This study investigates the concentrations and bioaccessibility of essential trace elements (Co, Cu, Fe, Mn, Zn) in commonly consumed edible plants. Using multiple physiologically relevant extraction methods, the work assesses both total and bioaccessible fractions to better estimate dietary intake.Monte Carlo simulations revealed variability in nutrient exposure, with most intake levels within recommended ranges but some cases indicating potential deficiencies or excess. The results highlight the importance of incorporating bioaccessibility and realistic exposure modeling into nutritional assessments and dietary risk evaluations.<blockquote><h4>The original article</h4><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.jafc.5c10365">Essential Trace Elements in Edible Plants: Balancing Nutritional Benefits and Potential Health Risks</a></h4>Agata Stolecka*, Pilar Ortiz Sandoval, and Agnieszka Gruszecka-KosowskaJ. Agric. Food Chem. 2026, 74, 8, 7084–7097<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.jafc.5c10365">https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.jafc.5c10365</a><h6>licensed under <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/">CC-BY 4.0</a></h6></blockquote>Selected sections from the article follow. Formats and hyperlinks were adapted from the original.<div>Many trace elements are essential micronutrients required in minute amounts, yet they are indispensable for the structural and functional integrity of living organisms. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(1)</a> As a subgroup of micronutrients, alongside vitamins and antioxidants, they play vital roles in supporting regenerative processes, defending against oxidative stress, and maintaining immune function in metabolically active tissues. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(2)</a> Despite their low concentrations in biological systems, they serve as cofactors for numerous enzymatic reactions and contribute to essential physiological processes such as oxygen transport, redox balance, and cellular metabolism. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(3−5)</a> In line with the WHO <a href="javascript:void(0);">(6)</a> and Frieden <a href="javascript:void(0);">(7)</a> classifications, this study focuses on the essential trace elements (ETEs), namely cobalt (Co), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), and zinc (Zn), all of which have well-established roles in human nutrition and are integral to maintaining both general and oral health. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(8)</a> Deficiency in the aforementioned elements can lead to a range of health problems. Co, as a component of vitamin B12, is critical for red blood cell formation and neurological function; its deficiency may result in megaloblastic anemia and neurological impairments. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(9)</a> Cu is essential for iron metabolism, antioxidant defense, and connective tissue synthesis; inadequate intake can lead to anemia, weakened immunity, impaired growth and development (especially in children), osteoporosis, abnormal cholesterol metabolism, and neurological disturbances. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(10)</a> Fe deficiency remains one of the most widespread nutritional problems globally and is the leading cause of anemia, fatigue, and impaired cognitive and immune function. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(11)</a> Mn is involved in bone development, metabolism, and antioxidant enzyme activity; low levels can impair growth, fertility, and glucose regulation. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(12)</a> Zn is vital for immune response, wound healing, and DNA synthesis; deficiency can cause growth retardation, delayed sexual maturation, and increased susceptibility to infections. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(13)</a> While maintaining adequate levels of these trace elements is crucial for overall health and physiological functioning, excessive intake may also pose health risks. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(14,15)</a> The margin between beneficial and toxic doses is broad for some bioelements but narrow for others, highlighting the need for careful monitoring of their concentrations in the food supply. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(16)</a>The mineral content of edible plants, a major dietary source of essential elements, is influenced by numerous factors, including plant genotype (cultivar), soil properties, weather conditions, and agricultural practices such as fertilizer application during fruiting and maturation stages. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(17)</a> Consequently, the concentration of trace elements in plant-based foods can vary widely, affecting both their nutritional value and their potential to contribute to dietary exposure risks. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(18)</a> Customarily, the assessment of ETEs in edible plants has relied on total concentration (TC) measurements, which assume complete gastrointestinal absorption. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(19−21)</a> While this approach is commonly used to estimate nutritional contributions, it does not account for the fact that only a fraction of the ingested element may be bioaccessible and available for absorption during digestion. As a result, it may lead to either over- or underestimation of both health benefits and potential adverse effects. To better reflect human exposure, a range of in vitro extraction methods have been developed to simulate the bioaccessibility of elements under gastric and/or intestinal conditions. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(22,23)</a> These methods vary in terms of chemical reagents, pH levels, and complexity. For example, the BCR 3-step extraction targets chemical elements associated with different binding forms, <a href="javascript:void(0);">(24)</a> while the USEPA 1340 simulates acidic gastric conditions relevant to lead bioaccessibility. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(25)</a> More advanced protocols, like ISO 17924:2018 and the BARGE Unified Bioaccessibility Method (UBM), replicate digestive phases using physiologically relevant fluids. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(22,26)</a> Simpler methods, such as SBET and PBET, aim to simulate one or both digestion phases under controlled laboratory conditions. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(27,28)</a> In the context of ETEs such as Co, Cu, Fe, Mn, and Zn, evaluating bioaccessibility is crucial for accurate dietary intake estimates. These elements play key roles in numerous physiological functions, and both deficiencies and excess intake can affect human health. However, limited data exist on how the choice of extraction method affects estimates of their dietary contribution and associated noncarcinogenic risks.To address this gap, the present study evaluates Co, Cu, Fe, Mn, and Zn concentrations in vegetables, fruits, and cereals using seven extraction methods. The results are used to estimate both the nutritional contribution and the potential health risks from dietary intake. To incorporate variability and uncertainty in dietary exposure, such as metal concentrations, consumption patterns, and body weight, Monte Carlo simulations were applied. This probabilistic approach enables a more robust evaluation of nutrient intake and safety, providing insights that can inform dietary guidelines and regulatory decisions. The main objective of the study was to investigate how different extraction methods, simulating gastrointestinal bioaccessibility, may impact the estimation of both nutritional contribution and potential risks. In this study, the contribution of five ETEs, namely Co, Cu, Fe, Mn, and Zn, to a healthy diet and the potential health risks associated with their intake were evaluated. The detailed objectives of the study were to 1) investigate concentrations of Co, Cu, Fe, Mn, and Zn in three plant categories, namely vegetables, fruits, and cereals, using the following seven extraction methods: Total Content (TC), three-step extraction procedure (BCR), USEPA SW-846 Test Method 1340: In Vitro Bioaccessibility Assay for Lead in Soil (USEPA), ISO 17924:2018 Soil quality─Assessment of human exposure from ingestion of soil and soil material─procedure for the estimation of the human bioaccessibility/bioavailability of metals in soil (ISO), the BARGE (Bioaccessibility Research Group of Europe) unified bioaccessibility method (UBM), Simple Bioavailability Test (SBET), and Physiologically Based Extraction Test (PBET); 2) use Monte Carlo simulations to estimate the nutritional contribution and noncarcinogenic risk from dietary intake of these ETEs, based on Polish food consumption data; and 3) address variability and uncertainty in dietary exposure through probabilistic modeling with Monte Carlo simulations.<h4>2. Materials and Methods</h4><h5>2.3. Instrumental Analysis</h5>The concentrations of investigated ETEs were determined by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) (ELAN 6100; PerkinElmer, Waltham, MA, USA) in the case of Co or inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) (OPTIMA 7300DV; PerkinElmer, Waltham, MA, USA) in the case of Cu, Fe, Mn, and Zn according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) 6020B and ISO 17294-2:2003 protocols.<h4>4. Results and Discussion</h4><h5>4.2. Estimated Nutrient Intake (ENI)</h5>Estimated Nutrient Intake of ETEs (50th percentile) from all edible plants intake from Monte Carlo simulations is shown in <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.jafc.5c10365#fig2">Figure 2</a>.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/J_Agric_Food_Chem_2026_74_8_7084_7097_Figure_2_Estimated_Nutrient_Intake_ENI_of_ET_Es_based_on_the_50th_percentile_of_all_investigated_edible_plant_intake_from_Monte_Carlo_simulations_7ad01eb189.jpg" alt="Anal. Chem. 2026, 98, 9, 6589–6597: Figure 2. Evaluation of CoD screening prediction performance of LCMS-Net in comparison to benchmark models. The prediction performance of a classifier is measured by accuracy, macro F1-score, macro sensitivity, and macro specificity over five model runs. The error bars represent the standard deviations between model runs." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_J_Agric_Food_Chem_2026_74_8_7084_7097_Figure_2_Estimated_Nutrient_Intake_ENI_of_ET_Es_based_on_the_50th_percentile_of_all_investigated_edible_plant_intake_from_Monte_Carlo_simulations_7ad01eb189.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="2092" height="852"><h5>4.3. Human Health Risk Assessment</h5>Noncarcinogenic risk (HQ) values for 5th, 50th, and 95th percentiles of the determined concentrations of investigated ETEs in vegetables, fruits, and cereals calculated using Monte Carlo simulations are presented in <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.jafc.5c10365#fig3">Figure 3</a>, and the same values for the sum of edible plants consumed are presented in <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.jafc.5c10365#fig4">Figure 4</a>.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/J_Agric_Food_Chem_2026_74_8_7084_7097_Figure_3_Noncarcinogenic_HQ_risk_values_for_investigated_trace_elements_from_various_extraction_methods_4f2d9ee942.jpg" alt="J. Agric. Food Chem. 2026, 74, 8, 7084–7097: Figure 3. Noncarcinogenic (HQ) risk values for investigated trace elements from various extraction methods according to Polish statistical consumption of edible plants, vegetables, fruits, and cereals separately." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_J_Agric_Food_Chem_2026_74_8_7084_7097_Figure_3_Noncarcinogenic_HQ_risk_values_for_investigated_trace_elements_from_various_extraction_methods_4f2d9ee942.jpg 110w," sizes="100vw" width="1822" height="2583"><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/JAGRIC_2_76102decb2.jpg" alt="J. Agric. Food Chem. 2026, 74, 8, 7084–7097: Figure 4. Noncarcinogenic (HQ) risk values for investigated trace elements from various extraction methods according to Polish statistical consumption of the sum of edible plants." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_JAGRIC_2_76102decb2.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1877" height="896">Due to concentrations below the LOQ, HQ values could not be calculated for several ETEs in vegetables, fruits, and cereals across the different extraction methods. For instance, Co in cereals yielded measurable concentrations only under the TC method, whereas Fe in vegetables was consistently above the LOQ for all extraction methods, allowing HQ estimation in each case. These results indicate that the efficiency of element recovery is both element- and matrix-dependent and that no single extraction protocol is universally optimal for all ETE–matrix combinations.Considering HQs that were successfully simulated across most elements (particularly Co, Cu, and Fe), the TC method produced the highest HQ values, exceeding the risk threshold (HQ = 1) at the 95th percentile for Co and Cu. The 95th percentile HQ for Co under TC reached 1.05 in vegetables and 2.77 in fruits, staying below the safety threshold for cereals, while for Cu it reached 4.30 in vegetables, 1.83 in fruits, and 1.08 in cereals, indicating potential overestimation if full bioavailability is assumed. For Fe the risk was lower, staying below the threshold in all cases, but TC still displayed the highest values in most cases with the 95th percentile HQ reaching 0.66 in vegetables, 0.39 in fruits, and 0.43 in cereals. The only exception to this trend was the 95th percentile risk for Fe in vegetables, where the ISO intestinal yielded 0.87.In contrast, bioaccessibility-based methods (e.g., UBM, PBET, SBET, and BCR) generally generated lower HQs, often falling below the threshold. For example, 95th percentile Co HQ values under UBM gastric and intestinal extractions were ∼0.75 in vegetables, while USEPA was 0.56 and SBET, PBET, and BCR yielded &lt;0.50. A similar trend was observed for Cu, where UBM intestinal yielded 0.58 vs 4.30 under TC.However, Mn and Zn showed distinctively different patterns. For Mn in cereals, the USEPA method produced a median HQ of 5.18 and 15.7 at the 95th percentile, far higher than all the other methods, including the TC method (median 0.32). For Zn in vegetables, ISO gastric (0.39) and intestinal (0.37) extractions gave median HQs higher than that of TC (0.27).<h5>4.7. Implications</h5>This study shows that the extraction method choice greatly affects Estimated Nutrient Intake (ENI) and dietary exposure assessments of essential trace elements in edible plants. Simulated gastrointestinal methods, reflecting human physiology, generally report lower concentrations than the TC method, indicating that relying on total concentrations alone can overestimate intake by ignoring bioaccessibility, a key factor in accurate risk assessment.ENI assessments help evaluate nutrient over- or underexposure but may miss health risks. Monte Carlo-based Hazard Quotient (HQ) analysis provides a more precise dietary risk estimate by accounting for bioavailability and intake variability. This combined approach is crucial for essential elements, balancing deficiency and toxicity concerns.For most elements, ENI values matched recommended intakes, but variations occurred by element, food group, and extraction method. Some simulations indicated possible insufficient intake risks (e.g., Co and Fe in certain plants), while others showed overexposure risks (notably, Cu and Mn) when assuming full bioavailability from total concentrations. These results highlight the need to include realistic bioaccessibility in dietary nutrient assessments.Comparing HQ values across plant types and elements, the study highlights how vegetables, fruits, and cereals contribute differently to nutritional risk. This comprehensive approach offers a clearer picture of dietary exposure than analyses based on only total concentrations or single foods. While most essential trace elements posed no immediate risk under realistic bioaccessibility assumptions, Co and Cu results indicate a potential for excessive intake.Our results revealed that UBM, ISO, PBET1, and BCR1 methods provide the most reliable estimates of ETE bioaccessibility in edible plants, while TC tends to overestimate and simpler methods (SBET, PBET2) may underestimate exposure. Incorporating bioaccessibility-corrected data and considering food matrix-specific factors are essential for accurate dietary risk assessments and effective public health management.In conclusion, these findings highlight the importance of incorporating physiologically relevant extraction methods into dietary risk assessment to complement the total concentration data in food safety and nutrition research. The results may inform future regulatory frameworks, dietary guidance, and fortification strategies. Further research should focus on validating in vitro bioaccessibility with in vivo evidence, exploring nutrient–contaminant interactions, and expanding assessments across diverse diets and populations to strengthen the evidence base for nutrition policy development.</div>

