<p><strong>Interlaboratory comparisons (ILCs) have been used for more than a century and many important concepts are linked to them. This leaflet addresses the basic terminology of ILCs, why some colloquial terms can be misleading or misunderstood, and the importance of harmonisation.&nbsp;</strong></p><p>An ‘ILC’ is the <i>organisation, performance and evaluation of measurements or tests on the same or similar items by two or more laboratories in accordance with predetermined conditions</i> [1]. ILCs have a variety of overall – and detailed – objectives, the three most common [2] being:</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Eurachem_Let_s_call_a_PT_scheme_a_PT_scheme_3_9993b9fb0f.jpg" alt="Eurachem: Let’s call a PT scheme a PT scheme" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Eurachem_Let_s_call_a_PT_scheme_a_PT_scheme_3_9993b9fb0f.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1516" height="472"></p><h4><strong>Some comparisons have special names&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>The evaluation of participant (laboratory, organisation or individual) performance is typically referred to as ‘<strong>proficiency testing</strong>’ (PT) or ‘<strong>external quality assessment</strong>’ [1]. When the main objective is evaluating the performance of, for example, a candidate standard method, the ILC is often called a ‘<strong>method performance study</strong>’ or a ‘<strong>collaborative study</strong>’ [2, 3]. The former is quite clear whereas wording such as “<strong>collaborative</strong>” and “<strong>cooperative</strong>” just stresses joint effort. A project aimed at producing a new certified reference material may involve several laboratories conducting analyses on agreed properties [4]. Not surprisingly, this work is sometimes labelled as a ‘<strong>material certification study</strong>’. Special ILCs used to demonstrate measurement capabilities of National Metrology Institutes are called ‘<strong>key comparisons</strong>’, ‘<strong>supplementary comparisons</strong>’, and ‘<strong>pilot studies</strong>’ [5].&nbsp;</p><h4><strong>Some terms can be confusing&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>Other terms for ILCs, including ‘ring test’, ‘round robin’ and ‘circle analysis’, are common in the literature. They have, however, been used for different objectives and different designs and may be ambiguous or understood differently by laboratory staff. The use of these terms may, for example, imply a specific way of distributing the ILC sample. ISO/IEC 17043 uses ‘sequential scheme’, for a PT where a unique item is transferred between the participants and ‘simultaneous scheme’, in which similar items from a batch are distributed simultaneously to the participants [1].&nbsp;</p><p>Terms like ‘<strong>measurement audit</strong>’, ‘<strong>interlaboratory testing scheme</strong>’, ‘<strong>measurement comparison scheme</strong>’, ‘<strong>rapid performance evaluation scheme</strong>’ and ‘<strong>intercalibration</strong>’ may not correctly reflect the category of laboratory involved, or the type of work participants do during the ILC.&nbsp;</p><p>When in 1994 the IUPAC defined and described three major types of ‘interlaboratory studies’, the word ‘study’ was preferred to synonyms such as ‘trial’, ‘exercise’, ‘test’, ‘evaluation’ or ‘check’ [2].</p><h4><strong>Let’s try to harmonise&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>Many laboratory staff are unaware of official terms related to ILCs but recognise the acronym PT and words like ‘ring test’. Ideally, we would use a common scientific language, but harmonisation is time consuming. Terms appear and disappear and definitions change. The same term can be defined differently, even in different international standards. Lack of standards and guidelines in local languages can cause confusion and contribute to spreading of less appropriate terms.&nbsp;</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Eurachem_Let_s_call_a_PT_scheme_a_PT_scheme_2_820043ce8b.jpg" alt="Eurachem: Let’s call a PT scheme a PT scheme" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Eurachem_Let_s_call_a_PT_scheme_a_PT_scheme_2_820043ce8b.jpg 234w," sizes="100vw" width="1006" height="671"></p><p>Much confusion can be avoided by clear reference to relevant standards and sectoral guides. ISO/ IEC 17043 [1] and ISO 13528 [6] contain many important concepts related to PT schemes and other ILCs. Some of these are also incorporated into ISO/IEC 17025 [7]. Additional useful, and free, tools are the Eurachem PT Guide [8] and the ISO online browsing platform [9].&nbsp;</p><p>In writing guidance and instructions, remember that the term ‘interlaboratory comparison’ has a broad meaning and can be used for all cases described above. Sometimes this is clear enough for the reader. In other cases, use acknowledged terms that reflect the detailed objective of the ILC. Let’s call a PT scheme a PT scheme!</p>

Let’s call a PT scheme a PT scheme!

