In the week from February 23, the following webinars await you in the field of atomic and molecular spectroscopy and spectrometry<blockquote><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinars">👉 DETAILS AND REGISTRATION IN THE WEBINARS SECTION</a></h4>👉 Search and filter in the largest global database with over 5 500 GC, LC, MS and spectroscopy webinars.</blockquote><h5>1. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Lunch and Learn Tips and Tricks Series – Qtegra Part 1</h5><ul><li>Tu, 24.2.2026 13:00 CET</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/5795">Registration</a></li></ul>Explore practical Qtegra ISDS workflows to boost trace elemental analysis quality and laboratory productivity, and learn how integrated tools help you get more from your instrumentation.<h5>2. LECO: Total Sulfur and Carbon Determination in Cement and Raw Materials</h5><ul><li>Tu, 24.2.2026 16:00 CET</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/5938">Registration</a></li></ul>Join Lloyd Allen for a practical webinar on total sulfur and carbon analysis in cement materials using the LECO SC832, including ASTM C150 compliance and furnace configuration insights.<h5>3. Technology Networks: Real-Time In-Line Insight for Therapeutic Protein Production</h5><ul><li>Tu, 24.2.2026 16:00 CET</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/5796">Registration</a></li></ul>Discover how real-time, in-line Raman monitoring improves control and consistency in therapeutic protein manufacturing by delivering actionable insights across downstream operations.<h5>4. SelectScience: Cruise Through Genomics Quantification and QC with Lunatic</h5><ul><li>Tu, 24.2.2026 17:00 CET</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/5837">Registration</a></li></ul>Learn how Lunatic enables fast, dye-free DNA and RNA quantification for NGS and biobanking, delivering accurate concentration and purity data from 96 samples in under 10 minutes.<h5>5. Bruker: Accelerating Soil Health Assessment – High-Throughput Analysis with IR and EPR Spectroscopy</h5><ul><li>Tu, 24.2.2026 17:00 CET</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/5758">Registration</a></li></ul>Discover how IR and EPR spectroscopy enable rapid, high-throughput soil analysis—from carbon, clay, and pH to free radicals and metals—supporting scalable soil health and contamination monitoring.<h5>6. Agilent Technologies: Microplastics in Wastewater – A Population Based Approach to Identifying Potential Sources</h5><ul><li>Tu, 24.2.2026 21:30 CET</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/2531">Registration</a></li></ul>Using LDIR within a closed wastewater treatment system, this webinar explores quantification of microplastics at different stages to identify potential contamination sources.<h5>7. Mettler-Toledo: Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA)</h5><ul><li>Th, 26.2.2026 16:00 CET</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/5734">Registration</a></li></ul>Join this webinar to understand DMA principles, viscoelastic behavior, and practical applications for material testing across industries.<h5>8. Bruker: Enhanced Data Capture for 3D Optical Profilers</h5><ul><li>Th, 26.2.2026 17:00 CET</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/5911">Registration</a></li></ul>Discover Enhanced Data Capture metrology and learn how it delivers richer, more reliable measurements on steep, rough, and complex surfaces, including live demonstrations and real-world applications.

