepare samples for sequencing, sometimes I do analyses, sometimes I teach. I enjoy constantly learning and the diversity of tasks.&nbsp;</span></p><h5><strong>What is the hardest part of PhD studies for you?</strong></h5><p><span>Time management. I’m not good at it, and I’m very grateful to my supervisor, who helps me stay on track. And also, not losing myself in the work — I need to have a personal life. I do this because I enjoy it, but I don’t want to burn out.&nbsp;</span></p><h5><strong>How do you view working with students?</strong></h5><p><span>I enjoy it, but it’s demanding. Sometimes students mistake me for one of them (laughs), because I look young. And they’re very motivated — sometimes I feel like they know more than I do. But it has taught me a lot about patience and confidence. I really enjoy taking lectures.</span></p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/RECETOX_MUNI_Ph_D_studentka_Sabina_Cerulova_Veda_da_strasne_moc_ale_strasne_moc_si_taky_vezme_Musi_vas_to_bavit_3_f7b11b8efa.jpeg" alt="RECETOX-MUNI: PhD student Sabina Cerulová: Science gives you so much, but it also takes a lot — you really must enjoy it" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_RECETOX_MUNI_Ph_D_studentka_Sabina_Cerulova_Veda_da_strasne_moc_ale_strasne_moc_si_taky_vezme_Musi_vas_to_bavit_3_f7b11b8efa.jpeg 156w," sizes="100vw" width="450" height="450"></p><h5><strong>What are you most proud of in your scientific journey so far?</strong></h5><p><span>My progress. I never imagined myself in academia. Looking back, I’m grateful to the consultants on my bachelor’s thesis for their patience. Changing my approach and discovering that I enjoy it has moved me forward the most. I’m not focused on one specific result but on personal growth.&nbsp;</span></p><h5><strong>What motivates you to keep going?&nbsp;</strong></h5><p><span>The idea that one day it will work out. I try to stay positive, even though some days are tough and nothing goes according to plan.&nbsp;</span></p><h5><strong>Do you also engage in science outreach?</strong></h5><p><span>Yes. We do a lot, especially for children. I recently visited my hometown, Karviná. We have third graders, ninth graders… It’s great; the kids are enthusiastic. Outreaching is extremely important — showing that science is fun and needed everywhere.&nbsp;</span></p><h5><strong>And what is next after the PhD?</strong></h5><p><span>I don’t know. Maybe another PhD (laughs). But I certainly want to stay in science.</span></p><h5><strong>What advice would you give to young people considering a scientific career?</strong></h5><p><span>You must enjoy it. Science gives you so much, but it takes a lot as well. You must be passionate about it and find a topic that’s truly yours.</span></p>

PhD student Sabina Cerulová: Science gives you so much, but it also takes a lot — you really must enjoy it

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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

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.

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The HTC symposium series started in 1990 and is the ideal meeting place for scientists and practitioners from academia and industry and vendors to discuss and gather new insights in emerging technologies, instrumentation, workflows, and applications. Organized under the auspices of the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), the Catholic University of Leuven (KU Leuven), Ghent University (UGhent), and the Separation Science Group of the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC), HTC-19 is expected to gather over 300 participants.

International Symposium on Hyphenated Techniques in Chromatography and Separation Technology

Thermo Scientific Nicolet iS 10 FTIR Spectrometer

Nicolet iS10 FTIR spectrometer for mid-IR analysis with high resolution, DTGS detector, sealed optics, and broad accessory compatibility.

<p>The <strong>Thermo Scientific Nicolet™ iS™ 10 FTIR Spectrometer</strong> is a <strong>high-performance infrared spectrometer</strong> designed for <strong>routine and advanced analytical applications</strong> in <strong>QA/QC, pharmaceuticals, polymers, forensics, and petrochemical analysis</strong>.</p><p>The system is optimized for the <strong>mid-infrared (mid-IR) region</strong>, utilizing a <strong>KBr/Ge beamsplitter</strong>, with optional <strong>XT-KBr/Ge extended range optics</strong>. It is equipped with a <strong>fast recovery DTGS detector</strong>, providing <strong>high sensitivity and stability without the need for liquid nitrogen cooling</strong>.</p><p>A <strong>sealed optical bench</strong> ensures resistance to ambient humidity, supporting reliable long-term operation. The <strong>modular design</strong> allows integration with a wide range of accessories including <strong>SMART accessories, microscopes, and TGA-IR systems</strong>.</p><h4><span><strong>Key Features</strong></span></h4><ul><li>FTIR spectrometer optimized for mid-IR analysis</li><li>Spectral range up to 11,000–350 cm⁻¹ (XT optics)</li><li>High resolution &lt; 0.4 cm⁻¹</li><li>DTGS detector (no liquid nitrogen required)</li><li>KBr/Ge beamsplitter (standard)</li><li>Sealed optics for humidity resistance</li><li>Dual source (Ever-Glo + tungsten/halogen)</li><li>Compatibility with wide accessory range (SMART, microscopy, TGA-IR)</li><li>USB connectivity</li><li>ASTM E1421 compliant (ISO/GLP)</li></ul><h3><span><strong>Technical Specifications</strong></span></h3><h4><span><strong>Optics and Performance</strong></span></h4><ul><li><strong>Spectral range:</strong><ul><li>7800–350 cm⁻¹ (standard KBr)</li><li>11,000–375 cm⁻¹ (XT-KBr extended range)</li></ul></li><li><strong>Spectral resolution:</strong> &lt; 0.4 cm⁻¹</li><li><strong>Laser:</strong> HeNe</li><li><strong>Beamsplitter:</strong><ul><li>KBr/Ge (standard)</li><li>XT-KBr/Ge (optional)</li></ul></li></ul><h4><span><strong>Detection and Sources</strong></span></h4><ul><li><strong>Detector:</strong><ul><li>DTGS (standard)</li><li>MCT (optional, LN₂ cooled)</li></ul></li><li><strong>Source:</strong><ul><li>Mid-IR Ever-Glo</li><li>Tungsten/halogen</li></ul></li></ul><h4><span><strong>Construction and Compatibility</strong></span></h4><ul><li><strong>Optical system:</strong> sealed</li><li><strong>Compatible with:</strong><ul><li>SMART Accessories</li><li>Continuum microscope</li><li>TGA-IR</li><li>Photoacoustic modules</li><li>standard FTIR accessories</li></ul></li></ul><h4><span><strong>Interface</strong></span></h4><ul><li>USB 2.0</li></ul><h4><span><strong>Dimensions and Weight</strong></span></h4><ul><li>Width: 570 mm</li><li>Height: 250 mm</li><li>Depth: 550 mm</li><li>Weight: 33 kg</li></ul><h4><span><strong>Validation</strong></span></h4><ul><li>ASTM E1421</li><li>ISO / GLP compliance</li></ul>