<p><span><strong>The countdown is on for one of the world’s leading conferences dedicated to food analysis. The 12th International Symposium on Recent Advances in Food Analysis (RAFA 2026), taking place in Prague from 3–6 November 2026, is approaching two important milestones: the Early Bird registration deadline and the deadline for oral abstract submissions, both ending on 30 June 2026. Researchers, analysts, industry professionals, regulators, and students are encouraged to secure their participation at a reduced registration rate and take advantage of the opportunity to present their latest scientific results to the international food analysis community.</strong></span></p><p><span>RAFA 2026 will once again bring together leading experts from academia, industry, and regulatory organizations to discuss the latest developments in food safety, authenticity, contaminants, non-target screening, PFAS, microplastics, food contact materials, artificial intelligence, and advanced analytical technologies. The preliminary program already features an outstanding lineup of internationally recognized speakers addressing some of the most pressing challenges in modern food analysis and food safety.</span></p><h3><strong>Registration</strong></h3><blockquote><p class="cke-user_style-important"><strong>👉</strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://rafa.easyevent.eu/tickets/"><strong>Register to attend RAFA 2026!</strong></a></p><p><strong>Early-bird registration until 30 June, 2026</strong></p></blockquote><p>After successful submission of your registration, you will receive by e-mail (i) an automatic confirmation of receipt indicating the total amount of payment due (either for bank transfer or for on-line payment by card), (ii) login to Member section where you can administrate your profile, submit your abstracts, and from <strong>September 2026</strong> register for satellite events, workshops and seminars. If it will not be delivered within a few minutes after submission of your registration please contact us at <strong>RAFA2026@vscht.cz</strong>.</p><p>As soon as payment of registration fee is processed, you will also receive by e-mail (iii) confirmation of payment.</p><h4><strong>Registration Fees</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Smart rate (Until 30 June, 2026): </strong>€ 655</li><li><strong>Regular registration (Until 30 September, 2026):</strong> € 855</li><li><strong>Late registration (From 1 October, 2026):</strong> € 955</li><li><strong>Student rate*&nbsp;</strong><ul><li><strong>Until 30 June, 2026: </strong>€ 465</li><li><strong>From 1 July, 2026:</strong> € 605</li></ul></li></ul><p><i>* The proof of student status (e.g. copy of a student identify card) is requested as an attachment of the registration form.</i></p><h5><strong>The regular registration fee will include:</strong></h5><ul><li>Attendance at all scientific sessions, workshops, seminars, vendor seminars and other satellite events</li><li>Access to the poster and exhibition area</li><li>Conference kit (name badge, conference bag, conference documents, certificate of participation, certificate of presentation on request)</li><li>Final programme</li><li>E-Book of Abstracts</li><li>Coffee breaks</li><li>Buffet luncheons</li><li>Welcome drink</li></ul><p>In the registration form you can r<strong>egister free of charge for the welcome drink</strong> and you can also order <strong>ticket(s) for the conference dinner (€ 85).</strong></p><p><i>Please note that your registration is firm when your payment has been received.</i></p><h3><strong>Abstract submission</strong></h3><blockquote><p class="cke-user_style-important"><strong>👉</strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://rafa.easyevent.eu/tickets/"><strong>Submit your ABSTRACT HERE!</strong></a></p><p>In order to submit an abstract, you must <strong>first register to attend RAFA 2026</strong>. <strong>After registration</strong> you will receive an <strong>access to the Member section </strong>where you can <strong>submit your abstract(s).</strong></p></blockquote><p>&nbsp;After successful submission of your abstract you will receive an automatic confirmation of receipt of submitted abstract via e-mail. If it will not be delivered within a few minutes after submission of your abstract please check at first your spam box-mail and then contact us at <strong>RAFA2026@vscht.cz</strong>.</p><p>Please ensure that your abstract does not contain spelling, grammatical or scientific errors. Even though modifications of your submitted abstract will be allowed in the Abstract section of the Member section until the deadline for the abstract submission, please be confident on the lack of errors in your final version prior to starting the submission process.</p><p>The abstract will be reproduced exactly as submitted. No proofreading will be done, although some corrections may be requested by the reviewers.</p><p>If you need to withdraw your abstract, a written statement reflecting the reasons for this decision must be sent to <strong>RAFA2026@vscht.cz</strong> no later than <strong>September 30, 2026</strong>.</p><h4><strong>Important notice:</strong></h4><blockquote><p><strong>1 registered participant can submit no more than 2 abstracts.</strong></p></blockquote><p>To apply for a young scientist’s oral presentation, as an indication please respect the rule that you should be born in 1991 or later.</p><p>The <strong>text of the abstract </strong>should be<strong> limited to 3000 characters including spaces</strong>. Tables and pictures are not allowed.</p><p><strong>Abstracts of oral presentations and posters</strong> will be included into the "<strong>e-Book of Abstracts</strong>" only after receipt of the conference registration fee. Any payment of the registration fee has to be received until <strong>September 30, 2026</strong>, otherwise contribution(s) will not be included into the e-Book of Abstracts and the Conference programme.</p><h3><strong>Program</strong></h3><h4><strong>Invited Speakers</strong></h4><h5><strong>Food allergen risk assessment: Past, present, future</strong></h5><ul><li>Ben Remington from Remington Consulting Group B.V., Utrecht, the Netherlands &amp; University of Nebraska, USA</li></ul><p>Food allergy and allergen management are global public health issues, and consumer protection depends on transparent and trustworthy labelling. While 30 years of scientific advances show that low level exposures, or reference doses, are unlikely to trigger reactions in most allergic individuals, harmonized and globally aligned regulations are still needed to promote consistent allergen risk assessment and labelling decisions. This presentation will discuss the landscape of allergen risk assessment, global policy developments, current research and future needs in the area.</p><h5><strong>Unmasking hidden adulteration in honey: Strategies for detecting and characterizing honeys produced from sugar-fed colonies</strong></h5><ul><li>Oscar Nuñez Burcio from University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain</li></ul><p>From hive to jar, not all honey tells the same story. This presentation addresses hidden adulteration associated with sugar-fed bee colonies, highlighting implications for authenticity, production practices, and the need for a more precise characterization of honey to ensure consumer trust.</p><h5><strong>Analytical and toxicological methods for safety of food contact materials</strong></h5><ul><li>Erich Leitner from Graz University of Technology, Institute of Analytical Chemistry and Food Chemistry, Graz, Austria</li></ul><p>Food packaging plays a critical role in protecting and preserving food throughout the supply chain. All packaging materials intended to come into contact with food must comply with strict EU safety rules. Due to increased complexity of packaging solutions, lowering legal limits and increasing numbers of target compounds, we also have to adapt the strategies used to verify and guarantee the safety of these materials.</p><h5><strong>Data-driven strategies to reduce complexity in non-target HRMS analysis of food samples</strong></h5><ul><li>Anneli Kruve from Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden</li></ul><p>LC/HRMS based non-target screening can detect hundreds to thousands of chemical features in complex food and environmental samples. Investigating all of these in detail is practically impossible, so which ones to focus on? Novel computational tools developed in computational mass spectrometry allow predicting the toxicity and concentration of the detected chemical features even if these have not yet been fully structurally elucidated. Combining these predictions enables us to focus on the chemical features possessing high risk.</p><h5><strong>Role of AI in the identification of emerging food systems risks</strong></h5><ul><li>Ákos Bernard Jóźwiak from Syreon Research Institute, Budapest, Hungary</li></ul><p>AI-assisted evidence synthesis – spanning curated scientific evidence, exposome data, and network analysis – is the backbone of next-generation emerging chemical food safety risk identification, enabling earlier signals and more resilient surveillance systems.</p><h5><strong>Challenges of microplastics analysis in the context of food safety</strong></h5><ul><li>Dorte Herzke from Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway</li></ul><p>Food and food packaging are major sources of micro- and nanoplastic exposure. Plastics used in processing, storage, and packaging can release particles through heat, abrasion, and degradation. Small particles below 2 µm may cross gut barriers and carry chemicals, highlighting the need for robust and sensitive measurement methods.</p><h5><strong>Never-ending analytical challenges in PFAS analysis of food</strong></h5><ul><li>Darina Dvořáková from University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Prague, Czechia</li></ul><p>Exploring and monitoring PFAS in food requires advanced strategies. Combining targeted, suspect, and non-target HRMS analysis, determination of total fluorine and sum parameters, and novel sensors provides new insights into PFAS occurrence and supports food safety monitoring.</p><h5><strong>An overview of the latest scientific knowledge on process contaminants in food for appropriate risk management measures</strong></h5><ul><li>Thierry Delatour from Nestlé Research, Lausanne, Switzerland.</li></ul><p>Recent scientific findings related to acrylamide and furans formation, occurrence and analytical methods in food provide important insights for risk management.</p>

