<h4><strong>The problem&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>We live in a “global village” but we are all different and we use many different languages to communicate.&nbsp;</p><p>Even when people speak the same language, the same words may be used with different meanings. See, for example, some different uses of the word “standard” in English – a normative document, a solution of known concentration or even a type of flag.&nbsp;</p><p>Even in the same area of activity misunderstandings do occur which may result in a waste of time and money, or even worse consequences.&nbsp;</p><p>When talking about laboratory tests, lack of a full understanding of key terms and inappropriate translations leaves room for different interpretations of stated requirements. For example, there have historically been a number of different but related uses of the term ‘<strong>detection limit’</strong>. This may lead to inadequate fulfilment of those requirements, thus becoming an obstacle to the production of analytical data that is fit for its intended use. A shared interpretation of concepts related to quality in measurement between laboratories and accreditation bodies is also crucial for a fair and harmonised approach to laboratory assessment across the world.&nbsp;</p><h4><strong>A common language&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>We need a <strong>common language</strong>; clear and unambiguous. We need a common vocabulary to provide consistent definitions of concepts with their associated terms. To this end, several organisations participate in a joint effort to develop and maintain an <strong>international vocabulary of metrology</strong> (VIM) [1], which aims to achieve a unique understanding of concepts related to measurements across all sectors. The VIM is a normative reference in the standards <strong>ISO/IEC 17025, ISO 15189 and ISO/IEC 17043</strong>, and is therefore a key document for all organisations seeking accreditation.&nbsp;</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Eurachem_You_talk_we_understand_The_way_out_of_the_tower_of_Babel_Standards_8d947dbd5f.jpg" alt="Eurachem: You talk, we understand – The way out of the tower of Babel_A common language" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Eurachem_You_talk_we_understand_The_way_out_of_the_tower_of_Babel_Standards_8d947dbd5f.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1126" height="499"></p><h4><strong>Is this enough?&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>For laboratory staff some problems still stand and need to be addressed:&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Many people are confused about both concepts and terms.&nbsp;</li><li>It may be difficult to understand the “formal” VIM definitions – they are short statements intended to apply to many different measurement sectors.</li><li>Translations into local languages may add to the confusion, e.g. if different terms are used in different sectors for the same VIM concept and the translator overlooks this issue.</li><li>Some substantial changes to terminology have been made in an attempt to accommodate chemical and biological measurements. Some “old” concepts still stand but have new names, e.g. “within laboratory reproducibility” vs. “intermediate precision”.&nbsp;</li></ul><p>To address these issues Eurachem has produced a guide [2] which provides an accessible reference containing simple and in context explanations of terms most relevant to analysts, with additional examples relating those concepts to chemical and biological measurements.&nbsp;</p><h4><strong>Do you understand the meaning of these terms?&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>Are you interested in a <strong>quantity</strong> or a quality? Depending on the answer, will you use a <strong>measurement</strong> <strong>procedure</strong> or an examination? Is method <strong>verification</strong> the same or less demanding than method <strong>validation</strong>? Do you need a <strong>calibration</strong> or just performance verification? Do you have a <strong>measurement standard</strong> in your laboratory? Is <strong>metrological traceability</strong> something you worry about? These are examples of the terms supporting the reliability of any measurement result that need to be clearly understood.&nbsp;</p><h5><strong>Example – Accuracy, trueness, precision: are they synonyms?&nbsp;</strong></h5><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Eurachem_You_talk_we_understand_The_way_out_of_the_tower_of_Babel_accuracy_231e1e005e.jpg" alt="Eurachem: You talk, we understand – The way out of the tower of Babel_Example – Accuracy, trueness, precision" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Eurachem_You_talk_we_understand_The_way_out_of_the_tower_of_Babel_accuracy_231e1e005e.jpg 146w," sizes="100vw" width="754" height="807"></p><ul><li>Closeness between measurement results (relating to the concept of precision)</li><li>Closeness of the average of the measurement results to a reference value (relating to the concept of trueness)&nbsp;</li><li>Closeness of an individual measurement result to the true value (relating to the concept of accuracy)&nbsp;</li></ul><p>The different situations in the figure show the effect of:&nbsp;</p><ol style="list-style-type:lower-latin;"><li>poor precision and trueness (imprecise and biased)&nbsp;</li><li>good precision, poor trueness (precise but biased)&nbsp;</li><li>poor precision, good trueness (imprecise but unbiased)&nbsp;</li><li>good precision and trueness (precise and unbiased)&nbsp;</li></ol><p>Improving both precision and trueness is expected to improve accuracy.&nbsp;</p><h4><strong>Is all this relevant to you?&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>Do you work in a laboratory, either as an analyst, quality manager or director? Are you involved in other activities related to analytical work, such as providing proficiency tests, producing reference materials or accrediting any such activity? Do you teach or study subjects related to measurements? Do you use measurement results or prescribe how to use them? <i><strong>If the answer is yes to any of these questions, the following reference documents are also for you</strong></i>.</p>