Webinars LabRulezICPMS Week 09/2026

Matrix effects significantly limit accurate nanoparticle sizing in single-particle ICP-MS, often causing signal attenuation and size underestimation. This study systematically evaluates matrix-induced biases and reports up to 10 nm underestimation of Ag nanoparticle sizes due to 30–50% signal loss.To overcome these challenges, a novel online internal standard calibration strategy was developed using multielement detection and nonanalyte elements (Pd, Au) as internal standards. Simultaneous measurement of analyte and standards enabled correction of signal response and nebulization efficiency within a single run. The optimized approach provided accurate particle size determination in simulated and real matrices, extending SP-ICP-MS applicability to complex environmental and biological samples.<blockquote><h4>The original article</h4><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.analchem.5c06975">A Simple Online Internal Standard Calibration Strategy for Single-Particle Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry Based on Multielement Analysis</a></h4>Xiangwei Tian, Ying Wang, Peijie Yang, Dingyi Wang, Yanwei Liu, Yingying Guo, Yuning Hu*, Xiaoyan Zhang*, Ligang Hu, Yongguang Yin*, Yong Cai, and Guibin JiangAnal. Chem. 2025, 97, 51, 28139–28147<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.analchem.5c06975">https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.analchem.5c06975</a><h6>licensed under <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/">CC-BY 4.0</a></h6></blockquote>Selected sections from the article follow. Formats and hyperlinks were adapted from the original.<div>Nanoparticles (NPs) are ubiquitous in environmental and biological systems. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(1)</a> In the environment, billions of tons of natural NPs are formed annually through biogeochemical processes. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(1)</a> Engineered NPs are widely utilized in industrial, medical, and consumer products and inevitably released into the environment. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(2)</a> In biological systems, NPs can be endogenously formed <a href="javascript:void(0);">(3)</a> or acquired from environmental exposure. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(4)</a> Functional NPs can also be intentionally delivered into biological systems as probes or drugs. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(5−7)</a> Variations in physicochemical properties of NPs, such as size and elemental composition, can influence their distribution patterns and effects within environmental and biological systems. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(8,9)</a> Therefore, it is of great significance to resolve particle heterogeneity at the single-particle level. Single particle inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (SP-ICP-MS), with its high-throughput and sensitive capabilities for elemental and isotopic analysis, plays a key role in single-particle analysis. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(10,11)</a>Environmental particles always exist in complex or unknown matrices, such as ice cores, <a href="javascript:void(0);">(12)</a> wastewater, <a href="javascript:void(0);">(13)</a> and seawater. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(14)</a> Biological matrices are even more intricate, typically containing high concentrations of inorganic salts and organic matter. Matrix effects pose significant challenges for SP-ICP-MS analysis of environmental and biological samples. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(15)</a> Matrix effects on ICP-MS are generally categorized into spectral and nonspectral interferences. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(15)</a> Spectral interferences arise from isobaric overlaps or polyatomic ions (e.g., ArCl+ from Cl– interfering with 75As detection), which can often be eliminated using collision/reaction cell technique. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(16)</a> Nonspectral interferences refer to matrix-induced changes in signal intensity. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(17)</a> For instance, NaCl can suppress signal intensity, whereas low concentrations of methanol may lead to signal enhancement. Changes in signal intensity further contribute to errors in mass/size measurement. It was reported that a 4.5 g L–1 NaCl matrix caused underestimation of As(0) NP and Ag NP sizes by 28% and 41%, respectively, while a 2% methanol matrix resulted in overestimations of approximately 6% and 20%. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(17)</a> Common strategies to address nonspectral interferences include sample dilution and matrix matching. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(15)</a> However, dilution pretreatments would greatly reduce the analytical throughput, and changes in matrix concentration may affect the properties or state of the analyte. In real-world samples, the matrices are always complex, making it difficult to prepare solutions with exactly the same composition for matrix matching. Isotope dilution analysis (IDA), which involves enriched isotopes of the analyte element for signal response correction, is another established approach. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(18−20)</a> Nevertheless, due to strict requirements on matrix types, isotope properties, and analyte concentrations, IDA has limited applicability to real-world sample measurements. Furthermore, among the previously reported methods, the potential influence of the matrix on particle nebulization efficiency has not been fully considered, <a href="javascript:void(0);">(18,21,22)</a> leaving quantitative uncertainties. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(17)</a> The online droplet calibration method based on the microdroplet generator and ICP-time-of-flight (TOF)-MS considers matrix effects on both signal response and nebulization efficiency; <a href="javascript:void(0);">(15,23)</a> however, the technical barriers and high cost largely limit its broader adoption. Till now, due to the lack of practical calibration methods, the characterization of NPs in real matrices typically involves laborious extraction procedures. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(24,25)</a> A need exists to develop a simple and reliable calibration strategy suitable for the measurement in the original matrix.In this study, we first systematically investigated the specific matrix effects on SP-ICP-MS and the underlying mechanisms based on the fundamentals of ICP-MS. The influence of time resolution on multielement detection was explored from multiple analytical perspectives. To address limitations of previous methods, we proposed a simple and reliable online internal standard calibration method, which largely eliminates matrix effects on size/mass determination by SP-ICP-MS. By utilizing the multielement detection mode, the signals of the analyte element(s) and internal standard elements can be monitored within the same analytical run, allowing for simultaneous correction of the response factor, nebulization efficiency, and time-dependent signal fluctuations. Notably, the novel calibration strategy involving the use a nonanalyte element as the internal standard for signal response calibration was developed and validated. The proposed method demonstrated high feasibility and reliability when applied to simulated real-world samples. It is also applicable to single-particle analysis using other types of ICP-MS (e.g., ICP-TOF-MS) and shows promise for application in single-cell ICP-MS analysis.<h4>Experimental Section</h4><h5>SP-ICP-MS Analysis</h5><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=7900+ICP-MS">Agilent 7900 ICP-MS</a> (Agilent Technologies; Santa Clara, CA, USA) equipped with a quadrupole mass analyzer was used for SP-ICP-MS analysis. Instrument parameters are given in <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/suppl/10.1021/acs.analchem.5c06975/suppl_file/ac5c06975_si_001.pdf">Table S2</a>. The sample introduction system was composed of syringe pumps (Leifu Fluid; Baoding, China), a Mira Mist nebulizer (Burgener; Mississauga, Ontario, Canada), and a quartz dual-channel spray chamber (Agilent Technologies; Santa Clara, CA, USA) (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.analchem.5c06975#fig1">Figure 1</a>). The total sample flow rates were 300 μL min–1 for all the experiments. Additionally, a more accessible introduction approach using the instrument’s integrated peristaltic pump was also tested (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/suppl/10.1021/acs.analchem.5c06975/suppl_file/ac5c06975_si_001.pdf">Figure S2</a>). Matrix effects on SP-ICP-MS analysis was investigated under the conventional single-element mode. The dwell time was 5 ms, with no stabilization time. The final inlet concentrations of Ag NPs and Au NPs were 50 ng L–1 (∼4.2 × 104 particles mL–1) and 25 ng L–1 (∼4 × 104 particles mL–1), respectively.<h4>Results and Discussion</h4><h5>Matrix Effects on SP-ICP-MS and the Underlying Mechanisms</h5>In the UPW matrix, the particle sizes determined by SP-ICP-MS (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.analchem.5c06975#fig2">Figure 2</a>A) were consistent with those measured by TEM (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/suppl/10.1021/acs.analchem.5c06975/suppl_file/ac5c06975_si_001.pdf">Figure S1A</a>). The most direct impact of matrix effects was observed as changes in the analyte signal intensity. Both the typical environmental and biological matrices we selected resulted in signal attenuation for the target elements. More pronounced signal attenuation was observed in the salt matrices with increasing concentration. Compared to measurements in UPW, the signal intensity of Ag NPs decreased by approximately 32% and 46% in DSW and PBS, respectively. Correspondingly, without matrix-matching correction, the particle sizes of Ag NPs were underestimated by approximately 12% and 19% in DSW and PBS, respectively (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.analchem.5c06975#fig2">Figure 2</a>A).<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Anal_Chem_2025_97_51_28139_28147_Figure_2_A_Particle_size_distribution_of_Ag_N_Ps_in_different_matrices_without_matrix_matching_f97e96e68c.jpeg" alt="Anal. Chem. 2025, 97, 51, 28139–28147: Figure 2. (A) Particle size distribution of Ag NPs in different matrices without matrix matching. The gray line and band denote the mean and standard deviation of the particle size determined by TEM. (B) Nebulization efficiency of Au NPs in different matrices. The letters on columns indicate the statistical difference obtained from one-way ANOVA test (p &lt; 0.05). (C) Signal intensity of standard Au NPs and AuCl4– solution in different matrices." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Anal_Chem_2025_97_51_28139_28147_Figure_2_A_Particle_size_distribution_of_Ag_N_Ps_in_different_matrices_without_matrix_matching_f97e96e68c.jpeg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="2100" height="537">Matrix-induced attenuation/enhancement of signal intensity fundamentally arise from changes in the transport efficiency of the analyte. Transport efficiency is defined as a combination of several components (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.analchem.5c06975#fig1">Figure 1</a>): (i) the aerosol introduction efficiency (or nebulization efficiency) from the sample introduction system (typically comprising a nebulizer and spray chamber) to the ICP torch, as calculated using <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.analchem.5c06975#eq1">Equation 1</a>) or <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.analchem.5c06975#eq2">2</a>); (ii) the ionization efficiency of the analyte within the ICP torch; and (iii) the subsequent extraction and transport efficiency of ions from the sampling cone to the detector.