Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezICPMS Library in the week of 23rd March 2026? Check out new documents from the field of spectroscopy/spectrometry and related techniques!<blockquote>👉 <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library">SEARCH THE LARGEST REPOSITORY OF DOCUMENTS ABOUT SPECTROSCOPY/SPECTROMETRY RELATED TECHNIQUES</a></blockquote><blockquote>👉 Need info about different analytical techniques? Peek into <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/library">LabRulezLCMS</a> or <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library">LabRulezGCMS</a> libraries.</blockquote>This week we bring you application notes by LECO, Shimadzu and Waters Corporation and brochure by Thermo Fisher Scientific!<h3>1. LECO: Determination of Nitrogen in Fertilizer</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CN_FP_928_NITROGEN_FERTILIZERS_203_821_615_4d4b013a08.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Nitrogen is one of the most important elements for plant development and is the macronutrient that is most often found to be deficient in arable soils used for crop production. Nitrogen plays a key role in the formation of enzymes and proteins, which promotes lush, vigorous growth and development in plants that often leads to an increase in the yield from the plant. Fertilizers are utilized to re-introduce nitrogen back into arable soils. Fertilizers can be grouped by their makeup and/or origins into categories including inorganic and/or synthetic (including nitrates, ammonium, and urea) and organic (including compost materials and manures). The accurate and precise determination of nitrogen in all fertilizer types is not only important in the process of blending and preparing the fertilizer material for use, but also will have significant impact on the commercial value and guarantee of the fertilizer.&nbsp;The CN928/FP928 is a macro combustion carbon and nitrogen/protein determinator that utilizes a pure oxygen environment in a high-temperature horizontal ceramic combustion furnace designed to handle macro sample mass. A thermoelectric cooler removes moisture from the combustion gases before they are collected in a ballast. The gases equilibrate and mix in the ballast before a representative aliquot (3 cm3 or 10 cm3 volume) of the gas is extracted and introduced into a flowing stream of inert gas (helium or argon) for analysis. The aliquot gas is carried to a thermal conductivity cell (TC) for the detection of nitrogen (N2).<h4>Instrument Model and Configuration&nbsp;</h4>Thermal conductivity detectors work by detecting changes in the thermal conductivity of the analyte gas compared to the constant thermal conductivity of the reference/carrier gas. The greater the difference between the thermal conductivity of the carrier gas and the analyte gas, the greater the sensitivity of the detector. The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=24&amp;search=CN928">CN928</a>/<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=24&amp;search=FP928">FP928</a> supports either the use of helium or argon as the instrument's carrier gas. When used as a carrier gas, helium provides the highest sensitivity, and the best performance at the lower limit of the nitrogen range. The thermal conductivity difference between argon and nitrogen is not as great as the thermal conductivity difference between helium and nitrogen, therefore the detector is inherently less sensitive when using argon as a carrier gas.<h4>TYPICAL RESULTS&nbsp;</h4>Data was generated utilizing a single standard, forced through origin calibration using ~ 0.1 g of NIST 913b Uric Acid (33.23% N). Alternatively, LECO 503-530 LCRM Urea may be used for calibration.<h3>2. Shimadzu: Evaluation of Microscopic Foreign Matter in Recycled Plastics Using Dynamic Image Analysis, Infrared Microscopy, and SEM-EDS</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_01_00861_en_7485baba21.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul><h4>User Benefits</h4><ul><li>&nbsp;It is easy to evaluate the size and quantity of microscopic foreign particles, which are key quality criteria of recycled plastics.</li><li>With the microcell method of DIA, microscopic foreign matter can be detected and counted quickly using a small sample quantity.</li><li>Infrared microscope and SEM-EDS systems provide information about the morphology and composition of microscopic foreign matter that is useful for improving recycling processes.</li></ul>One of the quality criteria for recycled plastic flakes and pellets is the content of foreign matter. Quantitatively evaluating the size and quantity of foreign particles contained in flakes and pellets is important for examining foreign matter removal processes intended to improve pellet quality and optimize manufacturing processesfor products made with recycled materials.&nbsp;In this article, pellets of virgin and recycled polyethylene terephthalate (hereafter PET) were dissolved in hexafluoro-2-propanol (hereafter HFIP), a solvent for dissolving PET, to prepare suspensions of insoluble microscopic foreign particles. These suspensions were measured with a dynamic particle image analysis (DIA) system (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=iSpect+DIA-10">iSpect DIA-10</a>) to evaluate the size and number of insoluble microscopic foreign particles (patent pending). In addition, part of the suspensions were diluted tenfold and filtered through a membrane filter to collect the insoluble microscopic foreign particles on the filter. The morphology and composition of the collected microscopic foreign particles were evaluated using a digital microscope, an infrared microscope system (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=IRTracer-100">IRTracer-100</a> and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=AIM-9000">AIM-9000</a>), and an SEM-EDS system. These evaluations enabled comparison of the sizes, quantities, and types of foreign particles contained in virgin and recycled materials.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>By using an iSpect DIA-10 system to measure suspensions prepared by dissolving two types of PET pellets (virgin and recycled) in HFIP, we obtained particle images of insoluble foreign matter and evaluated size and concentration of particles. That enabled quantitative comparison of particle size and count in microscopic foreign matter contained in virgin and recycled materials.&nbsp;In addition, after diluting the pellet suspensions, the insoluble microscopic foreign matter in the diluted suspensions was collected on filters. The morphology and composition of the microscopic foreign matter were evaluated using an infrared microscope and SEM-EDS system. The results indicated that the suspensions contained organic substances, such as cellulose and amide-based compounds, and inorganic substances and metals that contain elements such as C, O, Ca, and Al (suggestive of carbonates and metallic aluminum).&nbsp;Thus, the iSpect DIA-10 enables simple quantitative evaluation of the size and number of microscopic foreign particles in PET pellets using only small sample quantities. Furthermore, composition evaluation by infrared microscope and SEM-EDS systems provides useful information for investigating the origin of foreign matter, examining measures to reduce foreign matter, and evaluating impacts on final products. If similarities in size and shape are observed, particle images obtained with iSpect DIA-10 can also potentially be used to estimate particle composition.