You talk, we understand – The way out of the tower of Babel

<p><strong>Visit the LabRulez booth at </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/events/871"><strong>analytica 2026</strong></a><strong> in Munich, 24. - 27. March 2026! You can find us in Hall A1, Booth A1.506. At the booth, you will be able to explore live demonstrations of how the LabRulez portals work and see selected analytical instruments from our pre-owned marketplace section.</strong></p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Lab_Rulez_at_Analytica_2026_Floor_plan_55e1057e03.jpg" alt="LabRulez at Analytica 2026: Hall A1 Floor Plan and Booth Location" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Lab_Rulez_at_Analytica_2026_Floor_plan_55e1057e03.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1516" height="881"></p><h3><strong>Would you like to learn how the LabRulez portals work?</strong></h3><p>➡︎ <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/"><strong>LabRulezLCMS</strong></a><br>➡︎ <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/"><strong>LabRulezGCMS</strong></a><br>➡︎ <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/"><strong>LabRulezICPMS</strong></a></p><ul><li>A <strong>unique online solution</strong> for <strong>your marketing</strong></li><li>A <strong>targeted audience</strong> from the <strong>analytical chemistry community</strong></li><li><strong>Modern technologies</strong> and a unique concept</li><li><strong>Design optimized for most smart devices</strong> – PC, mobile, and tablet</li><li><strong>Advanced statistical tools</strong> fully available to users</li></ul><h3><strong>Services Offered</strong></h3><h4><strong>News + Company Updates</strong></h4><ul><li>Publish <strong>news related to your instrumentation, applications, services, events, job openings</strong>, and more</li><li><strong>News is shared</strong> both on our <strong>portals</strong> and across our <strong>social media channels</strong></li></ul><h4><strong>Library – All Documents in One Place</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Applications, posters, presentations, technical articles, brochures, specifications</strong></li><li><strong>Fas</strong>t and <strong>advanced search</strong> capabilities</li><li>Over <strong>32,000 documents</strong> currently available in our database</li></ul><h4><strong>Webinars</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Upcoming and on-demand webinars</strong> from the field of analytical chemistry</li><li>More than <strong>5,500 webinars</strong> covering chromatography, mass spectrometry, and spectroscopy</li></ul><h4><strong>Careers</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Targeted job</strong> listings in <strong>analytical chemistry</strong></li><li>Clear filtering by specialization or location</li><li><strong>Increased visibility for job postings</strong></li></ul><h4><strong>Companies</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Company profile</strong> with key information and contacts</li><li><strong>Integration of all your activities on our portal:</strong> News, Library documents, Webinars, Upcoming Events, Careers, and mentions by partners or customers</li><li><strong>Connection to your Products </strong>listed on LabRulez portals</li></ul><h4><strong>Products and Services</strong></h4><ul><li>Comprehensive <strong>overview of instrumental techniques and services</strong></li><li>Targeting the analytical chemistry community and customers in the growing online environment</li></ul><h4><strong>Marketplace</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Buying and selling pre-owned analytical equipment</strong></li><li>We purchase analytical instrumentation of all brands and ages</li><li><strong>Sell your equipment through LabRulez</strong></li><li>Request and purchase <strong>complete systems, modules</strong>, or <strong>spare parts</strong> with warranty and service</li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Lab_Rulez_at_analytica_2026_bazar_7edf4a0872.jpg" alt="LabRulez at analytica 2026" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Lab_Rulez_at_analytica_2026_bazar_7edf4a0872.jpg 88w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="2844"></p><h3><strong>What Will Be on Display at Our Booth?</strong></h3><p>Come and explore selected spare parts and modules from our marketplace section. These include both new, tested, and pre-owned items.</p><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/bazaar"><strong>LabRulezLCMS Marketplace</strong></a></h4><p><strong>Spare parts for LC/MS:</strong></p><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/bazaar?category=378"><strong>Vacuum turbo pumps for LC/MS</strong></a></li></ul><p><strong>Spare parts for HPLC:</strong></p><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/bazaar?category=397"><strong>Degassers for HPLC/UHPLC</strong></a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/bazaar?category=368&amp;search=valve"><strong>Automatic valves for HPLC</strong></a></li><li>HPLC components for Agilent 1100, 1200, and 1260 Infinity II series</li></ul><p><strong>Consumables:</strong></p><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/bazaar?category=377"><strong>HPLC lamps</strong></a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/bazaar?category=48"><strong>HPLC columns</strong></a></li></ul><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/bazaar"><strong>LabRulezGCMS Marketplace</strong></a></h4><p><strong>Spare parts for GC/MS:</strong></p><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/bazaar?category=367&amp;search=turbo"><strong>Turbo pumps for GC/MS</strong></a></li></ul><p><strong>Spare parts for GC:</strong></p><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/bazaar?category=366&amp;search=EPC"><strong>EPC modules</strong></a></li></ul><p><strong>Sample injection</strong></p><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/bazaar/432"><strong>Autosampler 7693A for GC</strong></a></li></ul><p><strong>Consumables:</strong></p><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/bazaar?category=7"><strong>GC columns </strong></a>and selected accessories</li></ul>