Deadline for RAFA 2026 Early Registration and Oral Abstract Submission is approaching

<p><strong>Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezICPMS Library in the week of 22nd June 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 technical note by <strong>Agilent Technologies</strong>, application note by <strong>Shimadzu </strong>and other document by <strong>Thermo Fisher Scientific!</strong></p><h3><strong>1. Agilent Technologies: Dual-Cell System (DCS) and Advanced Helium Mode (AHM)</strong></h3><p><strong>Technological developments for higher sensitivity and better interference removal than traditional He-KED</strong></p><ul><li>Technical note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/te_batch_conversion_tool_9500_icp_ms_5994_9214en_agilent_0a1bba76e2.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><h4><strong>Evolution of Agilent’s Collision Reaction Cell (CRC) technology&nbsp;</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>2001: </strong>Launched the first ICP-MS with CRC—the Agilent 7500c with Octopole Reaction System (ORS)&nbsp;</li><li><strong>2011:</strong> Introduced High Energy Helium Mode (HEHe) using Collision Induced Dissociation (CID)&nbsp;</li><li><strong>2012: </strong>Released the world’s first Triple Quadrupole ICP-MS—the Agilent 8800 ICP-QQQ&nbsp;</li><li><strong>2016:</strong> Launched the second generation Triple Quadrupole ICP-MS with Axial Acceleration—the Agilent 8900 ICP-QQQ&nbsp;</li><li><strong>2026: </strong>Introduced the innovative Dual-Cell System (DCS) and Advanced Helium Mode (AHM) for the Agilent 9500 ICP-QQQ</li></ul><p>Collision/Reaction Cell (CRC) technology is now a standard feature in modern ICP-MS systems, providing a reliable means of eliminating spectral interferences that compromise data quality. ICP-MS systems with integrated CRCs range from single quadrupole (SQ) ICP-MS used in environmental and food analysis, to triple quadrupole ICP-MS (ICP-QQQ) for advanced research applications. For routine applications, Helium Kinetic Energy Discrimination (He KED) mode, commonly referred to as helium mode (He mode), is the most widely used CRC operational mode. The widespread use of He mode is due to its universal effectiveness in reducing a broad range of polyatomic interferences without the need for element-specific optimization.&nbsp;</p><p>Unlike CRCs that rely on reactive cell gases and require complex tuning (often referred to as reaction cells), He mode effectively mitigates many commonly occurring polyatomic ion interferences without the need for intricate adjustments. In contrast, reaction cells often require careful selection of gas type (such as ammonia or oxygen) and tuning parameters based on the specific interfering ions on analytes of interest.&nbsp;</p><p>Building on the simplicity of He mode, Agilent has developed Advanced Helium Mode (AHM) for the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=9500"><strong>Agilent 9500 Triple Quadrupole ICP-MS (ICP-QQQ)</strong></a>. AHM represents a breakthrough in interference removal technology, enabled by the newly designed Agilent Dual-Cell System (DCS) and high-speed cell voltage control. These innovations deliver high sensitivity across the mass range and superior interference removal performance for routine applications. Compared to conventional He mode, AHM demonstrates the following improvements:</p><ul><li>Around a 20-fold sensitivity improvement for low-mass elements, such as beryllium (Be) and boron (B)&nbsp;</li><li>Around a 2-fold improvement for mid-to-high mass elements&nbsp;</li><li>A reduction of more than 33% in data acquisition time while maintaining detection limits (DLs), accelerating analytical measurement times&nbsp;</li></ul><p>AHM not only replaces traditional He KED but also consolidates multiple tuning modes including no gas, He, and HEHe into a single, streamlined mode. Integrated into the 9500 ICP-QQQ, AHM is a next-generation standard He mode that is faster, simpler, and delivers higher performance than its predecessor. This technical note describes the performance enhancement mechanisms of the DCS and AHM. It also includes some comparative results with conventional He KED mode to highlight the analytical improvements of AHM.</p><h4><strong>Overview and advantages of AHM&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>Typically, multi-element ICP-MS methods apply no gas mode to the determination of low-mass elements like Be and B due to low sensitivity in traditional He KED mode. Consequently, many routine ICP-MS applications have required multiple tune setups, combining no gas, He, and HEHe. Each mode switch introduces a delay due to cell pressure stabilization requirements.&nbsp;</p><p>In practice, low-mass elements (m/z &lt; 23) are generally unaffected by polyatomic ion interferences, so KED is often unnecessary. Therefore, in AHM, different voltages are applied to the DCS (effectively disabling KED) for low-mass elements, while keeping standard settings for elements with m/z ≥ 23.&nbsp;</p><p>The DCS voltages are dynamically switched in sync with Q2 using a high-speed voltage control circuit, providing over 20× sensitivity improvement for low-mass elements compared to conventional He mode. AHM eliminates the need to run in no gas mode, greatly simplifying the method. As a default approach, AHM alone is suitable for most applications.<sup>1</sup></p><h3><strong>2. Shimadzu: Damping Force Characteristic Test of Suspension Struts [JASO C611]</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_01017_en_2fbbb9c247.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><h5><strong>User Benefits</strong></h5><ul><li>Damping force characteristic tests on suspension struts can be performed based on the JASO C611 standard.&nbsp;</li><li>Combination test enables automatic speed change and measurement.&nbsp;</li><li>High responsiveness of the EMT series enables testing at high excitation speed.</li></ul><p>Various components play an important role in achieving a comfortable ride in vehicles. Among them, the suspension strut used in the suspension system is an important component that stabilizes the vehicle body by mitigating the impact caused by uneven road surfaces.&nbsp;</p><p>“JASO C611 Suspension Struts for Automobiles”1), a standard of JASO (Japanese Automotive Standards Organization), established by JSAE, specifies the definition, quality, and test method for suspension struts. There is no international standard that is equivalent to JASO C611.&nbsp;</p><p>In order to improve the performance of suspension struts, it is necessary to measure the damping force against speed by changing the excitation speed. The performance of suspension struts can be confirmed by measuring the response, such as the relationship between speed and damping force and the Lissajous waveform.&nbsp;</p><p>This article introduces an example of the test method “Damping Force Characteristic Test” specified in JASO C611, which was conducted on a Shimadzu EMT series electromagnetic fatigue testing machine.</p><h4><strong>Testing Equipment&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>The EMT-1kNV-50 electromagnetic dynamic and fatigue testing machine was used in this test. Fig. 1 shows a photograph of the testing machine. The electromagnetic actuator with extremely high frequency response enables highly accurate dynamic testing. In this test, the maximum test speed was 0.6 m/s. The EMT seriesis most suitable for testing at such high frequencies.</p><h4><strong>Conclusion&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>A damping force characteristic test on a suspension strut based on JASO C611 was conducted using an EMT series electromagnetic fatigue testing machine and Windows software for 4830. The test conditions were set using the excitation speed, and it was confirmed that the test was accurately controlled as set. The standard “JASO C611 Suspension Struts for Automobiles” referred to this time is derived from “JASO C602 Automotive Parts - Telescopic Shock Absorbers for Suspension Systems”2). Although C602 also prescribes a damping force characteristic test, it is almost equivalent to the C611, and the test machine configuration can be used by replacing the jig.</p><h3><strong>3. Thermo Fisher Scientific: </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/2206"><strong>Hypulse Surface Analysis System</strong></a></h3><ul><li>Other document</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Hypulse_DS_0516_EN_05_2025_1998238_WEB_0e44628a5e.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><h4><strong>Key features&nbsp;</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Unique depth profiling capability</strong>. The femtosecond laser ablation system provides controlled material removal without inducing chemical damage to your sample.&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Fast, efficient XPS</strong>. Quick sample pump-down times, a unique sample viewing system, and high sensitivity for all analysis areas help ensure exceptional data quality, even for highly challenging samples.&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Co-incident additional spectroscopy</strong>. Optimize the information obtained from features of interest with the addition of optional analytical techniques, including ion scattering spectroscopy, reflected electron energy loss spectroscopy, and UV photoelectron spectroscopy.&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Fully featured software. </strong>The latest version of the Avantage Data System is included for data collection and analysis, with the ability to import data into Thermo Scientific Maps Software for correlation with electron microscopy images.</li></ul><h4><strong>Technical highlights&nbsp;</strong></h4><h5><strong>Micro-focused, monochromated aluminum K-alpha X-ray source&nbsp;</strong></h5><ul><li>Computer-controlled quartz-crystal monochromator&nbsp;</li><li>Software-adjustable spot size&nbsp;</li><li>Spot size range: 10–400 μm&nbsp;</li><li>Motorized, water-cooled anode with 16 positions&nbsp;</li></ul><h5><strong>Electron optics and analyzer</strong></h5><ul><li>Electrostatic objective lens&nbsp;</li><li>Full 180° hemispherical μ-metal shielded analyzer&nbsp;</li><li>Continuously selectable pass energy: 1–400 eV&nbsp;</li><li>128-channel, signature-corrected, positionsensitive detector&nbsp;</li><li>Automatic energy scale and transmission function calibration&nbsp;</li></ul><h5><strong>Charge compensation system&nbsp;</strong></h5><ul><li>Patented dual-beam electron and ion source&nbsp;</li><li>Beam energy for charge compensation: 0–5 eV&nbsp;</li></ul><h5><strong>Femtosecond-laser ablation system&nbsp;</strong></h5><ul><li>Fully integrated 1,030 nm pulsed femtosecond-laser source&nbsp;</li><li>Class 1 laser system&nbsp;</li><li>Tunable pulse energy up to 1 mJ&nbsp;</li><li>Computer-controlled attenuation optimizes ablation conditions&nbsp;</li><li>Beam imaging module for system calibration and alignment</li></ul>