<h3>3. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Ensuring safer and effective pharmaceutical formulations by X-ray diffraction</h3><ul><li>Brochures and specifications</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/PF_41381_xrd_solutions_pharma_9b89684165.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>From drug discovery and preformulation studies to the efficient scaling up in the manufacturing process in the plant and finally through QA/QC validation, X-ray diffraction (XRD) is a vital analysis method in the characterization of different physico-chemical properties of the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API). XRD is a gold standard method and required technique in the determination of polymorphic and salt screening, % of crystallinity and stability/reactivity studies of the final API.&nbsp;<h5><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/2297">Thermo Scientific™ SolstiX™ XRD Software</a> with Security Suite extends ARL EQUINOX 100 X-ray Diffractometers to 21 CFR Part 11 regulated labs&nbsp;</h5><ul><li>Protect stored electronic data related to quality assurance within manufacturer’s computer systems&nbsp;</li><li>Put controls in place to keep records authentic, incorruptible, and confidential&nbsp;</li><li>Electronic signatures for the user to take responsibility for the electronic data in the system&nbsp;</li><li>Requirements in the data record: date and time of scan, name of the unique signer, and technological controls to ensure security (e.g. passwords)&nbsp;</li></ul><h5><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/2143">Thermo Scientific™ ARL™ EQUINOX 100 X-ray benchtop diffractometer</a> is designed to exceed your analytical needs&nbsp;</h5><ul><li>Ideally suited for rapid screening of various formulations, finger printing or detection of counterfeit products&nbsp;</li><li>Polymorphism and crystallinity determination, crystallite size calculation, quantitative phase analysis, reactivity and stability of materials, etc.&nbsp;</li><li>XRD experiments on standard powders, bulks, tablets, small quantities, etc.&nbsp;</li><li>Real-time full pattern XRD based on our unique PSD detector technology&nbsp;</li><li>X-ray source based on micro-source technology with no external water cooling</li><li>Unique dual-mode capability: reflection and/or transmission&nbsp;</li></ul><h5>Thermo Scientific™ ARL™ EQUINOX 100 XRD for structural analysis&nbsp;</h5><ul><li>Easy-to-use simultaneous full pattern XRD based on unique real time PSD detector technology&nbsp;</li><li>Unique dual-mode capability on a benchtop XRD instrument: reflection and/or transmission mode&nbsp;</li><li>XRD experiments on various samples with sample spinner, capillary stage, sample changer or in controlled environment</li></ul><h5>Top XRD benefits for pharma&nbsp;</h5><ul><li>Structural characterization technique&nbsp;</li><li>Nondestructive technique&nbsp;</li><li>Small amount of sample needed for analysis&nbsp;</li><li>Unique diffraction patterns and quick response&nbsp;</li><li>Analysis on mixtures as well as amorphous content&nbsp;</li><li>Easy determination of induced structural changes</li></ul><h3>4. Waters Corporation: SIMI: A Different Approach to Revealing Dangerous Subvisible Impurities</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/720009094_en_fb955e89ec.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Foreign particulate matter, also known as extrinsic particles, has become a serious threat to patient safety in recent years, with cases linked to severe immunogenic reactions, deaths, and costly recalls.1 In 2021 alone, Takeda recalled 1.6 million doses of the Moderna COVID-19 mRNA vaccine in Japan after several patient deaths were linked to steel particulates shed from a malfunctioning pump.2 Over the span of seven years, from 2014–2017, there were more than 110 drug recalls as a result of glass delamination,3–4 and several more due to remnant crystals,5 owing to the difficulty of identifying the presence and source of foreign particulate matter. To prevent against such threats, manufacturers require high throughput technologies to better identify foreign particulate matter in real time.<h4>Results and Discussion</h4><h5>Shining a Light on Extrinsic Particles with SIMI</h5>Side illumination membrane imaging (SIMI) is a proprietary illumination, imaging, and analysis technique exclusively available to <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/2190">Aura instruments</a>. Utilizing the principles of darkfield microscopy,6 SIMI is conducted on an Aura membrane plate using an oblique illumination source which emits light at an angle parallel to the surface of the plate.&nbsp;Compared to backgrounded membrane imaging (BMI), which utilizes brightfield microscopy (epi-illumination) where particles scatter the incident light isotropically (i.e., at all angles), side illumination membrane maging (SIMI) is a technique that is specifically designed to detect light scattering from high refractive index particles, as well as those that protrude out of the plane from the membrane surface. A particle’s average SIMI intensity is measured in a relative scale where the inherent SIMI scattering of the membrane is defined as SIMI = 0. Positive SIMI values indicate particles protruding out of the membrane, as is the case with microplastics, fibers, and other common extrinsic particles, whose average SIMI intensities vary from 0–255. On some occasions, like with metallic particles and absorbing oils, particles will have reduced light refraction relative to the membrane and thus display negative SIMI values, varying from 0 to -122.&nbsp;The majority of foreign, extrinsic particles exhibit a high refractive index and are mechanically rigid in structure, causing them to protrude from the membrane surface and scatter side illumination to a high degree, ideal for SIMI analysis. In contrast, biologic particles exhibit the opposite properties—low refractive index and malleable structures, causing them to lie flat with minimal side scatter profiles, which is best analyzed with BMI or fluorescence membrane microscopy (FMM). Utilizing all three microscopy approaches is most ideal to facilitate the determination of all extrinsic (non-biologic) and inherent (biologic) particles in biologic formulations.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>SIMI is a unique approach to providing additional characterization of subvisible particles and is available in all Aura models to help rapidly identify foreign material in biological samples with a high degree of specificity. A key tertiary imaging mode in addition to BMI and FMM, SIMI provides selective, orthogonal morphological information to identify tall and rigid materials, a defining feature of most extrinsic particles (Figure 11). While particle sizing and counting is done via BMI, SIMI provides illumination, imaging, and analysis that can be useful across a variety of biological products to reveal foreign subvisible particles from the earliest to the latest of stages in the bioprocess.