Essential Trace Elements in Edible Plants: Balancing Nutritional Benefits and Potential Health Risks

In the week from April 20, the following webinars await you in the field of atomic and molecular spectroscopy and spectrometry<blockquote><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinars">👉 DETAILS AND REGISTRATION IN THE WEBINARS SECTION</a></h4>👉 Search and filter in the largest global database with over 5 500 GC, LC, MS and spectroscopy webinars.</blockquote><h5>1. Metrohm: Copper deposition baths: Advanced analytical solutions for development and monitoring</h5><ul><li>Tu, 21.4.2026 09:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/6123">Registration</a></li></ul>Discover a multi-method approach to copper plating bath analysis combining titration, CVS, XRF, and pH measurement for improved process control, data reliability, and production quality.<h5>2. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Lunch and Learn Tips and Tricks Series: Qtegra Part 2</h5><ul><li>Tu, 21.4.2026 12:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/5976">Registration</a></li></ul>Part two explores efficient Qtegra ISDS workflows and integrated tools designed to improve laboratory productivity and enhance trace elemental analysis quality.<h5>3. C&amp;EN: NMR-augmented Workflows: Most Modern Integration into Laboratories</h5><ul><li>Tu, 21.4.2026 17:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/6107">Registration</a></li></ul>From high resolution instruments in smaller footprints to smarter software that enhances data quality and streamlines analysis.<h5>4. Agilent Technologies: Accurate Determination of Chlorine Isotope Ratio Analysis by 8900 ICP-MS</h5><ul><li>Tu, 21.4.2026 20:30 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/6047">Registration</a></li></ul>This session discusses techniques for low level chlorine analysis and isotope ratio on the 8900 QQQ-ICPMS.<h5>5. SelectScience: What’s in your hydrogen? Analytical toolkits for fuel purity analysis</h5><ul><li>We, 22.4.2026 10:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/6055">Registration</a></li></ul>Join this dual-session webinar on hydrogen impurity testing and ISO 14687 fuel quality. Learn how GC, GC-MS, IC, and FTIR workflows support safe, compliant hydrogen production and fuel-cell applications.<h5>6. Bruker: Introduction to Photothermal AFM-IR for Infrared Spectroscopists</h5><ul><li>We, 22.4.2026 17:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/6109">Registration</a></li></ul>With photothermal atomic force microscope infrared spectroscopy (AFM-IR), chemical identification at the nanoscale is achieved by measuring local IR spectra directly at the AFM tip.<h5>7. Mettler-Toledo: How to Determine Specific Heat Capacity by DSC</h5><ul><li>Th, 23.4.2026 16:00 CET</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/5736">Registration</a></li></ul>Explore six DSC techniques for measuring specific heat capacity and understand its importance in material performance, processing, and safety. Join the live webinar.<h5>8. Bruker: EDS Analysis of Fibers, Polymers, and Ceramics – Best Practices</h5><ul><li>Th, 23.4.2026 17:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/6111">Registration</a></li></ul>Different EDS measurement approaches using conventional geometry and an annular approach (QUANTAX FlatQUAD) making the best choice for challenging analytical tasks.