News from LabRulezICPMS Library - Week 26, 2026

Article

Events

Application

Academy

RAFA provides an overview of contemporary trends in ANALYTICAL & BIOANALYTICAL STRATEGIES IN FOOD QUALITY AND SAFETY CONTROL and discusses CHALLENGES / NOVEL APPROACHES IN FOOD AND NATURAL PRODUCTS ANALYSIS.

Recent Advances in Food Analysis (RAFA)

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

LECO

Thermo Fisher Scientific

SelectScience

Waters Corporation

<header><h4><strong>A Guide to Choosing the Optimal Crucible for Your Experiment</strong></h4></header><main><div><div><h5><strong>Program</strong></h5><ul><li>Introduction to thermal analysis crucibles</li><li>DSC crucibles and application examples</li><li>TGA crucibles and application examples</li><li>Tips and hints for selecting the right crucible</li><li>Interactive Q&amp;A session</li></ul></div></div><div><div><div><p>Selecting the right crucible for your application can be a complex process, given the wide range of products available. Making the right choice, however, is essential for obtaining accurate results and protecting your thermal analysis module.</p><p>Using several practical examples for differential scanning calorimetry (<strong>DSC</strong>) and thermogravimetric analysis (<strong>TGA</strong>), this webinar helps you navigate through the many different choices, giving you confidence in your results.</p><p>After the presentation, you will have the opportunity to join the live Q&amp;A session with our experienced METTLER TOLEDO application specialists. &nbsp;</p><p>Want to learn more? Register for our webinar today!</p><h4><strong>Why Using the Right Crucible Is Essential</strong></h4><p>Often, the difference between an accurate and a flawed result has nothing to do with the measuring device, but rather the type of crucible used. For example:</p><ul><li>Crucible material, size, quality, and lids must be carefully selected, according to the application.</li><li>A smooth, flat base is critical to ensure perfect contact with the sample and optimal heat transfer.</li></ul><p>Join our live webinar and discover useful tips and hints on how to select the correct crucible for different types of DSC and TGA applications</p><p><strong>Don’t forget to prepare your questions for the live Q&amp;A with our experts!</strong></p></div><div><div data-advanced-option="false" data-has-preview-image="false" data-video-id="" data-component-id="2110920040"><div style="max-width:1px;width:100%;" id="mediaContainerWrapper_2110920040"><div style="height:1px;width:1px;" data-external-url="" id="mediaContainer_2110920040" data-advanced-option="false" data-width="1" data-height="1" data-video-id="">&nbsp;</div></div></div></div></div></div></main><div><div><div data-advanced-option="false" data-has-preview-image="false" data-video-id="" data-component-id="2110920040"><blockquote><div><strong>Presenter: </strong>Angela Hammer (Dr. sc. nat. ETH)</div><p>Dr. Angela Hammer received a Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry (development of immobilized components for the use in ion-selective electrodes based on polyurethane membranes) from the Institute of Organic Chemistry at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zürich, Switzerland. She then joined Sika Technology AG in Zurich, Switzerland, as an analytical chemist. In 2007, she joined METTLER TOLEDO and has worked there since as an application specialist for Thermal Analysis. In her present position, she uses, teaches, and supports DSC, TGA, TMA, and DMA instruments for the METTLER TOLEDO’s Materials Characterization Group located at the head office in Switzerland.</p></blockquote></div></div></div>