News from LabRulezICPMS Library - Week 13, 2026

<ul><li>Category: Certified Reference Material</li><li>Analyte: Calcium (Ca)</li><li>Product code: ANS009</li><li>Primary starting material and purity: CaCO₃ 99.999%</li></ul>Matrix: 2% HNO₃ (v/v) prepared from sub-boiling distilled HNO₃ (ANALPURE®) and ultrapure demineralized water, filtered through a membrane filter with a pore size of 0.22 µm (resistivity ≥18 MΩ·cm)<blockquote>Certified concentration value and expanded uncertainty (k = 2) at 20 °C: 1,000 ± 5 mg/L</blockquote><h3>Specifications</h3><ul><li>Batch number: 1050</li><li>Date of manufacture: 29 August 2023</li><li>Shelf life: 5 years from the date of manufacture</li></ul><h4>Application</h4>For calibration and validation of analytical methods used for the analysis of aqueous solutions, such as atomic spectroscopy (AAS, AFS), molecular absorption spectrometry, and certain electroanalytical methods.<h4>Characterization and traceability</h4>This CRM is certified based on gravimetric preparation, which also ensures direct traceability to the SI unit – kilogram. The certified value, its uncertainty, and traceability were verified by complexometric methods (using SRM NIST 928) or instrumental analytical methods (AAS, AES, ICP-OES) using CRM AN9009(1N) through a short, uninterrupted calibration chain.<h4>Content of trace impurities in the prepared solution</h4><ul><li>Maximum 0.5 mg/L (total)</li></ul><h4>Homogeneity and stability</h4>The calibration solution is homogeneous, and its stability is guaranteed throughout the entire shelf life, provided it is stored under the conditions specified below.<h4>Storage and instructions for use</h4>This CRM must be stored and kept in its original packaging at temperatures between 5 and 30 °C. The manufacturer guarantees the stated shelf life and expiration date only if the material is handled properly.The solution temperature must be 20 ± 0.5 °C before each use. The date when the bottle was first opened must be recorded on the certificate. The expiration date, which depends on the date of first opening, must also be recorded on both the certificate and the label.After use, it is recommended to protect the bottle neck with a layer of parafilm. Small residual amounts in the bottle (less than 10% of the original content) should no longer be used. For this reason, especially in the case of dark bottles, it is advisable to record each withdrawn volume, for example directly on the bottle.Do not pipette directly from the bottle, and do not return any poured-off liquid back into the original packaging (bottle).