<h5>Validation of Online Internal Standard Calibration</h5><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.analchem.5c06975#fig4">Figure 4</a>A displays the Ag NP size distribution determined when the three inlet streams (Ag NP suspension, Au NP suspension, and Pd solution) were mixed at equal flow rates (3 × 100 μL min–1). For all the matrices, the measured particle sizes showed good agreement with the actual sizes determined by TEM. Note that since both the Au NP suspension and Pd solution were prepared using UPW, the matrix containing analyte Ag NPs would be diluted upon online mixing. For real-world samples, excessive dilution could potentially change sample properties and reduce measurement throughput. To prevent excessive dilution, the calibration results were further assessed under conditions of reduced internal standard flow rates (Ag NP flow rate: 260 μL min–1; internal standard flow rates: both 20 μL min–1) (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.analchem.5c06975#fig4">Figure 4</a>B). Furthermore, an offline spiking approach was also tested by adding both the internal standards directly into the sample suspension (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/suppl/10.1021/acs.analchem.5c06975/suppl_file/ac5c06975_si_001.pdf">Figure S7A</a>). The measured sizes also agreed well with the true values. For easier access and use, online mixing using a peristaltic pump was also tested and demonstrated to accurately determine the particle sizes (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/suppl/10.1021/acs.analchem.5c06975/suppl_file/ac5c06975_si_001.pdf">Figure S7B</a>). The results demonstrate that neither the introduction approach and the mixing ratio affected the calibration performance, suggesting the high reliability and flexibility of the internal standard calibration method.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Anal_Chem_2025_97_51_28139_28147_Figure_4_A_B_Particle_size_distribution_of_Ag_N_Ps_in_different_matrices_measured_by_the_internal_standard_calibration_method_4ca8d3833d.jpeg" alt="Anal. Chem. 2025, 97, 51, 28139–28147: Figure 4. (A, B) Particle size distribution of Ag NPs in different matrices measured by the internal standard calibration method. (A) Flow rates of the analyte and internal standards were all 100 μL min–1. (B) Flow rates of the analyte and internal standards were 260 and 20 μL min–1, respectively. (C, D) Particle size distribution of Ag NPs in natural seawater (C) and human urine (D) matrices measured by external standard calibration or online internal standard calibration method. the flow rates of the analyte and internal standards were 260 and 20 μL min–1, respectively. The gray lines and bands denote the mean and standard deviation of the particle size determined by TEM." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Anal_Chem_2025_97_51_28139_28147_Figure_4_A_B_Particle_size_distribution_of_Ag_N_Ps_in_different_matrices_measured_by_the_internal_standard_calibration_method_4ca8d3833d.jpeg 189w," sizes="100vw" width="1433" height="1184">Further, we evaluated the performance of the proposed method in handling real biological (human urine) and environmental (natural seawater) matrices (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.analchem.5c06975#fig4">Figure 4</a>C and D). In addition to high salt concentrations, both matrices contain abundant organic matter, which pose challenges to accurate SP-ICP-MS analysis. Without matrix matching, the sizes of Ag NPs in both matrices were significantly underestimated. Particularly in seawater, the size was underestimated by nearly 20 nm. Using the online internal standard calibration, the median sizes of Ag NPs in diluted seawater and urine matrices were 58.9 and 58.5 nm, respectively, in close agreement with those determined by TEM. Notably, the sizes of Ag NPs in undiluted real matrices can also be accurately determined, facilitating the measurement of environmental particles in the original matrix.<h4>Conclusions</h4>In this study, we addressed the significant challenge of matrix effects in SP-ICP-MS for accurate mass/size determination in complex environmental and biological samples. We elucidated the specific matrix effects on nebulization efficiency, ionization efficiency, and ion transport. It was demonstrated that Ag NP signal intensity decreased by approximately 32% and 46% in DSW and PBS, respectively, leading to underestimated particle sizes (12% and 19%, respectively). To address these issues, we developed and validated an online internal standard calibration strategy employing multielement detection with nonanalyte elements as internal standards. By simultaneously monitoring analyte (Ag) and internal standard elements (Au for nebulization efficiency, Pd for response factor) within a single analytical run via the peak-hopping mode, we achieved real-time correction for matrix-induced variations. Optimized time-resolution conditions, particularly a 5 ms dwell time, ensured a high probability of complete event acquisition (81.8%) while minimizing particle overlapping. The measured sizes of Ag NPs in simulated (DSW and PBS) and real (natural seawater and human urine) matrices that showed good agreement with true values. The proposed method demonstrated high reliability and flexibility, regardless of the internal standard mixing ratio (e.g., 100:100:100 or 260:20:20 μL min–1), introduction approach, and sample dilution levels. In contrast to enriched isotope internal standards, which proved ineffective in anion-rich matrices due to chemical reactions, the presented nonanalyte internal standards offer enhanced adaptability across various matrices.This reliable and flexible method significantly extends the applicability of SP-ICP-MS to direct analysis of complex samples without laborious pretreatments. The potential for the measurement in the original matrix is particularly meaningful for single-cell analysis, allowing direct analysis of living cells in biological matrices. Note that the theory and method validated with Ag NPs are also applicable to the quantification of other elements in particles or cells. As a simplified alternative to the established online microdroplet calibration, <a href="javascript:void(0);">(23)</a> the proposed strategy shows great promise in the integration of advanced ICP-TOF-MS platforms for simultaneous calibration of multiple analyte elements.</div>