LabRulez at analytica 2026

<p><strong>Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezICPMS Library in the week of 23rd March 2026? Check out new documents from the field of spectroscopy/spectrometry and related techniques!</strong></p><blockquote><p><span style="font-size:20px;">👉 </span><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library"><span style="font-size:20px;"><strong>SEARCH THE LARGEST REPOSITORY OF DOCUMENTS ABOUT SPECTROSCOPY/SPECTROMETRY RELATED TECHNIQUES</strong></span></a></p></blockquote><blockquote><p><strong>👉 Need info about different analytical techniques?</strong> Peek into <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/library"><strong>LabRulezLCMS</strong></a> or <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library"><strong>LabRulezGCMS</strong></a> libraries.</p></blockquote><p>This week we bring you application notes by <strong>LECO,</strong> <strong>Shimadzu </strong>and <strong>Waters Corporation</strong> and brochure by<strong> Thermo Fisher Scientific!</strong></p><h3><strong>1. LECO: Determination of Nitrogen in Fertilizer</strong></h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CN_FP_928_NITROGEN_FERTILIZERS_203_821_615_4d4b013a08.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><p>Nitrogen is one of the most important elements for plant development and is the macronutrient that is most often found to be deficient in arable soils used for crop production. Nitrogen plays a key role in the formation of enzymes and proteins, which promotes lush, vigorous growth and development in plants that often leads to an increase in the yield from the plant. Fertilizers are utilized to re-introduce nitrogen back into arable soils. Fertilizers can be grouped by their makeup and/or origins into categories including inorganic and/or synthetic (including nitrates, ammonium, and urea) and organic (including compost materials and manures). The accurate and precise determination of nitrogen in all fertilizer types is not only important in the process of blending and preparing the fertilizer material for use, but also will have significant impact on the commercial value and guarantee of the fertilizer.&nbsp;</p><p>The CN928/FP928 is a macro combustion carbon and nitrogen/protein determinator that utilizes a pure oxygen environment in a high-temperature horizontal ceramic combustion furnace designed to handle macro sample mass. A thermoelectric cooler removes moisture from the combustion gases before they are collected in a ballast. The gases equilibrate and mix in the ballast before a representative aliquot (3 cm<sup>3</sup> or 10 cm<sup>3</sup> volume) of the gas is extracted and introduced into a flowing stream of inert gas (helium or argon) for analysis. The aliquot gas is carried to a thermal conductivity cell (TC) for the detection of nitrogen (N<sub>2</sub>).</p><h4><strong>Instrument Model and Configuration&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>Thermal conductivity detectors work by detecting changes in the thermal conductivity of the analyte gas compared to the constant thermal conductivity of the reference/carrier gas. The greater the difference between the thermal conductivity of the carrier gas and the analyte gas, the greater the sensitivity of the detector. The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=24&amp;search=CN928"><strong>CN928</strong></a>/<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=24&amp;search=FP928"><strong>FP928</strong></a> supports either the use of helium or argon as the instrument's carrier gas. When used as a carrier gas, helium provides the highest sensitivity, and the best performance at the lower limit of the nitrogen range. The thermal conductivity difference between argon and nitrogen is not as great as the thermal conductivity difference between helium and nitrogen, therefore the detector is inherently less sensitive when using argon as a carrier gas.</p><h4><strong>TYPICAL RESULTS&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>Data was generated utilizing a single standard, forced through origin calibration using ~ 0.1 g of NIST 913b Uric Acid (33.23% N). Alternatively, LECO 503-530 LCRM Urea may be used for calibration.</p><h3><strong>2. Shimadzu: Evaluation of Microscopic Foreign Matter in Recycled Plastics Using Dynamic Image Analysis, Infrared Microscopy, and SEM-EDS</strong></h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_01_00861_en_7485baba21.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><h4><strong>User Benefits</strong></h4><ul><li>&nbsp;It is easy to evaluate the size and quantity of microscopic foreign particles, which are key quality criteria of recycled plastics.</li><li>With the microcell method of DIA, microscopic foreign matter can be detected and counted quickly using a small sample quantity.</li><li>Infrared microscope and SEM-EDS systems provide information about the morphology and composition of microscopic foreign matter that is useful for improving recycling processes.</li></ul><p>One of the quality criteria for recycled plastic flakes and pellets is the content of foreign matter. Quantitatively evaluating the size and quantity of foreign particles contained in flakes and pellets is important for examining foreign matter removal processes intended to improve pellet quality and optimize manufacturing processesfor products made with recycled materials.&nbsp;</p><p>In this article, pellets of virgin and recycled polyethylene terephthalate (hereafter PET) were dissolved in hexafluoro-2-propanol (hereafter HFIP), a solvent for dissolving PET, to prepare suspensions of insoluble microscopic foreign particles. These suspensions were measured with a dynamic particle image analysis (DIA) system (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=iSpect+DIA-10"><strong>iSpect DIA-10</strong></a>) to evaluate the size and number of insoluble microscopic foreign particles (patent pending). In addition, part of the suspensions were diluted tenfold and filtered through a membrane filter to collect the insoluble microscopic foreign particles on the filter. The morphology and composition of the collected microscopic foreign particles were evaluated using a digital microscope, an infrared microscope system (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=IRTracer-100"><strong>IRTracer-100</strong></a> and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=AIM-9000"><strong>AIM-9000</strong></a>), and an SEM-EDS system. These evaluations enabled comparison of the sizes, quantities, and types of foreign particles contained in virgin and recycled materials.</p><h4><strong>Conclusion&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>By using an iSpect DIA-10 system to measure suspensions prepared by dissolving two types of PET pellets (virgin and recycled) in HFIP, we obtained particle images of insoluble foreign matter and evaluated size and concentration of particles. That enabled quantitative comparison of particle size and count in microscopic foreign matter contained in virgin and recycled materials.&nbsp;</p><p>In addition, after diluting the pellet suspensions, the insoluble microscopic foreign matter in the diluted suspensions was collected on filters. The morphology and composition of the microscopic foreign matter were evaluated using an infrared microscope and SEM-EDS system. The results indicated that the suspensions contained organic substances, such as cellulose and amide-based compounds, and inorganic substances and metals that contain elements such as C, O, Ca, and Al (suggestive of carbonates and metallic aluminum).