Aqueous Calibration Solution ASTASOL® ANS009

Anna Vanluchene&nbsp;from UCT Prague’s&nbsp;Department of Chemical Engineering has received a&nbsp;prestigious start-up grant from the Dagmar Procházková Fund. However, she did not receive funding right away. In this interview, she describes how she developed ten versions of her&nbsp;Illuminating Flow&nbsp;project idea (combining photocatalysis with flow reactors for pharmaceutical synthesis). She explains why she considers perseverance to be crucial when applying for grants, how international experience has influenced her approach to team management, and how her research can reduce the chemical industry’s&nbsp;dependence on fossil fuels and imports from China.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/VSCHT_Praha_Na_startovaci_grant_jsem_cekala_dva_roky_a_napsala_deset_verzi_projektu_2_5b7d63b8e9.jpg" alt="VŠCHT Prague/Tomáš Balický: I waited two years for a start-up grant and wrote ten versions of my project idea" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_VSCHT_Praha_Na_startovaci_grant_jsem_cekala_dva_roky_a_napsala_deset_verzi_projektu_2_5b7d63b8e9.jpg 127w," sizes="100vw" width="1128" height="1387"><h5>What did the Dagmar Procházková Fund grant mean to you?</h5>I&nbsp;consider it to be a&nbsp;great success. It is the first injection of funding that will allow me to ensure full independence for my research endeavour, to start my own research group, and to fund students so I&nbsp;can get started properly.<h5>What have been your previous experiences with grants?</h5>During my doctorate, a cotutelle (international doctorate under dual supervision), I&nbsp;was funded by a&nbsp;grant from the French government. Then I&nbsp;worked at the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic (CAS) and received a&nbsp;Marie Skłodowska-Curie Action (MSCA) Postdoctoral Fellowship to go abroad. The idea for my now-funded project was developed about two years ago and, since then, I&nbsp;have gradually developed and adapted the idea for various grant calls. I&nbsp;submitted about ten different versions of the proposal. I&nbsp;did not receive a&nbsp;grant from the Dagmar Procházková Fund last year, but this year, my application was successful.<h5>This probably requires a&nbsp;great deal of patience and perseverance.</h5>Certainly, because the success rates for most grants have been declining for some time. But as a&nbsp;motivational example, I&nbsp;will tell the story of Timothy Noel, a&nbsp;Belgian professor of chemistry living in the Netherlands. He applied for the prestigious European Research Council (ERC) grant, which is among the most sought-after in Europe, seven times. But no failure deterred him and eventually he succeeded and opened the door to potentially massive grant funding. He was already one of the world’s&nbsp;top scientists in the field at that time and openly described his journey on his blog <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.noelresearchgroup.com/2022/03/17/my-personal-story-to-obtain-an-erc-grant-7-submissions-4-interviews-and-6-heartbreaks/">blog</a>.<h5>What advice does this convey to other grant applicants and early career researchers?</h5>Start early, read a&nbsp;lot, don’t&nbsp;give up, and—most importantly—apply repeatedly. Learn from rejections and overcome possible frustration from failures. Read blogs and books by successful people, where you will find not only the glorious results of their work, but also the hardships they faced over their entire journeys. Of course, building your team and laboratory is impossible without finances. I&nbsp;myself still hope that I&nbsp;will be able to receive even bigger grants in the future.<h5>How has your international experience influenced your scientific approach?</h5>A&nbsp;lot and on several levels. Different laboratories teach you how to do&nbsp;things differently. You gain varied experience about how different institutions function. You see other people’s&nbsp;positive motivations, their ability to be ambitious without negativity, their involvement in institutional matters, their openness to cooperation with companies (e.g., tech transfers, spin-offs). The most important thing is to broaden your horizons. I&nbsp;see going abroad as a&nbsp;necessity. What I&nbsp;have taken away the most is drive, great support, and the idea that scientific output is not just about metrics, but also about dedication to one’s&nbsp;topic.<h5>What is your Illuminating Flow: Transport Phenomena in Photocatalysis about, in layperson’s&nbsp;terms, and how is it unique?