A Simple Online Internal Standard Calibration Strategy for Single-Particle Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry Based on Multielement Analysis

Valentines Day is an opportunity to show your partner (or your crush) how much they matter to you. Beyond flowers, chocolates or restaurant invites, jewelry is a popular gift for Valentines day. However, a well meant gift may turn out to even be a hazard to the giftee.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Cheap_Trendy_and_Toxic_High_Levels_of_Cadmium_in_Necklaces_Have_Been_Reported_Lately_93d25a7757.jpg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: Cheap, Trendy – and Toxic? High Levels of Cadmium in Necklaces Have Been Reported Lately" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Cheap_Trendy_and_Toxic_High_Levels_of_Cadmium_in_Necklaces_Have_Been_Reported_Lately_93d25a7757.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1024" height="512">Heavy metals in jewelry, harmful chemicals in baby products: the product range offered by online marketplaces frequently fails to meet European Union safety standards. That is the alarming conclusion of recent investigations by <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.spiegel.de/wirtschaft/stiftung-warentest-findet-giftige-schwermetalle-in-angeboten-von-temu-und-shein-a-efb2057b-2377-4ce4-b2e0-07be01d00df0">Stiftung Warentest</a>, Germany’s leading consumer protection organization.<h3>A reputation under scrutiny</h3>Low prices, fast fashion, and endless product choices have made online platforms hugely popular across Europe. With just a few clicks, shoppers can order clothes, accessories, toys, and electronics at prices that seem almost too good to be true.In a large-scale product test, consumer advocates found serious safety deficiencies in many popular items sold on these platforms.The advice to consumers is equally clear: buyers should dispose of affected products immediately and think carefully about what they order in the future.<h3>Shockingly high levels of toxic metals</h3>One of the most concerning findings involved fashion jewelry. In the test, the cadmium concentration in two necklaces exceeded the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://de.euronews.com/2025/10/31/stiftung-warentest-giftige-schwermetalle-in-shein-und-temu-produkten">EU’s legal limit by 8,500 times.</a> It´s a cheaper alternative to safer metals like silver, zinc alloys, or stainless steel, is easy to work with, and looks good at first glance.However, cadmium is classified as carcinogenic and can cause serious kidney and bone damage. Because of its toxicity, it is subject to <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.bvl.bund.de/SharedDocs/Pressemitteilungen/03_verbraucherprodukte/2020/2020_02_11_PI_Modeschmuck.html">strict limits</a> in the EU. Products that exceed these limits are considered unsafe and illegal to sell.Experts strongly warn against simply throwing such items into the household trash. Jewelry contaminated with cadmium or other heavy metals should be taken to a hazardous waste collection point.The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.euroconsumers.org/systemic-failures-in-product-compliance-on-temu-and-shein/">investigation</a> covered 162 products in total of which 54 were necklaces.The products were purchased online and tested in cooperation with consumer organizations from Denmark and Belgium.The results were sobering:<ul><li>110 of the 162 products failed to meet EU safety standards</li><li>Around 25% were rated “potentially dangerous”</li></ul><h3>A broader EU problem</h3>EU authorities regularly find toxic heavy metals such as <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33757252/">cadmium</a>, lead, and nickel in cheap imported jewelry. These substances can trigger severe allergies, damage organs like the liver and kidneys, and increase cancer risk.Although the EU’s rapid alert system (RAPEX) removes thousands of unsafe products from the market every year, experts warn that the number of untested items is far higher than what authorities can realistically monitor.In some laboratory tests, individual jewelry items were found to consist of up to 70% cadmium, making them legally “not marketable” in Germany and the EU.The takeaway for shoppers should be clear:<ul><li>Extremely low prices can come with hidden health and safety risks</li><li>Jewelry, children’s products, and electronics deserve extra caution</li><li>When in doubt, it’s safer to buy from sellers that clearly comply with EU regulations</li></ul><h3>How can we detect Cadmium in necklaces?</h3>Consumer product/jewelry guidance explicitly notes that cadmium in jewelry extracts can be measured by ICP-OES or ICP-MS after an extraction step.Cadmium in jewelry is often regulated at low levels (either as total content after digestion or as extractable/migratable Cd in simulated-use leaches). <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products?category=232&amp;instrumentationItems=83&amp;manufacturerItems=3">ICP-MS</a> is routinely chosen because it can quantify Cd at trace / ultra-trace levels with strong precision and accuracy.Using a Thermo Scientific iCAP MX Series ICP-MS for Cadmium (Cd) determination in necklaces/ jewellery makes sense because jewelry testing typically needs very low detection limits, high confidence in complex matrices, and defensible compliance data.<ul><li>Better interference control for Cd isotopes</li></ul>Cadmium has a range of isotopes available for analysis, but interferences need to be considered. Most isotopes are isobarically interfered by Tin (meaning that a given m/z range would be responding to both elements), the isotope typically monitored (111Cd) may be interfered by molybdenum (95Mo16O+). Since both elements can be found as well in jewelry, removing these interferences is critical to avoid false positives. The iCAP MX Series ICP-MS come with the powerful QCell collision/reaction cell to overcome interferences. The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1487">Thermo Scientific iCAP MSX ICP-MS</a> uses kinetic energy discrimination (KED) with helium gas, a generic way for reducing polyatomic interferences broadly across the mass range. The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1487">Thermo Scientific iCAP MTX ICP-MS</a> can utilize reactive gases (in many applications O2) to further improve detectability and sensitivity – a powerful asset for laboratories analysing a wide range of sample types, which on top may “messy” – i.e. containing platings, alloys, pigments, fillers, and adhesives.<ul><li>Works with recognized jewelry test workflows</li></ul>Because necklaces and other consumer products often arrive as multiple distinct batches, repeats, blanks, spikes, and QC checks must be performed. All iCAP MX &nbsp;Series ICP-MS systems are positioned for high-throughput routine trace elemental analysis, helping labs to simplify workflows and keeping uptime high—useful in contract/compliance labs.<h3>Conclusion</h3>The findings underscore a troubling reality: many ultra-cheap products sold via online marketplaces pose real health and safety risks and routinely fail to meet EU standards. From toxic heavy metals in jewelry to hazardous chemicals in baby products, the consequences for consumers can be severe. Addressing this challenge requires both stronger regulatory oversight and reliable analytical testing. Advanced techniques such as ICP-MS play a critical role by enabling laboratories to accurately detect trace contaminants like cadmium across complex samples, helping authorities and manufacturers ensure compliance. Until safeguards improve, consumers are urged to remain vigilant—because when safety is compromised, a low price is no bargain at all.<h3>Additional resources</h3><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/content/lifetech/global/en/home/industrial/mass-spectrometry/inductively-coupled-plasma-mass-spectrometry-icp-ms/quadrupole-icp-ms-systems.html">Quadrupole ICP-MS Systems</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/br_003092_tea_icp_ms_icap_mtx_discovery_br003092_em_en_e92e76f052.pdf">Ignite your confidence: iCAP MTX triple quadrupole ICP-MS</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1489">Qtegra ISDS software</a></li></ul><h3>Join us for free local language webinars in 2026</h3><h5>English</h5><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/5795">Lunch and Learn Tips and Tricks Series: Qtegra Part 1</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/5976">Lunch and Learn Tips and Tricks Series: Qtegra Part 2</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/5977">Lunch and Learn Tips and Tricks Series: Trace Elemental Analysis (ICP-OES &amp; ICP-MS)</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/5978">Trace Elemental Analysis: Ask the Expert</a></li></ul><h5>Deutsch</h5><ul><li>19. März 2026 <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://event.on24.com/wcc/r/5179134/393E071E3B501943730958BA6203F477">Interne Standards in der ICP-OES: Ein Praxisguide für zuverlässige Qualitätssicherung im Labor</a></li><li>18. Juni 2026 <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://event.on24.com/wcc/r/5179292/AE4C576B6A54D1AC182F7F77573D380F">Fehler reduzieren, Durchsatz steigern: Autoverdünnung mit PrepFast am ICP-MS</a></li><li>17. September 2026 <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://event.on24.com/wcc/r/5179423/B5019C560431BADCA2A76E54E4EFE56F">ICP-OES smarter nutzen: Probendurchsatz erhöhen, Ressourcen sparen</a></li><li>17. Dezember 2026 <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://event.on24.com/wcc/r/5179530/94EEDD1F56138F5EEE2AF24E29E6C12A">Qtegra ISDS Software Unlocked – Live im Expertengespräch</a></li></ul>Visit us on&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/72003132/admin/dashboard/">LinkedIn:</a>&nbsp;#ICP-MS #ElementalAnalysis #cadmium #TraceElementalAnalysis<section><blockquote><h5>Petra Gerhards</h5>Petra Gerhards, Dipl-Ing, is Regional Marketing Manager of GC and GC-MS for EMEA at Thermo Fisher Scientific. She has more than 29 years of experience in the fields of GC-MS, SPE and LC-MS. Since joining the regional team she has contributed to workflow solutions combining vials and closures with SPE solutions, GC-MS and LC-MS. She works with KOL's on data for regional specific marketing campaigns, organizes in-house seminars and works on customer specific solutions. Her main expertise is in the field of doping and drugs-of-abuse analysis.</blockquote></section>