Mettler Toledo: Crucible Selection for Thermal Analysis

Crucible Selection for Thermal Analysis

Join our live webinar and discover useful tips and hints on how to select the correct crucible for different types of DSC and TGA applications

<header><h4><strong>Useful Techniques for Identification and Characterization</strong></h4></header><main><div><div><h5><strong>Program</strong></h5><ul><li>What are thermosets? Basic properties and formation</li><li>Thermal analysis techniques for studying thermosets</li><li>Application examples using DSC, TGA, TMA, and DMA</li><li>Which technique should be used in your analysis?</li><li>Interactive Q&amp;A session</li></ul></div></div><div><div><div><p>A thermoset is a polymer that undergoes a particular chemical reaction, known as curing, to form a permanent, heavily cross-linked structure. The material cannot be melted or remolded to form a new shape, even at high temperatures. Thermosets are typically rigid and insoluble, with high mechanical strength and temperature stability. Examples include epoxy resins, phenolic resins, polyesters, and polyurethanes.</p><p>Due to their highly temperature-dependent physical behavior, thermal analysis is an ideal set of techniques for identifying and characterizing these materials.</p><p>This webinar discusses the most important thermal properties of thermosets and describes useful thermal analysis techniques used to analyze them.</p><p><strong>Register now to secure your spot and join the live Q&amp;A!</strong></p><h4><strong>How to Characterize Thermosets</strong></h4><p>Different thermal techniques can be used to determine the key properties of these materials:</p><ul><li><strong>DSC:</strong> Useful for determining glass transition, melting, reaction enthalpies, curing and thermal stability.</li><li><strong>TGA:</strong> Mainly used for composition analysis, thermal stability, decomposition, evaporation, and desorption behavior.</li><li><strong>TMA: </strong>Typically used to study mechanical behavior such as expansion, shrinkage, softening, plus glass transition.</li><li><strong>DMA: </strong>Best for studying viscoelastic behavior, glass transition, and frequency-dependent effects.</li></ul><h4><strong>What is a Typical Analysis of a Thermoset?</strong></h4><p>A typical and important analysis of a thermoset is the characterization of epoxy resin materials. In this case, determining the glass transition temperature (Tg) and investigating the curing reaction are highly important. This information can be used in manufacturing, for example testing the process conditions required to properly cure thermosets. It can also be used in quality control, to check the expected Tg of a known material.&nbsp;</p></div><div><div data-advanced-option="false" data-has-preview-image="false" data-video-id="" data-component-id="2110920040"><div style="max-width:1px;width:100%;" id="mediaContainerWrapper_2110920040"><div style="height:1px;width:1px;" data-external-url="" id="mediaContainer_2110920040" data-advanced-option="false" data-width="1" data-height="1" data-video-id="">&nbsp;</div></div></div></div></div></div></main><div><div><div data-advanced-option="false" data-has-preview-image="false" data-video-id="" data-component-id="2110920040"><blockquote><div><strong>Presenter: </strong>Dr. Teresa Dennenwaldt</div><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>

Mettler Toledo: Thermal Analysis of Thermoset Materials

Thermal Analysis of Thermoset Materials

This webinar discusses the most important thermal properties of thermosets and describes useful thermal analysis techniques used to analyze them.

<header><h4><strong>Discover the Secrets of Tire Performance and Safety</strong></h4></header><main><div><div><h5><strong>Program</strong></h5><ul><li>Explore key material properties that define tire performance</li><li>Understand tire design and material formulation</li><li>Discover the thermal analysis techniques driving innovation in the tire industry</li><li>See real-world applications using DSC, Flash DSC, TGA, and DMA</li><li>Participate in a live Q&amp;A session with our experts</li></ul></div></div><div><div><div><p>Modern tires are the result of decades of cutting-edge research, combining synthetic and natural rubber, fabrics, wires, carbon black, and other chemical compounds to deliver safety, comfort, and durability. The tread provides critical traction, while the compressed-air filled body ensures comfort and structural integrity.</p><p>Thermal analysis offers powerful insights into these materials, helping to predict tire behavior, guide compositional analysis, and ensure reliable quality control. Join us to learn how these advanced techniques transform tire research and development.</p><h4><strong>Why Attend This Webinar?</strong></h4><p>This webinar is designed for researchers, engineers, polymer specialists, and quality control professionals eager to deepen their understanding of tire materials through thermal analysis.</p><p><strong>Register now to secure your spot and join the live Q&amp;A!</strong></p><h4><strong>The Tire Tread</strong></h4><p>In direct contact with the road, the composition of the tread material, together with the design of the tread pattern impact rolling resistance, traction, and abrasion resistance. During the webinar we will present how different thermal analysis techniques help optimize these properties.</p><h4><strong>Characterizing Tires with Thermal Analysis</strong></h4><p>Different thermal analysis techniques can be used to determine the key properties of tires, which are critical for safety and performance:</p><ul><li><strong>DSC </strong>measures heat flow of a sample to determine the glass transition temperature (Tg), critical for tire safety across different temperature zones, quality control, and material identification. DSC is also used to understand the crystallization and melting behaviors of tire materials.</li><li><strong>Flash DSC</strong> is an ultra-fast scanning calorimetry technique that reveals crystallization kinetics and polymer microstructure using very high heating rates.</li><li><strong>TGA </strong>measures the change in mass of a sample as it is heated. Key applications for the tire industry are compositional analysis and decomposition behavior.</li><li><strong>DMA</strong> is used to determine dynamic mechanical properties of materials, such as the modulus and damping behavior. It allows critical tire properties, such as rolling resistance or grip, to be directly predicted.</li></ul><p><strong>Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your knowledge and advance your work with state-of-the-art thermal analysis techniques.</strong></p></div><div><div data-advanced-option="false" data-has-preview-image="false" data-video-id="" data-component-id="2110920040"><div style="max-width:1px;width:100%;" id="mediaContainerWrapper_2110920040"><div style="height:1px;width:1px;" data-external-url="" id="mediaContainer_2110920040" data-advanced-option="false" data-width="1" data-height="1" data-video-id="">&nbsp;</div></div></div></div></div></div></main><div><div><div data-advanced-option="false" data-has-preview-image="false" data-video-id="" data-component-id="2110920040"><blockquote><div><strong>Presenter: </strong>Angela Hammer (Dr. sc. nat. ETH)</div><p>Dr. Angela Hammer received a Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry (development of immobilized components for the use in ion-selective electrodes based on polyurethane membranes) from the Institute of Organic Chemistry at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zürich, Switzerland. She then joined Sika Technology AG in Zurich, Switzerland, as an analytical chemist. In 2007, she joined METTLER TOLEDO and has worked there since as an application specialist for Thermal Analysis. In her present position, she uses, teaches, and supports DSC, TGA, TMA, and DMA instruments for the METTLER TOLEDO’s Materials Characterization Group located at the head office in Switzerland.</p></blockquote></div></div></div>