</h5>Most of today’s&nbsp;chemical industry is still based on thermal processes and fossil fuels. Photochemistry enables electrification, where the energy source is photons delivered by LEDs, which can generate electricity from renewable sources. Current research focuses mainly on chemical reactions and their mechanisms, but as a&nbsp;chemical engineer, I&nbsp;focus on designing processes and reactors suitable for industrial use. In batch reactors, light fades rapidly with distance from a&nbsp;source, so much of a&nbsp;reaction mixture is not illuminated. Flow reactors solve this problem, but they bring new challenges such as working with solid catalysts and subsequently scaling up production and achieving higher production rates of the desired chemicals at a&nbsp;given scale.One can imagine a&nbsp;transparent tube with a&nbsp;catalyst on the walls, upon which light shines and through which reactants flow. This project has a&nbsp;unique emphasis on engineering solutions and overall process efficiency.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/VSCHT_Praha_Na_startovaci_grant_jsem_cekala_dva_roky_a_napsala_deset_verzi_projektu_3_b978abf25c.jpg" alt="VŠCHT Prague/Tomáš Balický: I waited two years for a start-up grant and wrote ten versions of my project idea" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_VSCHT_Praha_Na_startovaci_grant_jsem_cekala_dva_roky_a_napsala_deset_verzi_projektu_3_b978abf25c.jpg 241w," sizes="100vw" width="1228" height="799"><h5>So, were you inspired by a&nbsp;gap in the market to connect photocatalysis with transport phenomena?</h5>Exactly. I&nbsp;combine my areas of expertise: microfluidics, photocatalytic degradation of organic substances (CAS), and synthesis (MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowship). The idea itself is not new, and pharmaceutical companies are very interested in “greener” photochemistry, but in practice, there is often a&nbsp;lack of appropriate engineering solutions and apparatus for industrial use.<h5>What are the practical applications of your work and what substances are you focusing on?</h5>Mainly on pharmaceuticals and on the synthesis of so-called fine chemicals, which are often the building blocks for the production of pharmaceuticals. There is also a&nbsp;geopolitical dimension to this, i.e. less dependence on imports from China and sustainable synthesis in Europe where it makes economic sense.<h5>And what chemicals are you specifically talking about?</h5>For example, building blocks for advanced synthesis, compounds prepared by trifluoromethylation reactions, or products of oxidation reactions with singlet oxygen. At the same time, we focus on reactions that are, in the classical design process, less safe or technologically demanding, where new approaches, such as photochemistry in flow reactors, could be safer and have better process control. Of course, this is not a&nbsp;universal solution for all types of reactions.<h5>The goal of this project?</h5>I&nbsp;plan to start a&nbsp;fully functional laboratory and research team, create high-quality experimental data on selected molecules and based on them, try to build cooperation with industrial partners. Without data, it is impossible to come to companies with just an idea. Within three years, I&nbsp;would like to have results that can be realistically presented and further developed.<h5>What are the main challenges in transport phenomena during photocatalysis?</h5>The methodology for repeatability of experiments in photochemistry is relatively demanding and there are unforeseen obstacles in building apparatus. Also, the scale-up from microliters to a&nbsp;larger scale.<h5>What methodology will you use, and how big are the microreactors and their flow rates?</h5>I&nbsp;have two different directions in methodological design. The first direction involves microreactors the size of a&nbsp;laboratory slide. You make a&nbsp;structure using a&nbsp;laser, and then you have to cast it and make a&nbsp;microreactor. This allows you to quickly adjust the geometry of the reactor. This method is, of course, not applicable in the commercial setting, but it is ideal for studying transport phenomena and precise measurements.The second direction involves reactors that are flow cells. These are already larger, approximately 15 x 15 centimetres, and their flow rates are in the order of millilitres per hour. This is the initial scale that we will further increase during the project.<h5>There is a&nbsp;big difference between a&nbsp;flow rate of microlitres per hour and industrial needs. Will it not work differently in reality?</h5>Our research will focus on studying the phenomena themselves for now, and scaling will be addressed later. In addition, we will combine the experimental data obtained with computer simulations that will help design suitable conditions for a&nbsp;larger scale. For some high-value fine chemicals, these scales, combined with continuous operation or parallelization of reactors, may already be practically usable.<h5>What catalysts will you use and how will you attach them to the reactor walls?</h5>I&nbsp;am focusing on heterogeneous photocatalysis, and we will mainly use graphitic carbon nitride and its more advanced modifications. These are semiconductor materials that can be synthesized relatively easily and are suitable for immobilization on glass reactor walls. A&nbsp;key part of this project is the creation of a&nbsp;stable catalytic layer for long-term flow-through operations. To increase the contact of reactants with the catalyst, we will also consider multiphase modes, for example, gas bubbling, in order to disrupt the otherwise laminar flow.