&nbsp;</p><p>Thus, the iSpect DIA-10 enables simple quantitative evaluation of the size and number of microscopic foreign particles in PET pellets using only small sample quantities. Furthermore, composition evaluation by infrared microscope and SEM-EDS systems provides useful information for investigating the origin of foreign matter, examining measures to reduce foreign matter, and evaluating impacts on final products. If similarities in size and shape are observed, particle images obtained with iSpect DIA-10 can also potentially be used to estimate particle composition.</p><h3><strong>3. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Ensuring safer and effective pharmaceutical formulations by X-ray diffraction</strong></h3><ul><li>Brochures and specifications</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/PF_41381_xrd_solutions_pharma_9b89684165.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><p>From drug discovery and preformulation studies to the efficient scaling up in the manufacturing process in the plant and finally through QA/QC validation, X-ray diffraction (XRD) is a vital analysis method in the characterization of different physico-chemical properties of the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API). XRD is a gold standard method and required technique in the determination of polymorphic and salt screening, % of crystallinity and stability/reactivity studies of the final API.&nbsp;</p><h5><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/2297"><strong>Thermo Scientific™ SolstiX™ XRD Software</strong></a><strong> with Security Suite extends ARL EQUINOX 100 X-ray Diffractometers to 21 CFR Part 11 regulated labs&nbsp;</strong></h5><ul><li>Protect stored electronic data related to quality assurance within manufacturer’s computer systems&nbsp;</li><li>Put controls in place to keep records authentic, incorruptible, and confidential&nbsp;</li><li>Electronic signatures for the user to take responsibility for the electronic data in the system&nbsp;</li><li>Requirements in the data record: date and time of scan, name of the unique signer, and technological controls to ensure security (e.g. passwords)&nbsp;</li></ul><h5><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/2143"><strong>Thermo Scientific™ ARL™ EQUINOX 100 X-ray benchtop diffractometer</strong></a><strong> is designed to exceed your analytical needs&nbsp;</strong></h5><ul><li>Ideally suited for rapid screening of various formulations, finger printing or detection of counterfeit products&nbsp;</li><li>Polymorphism and crystallinity determination, crystallite size calculation, quantitative phase analysis, reactivity and stability of materials, etc.&nbsp;</li><li>XRD experiments on standard powders, bulks, tablets, small quantities, etc.&nbsp;</li><li>Real-time full pattern XRD based on our unique PSD detector technology&nbsp;</li><li>X-ray source based on micro-source technology with no external water cooling</li><li>Unique dual-mode capability: reflection and/or transmission&nbsp;</li></ul><h5><strong>Thermo Scientific™ ARL™ EQUINOX 100 XRD for structural analysis&nbsp;</strong></h5><ul><li>Easy-to-use simultaneous full pattern XRD based on unique real time PSD detector technology&nbsp;</li><li>Unique dual-mode capability on a benchtop XRD instrument: reflection and/or transmission mode&nbsp;</li><li>XRD experiments on various samples with sample spinner, capillary stage, sample changer or in controlled environment</li></ul><h5><strong>Top XRD benefits for pharma&nbsp;</strong></h5><ul><li>Structural characterization technique&nbsp;</li><li>Nondestructive technique&nbsp;</li><li>Small amount of sample needed for analysis&nbsp;</li><li>Unique diffraction patterns and quick response&nbsp;</li><li>Analysis on mixtures as well as amorphous content&nbsp;</li><li>Easy determination of induced structural changes</li></ul><h3><strong>4. Waters Corporation: SIMI: A Different Approach to Revealing Dangerous Subvisible Impurities</strong></h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/720009094_en_fb955e89ec.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><p>Foreign particulate matter, also known as extrinsic particles, has become a serious threat to patient safety in recent years, with cases linked to severe immunogenic reactions, deaths, and costly recalls.<sup>1</sup> In 2021 alone, Takeda recalled 1.6 million doses of the Moderna COVID-19 mRNA vaccine in Japan after several patient deaths were linked to steel particulates shed from a malfunctioning pump.<sup>2</sup> Over the span of seven years, from 2014–2017, there were more than 110 drug recalls as a result of glass delamination,<sup>3–4</sup> and several more due to remnant crystals,<sup>5</sup> owing to the difficulty of identifying the presence and source of foreign particulate matter. To prevent against such threats, manufacturers require high throughput technologies to better identify foreign particulate matter in real time.</p><h4><strong>Results and Discussion</strong></h4><h5><strong>Shining a Light on Extrinsic Particles with SIMI</strong></h5><p>Side illumination membrane imaging (SIMI) is a proprietary illumination, imaging, and analysis technique exclusively available to <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/2190"><strong>Aura instruments</strong></a>. Utilizing the principles of darkfield microscopy,<sup>6</sup> SIMI is conducted on an Aura membrane plate using an oblique illumination source which emits light at an angle parallel to the surface of the plate.&nbsp;</p><p>Compared to backgrounded membrane imaging (BMI), which utilizes brightfield microscopy (epi-illumination) where particles scatter the incident light isotropically (i.e., at all angles), side illumination membrane maging (SIMI) is a technique that is specifically designed to detect light scattering from high refractive index particles, as well as those that protrude out of the plane from the membrane surface. A particle’s average SIMI intensity is measured in a relative scale where the inherent SIMI scattering of the membrane is defined as SIMI = 0. Positive SIMI values indicate particles protruding out of the membrane, as is the case with microplastics, fibers, and other common extrinsic particles, whose average SIMI intensities vary from 0–255. On some occasions, like with metallic particles and absorbing oils, particles will have reduced light refraction relative to the membrane and thus display negative SIMI values, varying from 0 to -122.&nbsp;</p><p>The majority of foreign, extrinsic particles exhibit a high refractive index and are mechanically rigid in structure, causing them to protrude from the membrane surface and scatter side illumination to a high degree, ideal for SIMI analysis. In contrast, biologic particles exhibit the opposite properties—low refractive index and malleable structures, causing them to lie flat with minimal side scatter profiles, which is best analyzed with BMI or fluorescence membrane microscopy (FMM). Utilizing all three microscopy approaches is most ideal to facilitate the determination of all extrinsic (non-biologic) and inherent (biologic) particles in biologic formulations.</p><h4><strong>Conclusion&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>SIMI is a unique approach to providing additional characterization of subvisible particles and is available in all Aura models to help rapidly identify foreign material in biological samples with a high degree of specificity. A key tertiary imaging mode in addition to BMI and FMM, SIMI provides selective, orthogonal morphological information to identify tall and rigid materials, a defining feature of most extrinsic particles (Figure 11). While particle sizing and counting is done via BMI, SIMI provides illumination, imaging, and analysis that can be useful across a variety of biological products to reveal foreign subvisible particles from the earliest to the latest of stages in the bioprocess.</p>