Webinars LabRulezICPMS Week 17/2026

Proficiency testing (PT) is applicable to quantitative, qualitative and interpretative assessments, but this leaflet will concentrate on PTs for quantitative tests. Participation in PT is an essential part of the quality assurance in analytical laboratories and provides them with many benefits. In PT the provider evaluates the performance of participants against pre-established criteria defined in the design of the PT scheme.<h4>Performance evaluation&nbsp;</h4>The majority of PT schemes involve some form of performance score, such as the z or similar scores1 , and corresponding assessment criteria. An assigned value (xpt) and a standard deviation for proficiency assessment (spt) are determined and used to calculate the performance score of the laboratory result (xi), e.g. the z score with z = (xi - xpt ) / spt<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Eurachem_How_can_proficiency_testing_help_my_laboratory_2_c1bf0b596f.jpg" alt="Eurachem: How can proficiency testing help my laboratory?" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Eurachem_How_can_proficiency_testing_help_my_laboratory_2_c1bf0b596f.jpg 195w," sizes="100vw" width="952" height="761">Assessment of z scores is based on the following criteria:&nbsp;<ul><li>|z| ≤ 2.0 is regarded as satisfactory;&nbsp;</li><li>2.0 &lt; |z| &lt; 3.0 is regarded as questionable (‘warning signal’);&nbsp;</li><li>|z| ≥ 3.0 is regarded as unsatisfactory (‘action signal’).&nbsp;</li></ul>This is based on the concept that normally distributed analytical results lie within two standard deviations with a probability of ca. 95 %, and within three standard deviations with a probability of 99.7 %.&nbsp;PT providers have several options to determine spt such as prescribed/perceived desirable analytical performance or the observed distribution of data. The spt used by the PT provider may not be appropriate for all laboratories. If justified, the participants may then calculate their own z score using an alternative spt value which is fit for their purpose.&nbsp;<h4>Corrective actions</h4>Unsatisfactory performance scores (‘action signal’) indicate possible problems in the analysis undertaken. The laboratory must investigate this (e.g. by checking for transcription/calculation errors, trueness and precision) and, if necessary, address the problems through appropriate corrective actions. Participation in the PT provides very limited benefits to the laboratory, if unsatisfactory performance scores are not acted upon.<h4>Evaluation of results over time&nbsp;</h4>In addition to internal quality control, regular participation in PT enables laboratories to monitor their performance over time and to identify trends before these become problems. Performance scores obtained from subsequent PT rounds can be plotted in a control chart.&nbsp;<h4>Method comparisons&nbsp;</h4>Where PT schemes require participants to report details of the method used, the PT report may enable the participant to compare the performance of their method with that of other methods used.&nbsp;<h4>Use of PT data to estimate bias&nbsp;</h4>The bias of a method should be established using certified reference materials (CRMs) or comparison with a reference method. However, these may not be available for all matrices, analytes and levels, or CRMs may not be fully representative of the real test samples. Participation in PT provides the opportunity to check the bias taking into account the effects of matrix and concentration variation, provided that a reliable estimate of the “true value” is assigned in the PT. Participation in several PT rounds also provides information on the bias variability which can be used as a contribution in the laboratory evaluation of the measurement uncertainty.&nbsp;<h4>Use of PT to check measurement uncertainties&nbsp;</h4>The ζ (zeta) score can help to check the plausibility of the laboratory’s measurement uncertainty estimate. It is calculated as follows:<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Eurachem_zeta_score_calculation_b70d8b1187.jpg" alt="Eurachem: Zeta score calculation" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Eurachem_zeta_score_calculation_b70d8b1187.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="423" height="188">where xi is the laboratory’s result, xpt the assigned value, and u(xi) and u(xpt) are their respective standard uncertainties.&nbsp;The assessment criteria for satisfactory, questionable and unsatisfactory results are the same as for the z score. The uncertainty reported by a laboratory for its measurement result is an estimate of the accuracy that the laboratory claims to reach. If ζ scores are outside the acceptable range, this shows that the laboratory is not able to fulfill its own requirements. In other words the measurement uncertainty is underestimated.&nbsp;Additionally, the standard measurement uncertainty of a laboratory result can be expected to be lower than the reproducibility observed in the proficiency test. If the measurement uncertainty is much lower the uncertainty estimate should be reviewed.&nbsp;<h4>Demonstration of competence&nbsp;</h4>Successful participation in PT (| z | ≤ 2.0) is often seen as a proof of competence to customers, accreditation bodies and regulatory authorities. PT can also provide a valuable educational element to the laboratory, for example it can indicate the success of staff training or where additional training is required.&nbsp;<h4>More information / further reading&nbsp;</h4>B. Brookman and I. Mann (eds.) Eurachem Guide: Selection, Use and Interpretation of Proficiency Testing (PT) Schemes (3rd ed. 2021). Information about PT providers and schemes can be obtained from your national accreditation body, from the EPTIS website (www.eptis.org) or from other national or international organisations.