<h5>Why did you choose this field and the Department of Chemical Engineering?</h5>During my postdoc in Belgium, the department had an opening for an Assistant Professor position that caught my attention and I&nbsp;applied for it. I&nbsp;did my undergraduate, graduate, and initial doctoral studies here, and I&nbsp;love the department. I&nbsp;have a&nbsp;Bachelor’s&nbsp;degree in Chemistry.<h5>Are you collaborating with anyone?</h5>We collaborate with BUT Brno focusing on creating layers and immobilizing catalysts on glass, as well as with the Institute of Chemical Process Fundamentals of the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic. And as for organic synthesis, we are connected with Ghent University via postdoc internships. At the same time, my colleague Viola Tokárová and I&nbsp;received a&nbsp;Czech Science Foundation grant in cooperation with BUT Brno and Masaryk University, with our part of the project focusing on the use of flow reactors for photochemical reactions and testing the antibacterial properties of photocatalytic materials. And I&nbsp;am writing other grant proposals in which I&nbsp;am trying to build new collaborations.<h5>What does the creation of an independent research group at UCT Prague look like?</h5>I&nbsp;started by renovating the premises that were assigned to me and gradually building my team. It is important for research work to have Ph.D. students; I&nbsp;have already hired one and we will recruit more. In addition to building the group, I&nbsp;will engage in securing further funding for the group, so I&nbsp;will be writing more grant proposals. It is important to think far enough in advance when it comes to prospective funding for a&nbsp;research group.<h5>What type of students are you looking for?</h5>The laboratory and team I&nbsp;are building will be very multidisciplinary, just like the area I&nbsp;am working on. That is why I&nbsp;am looking for students who are attracted to true multidisciplinary research, those who, for example, have knowledge of engineering, but who don’t&nbsp;mind a&nbsp;little bit of pure chemistry. One student in their own right does not have to (and cannot) know every subject, so I&nbsp;will ideally have a&nbsp;team consisting of different people with different research backgrounds. Motivated, DIY-type students who would rather enthusiastically build or invent something themselves than conduct repetitive measurements. Organic or analytical chemists will also find their place here. If this topic is interesting to students in any way, they can definitely contact me. I&nbsp;am also open to interdepartmental cooperation with other UCT Prague Faculties.<h5>How would you describe your path to photocatalysis/chemical engineering?</h5>Studying Chemistry as an undergrad gave me a&nbsp;broad perspective, but I&nbsp;was gradually narrowing my focus and eventually chose engineering. Chemical engineering intrigued me with its logic and was the easiest for me to grasp at the time. But I&nbsp;have always enjoyed working on projects more than the studies themselves. Even during my Bachelor studies, I&nbsp;really enjoyed and was interested in the Professor Štěpánek Group’s&nbsp;projects, where I&nbsp;was doing something completely different than I&nbsp;do&nbsp;now. I&nbsp;only got into photochemistry during my time at CAS and then, during my postdoctoral fellowship, I&nbsp;devoted myself to electrochemistry. My current focus is, thus, a&nbsp;natural interlinking of all these areas. Consequentially, I&nbsp;developed an awareness of the necessity to become independent and return to the department with my own, different research agenda, which, in my opinion, is an important and correct basis for establishing my own research group.<h5>What is the biggest challenge of this project for you?</h5>The transition from being a&nbsp;postdoc to a&nbsp;leadership position is a&nbsp;big change for me and I&nbsp;think it is not talked about enough. It means a&nbsp;shift from my own experimental work to leading a&nbsp;team, planning and delegating tasks, and motivating students. From a&nbsp;practical point of view, one of the main challenges is the transfer of reactions from the microscale to functional systems, the construction of reactors, the immobilization of catalysts, and generally confirming that this direction makes sense in the long term and that it has future potential.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/VSCHT_Praha_Na_startovaci_grant_jsem_cekala_dva_roky_a_napsala_deset_verzi_projektu_1_66ac267e06.jpg" alt="VŠCHT Prague/Tomáš Balický: I waited two years for a start-up grant and wrote ten versions of my project idea" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_VSCHT_Praha_Na_startovaci_grant_jsem_cekala_dva_roky_a_napsala_deset_verzi_projektu_1_66ac267e06.jpg 155w," sizes="100vw" width="830" height="839">