News from LabRulezICPMS Library - Week 13, 2026

Article

Events

Application

Science and research

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

Eurachem

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

LabRulez

Mettler-Toledo

Anton Paar

Agilent Technologies

SPECTRO Analytical Instruments

AZoM

Bruker

Wiley

<p><strong>Preparation of water samples for isolation and identification of microplastics can be the most time-consuming part of the analysis. This presentation will focus on preparation of water samples for analysis of microplastics, with an emphasis on the SCCWRP SOP for drinking water, and ASTM D8333 for waste water samples.</strong></p><p>Please join us for the next presentation in this series which will highlight Agilent’s turn-key approach for analyzing microplastics using the 8700 LDIR.</p><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Louis Tisinger, PhD (Application Engineer, Molecular Spectroscopy, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)</p><p>Louis (Lou) Tisinger has a Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry from Miami University in Oxford Ohio, where his graduate research involved the study of ATR imaging and microscope performance in vibrational spectroscopy. Most of his career has been related to pre- and post-sales support of FTIR spectrometers, microscopes, imaging systems, and thermal analytical instruments, focusing on analyzing customer samples, demonstrations, post-sales training, troubleshooting, and R&amp;D.</p></blockquote>

Agilnt Technologies: A Discussion on Sample Preparation of Water Samples for Analysis of Microplastics

A Discussion on Sample Preparation of Water Samples for Analysis of Microplastics

Please join us for the next presentation in this series which will highlight Agilent’s turn-key approach for analyzing microplastics using the 8700 LDIR.

Sample Preparation of Water Samples for Microplastics

<header><p><strong>Master These Useful Techniques and Discover the Unique TOPEM™ Methodology</strong></p></header><main><div><div><p><strong>Program</strong></p><ul><li>Why use temperature modulation?</li><li>Measurement approaches: IsoStep, ADSC, and TOPEM</li><li>TOPEM principles and measurement process</li><li>Method comparison</li><li>TOPEM applications</li><li>Interactive Q&amp;A</li></ul></div></div><div><div><p>Temperature-modulated DSC (TMDSC) techniques are widely used in both industry and research to separate overlapping temperature- or time-dependent thermal effects. Traditional methods typically overlay the isothermal temperature or heating ramp with a sinusoidal temperature modulation at a single, fixed frequency. This means the temperature oscillation occurs at a constant rate.</p><p>In contrast, METTLER TOLEDO's innovative TOPEM™ technique revolutionizes this approach by applying <strong>multiple frequencies</strong>. This advanced capability enhances the precision and depth of thermal analysis, providing researchers and industry professionals with valuable insights.</p><p>This webinar gives you a chance to learn more about the theory behind&nbsp;TMDSC, as well as explore some exciting TOPEM applications.</p></div></div><div><div><div><p><strong>Three Different Temperature-Modulated DSC Techniques</strong></p><p>METTLER TOLEDO offers three different TMDSC methods that are applied to the underlying heating rate:</p><ul><li><strong>IsoStep:</strong> A sequence of alternate isothermal and dynamic heating segments is applied.</li><li><strong>ADSC:</strong> A small sinusoidal temperature modulation is applied.</li><li><strong>TOPEM:</strong> A series of variable temperature pulses is applied. This advanced technique allows you to determine specific heat capacity and low energy transitions and to separate close-lying and overlapping effects.</li></ul><p>During the webinar, we will compare the three techniques. We will also share real-life examples from industry that demonstrate the questions TOPEM can address.</p><p>We conclude with a live Q&amp;A session, so get your questions ready!</p><ul><li><span style="padding-right:0px;" id="webinar-session-1"><strong>30. 10. 2025 8:00,&nbsp; English&nbsp;</strong></span><span id="webinar-session-2"><strong><svg width="16" height="16" viewBox="0 0 16 16" fill="none" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"></svg></strong></span></li><li><span id="webinar-session-2"><strong>30. 10. 2025 16:00,&nbsp; English&nbsp;</strong></span></li></ul><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Dr. Teresa Dennenwaldt</p><p>Dr. Teresa Dennenwaldt obtained her PhD in chemistry in 2013 and completed a postdoc at the Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Switzerland in the field of electron microscopy and spectroscopy. In 2018, she joined METTLER TOLEDO as an application specialist for Thermal Analysis. In her current position, she expertly uses, teaches, and supports DSC, TGA, TMA, and DMA instruments at the METTLER TOLEDO head office in Switzerland.</p></blockquote></div></div></div></main>

Mettler Toledo: Uncover the Secrets of Temperature-Modulated DSC

Uncover the Secrets of Temperature-Modulated DSC

This webinar gives you a chance to learn more about the theory behind TMDSC, as well as explore some exciting TOPEM applications.