How can proficiency testing help my laboratory?

Article

Webinars

Academy

Food

Health

Scientific article

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

Agilent Technologies

Thermo Fisher Scientific

Shimadzu Corporation

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

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

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

Learn how to transform your unknown samples into routine analyses.

Tips and Tricks Workshop on ICP-OES: Method Development

While many Semiconductor applications call for ppt levels and ICPMS analysis, there are many applications in this market that can utilize and ICP-OES for the analysis.
Matrices mainly include high silicon levels or looking for traces in a variety of reagents, both inorganic and organic. This master class will look at handling high silicon as well as inorganic reagents like H2O2, HNO3, H2SO4, H3PO4…. ICP is well suited for organic reagent analysis as well.
 This presentation will also include organic solvent setup and optimization.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Paul Krampitz (Application Scientist, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Paul is a graduate of Bowling Green State University with a Chemistry Bachelor of Science degree. Twenty – five years of Spectroscopy experience mainly Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP) Spectroscopy as well as ICP-MS and AAS. His experience also includes X-Ray Fluorescence (ED, WD), Laser Ablation, Inorganic Speciation and Microwave Plasma Spectroscopy. Market Segment expertise includes environmental, petrochemical, metallurgical applications.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Semiconductor Applications and Setup for a variety of Solvents and Matrices by ICP-OES

Semiconductor Applications and Setup for a variety of Solvents and Matrices by ICP-OES

While many Semiconductor applications call for ppt levels and ICPMS analysis, there are many applications in this market that can utilize and ICP-OES.

Semiconductor Applications by ICP-OES

This webinar discusses about total solution approach for USP Chapters &lt;232&gt;/ &lt;233&gt; and ICHQ3D.
We will clarify regulatory requirements and recommended analytical methods for elemental impurities analysis in Pharmaceuticals.
Join us to learn about total workflow of microwave digestion for sample preparation and instrumental analysis using ICPMS following total regulatory compliance for data management. Also learn about how to overcome the challenges posed by ICHQ3D guideline, by removing metals from APIs or intermediates using metal scavengers.
<h5>Learning Objectives:</h5>
<ul>
<li>Elemental Impurities Regulations: USP Chapters &lt;232&gt;/ &lt;233&gt;, ICH Q3D
</li>
<li>Elemental Analysis Workflow using ICPMS in compliance with USP &lt;232&gt; and &lt;233&gt;
</li>
<li>Implementing Microwave Digestion technology for Sample preparation 
</li>
<li>Mitigating the common Metal Impurities in Pharmaceutical Products using Metal Scavengers
</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Dr. Pravin Konde (Product Specialist (Atomic Spectroscopy), Shimadzu Asia Pacific)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Dr. Pravin is a Product Specialist (Atomic Spectroscopy) at Shimadzu Asia Pacific and has been based at Singapore. He has more than 12 years of industry experience of which about 10 years in analytical instruments with expertise in trace element analysis applications using AAS, ICP-OES &amp; ICP-MS. He is engaged primarily in technical support to regional sales teams and customers. Prior to joining industry, he has done his PhD in Chemistry from Institute of Chemical Technology (formerly UDCT), Mumbai, India.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Yogesh Baldua (Dy. General Manager (Elemental &amp; Spectroscopy), Toshvin Analytical Pvt. Ltd.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Yogesh is Deputy General Manager at Toshvin Analytical, India. He has overall 20 years of working experience in analytical instruments industry and has worked with many leading Multinational and Indian organizations. In his current role at Toshvin, he provides product and technical support to the sales team on Shimadzu elemental analysis products like AAS, ICPE, ICPMS and PreeKem Scientific for wide range of microwave digestion systems.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Sunil Rana (Global Business Manager for Biotage Scale-Up business, Biotage AB, Sweden)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Dr. Sunil gained his BSc. Double Honours degrees in Chemistry and Biochemistry from the University of Southampton, UK in 1997 and completed an organic polymer/peptide chemistry PhD. with Professor Mark Bradley. During an Industrial post-doc at Argonaut Technologies, USA, he developed novel supported reagents/scavengers, then headed the analytical and chemical production groups. In 2008, he moved from Senior Scientist/Project Manager to Global product management. Sunil has an MBA from the Open University (UK), is a member of the ACS (21+yrs) and been involved in numerous publications and patent applications. He is Global Business Manager for Biotage Scale-Up business.
</blockquote>