Cheap, Trendy – and Toxic? High Levels of Cadmium in Necklaces Have Been Reported Lately

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Agilent Technologies

Lessons were learned with the COVID-19 pandemic, around half of labs worldwide were shut down and only 14% of labs were fully functional at a time when 100% of labs needed to be thriving.
Tools such as laboratory information management systems (LIMS) and electronic laboratory notebooks (ELNs), among other solutions, can help mitigate the impact on life in the lab.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Baumann Jean-Guillaume (Business Development Manager, Agilent Technologies)
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Ramp up your COVID test operations quickly with Agilent SLIMS

Ramp up your COVID test operations quickly with Agilent SLIMS

Tools such as LIMS and electronic laboratory notebooks (ELNs), among other solutions, can help mitigate the impact on life in the lab.

Ramp up your COVID test operations with Agilent SLIMS

Analytical Instrument Qualification (AIQ) is the analytical foundation for data quality in regulated laboratories. First released in 2008 and updated in 2017, USP General chapter &lt;1058&gt; on AIQ remains a key regulatory reference for laboratory compliance.
This presentation will explain how to comply with USP &lt;1058&gt; requirements and will look at the relationship between USP &lt;1058&gt; and GAMP, along with regulatory trend information and compliance findings. 
<blockquote>
Presenter: Paul Smith (Strategic Compliance Specialist, Agilent Technologies)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Paul has a passion for laboratory compliance. He started his career as an Infrared Spectroscopist, recording and interpreting infrared and Raman spectra and chemometric modeling of FT-IR, Raman and NIR data. He did his first software validation work in 1992, before moving into broader analytical chemistry and laboratory management roles. Overall, he spent 17 years in the pharmaceutical industry and has worked in laboratory consultancy roles for the last 20 years.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
He has worked in Pharmaceutical R&amp;D, New Product Introduction and Quality Assurance. In his current Agilent role, he monitors laboratory compliance change and non-compliance trends, sharing this information with customers and colleagues. He is an active member of GAMP, contributing to Good Practice Guides and is a steering committee member of the UK GAMP Community of Practice, which focusses on sharing knowledge and learning with industry.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: How to ensure data integrity and regulatory compliance

Regulatory Requirements for Analytical Instrument Qualification (AIQ) and Recent Trends

How to comply with USP <1058> requirements and relationship between USP <1058> and GAMP, along with regulatory trend information and compliance findings.