Mettler Toledo: Thermal Analysis of Tires

Thermal Analysis of Tires

Join this webinar to discover how thermal analysis supports tire development, quality control, and safety by characterizing critical rubber and tread properties

<header><h4><strong>Learn Basic DSC Principles and Find Useful Applications for Your Workplace</strong></h4></header><main><div><div><h5><strong>Program</strong></h5><ul><li>Basic principles of DSC with an explanation of power compensation and heat flux modes</li><li>Important components of the DSC measurement cell, the innovative sensor, and modules for specialized applications</li><li>Measurement parameters such as the temperature program and choice of atmosphere</li><li>Why you should use DSC for your analysis</li><li>Application examples for different industries</li><li>Live Q&amp;A session</li></ul></div></div><div><div><div><p><strong>Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC)</strong> is used to study the behavior of materials as they respond to a defined temperature program. The technique measures the heat, in mW, absorbed or released by a sample as it is heated, cooled, or held at a constant temperature. Measurement results are presented in the form of a curve, from which the glass transition, crystallization, melting, and many other thermal properties can be determined.</p><p>The DSC technique has applications in a wide range of industries. For example, checking the “fingerprint” of a measurement curve is a common application for quality control purposes. Other applications include investigating the influence of additives or different processing methods on a substance.</p><p>Join our webinar on DSC to gain knowledge and get the opportunity to ask our experts your questions!</p></div><div><div data-advanced-option="false" data-has-preview-image="false" data-video-id="" data-component-id="2110920040"><div style="max-width:1px;width:100%;" id="mediaContainerWrapper_2110920040"><div style="height:1px;width:1px;" data-external-url="" id="mediaContainer_2110920040" data-advanced-option="false" data-width="1" data-height="1" data-video-id="">&nbsp;</div></div></div></div></div></div></main><div><div><div data-advanced-option="false" data-has-preview-image="false" data-video-id="" data-component-id="2110920040"><blockquote><div><strong>Presenter: </strong>Dr. Teresa Dennenwaldt</div><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>

Mettler Toledo: Differential Scanning Calorimetry

Differential Scanning Calorimetry

Join our webinar on DSC to gain knowledge and get the opportunity to ask our experts your questions!

<header><h4><strong>Practical Applications and Tips to Determine the Purity of a Substance</strong></h4></header><main><div><div><h5><strong>Program</strong></h5><ul><li>What does purity mean and how does it impact your products?</li><li>The basics of DSC and the van’t Hoff law for purity analysis</li><li>Advantages of DSC compared to other techniques</li><li>Application examples – real-world purity determinations</li><li>Interactive Q&amp;A with our experts</li></ul></div></div><div><div><div><p>The purity of ingredients, especially in pharmaceuticals and food products, is a critical quality attribute. High impurity levels can affect product efficacy, cause unexpected reactions, or even generate harmful compounds. Therefore, accurate purity determination is essential for the pharmaceutical, food, chemical, and plastics industries.</p><p>In this webinar, we will explain why differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) is a reliable technique for assessing the purity of organic substances, based on the thermodynamics of eutectic systems.</p><p><strong>Join us to enhance your knowledge, ask us your questions, and discover practical applications for your industry!</strong></p><h4><strong>What You Will Learn from This Webinar</strong></h4><p>In this session, you will learn how DSC is used to determine the purity of organic substances based on the <strong>thermodynamics of a eutectic system</strong>. We explain how the purity of a substance can be determined from a single DSC measurement using the <strong>van’t Hoff equation</strong>. Importantly, DSC purity measurements are rapid and easy to perform.</p><p>This versatile technique can be used across different industries and workplaces, including research and development, industrial synthesis, and quality control. Typical determinations by DSC include:</p><ul><li>Purity of ibuprofen</li><li>Purity of p-hydroxybenzoic acid (PHBA)</li><li>Determination of eutectic impurities such as benzoic acid in dimethyl terephthalate (DMT)</li></ul><p>Register for our upcoming live webinar to learn more about using DSC for purity determination. The webinar will conclude with a <strong>live Q&amp;A session</strong>, so get your questions ready!</p></div><div><div data-advanced-option="false" data-has-preview-image="false" data-video-id="" data-component-id="2110920040"><div style="max-width:1px;width:100%;" id="mediaContainerWrapper_2110920040"><div style="height:1px;width:1px;" data-external-url="" id="mediaContainer_2110920040" data-advanced-option="false" data-width="1" data-height="1" data-video-id="">&nbsp;</div></div></div></div></div></div></main><div><div><div data-advanced-option="false" data-has-preview-image="false" data-video-id="" data-component-id="2110920040"><blockquote><div><strong>Presenter: </strong>Nicolas Fedelich</div><p>With a background in chemical engineering, Nicolas joined METTLER TOLEDO in 2009 as an application specialist for thermal analysis. Before that, he gained expertise in different laboratories implementing, developing, and validating analytical methods in both the pharmaceutical and environmental fields. Nicolas also worked for three years in the field carrying out on-site customer training and providing expert thermal analysis application support. In his present position, Nicolas expertly uses, teaches, and supports DSC, TGA, TMA, and DMA instruments at the METTLER TOLEDO head office in Switzerland.</p></blockquote></div></div></div>

Mettler Toledo: Purity Determination by Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC)

Purity Determination by Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC)

In this webinar, we will explain why DSC is  reliable technique for assessing purity of organic substances, based on thermodynamics of eutectic systems.