I waited two years for a start-up grant and wrote ten versions of my project idea

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LabRulez

Analytika is a Czech company that offers and produces certified reference materials (CRM) and (ultra)pure chemicals for quality control and quality assurance in laboratories, including accredited laboratories.

Our portfolio also includes pipettes and tips, digestors, PFA labware and other equipment for analytical laboratory and trace analysis.

ANALYTIKA

New Food magazine

Separation Science

Merck

Anton Paar

Agilent Technologies

Unchained Labs

LECO

When it comes to detection limits we all want to achieve the lowest possible values.
Learn all the tips and tricks and select proper components of an ICP-OES sample introduction system to optimize your data quality. Take advantage of the smart and easy features of Agilent’s ICP-Expert software to enhance the instrument performance and remove carryover.
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Presenter: Sima Singha, PhD (ICP-OES Application Scientist, Atomic Spectroscopy, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
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Sima has over fifteen years of hands on experience as an applications scientist in the field of atomic spectroscopy. Before joining Agilent in 2017, managed an agricultural chemistry laboratory for the analysis of water, soil, and plant tissue digests using ICP-OES for various EPA methods. She received a Ph.D. degree in Chemistry from the University of Illinois at Chicago with numerous peer-reviewed publications.
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Agilent Technologies: Tips and Tricks on ICP-OES for Best Detection Limits and Less Carryover

Tips and Tricks on ICP-OES for Best Detection Limits and Less Carryover

Learn all the tips and tricks and select proper components of an ICP-OES sample introduction system to optimize your data quality.

Tips and Tricks on ICP-OES for Best Detection Limits

From Basic to Advanced of Scratch is a course with three sessions, in which participants will explore strategies for optimizing test parameters, defining critical loads, and utilizing advanced quantitative techniques such as wedge blade testing and coating recovery. This series is designed to enhance your ability to accurately assess and interpret scratch test data, providing insights that are directly applicable to a wide range of material testing scenarios.<h3>February 18, 2025: Advanced Scratch Techniques</h3>In this webinar of our Scratch Series, we introduce advanced quantitative techniques to deepen your understanding of material behavior under scratch testing. You'll explore methods like wedge blade testing to assess material response, investigate coating recovery after scratches, and analyze projected cone area for detailed insights into surface interactions. These advanced techniques will provide you with a more comprehensive view of material performance, helping you make more informed decisions in your testing and analysis.By the end of this webinar, attendees will be equipped with advanced techniques such as wedge blade testing, coating recovery analysis, and projected cone area measurements, allowing for a more detailed and nuanced evaluation of material behavior in scratch testing.<div><div><blockquote>Presenter: Mark R HaaseMark R Haase is an Advanced Application Scientist at Anton Paar, and has been with the company for six years. They work with many material characterization techniques, including scratch, indentation, tribology, particle sizing, gas sorption, atomic force microscopy, and rheology. Mark supports the use of these techniques in research and industry with training and method development. Prior to joining Anton Paar, Mark's studies included nanocarbon materials and green energy systems.</blockquote></div></div>

Anton Paar: Beyond the Surface Module 2 - Scratch Series: From Basic to Advanced Scratch

Advanced Scratch Techniques

In this webinar of our Scratch Series, we introduce advanced quantitative techniques to deepen your understanding of material behavior under scratch testing.

Scratch Series: Advanced Scratch Techniques

Improvements to Microplastics workflow will be demonstrated. Agilent ftir<blockquote>Presenter: Louis Tisinger, PhD (Application Engineer, Molecular Spectroscopy, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)Louis (Lou) Tisinger has a Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry from Miami University in Oxford Ohio, where his graduate research involved the study of ATR imaging and microscope performance in vibrational spectroscopy. Most of his career has been related to pre- and post-sales support of FTIR spectrometers, microscopes, imaging systems, and thermal analytical instruments, focusing on analyzing customer samples, demonstrations, post-sales training, troubleshooting, and R&amp;D.</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: New Improvements to MP Workflow

New Improvements to MP Workflow

Improvements to Microplastics workflow will be demonstrated. 