Requirements for Analytical Instrument Qualification (AIQ)

Learn how to transform your unknown samples into routine analyses. Utilizing ICP-Expert’s Smart features, any analyst can easily develop a method that offers greater sample insight than ever before – leading to better results.
Join us to see how you can become a more savvy ICP-OES analyst.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Ana García-González (Atomic Spectroscopy Application Scientist, Agilent Technologies)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Ana Garcia is the Atomic Spectroscopy Application Scientist at Agilent Technologies. Ana has a broad background in atomic spectroscopy technologies, including international experience developing and validating analytical spectroscopy methods for the geochemical industry. She has also published in the fields of molecular spectroscopy and chemometrics. Ana holds a MSc in plant Biotechnology at CINVESTAV, México, and a Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology Engineering.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Chris Conklin (Atomic Spectroscopy Product Specialist, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
With a degree from the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire, Chris worked in, and lead, a quality control lab testing fine chemicals ranging from reagent grade to high purity. Over the course of 12 years in that role, Chris has run a variety of atomic elemental instruments and techniques including AA, ICP-OES, and ICP-MS. As a result, he has seen most of the periodic table in its elemental form and overcome the associated interferences. In 2018, Chris brought that knowledge and experience to his current role with Agilent as the Product Specialist for Atomic Spectroscopy supporting AA, MP-AES, and ICP-OES for the Eastern US.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Tips and Tricks Workshop on ICP-OES: Smarter Method Development

Tips and Tricks Workshop on ICP-OES: Smarter Method Development

Learn how to transform your unknown samples into routine analyses.

Tips and Tricks Workshop on ICP-OES: Method Development

This seminar will focus on high throughput ICP analysis using an Agilent 5900 SVDV and an AVS flow injection valve.
The SVDV option allows the user to run both axial and radial analyses at the same time, saving up to 30 seconds per analysis. The AVS option basically takes that analysis time and reduces it by half. Soil and Petrochemical high throughput analysis will be featured with soils at 9-12 seconds sample to sample and oils from 17 – 30 seconds sample to sample.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Paul Krampitz (Application Scientist, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Graduate of Bowling Green State University with a Chemistry Bachelor of Science degree. Twenty – five years of Spectroscopy experience mainly Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP) Spectroscopy as well as ICP-MS and AAS. Experience also includes X-Ray Fluorescence (ED, WD), Laser Ablation, Inorganic Speciation and Microwave Plasma Spectroscopy. Market Segment expertise includes environmental, petrochemical, metallurgical applications.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Got a Second(s)? How to save precious time in ICP Analysis – High Throughput analysis from Oils to Soils

Got a Second(s)? How to save precious time in ICP Analysis – High Throughput analysis from Oils to Soils

This seminar will focus on high throughput ICP analysis using an Agilent 5900 SVDV and an AVS flow injection valve.

ICP Analysis – High Throughput analysis from Oils to Soils

Research and quality assurance labs often must analyze materials on the micro level.
Combining optical microscopy with vibrational spectroscopy can provide a holistic view of the structure and functional relationship of the material and can be used for identifying foreign materials and defects.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Suja Sukumaran (Senior Application Scientist, Thermo Fisher Scientific)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Dr. Suja Sukumaran obtained her Ph.D. in Biophysics from JW Goethe University, Germany. Currently, she is an applications scientist at Thermo Fisher Scientific. Suja has worked in the field of spectroscopy for over 17 years. Her FTIR application expertise spans many industries including polymer/chemical, pharmaceutical, forensics, semiconductor, and food industries.
</blockquote>

Thermo Scientific: Sweating the Small Stuff - Spectroscopy on the Micro Scale

Sweating the Small Stuff - Spectroscopy on the Micro Scale

Combining optical microscopy with vibrational spectroscopy can provide a holistic view of the structure and functional relationship of the material.

Sweating the Small Stuff

The development of next-generation advanced materials requires analytical tools that cover multiple hyphenated techniques to save material usage while gaining additional analytical insight from the sample.
In this talk, we will explore various applications across R&amp;D.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Ron Rubinovitz (Senior Application Scientist, Thermo Fisher Scientific)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Dr. Ron Rubinovitz earned his Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry at the University of Pennsylvania. Currently, he is a senior applications scientist at Thermo Fisher Scientific, focusing on FTIR, IR microscopy, FT-Raman, Near-IR, and chemometrics. Ron has extensive experience in the field of vibrational spectroscopy. He has worked with a wide range of sampling techniques covering applications in pharmaceutical, industrial, and food industries.
</blockquote>

Thermo Scientific: Pushing the Boundaries in Material Research

Pushing the Boundaries in Material Research

Near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy is a highly flexible analytical technique that can be applied to a broad range of applications, from incoming raw material inspection to process monitoring.
In this presentation, we will review use cases of NIR, including laboratory measurements of hydroxyl value and content uniformity, as well as implementation of NIR and multivariate analysis for process control and monitoring.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Robert Jones (Senior Application Scientist, Thermo Fisher Scientific)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Dr. Robert Jones earned degrees in Chemistry from the University of New Mexico and the University of California, Berkeley. After holding several positions as a research scientist, program manager, and project leader, Robert joined Thermo Fisher Scientific in April 2013. As an Applications Scientist, Robert’s primary focus has been on the development of spectroscopic solutions for a broad range of customers and markets.
</blockquote>

Thermo Scientific: Improving Manufacturing Quality and Efficiency via Near Infrared Spectroscopy

Improving Manufacturing Quality and Efficiency via Near Infrared Spectroscopy

Use cases of NIR, including laboratory measurements of hydroxyl value and content uniformity, as well as implementation of NIR.