Purity Determination by Differential Scanning Calorimetry

<div><div container-id="cq-colctrl-lt0" comp-id="A1"><div><p><strong>Are you having trouble with your ICP-OES or ICP-MS analysis? &nbsp;Do you need some advice on standard or sample preparation? Join this live session to ask your questions to our trace elemental analysis experts. Submit your questions at registration.</strong></p><h5><strong>Learning Points</strong></h5><ul><li>An opportunity for you to ask our trace elemental analysis experts any of your burning questions</li></ul><h5><strong>Who should attend?</strong></h5><ul><li>Users looking to enhance their current trace elemental analysis</li><li>Users who are looking to overcome their current trace elemental analysis challenges within their laboratory</li><li>Users looking to gain more experience of trace elemental analysis</li></ul><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Matthew Gregory (Field Application Scientist, EMEA North, Trace Elemental Analysis, Thermo Fisher Scientific)</p><p>After graduating from the University of Surrey with an MChem in Chemistry, Matthew has gained over 20 years’ experience of trace elemental analysis in industry, working in environmental and precious metal research laboratories. In 2018, Matthew joined Thermo Fisher Scientific as an Applications Specialist for the Trace Elemental Analysis product range in the UK and Ireland.</p><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>David Fishwick (Field Application Scientist, EMEA North, Trace Elemental Analysis, Thermo Fisher Scientific)</p><p>David joined Thermo in 2022 as an Applications Specialist for the Trace Elemental Analysis product range in the UK and Ireland. Prior to joining Thermo, David has gained experience of trace elemental analysis and chromatography in industry, working in GMP, GLP and UKAS accrediated R&amp;D and pharmaceutical laboratories. David holds a BSc in Chemistry from Bangor University.</p><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Petra Gerhards (Regional Marketing Manager, EMEA, AAT, Thermo Fisher Scientific)</p><p>Petra ist Diplom-Ingenieurin für instrumentelle analytische Chemie der Technischen Universität Krefeld/Deutschland. Seit mehr als 30 Jahren arbeitet sie auf dem Gebiet der Gaschromatographie und hat Erfahrung mit vielen Technologien im Bereich GC und GC-MS. Derzeit unterstützt sie in ihrer Position als EMEA Regional Marketing Manager Anwender und Kundenanwendungsteams in ganz EMEA.</p></blockquote></div></div></div>

Thermo Fisher Scientific: Trace Elemental Analysis: Ask the Expert

Trace Elemental Analysis: Ask the Expert

Live Q&A on ICP-OES and ICP-MS with experts in trace elemental analysis and sample preparation.

<div><div container-id="cq-colctrl-lt0" comp-id="A1"><div><p><strong>The webinar “Latest Innovations in Optical Emission Spectroscopy with LECO GDS 900/950” introduces the fundamentals and recent advances of Optical Emission Spectroscopy (OES) using glow discharge excitation, a powerful technique for the elemental analysis of solid metallic materials. Following the successful market introduction, LECO will present an overview of the latest technological innovations and performance enhancements of this GDS platform.</strong></p><p>The webinar will briefly revisit the basic working principles of Glow Discharge Spectroscopy, explaining how controlled sputtering combined with optical emission detection enables precise elemental analysis. Emphasis will be placed on the strengths of GDS in bulk analysis as well as composition depth profiling (CDP), demonstrating how both surface-near and bulk material information can be obtained with high accuracy and reproducibility.</p><p>A series of application examples will be shown to highlight the analytical advantages of the GDS 900/950 series. Grey cast iron, for example, can be analyzed directly without melting or the formation of chilled cast iron, making the results independent of the metallurgical history of the sample. The method is free of memory effects, allowing rapid matrix changes from sample to sample with minimal changeover effort.</p><p>Further benefits discussed include the very low argon consumption, the low consumption of CRM and SUS materials. No special sample preparation is required, as existing preparation methods are fully compatible with the GDS 900 series.</p><p>Finally, the webinar will address calibration concepts, highlighting the use of linear calibration curves that provide wide analytical ranges with limited interferences. Stable calibrations with reduced drift behavior minimize the need for frequent recalibration, beyond routine quality control checks, ensuring long-term reliability and efficiency in routine laboratory operation.</p><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Michael Jakob (Elemental Field Product Manager)</p></blockquote></div></div></div>

LECO: Latest Innovations in Optical Emission Spectroscopy with LECO GDS 900/950

Latest Innovations in Optical Emission Spectroscopy with LECO GDS 900/950

Innovations in glow discharge OES with LECO GDS 900/950 for precise elemental analysis, depth profiling, and efficient calibration in metal laboratories.

Innovations in OES with LECO GDS 900/950

<p><strong>Trace‑element labs are under more pressure than ever to deliver fast, interference‑free results, without getting slowed down by complex matrices, method‑development hurdles, or repeat runs. When you are balancing tricky samples with tight turnaround times, the limits of single‑quadrupole inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP‑MS) become impossible to ignore. That’s exactly where triple-quadrupole (ICP‑QQQ) technology changes the game.</strong></p><p>Join this SelectScience® webinar for an exclusive preview at the Agilent triple quadrupole ICP‑MS. The Agilent 9500 ICP-MS is designed to help laboratories solve those exact challenges and move beyond complex method development, re-runs, and uncertainty in results.</p><p>You will hear from Dr. Gareth Pearson and Gernot Hudin, who have decades of combined experience pushing the boundaries of ICP‑MS performance, this expert duo brings a rare blend of deep technical insight and real‑world, lab‑tested know‑how. Plus, gain insights from a new independent SelectScience survey, created in partnership with Agilent, revealing what your peers really think about transitioning from single‑quad to triple‑quad ICP‑MS.</p><p>They will take you inside the workflows, challenges, and breakthroughs that matter most to trace‑element analysts, showing exactly how to boost productivity from the very first run. From mastering interference‑free analysis with the Dual‑Cell System (Advanced Helium Mode (AHM) + Air mode) to achieving seamless method transfer. Whether your goal is to scale capacity, reduce downtime, or achieve more consistent results across operators and sites, you will see how the 9500 supports efficient, disruption‑free operation.</p><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Dr. Gareth Pearson (ICP-MS Product Manager – Atomic Spectroscopy, Agilent Technologies)</p><p>Dr. Gareth Pearson began his career with a strong academic background in analytical chemistry, completing his Ph.D. at the University of Hull with a focus on environmental analysis and ICP-MS. He then moved into roles in analytical instrumentation and product management, &nbsp;developing expertise in atomic spectroscopy across international markets.</p><p>For the past decade, he has been working at Agilent Technologies focusing on ICP-MS and spectroscopy solutions as a Product Manager. He supports laboratories worldwide by delivering application-driven insights and helping customers optimize their analytical workflows.</p></blockquote><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Gernot Hudin (Product Specialist – Atomic Spectroscopy, Agilent Technologies)</p><p>Gernot Hudin initially joined a leading measurement technology company in Graz as an application chemist after studying at the University of Graz.</p><p>He then began his career as a sales representative for Agilent Technologies in the field of Molecular and Atomic spectroscopy in Austria, and for the past 10 years, he has been working as a Product Specialist, providing application-oriented support in the field of elemental analysis across the DACH region.</p></blockquote><blockquote><p><strong>Moderator: </strong>Olivia Long (Editorial Team, SelectScience)</p><p>Olivia Long is a science editor specializing in pharmaceutical and applied science. She has a BSc in Pharmacology, and an MSc in Neuroscience, where she investigated neuro‑oncology drug‑resistance pathways using patient‑derived cell models. Her laboratory experience spans R&amp;D hygiene testing, controlled‑environment sample production, and protocol development, giving her a broad understanding of analytical workflows and the scientific principles underpinning elemental trace analysis.</p></blockquote>