<div><div container-id="cq-colctrl-lt0" comp-id="A1"><div><p><strong>Learn how to select and apply the proper internal standard for your analysis.&nbsp;</strong></p><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Ana García González (Atomic Spectroscopy Application Scientist, Agilent Technologies)</p><p>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.</p></blockquote></div></div></div>

Agilent Technologies: Internal Standard Selection

Internal Standard Selection

Learn how to select and apply the proper internal standard for your analysis. 

<p><strong>Find out how the Cary 630 FTIR with ATR enables the identification of Forensic samples quickly and accurately.</strong></p><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter:&nbsp;</strong> Luciana Terra (Application Scientist, Molecular Spectroscopy, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)</p><p>Luciana Terra has a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Chemistry from the Federal University of Alfenas (Unifal-MG) as well as a Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry, on Chemometrics, from the State University of Campinas (Unicamp), where she developed work focused on petroleum quality and derivatives using high-resolution Mass Spectrometry, NIR, and chemometrics methodologies. As part of her Ph.D., she also worked at the University of Calgary in Canada. While completing her Master’s Degree at Unicamp, Luciana developed a new methodology for drug polymorphism detection using NIR imaging and chemometrics tools for quality assurance in the pharmaceutical industry. In 2019, she joined Agilent Technologies as an Application Scientist for Molecular Spectroscopy in UV-Vis, Fluorescence, IR, and Raman techniques, at Agilent Technologies, in Brazil.</p></blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Forensic Identification using Infrared Spectroscopy

Forensic Identification using Infrared Spectroscopy

Find out how the Cary 630 FTIR with ATR enables the identification of Forensic samples quickly and accurately.

<p><strong>Discover how the patented* iCAL 2.0 diagnostics is transforming standardization in elemental metal analysis. Instead of standardizing each analytical method individually, iCAL 2.0 standardizes the entire optical system with just one sample—restoring it to its original factory state. This unique approach ensures all analytical methods remain in optimal readiness, delivering fast, precise, and reliable results for all elements across the full calibration range.</strong></p><p>With iCAL 2.0, standardization is completed in less than five minutes and typically only needed once a day, even when moving between locations or facing temperature shifts. Save valuable time, reduce costs, and avoid off-spec products—experience the future of mobile and stationary metal analysis with unmatched stability and efficiency.</p><h5><strong>What You’ll Learn:</strong></h5><ul><li>Standardize with just one sample—streamline daily operations</li><li>Eliminate time-consuming drift corrections and save valuable time</li><li>Benefit from real-time correction on every measurement for maximum accuracy</li><li>Easily transfer customer-specific standardizations between instruments</li><li>Ideal for both mobile and stationary analyzers: SPECTROPORT, SPECTROTEST, SPECTROCHECK, SPECTROMAXx, and SPECTROLAB</li></ul><h5><strong>Who Should Attend:</strong></h5><ul><li>Quality control and process optimization professionals</li><li>Laboratory and production managers in metals industries</li><li>Anyone interested in advanced analytical technologies</li></ul><p>The webinar will take place on Thursday, October 23, and will take around 30 minutes, after which we'll answer your questions live.</p><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Marcus Freit&nbsp;</p><p>Marcus Freit is Product Manager for mobile and stationary metal analyzers at SPECTRO Analytical Instruments. He oversees the strategic development of the entire product portfolio, including application development and product support. With 35 years at SPECTRO and extensive experience in various roles, Marcus has been shaping product strategy as Product Manager since 2002.</p><p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Christoph Verrieth</p><p>Christoph Verrieth serves as Sales Manager for distributors at SPECTRO Analytical Instruments. Previously, he led the strategic development of stationary metal analyzers as Product Manager, focusing on application development and product support. With a background in electronics and over 23 years at SPECTRO, Christoph has specialized in optical emission applications and research across multiple technical positions.</p></blockquote>

SPECTRO / AMETEK: iCAL 2.0 – Smart Standardization for Efficient and Reliable Metal Analysis

iCAL 2.0 – Smart Standardization for Efficient and Reliable Metal Analysis

Discover how the patented iCAL 2.0 diagnostics is transforming standardization in elemental metal analysis. 