Improving Manufacturing Quality

Adoption of cloud-based LIMS solutions continues to grow, as laboratories across all industries consider the financial and operational benefits of cloud-based solutions.
For new laboratories implementing a LIMS for the first time, cloud can provide a quick road to go-live with low capital expenditure and minimal resources to run and manage the system. For existing laboratories looking to modernize their LIMS implementation, cloud can help minimize IT costs while providing unmatched scalability. In this session, we’ll explore real-world customer stories of laboratories that selected cloud deployments for their Thermo Scientific™ SampleManager LIMS™ software.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Katie Evans (Senior Product Manager, Digital Science, Thermo Fisher Scientific)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Katie Evans is a Senior Product Manager for the Digital Science business at Thermo Fisher Scientific and is located in Altrincham, in the Manchester area of the UK. During her 22 years at Thermo Fisher Scientific, Katie has focused on product management and strategy development of Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) software with an emphasis on the needs of laboratories serving regulated markets. Katie received her Master of Science degree from Exeter University, UK.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter. Jon Webb (Senior Sales Manager, Digital Science, Thermo Fisher Scientific)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Jon Webb has been with Thermo Fisher Scientific since 2014. His career has focused on helping global R&amp;D organizations manage their scientific data effectively and his work experience has provided him a deep understanding of the benefits of deploying enterprise software to the cloud. His work at Thermo Fisher Scientific has focused on implementing enterprise software solutions to support complex processes and business objectives across the Oil &amp; Gas industry.
</blockquote>

Thermo Scientific: Software to Drive Your Science - Why Some Oil & Gas Companies are Looking to the Cloud

Software to Drive Your Science - Why Some Oil & Gas Companies are Looking to the Cloud

Real-world customer stories of laboratories that selected cloud deployments for their Thermo Scientific™ SampleManager LIMS™ software.

Software to Drive Your Science

Digital transformation is driven by the ability to better connect all aspects of the laboratory - devices, consumables, workflows, data, and people - to accelerate science and increase laboratory productivity.
Smart instruments and consumables are enabling laboratories to improve instrument and consumable usage, reducing downtime and optimizing the use of laboratory supplies and capacity. Data analytics solutions are connecting workflows and data across different methods and instruments to enable scientists to derive insight from their data and make informed business decisions. To take advantage of these recent advancements and those yet to come, organizations need to connect the laboratory and make data accessible to those who need it.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Trish Meek (Director of Marketing, Digital Science, Thermo Fisher Scientific)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Trish Meek has been with Thermo Fisher Scientific for over 20 years focused on enterprise software including Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS), Electronic Laboratory Notebooks (ELN), and Chromatography Data Systems (CDS). She is currently the Director of Marketing for the Digital Science business unit.
</blockquote>

Thermo Scientific: Digital Transformation in Process Manufacturing - Increasing Productivity Through Digital Science Solutions

Digital Transformation in Process Manufacturing - Increasing Productivity Through Digital Science Solutions

Digital transformation is driven by the ability to better connect all aspects of the laboratory.

Digital Transformation in Process Manufacturing

In the drive towards reducing dependence on burning fossil fuels for energy generation, several technologies have become established as front runners in the race to reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality.
One of the most significant is lithium ion battery technology and a rapid ramp up in production of these batteries is currently underway globally. As a result, a corresponding increase in analytical testing of the battery component materials has arisen.
Elemental analysis techniques such as ICP-OES and ICP-MS are vital for both research and quality control analysis of cathode, electrolyte and anode materials. This presentation gives a complete overview of how ICP-OES and ICP-MS analysis supports every step in the battery manufacturing value chain, from raw material screening and refining, through battery cell material research and QA/AC, to recycling and environmental analysis.
The presentation covers the following topics:
<ul>
<li>Introduction to ICP-OES and ICP-MS and what these techniques provide for battery material analysis
</li>
<li>Discussion of specific analysis examples, including bulk composition and impurity measurement of cathode active materials and electrolytes and determination of trace elements in anode materials
</li>
</ul>
By viewing this presentation, you will learn:
<ul>
<li>The basics of ICP-OES and ICP-MS technology
</li>
<li>How these technologies support battery material analysis, from raw materials to recycling
</li>
<li>What performance they achieve, demonstrated with selected analysis examples
</li>
</ul>
Who should view this presentation?
<ul>
<li>Battery material analysis laboratory managers and analysts
</li>
<li>Battery cell manufacturers and their QA/QA personnel
</li>
<li>Recycling specialists, particularly those working with battery metals such as Li, Ni, Mn, Fe and Co
</li>
<li>Scientists working in battery research and development
</li>
<li>Environmental monitoring laboratory managers
</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Simon Nelms (ICP-MS Product Marketing Manager, Thermo Fisher Scientific)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Sukanya Sengupta (Application Specialist Trace Elemental Analysis, Thermo Fisher Scientific)
</blockquote>

Thermo Scientific: Powering Up Battery Materials Analysis using ICP-OES and ICP-MS

Powering Up Battery Materials Analysis using ICP-OES and ICP-MS

How ICP-OES and ICP-MS analysis supports every step in the battery manufacturing value chain.

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