Thermo Scientific Nicolet iS20 FTIR Spectrometer

Nicolet iS20 FTIR spectrometer with LightDrive optics, <0.25 cm⁻¹ resolution, cloud connectivity, and advanced mixture analysis capabilities.

<p>The <strong>Thermo Scientific Nicolet™ iS™ 20 FTIR Spectrometer</strong> represents a <strong>next-generation FTIR platform</strong> designed for <strong>fast and accurate identification of mixtures, contaminants, and trace components</strong> across applications including <strong>QA/QC, pharmaceuticals, polymers, and forensics</strong>.</p><p>At the core of the system is the <strong>LightDrive™ Optical Engine</strong>, integrating the <strong>source, laser, interferometer, and detector</strong> into a single optimized module. This design delivers <strong>high spectral resolution (&lt;0.25 cm⁻¹)</strong> and a <strong>signal-to-noise ratio up to 50,000:1</strong>, enabling detection of low-level components.</p><p>The instrument features a <strong>touchscreen interface with multi-color LED status indicators (ready / scan / alert)</strong> for intuitive operation. A <strong>sealed and purge-ready optical bench</strong> ensures long-term stability even in demanding environments.</p><p>The system supports <strong>cloud-enabled workflows via Thermo Fisher Cloud</strong> and uses <strong>OMNIC™ / OMNIC Specta™ software</strong>, including a library of <strong>&gt;9,000 spectra</strong> for rapid unknown identification.</p><h4><span><strong>Key Features</strong></span></h4><ul><li>LightDrive™ optical engine (source, laser, interferometer, detector)</li><li>Spectral resolution &lt; 0.25 cm⁻¹</li><li>Signal-to-noise ratio up to 50,000:1</li><li>Touchscreen interface with LED status indicators</li><li>10-year warranty on source, laser, and interferometer</li><li>High data reproducibility (stable IR source)</li><li>Sealed, purge-ready optics</li><li>Cloud connectivity (Thermo Fisher Cloud)</li><li>OMNIC™ and OMNIC Specta™ software (&gt;9,000 spectra library)</li><li>Automated validation (IQ/OQ, pharmacopeias)</li><li>Wide accessory compatibility (SMART, microscopy, TGA-IR)</li></ul><h3><span><strong>Technical Specifications</strong></span></h3><h4><span><strong>Optics and Performance</strong></span></h4><ul><li><strong>Spectral range:</strong><ul><li>7800–350 cm⁻¹ (standard KBr)</li><li>11,000–375 cm⁻¹ (XT-KBr extended range)</li></ul></li><li><strong>Spectral resolution:</strong> &lt; 0.25 cm⁻¹</li><li><strong>Signal-to-noise ratio:</strong> 50,000:1</li><li><strong>Laser: solid-state diode laser (10-year warranty)</strong></li><li><strong>Beamsplitter:</strong><ul><li>KBr/Ge (standard)</li><li>XT-KBr/Ge (optional)</li></ul></li></ul><h4><span><strong>Detection and Sources</strong></span></h4><ul><li><strong>Detector:</strong><ul><li>DTGS (standard)</li><li>optional high-sensitivity detectors (e.g., MCT)</li></ul></li><li><strong>Source:</strong><ul><li>stabilized IR source (non-migrating hot spot)</li><li>optional tungsten/halogen</li></ul></li></ul><h4><span><strong>Construction and Validation</strong></span></h4><ul><li><strong>Optical system:</strong> sealed and purge-ready</li><li><strong>Validation:</strong> integrated SPV, ASTM/NIST traceable</li><li><strong>Compliance:</strong><ul><li>USP / Ph. Eur. / JP / CP</li><li>21 CFR Part 11</li></ul></li></ul><h4><span><strong>Interface and Software</strong></span></h4><ul><li>USB 2.0</li><li>Thermo Fisher Cloud</li><li>Software: OMNIC™ / OMNIC Specta™</li></ul><h4><span><strong>Dimensions and Weight</strong></span></h4><ul><li>Dimensions: 570 × 550 × 250 mm</li><li>Weight: 32 kg</li></ul><h4><span><strong>Electrical</strong></span></h4><ul><li>100–240 V, 50–60 Hz</li></ul>

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