iCAL 2.0 – Smart Standardization for Metal Analysis

<p><strong>Many industries face constraints such as limited material availability, high costs, or the need to minimize waste. Despite these challenges, advanced gas pycnometry instruments make it possible to obtain optimal density results for solids, semi-solids, slurries, and other advanced materials without compromise. This Webinar explores how to achieve precise and reliable solid density measurements using minimal sample amounts.</strong></p><h5><strong>Key discussion points include:</strong></h5><ul><li><strong>Why sample size matters:</strong> Common reasons for working with limited quantities in research, quality control, and production.</li><li><strong>Choosing the right technology: </strong>How micro-volume density meters ensure accuracy with small samples.</li><li><strong>Sample handling best practices:</strong> Reducing errors from evaporation, contamination, or improper filling.</li><li><strong>Real-world applications: </strong>Case examples where reliable density data was achieved with less than 0.1 cm<sup>3</sup> of sample.</li></ul><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Alyssa Henderson, Ph.D.</p><p>Dr. Henderson, a Global Product Manager specializing in semi-solid and solid density meters/porometers and porosimeters at Anton Paar QuantaTec, brings nine years of experience in materials characterization to the role. With five years of focused experience in porous materials, she possesses a deep understanding of the field. Dr. Henderson earned her Ph.D. in materials physics from Florida State University. She has conducted extensive training for over 200 associates and customers globally, covering gas adsorption, solid density, and related theories, techniques, applications, and instruments. As Global Product Manager, she is responsible for developing new technologies in the field of Surface Area and Pores by working in collaboration with different industries like Pharmaceuticals, Cement, Food, Cosmetics, EV Battery, Catalyst etc.</p></blockquote>

Anton Paar: e-SPRESSO Webinar: Big Density Results from Small Samples

e-SPRESSO Webinar: Big Density Results from Small Samples

This Webinar explores how to achieve precise and reliable solid density measurements using minimal sample amounts.

 Big Density Results from Small Samples

<h4><strong>Are you ready to take your process to the next level?</strong></h4><p>During our <strong>webinar with live demonstration</strong> on Friday, October 24, you’ll see how the <strong>Edge Evaluation Unit,</strong> successor to the mPDS5, makes your work <strong>faster, more efficient, and easy to manage directly via your browser.</strong></p><p>We will also introduce our <strong>new L-Cor mass flow sensor</strong>, delivering the precision and reliability you expect from Anton Paar.</p><h5><strong>What to expect:</strong></h5><ul><li><strong>Live demo </strong>of the Edge Evaluation Unit</li><li><strong>Introduction</strong> of the L-Cor Coriolis sensor</li><li><strong>Interactive Q&amp;A</strong> with our experts</li></ul><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Bart Klinck (Language: English)</p></blockquote>

Anton Paar: From MPDS 5 to Edge & L-Cor mass flow sensor

From MPDS 5 to Edge & L-Cor mass flow sensor

Discover Anton Paar’s Edge Evaluation Unit and L-Cor sensor in a live demo — smarter, faster process control with precision and browser-based efficiency.

<div><p><strong>Confocal microscopy is valued for its ability to capture thin, high-resolution, in-focus slices from deep within thick specimens. These optical sections improve image contrast, remove out of focus fluorescence which blurs the images, and can be reconstructed into 3D models.</strong></p><p>The first confocal design, proposed by Marvin Minsky in the 1950s, used a point illumination–point detection system that naturally rejects out-of-focus light. To build images, the system required point-by-point scanning, a powerful laser light source, and sensitive detectors such as PMTs to compensate for weak signals. This design became feasible in the 1970s and was typically added onto conventional microscopes.</p><p>Since then, technological advances have introduced alternative approaches. CCD cameras, non-laser light sources, and computational image processing now make it possible to achieve optical sectioning without relying solely on lasers, single pinholes and PMTs.</p><p>In this webinar, we will discuss a modern technique which combines structured illumination with sensitive structured detection, enabling the production of thin, high-contrast, high-resolution optical slices similar to traditional confocal imaging, but with simpler, more flexible instrumentation, based on new LED light sources, advanced aperture correlation methods and a sensitive high resolution sCMOS camera.</p><h5><strong>Key Learnings for Attendees:</strong></h5><ul><li>Understand how you can upgrade your microscope to an economical confocal imaging system without the need for expensive lasers and equipment.</li><li>Discover modern approaches to biological imaging, including how to apply best practices and streamline workflows in confocal imaging.</li></ul><h5><strong>Who Should Attend:</strong></h5><ul><li>Design &amp; Development/Systems Integration Teams&nbsp;</li><li>Engineering Managers&nbsp;</li><li>Product Managers&nbsp;</li><li>Lab Researchers&nbsp;</li><li>Biology Research Technicians&nbsp;</li><li>Post-Doctoral Biological Researchers</li></ul><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Dr. Kavita Aswani, Ph.D. (Senior BioMedical Applications Scientist, Excelitas)</p><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Dr. Gerhard Holst, Ph.D. (Senior Imaging Product &amp; Application Scientist, Excelitas)</p><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Professor Tony Wilson, Ph.D. (Chairman and CEO, Aurox)</p><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Richard Fitzgerald (Editor-in-Chief, Physics Today)</p></blockquote></div>

Wiley: Discover 21st Century Laser-Free Confocal Microscopy

Discover 21st Century Laser-Free Confocal Microscopy

Discover a modern, affordable confocal imaging technique using structured illumination and sCMOS detection — no lasers required.