SelectScience: The next generation ICP-MS designed to wow trace element analysts

The next generation ICP-MS designed to wow trace element analysts

Discover the Agilent 9500 ICP-MS. Learn how triple-quadrupole (ICP-QQQ) technology removes interferences and boosts productivity in trace labs.

Agilent 9500 ICP-MS: Next-Gen Trace Element Analysis

<div><div container-id="cq-colctrl-lt0" comp-id="A1"><div><p><strong>This webinar presents advanced thermogravimetric solutions for automated moisture and ash determination in sewage sludge and wastewater applications using the LECO TGM800 and TGA801 analyzers. Increasing regulatory requirements and the need for reliable sludge characterization demand analytical methods that combine accuracy, automation, and high throughput while minimizing operator involvement. The presentation introduces the principles of thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and demonstrates how LECO instrumentation provides efficient alternatives to traditional loss-on-drying and ash determination procedures.</strong></p><p>The webinar covers the operational theory, hardware design, and analytical capabilities of both systems, including automated weighing, controlled furnace atmospheres, programmable temperature profiles, and simultaneous multi-sample analysis. Practical examples from wastewater and sludge management applications illustrate the determination of dry matter, volatile solids, and ash content in water, slurry, and dried sludge samples. Comparative studies between TGM and TGA methodologies highlight analytical precision, reproducibility, and workflow improvements.</p><p>Special emphasis is placed on the advantages of automation for environmental laboratories, including reduced manual handling, improved documentation and data security, safer processing of toxic or odorous samples, and enhanced analytical consistency. Real-world case studies demonstrate how thermogravimetric techniques support sludge management processes and optimize monitoring of drying and combustion efficiency. In addition, the webinar outlines broader applications of thermogravimetric analysis across food, feed, soil, coal, ores, and municipal waste materials.</p><p>Overall, the webinar demonstrates that automated thermogravimetric moisture and ash analysis provides a robust, precise, and efficient solution for modern environmental and wastewater laboratories seeking reliable characterization of sewage sludge and related materials.</p><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Michael Jakob (Elemental Field Product Manager)</p></blockquote></div></div></div>

LECO: Dry Matter and Ash Determination in Wastewater and Sewage Sludge

Dry Matter and Ash Determination in Wastewater and Sewage Sludge

Master sewage sludge characterization. Discover automated TGA workflows for precise dry matter, volatile solids, and ash determination with LECO

TGA Analysis: Dry Matter and Ash in Wastewater Sludge

<h4><strong>A Practical Webinar for Wastewater Testing and Compliance Professionals</strong></h4><p><strong>Nitrogen analysis plays a critical role in wastewater treatment, compliance monitoring, and nutrient management, yet selecting the right method and interpreting results correctly can be complex. In this webinar, we’ll break down the most common nitrogen parameters, including ammonia, nitrate/nitrite, TKN, and total nitrogen, and explain how these measurements support both regulatory reporting and process control.</strong></p><p>Attendees will gain practical insight into commonly used analytical methods, sample handling and QA/QC best practices, and how to avoid common reporting and interpretation mistakes. We’ll also review real-world scenarios involving nitrification, denitrification, permit compliance, and troubleshooting elevated nitrogen results.</p><p>Whether you work in a laboratory, wastewater treatment facility, or environmental compliance role, this session will provide the clarity and confidence needed to improve data quality, optimize operations, and make informed nitrogen testing decisions.</p><h4><strong>Key takeaways</strong></h4><ul><li>Understand key nitrogen methods and reporting requirements</li><li>Improve testing accuracy with better QA/QC and sample handling</li><li>Gain practical insights for compliance, troubleshooting, and process optimization</li></ul><h4><strong>Who should attend</strong></h4><p>This webinar is designed for you if you are:</p><ul><li>Analytical Chemist</li><li>QA Manager</li><li>Process Engineer</li><li>Wastewater Operator</li></ul><blockquote><p><strong>Speaker:</strong> Sam Johnson (Inorganic Chemist, Waters ERA)</p><p>Sam has been with Waters ERA for 11 years, specializing in the manufacturing and analytical verification of inorganic standards and reagents.</p><p>He holds a Bachelor of Science in Geology with a minor in Watershed Science from Colorado State University in Fort Collins.</p><p>Throughout his career, Sam has supported the environmental testing industry by providing solutions for wastewater, drinking water, and soil testing laboratories.</p><p><strong>Speaker: </strong>Christy Abbas, PhD (Sr. Product Marketing Manager, Waters ERA)</p><p>Christy has been with Waters ERA for six and a half years. Her career spans roles at an instrument manufacturer, a biopharmaceutical laboratory, and a mining company. She earned her PhD in Applied Chemistry from the Colorado School of Mines.</p><p>Throughout her career, Christy has supported the nuclear, pharmaceutical, and chemical industries, as well as academia. Drawing on her background in analytical chemistry, product development, marketing, and sales, she is focused on expanding Waters ERA’s product portfolio to better meet evolving customer needs.</p></blockquote>

Cracking the Code on Nitrogen Methods

Discover practical approaches to nitrogen analysis in wastewater, including testing methods, QA/QC, compliance requirements, and process optimization.