Shimadzu: USP <232>/ <233> and ICH Q3D | Prepare Your Lab to Measure and Mitigate Elemental Impurities in Drug Products

USP <232>/ <233> and ICH Q3D | Prepare Your Lab to Measure and Mitigate Elemental Impurities in Drug Products

Total solution approach for USP Chapters <232>/ <233> and ICHQ3D.

USP <232>/ <233> and ICH Q3D for Elemental Impurities

Discussion of the Multimode Sample Introduction System (MSIS) and the analysis of As using hydride generation with the Agilent 4210 MPAES.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Greg Gilleland (Application Scientist, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Greg began his spectroscopy career in 1987 in Colorado, working at a series of environmental labs. After 14 years working in the world of commercial environmental labs, he moved on to a spectroscopy instrument manufacturer where he performed service and sales functions over the course of 11 years. He has been with Agilent Technologies, Inc., since 2012 in the role of Application Scientist for ICP-OES, MP-AES and AA products.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Low Level Arsenic Analysis using Microwave Plasma-Atomic Emission Spectrometer (MP-AES)

Low Level Arsenic Analysis using Microwave Plasma-Atomic Emission Spectrometer (MP-AES)

Discussion of the Multimode Sample Introduction System (MSIS) and the analysis of As using hydride generation with the Agilent 4210 MPAES.

Low Level Arsenic Analysis using Microwave Plasma-AES

Determination of the Geographic Origin of Spices Using ICP-OES, ICP-MS, and Mass Profile Professional.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Greg Gilleland (Application Scientist, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Greg began his spectroscopy career in 1987 in Colorado, working at a series of environmental labs. After 14 years working in the world of commercial environmental labs, he moved on to a spectroscopy instrument manufacturer where he performed service and sales functions over the course of 11 years. He has been with Agilent Technologies, Inc., since 2012 in the role of Application Scientist for ICP-OES, MP-AES and AA products.
</blockquote>

Agilent: Spectroscopy Digital Workshops and Bootcamps

Determination of the Geographic Origin of Spices Using ICP-OES, ICP-MS, and Mass Profile Professional

Geographic Origin of Spices Using ICP-OES and ICP-MS

Automated wavelength selection and streamlined method development using IntelliQuant Screening on unknown sample matrices.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Greg Gilleland (Application Scientist, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Greg began his spectroscopy career in 1987 in Colorado, working at a series of environmental labs. After 14 years working in the world of commercial environmental labs, he moved on to a spectroscopy instrument manufacturer where he performed service and sales functions over the course of 11 years. He has been with Agilent Technologies, Inc., since 2012 in the role of Application Scientist for ICP-OES, MP-AES and AA products.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Discover an Automated Sample Screening that Intelligently Develops ICP-OES Methods

Discover an Automated Sample Screening that Intelligently Develops ICP-OES Methods

Automated wavelength selection and streamlined method development using IntelliQuant Screening on unknown sample matrices.

Discover an Automated Sample Screening

TBS... Analýza elektrolytu a solí Li běžně používaných při výrobě Li baterií
<blockquote>
Presenter: Greg Gilleland (Application Scientist, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Greg began his spectroscopy career in 1987 in Colorado, working at a series of environmental labs. After 14 years working in the world of commercial environmental labs, he moved on to a spectroscopy instrument manufacturer where he performed service and sales functions over the course of 11 years. He has been with Agilent Technologies, Inc., since 2012 in the role of Application Scientist for ICP-OES, MP-AES and AA products.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Analysis of Electrolyte and Li salts commonly used in Li Battery manufacturing