<div><div id="inner_content_body_text" data-content-id="394785"><h4><strong>Customer Talk with MIT Professor Thomas J. Wallin</strong></h4><p><strong>The combination of rheology and Raman spectroscopy offers unique opportunities for simultaneously measuring both the physical and chemical properties of a system. In this webinar, discover how the Anton Paar integrated Rheo+Raman system allows users to gain a deeper understanding of material properties in a matter of minutes.</strong></p><p>The session opens with an introduction from Sunny Sidhartha, who will present an overview of the Anton Paar integrated Rheo+Raman system.</p><p>This is followed by an exclusive Customer Talk with Professor Thomas J. Wallin from the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the US.</p><p>Professor Wallin will share how he uses Anton Paar’s Rheo+Raman system to monitor the UV curing of 3D printing polymers in real time. By combining the compact Cora 5001 Raman spectrometer with an MCR rheometer, he is able to replicate in situ conditions during manufacturing.</p><p>This enables a deeper understanding of the process-structure-property relationship in 3D-printed polymers, supports advanced formulation development, and helps identify optimal print parameters and quality control workflows for industrial applications.</p><p><strong>Get access to the free “Polymer Processing e-Book,” which is available as a free webinar handout.</strong></p><h5><strong>Attend This Webinar to:</strong></h5><ul><li>Learn about new research in the field of 3D printing polymers using soft materials</li><li>Participate in a Q&amp;A session with a subject matter expert</li><li>Understand the principles and advantages of Raman spectroscopy</li><li>Explore rheological applications that benefit from in situ, real-time Raman spectroscopy</li><li>Discover how the combined system works and how easy it is to operate</li></ul><h5><strong>Attend This Webinar If You:</strong></h5><ul><li>Study curing, structure, and performance in real time</li><li>Combine flow behavior with chemical insights</li><li>Develop advanced formulations with deeper material understanding</li><li>Optimize manufacturing by monitoring transitions in situ</li><li>Adopt faster, multifunctional characterization methods</li><li>Refine 3D printing and curing workflows</li></ul><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Sunny Sidhartha (Anton Paar GmbH, Global Market Development - Raman spectrometers)</p><p>Sunny Sidhartha is a technical sales and business development professional with over 15 years of experience across various industries such as NIR spectroscopy, oil and gas, and manufacturing. He holds a degree in mechanical engineering with a focus on metallurgy and welding from Punjab Technical University, India, and a business degree from the European School of Management and Technology, Berlin. At Anton Paar, he is currently responsible for global market development for the Cora 5001, the benchtop Raman analyzer.</p><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Professor Thomas J. Wallin (Department of Material Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology)</p><p>Professor Wallin earned a BS in physics and chemistry from the College of William and Mary, Virginia, in 2010, and an MS and a PhD in materials science and engineering from Cornell University, which he completed in 2018. Before joining MIT, he was a research scientist in soft wearable technologies at Meta’s Reality Labs Research, which focuses on immersive technologies.</p><p>He has extensive expertise in additive manufacturing, particularly the use of soft materials in 3D-printed devices. At MIT, his research focuses on advancing soft wearable devices. His group combines materials, chemistry, advanced manufacturing, and mechanical design to develop new technologies that expand the complexity and functionality of soft machines.</p></blockquote></div></div>

AZOM: Rheo+Raman: Deeper Polymer Insights from Research to QC

Rheo+Raman: Deeper Polymer Insights from Research to QC

Discover how MIT uses Anton Paar’s Rheo+Raman system to study 3D printing polymers in real time, combining rheology and Raman spectroscopy for material insight.

<div><p><strong>Energy Dispersive Spectrometry (EDS) and Wavelength Dispersive Spectrometry (WDS) are complementary techniques for X-ray microanalysis in Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). While EDS offers rapid elemental identification, its limitations in spectral resolution and detection sensitivity, particularly for light and trace elements, necessitate a more advanced approach.</strong></p><p><strong>QUANTAX WDS </strong>addresses these challenges by delivering significantly enhanced spectral resolution (10 to 20 times greater than EDS), lower detection limits (typically 10 times better), and superior performance in light element analysis (up to 50 times higher sensitivity for Boron and Beryllium).</p><p><strong>QUANTAX WDS</strong> is optimized to provide high spectral resolution for low X-ray energies, enabling high spatialresolution measurement using low accelerating voltages. Consequently, it effectively resolves peak overlaps, confirms elemental presence or absence without reliying on software-based deconvolution, and quantifies elements that EDS may miss. These capabilities extend the analytical reach of elemental identification in SEM, offering reliable detection of trace elements and improved quantification accuracy.</p><p>In this webinar, we demonstrate these unique capabilities through diverse application examples from many sectors, &nbsp;automotive, geosciences, steel production, materials research, and semiconductor technology, proving the practical impact of QUANTAX WDS for both industrial and academic research.</p><p>This webinar highlights the transformative potential of WDS in modern microanalysis workflows, emphasizing its effectiveness to address the spectral resolution and sensitivity limitations inherent to EDS.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Bruker_Point_spectra_and_map_insert_top_right_of_a_semiconductor_microsensor_sample_7ef39a6553.jpg" alt="Bruker: Point spectra and map (insert top right) of a semiconductor microsensor sample. EDS only detects Tantalum (and surface-adhering elements C and O). But QUANTAX WDS sees more: it also detects Si, derived from the substrate below the ~30 nm thick Ta layer." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Bruker_Point_spectra_and_map_insert_top_right_of_a_semiconductor_microsensor_sample_7ef39a6553.jpg 195w," sizes="100vw" width="608" height="486"></p><h5><strong>Who should attend</strong></h5><ul><li>Researchers and lab managers from industry and academia interested in elemental analysis.</li></ul><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Dr. Michael Abratis (Sr. Application Scientist, Bruker Electron Microscope Analyzers)</p><p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Stephan Boehm (Product Manager - micro-XRF on SEM and WDS, Bruker Electron Microscope Analyzers)</p></blockquote></div>

Bruker: QUANTAX WDS: Advancing Microanalysis Beyond the Limits of SEM EDS

QUANTAX WDS: Advancing Microanalysis Beyond the Limits of SEM EDS

Explore how Bruker’s QUANTAX WDS overcomes EDS limits in SEM with higher resolution, lower detection limits, and exceptional light element sensitivity.