Analysis of Electrolyte and Li salts commonly used in Li Battery manufacturing

Analysis of Electrolyte and Li salts in Li Battery

Join us for the ICP-MS event of the year where we will explore how to streamline your ICP-MS workflows and enhance your productivity and elemental research using the latest ICP-MS technology.Our team of experts will unveil the most recent advancements in ICP-MS, showcasing how these innovations can simplify your ICP-MS analysis and help you achieve your analysis goals.<h4>During this webinar, you will learn how to:</h4><ul><li>Optimize your ICP-MS workflows for improved efficiency &nbsp;</li><li>Maximize instrument up-time and productivity&nbsp; &nbsp;</li><li>Gain confidence in analysis of high matrix samples &nbsp;</li><li>Approach novel applications with ease and simplicity &nbsp;</li><li>Enhance your research output</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Matthew Cassap (Product Marketing Manager - AAS and ICP-OES Trace Elemental Analysis, Thermo Fisher Scientific) Presenter:&nbsp;Daniel Kutscher (Manager Product Application, Trace Elemental Analysis, Thermo Fisher Scientific)</blockquote>

Thermo Scientific: Ignite Your ICP-MS Workflow for Enhanced Efficiency and Productivity

Ignite Your ICP-MS Workflow for Enhanced Efficiency and Productivity

How to streamline your ICP-MS workflows and enhance your productivity and elemental research using the latest ICP-MS technology.

Ignite Your ICP-MS Workflow for Enhanced Efficiency

Wear metals analysis D-5185, can be done quickly using the right conditions and instrumentation. &nbsp;Large Laboratories require speed as well as data quality. &nbsp;Some laboratories run upwards of 2000 samples per day. This presentation will focus on the set up and optimization of a high throughput (&lt;30 seconds, sample to sample) wear metals methodology. &nbsp;We will look at optimizing the AVS 6 valve for the best combination of speed and performance. &nbsp;You will learn the best way to optimize your operating conditions for organics as well as a simple approach for sample and standard preparation.<blockquote>Presenter: Paul Krampitz (Application Scientist, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)Paul is a graduate of Bowling Green State University with a Chemistry Bachelor of Science degree. Twenty – five years of Spectroscopy experience mainly Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP) Spectroscopy as well as ICP-MS and AAS. His experience also includes X-Ray Fluorescence (ED, WD), Laser Ablation, Inorganic Speciation and Microwave Plasma Spectroscopy. Market Segment expertise includes environmental, petrochemical, metallurgical applications.</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Tips to High Throughput Analysis of Additives and Wear metals by ICP-OES

Tips to High Throughput Analysis of Additives and Wear metals by ICP-OES

This presentation will focus on the set up and optimization of a high throughput wear metals methodology.

High Throughput Analysis of Additives by ICP-OES

<div><div container-id="cq-colctrl-lt0" comp-id="A1"><div>ICP-OES can suffer from spectral interferences. &nbsp;This presentation will discuss the different types of interferences present in ICP and how to correct for them. &nbsp;IEC is the classical way of correcting for interferences and will be discussed briefly. &nbsp;However, modeling techniques, like FACT can be easier and more effective in many cases. &nbsp;We will go through what FACT is and how to set this techniques on an ICP system.<blockquote>Presenter: Paul Krampitz (Application Scientist, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)Paul is a graduate of Bowling Green State University with a Chemistry Bachelor of Science degree. Twenty – five years of Spectroscopy experience mainly Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP) Spectroscopy as well as ICP-MS and AAS. His experience also includes X-Ray Fluorescence (ED, WD), Laser Ablation, Inorganic Speciation and Microwave Plasma Spectroscopy. Market Segment expertise includes environmental, petrochemical, metallurgical applications.Presenter: Luke Gormley (Pre-Sales Application Engineer, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)Luke earned his Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Clemson University in South Carolina. He began his career at an environmental contract testing laboratory, where he used EPA methods for routine ICP-OES analysis. Later, he expanded his role by joining the laboratory’s instrument service and repair team, troubleshooting a wide range of analytical instruments and testing equipment. In 2025 Luke joined Agilent Technologies, where he now works as an Application Scientist, supporting the ICP-OES, MP-AES, and AA product lines.</blockquote></div></div></div>

Agilent Technologies: Interference Correction using the Agilent 5X00 ICP Systems – FACT Modeling and Comparison with Inter-Element Correction IEC

Interference Correction using the Agilent 5X00 ICP Systems – FACT Modeling and Comparison with Inter-Element Correction IEC

Explore FACT modeling vs IEC for ICP-OES interference correction. Gain insights into setup, advantages, and practical use with Agilent 5X00 ICP systems.