<h4>Eight Webinars and a Roundtable with Experts from Merck</h4>Analytical Excellence Week' is organized to empower professionals in the field of analytical chemistry. Over the course of eight insightful sessions, industry experts will share their knowledge and best practices to streamline your analytical workflows and enhance your efficiency.From understanding quality grades in inorganics and solvents to exploring sustainable practices in the lab, each webinar covers essential topics that will enhance your analytical capabilities. Learn how to optimize your Karl Fischer titration, achieve precision in PFAS testing, and gain troubleshooting tips for LC-MS to effectively address common challenges and improve your laboratory results.The sessions will also address critical aspects of safety and sustainability, ensuring you are well-equipped to handle hazardous chemicals responsibly while making strides toward greener laboratory practices.This is an invaluable opportunity to gain insights that can significantly optimize your analytical processes. Don’t miss your chance to elevate your expertise and contribute to a more efficient and sustainable future in analytical workflows.Each session is specifically designed to address essential topics that directly impact your daily practices, making it relevant for all professionals working in a chemical analysis laboratory.<h3>Day 4: Thursday, 13 February</h3><h4>Greener Solvents - Making Big Moves for More Sustainability in the Lab!</h4>Laboratories consume significantly more energy and water and generate more waste than offices or households. This is more reason for laboratories to tackle sustainability concerns now. This training supports labs to become greener by addressing the class of chemicals that are used in the largest volumes in the lab: solvents! According to the 12 Principles of Green Chemistry, solvents are more sustainable when they are biobased or when they are less dangerous and hazardous.This training highlights several of these greener solvent alternatives and how they can be implemented in the lab. Due to the large volume in which solvents are used, changing to a greener alternative will significantly reduce the carbon footprint of a lab. A further opportunity to reduce the carbon footprint of a lab and to tremendously reduce waste, are returnable containers for solvents, which will be covered in the second part of the training.By attending this webinar, you will learn:<ul><li>The 12 Principles of Green Chemistry</li><li>What greener solvents are and how they can be implemented in your lab</li><li>How returnable containers for solvents reduce the carbon footprint and amount of waste in the lab</li></ul>Who should attend: This webinar will provide valuable insights for everybody who is working with solvents in the lab and would like to become more sustainable. This includes lab technicians, lab managers, and scientists in chemistry and analytical chemistry labs.<blockquote>Presenter: Frank Michel, (Scientific Education &amp; Sustainability, Chemistry Franchise, Merck)Presenter: John Cooper, (Global Product Manager Sustainable Solvents, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA, an affiliate of Merck)</blockquote><h4>Tips and Tricks for LC-MS Troubleshooting</h4>LC-MS is an excellent tool for chemical analysis. Moreover, the evolution in HPLC particle technology, HPLC instrument design, and MS detection resulted in improved performance and sensitivity. This raised the bar on requirements for the purity of the solvents and additives in the mobile phase. This training provides valuable tips and tricks on how to get the best performance out of your LC-MS instrument regarding sensitivity and how to limit instrument downtime by different approaches. Typical examples of LC-MS issues, such as ghost peaks or noisy and elevated baselines, and how to prevent them will be presented. Advanced LC-MS solvents and additives for improved LC-MS performance and their proper handling will be discussed in detail.By attending this webinar, you will learn:<ul><li>The importance of the choice of consumables and solvents for LC-MS</li><li>Approaches to improve sensitivity and robustness of LC-MS</li></ul>Who should attend: This webinar will be especially valuable for scientists, lab managers, and lab technicians working with LC-MS in any application area.<blockquote>Presenter: Frank Michel, (Scientific Education &amp; Sustainability, Chemistry Franchise, Merck)</blockquote>

Merck: Webinar Series & Expert Roundtable

Webinar Series & Expert Roundtable (Day 4)

Part 1: Greener Solvents - Making Big Moves for More Sustainability in the Lab! and Part 2: Tips and Tricks for LC-MS Troubleshooting.

<h4>Eight Webinars and a Roundtable with Experts from Merck</h4>Analytical Excellence Week' is organized to empower professionals in the field of analytical chemistry. Over the course of eight insightful sessions, industry experts will share their knowledge and best practices to streamline your analytical workflows and enhance your efficiency.From understanding quality grades in inorganics and solvents to exploring sustainable practices in the lab, each webinar covers essential topics that will enhance your analytical capabilities. Learn how to optimize your Karl Fischer titration, achieve precision in PFAS testing, and gain troubleshooting tips for LC-MS to effectively address common challenges and improve your laboratory results.The sessions will also address critical aspects of safety and sustainability, ensuring you are well-equipped to handle hazardous chemicals responsibly while making strides toward greener laboratory practices.This is an invaluable opportunity to gain insights that can significantly optimize your analytical processes. Don’t miss your chance to elevate your expertise and contribute to a more efficient and sustainable future in analytical workflows.Each session is specifically designed to address essential topics that directly impact your daily practices, making it relevant for all professionals working in a chemical analysis laboratory.<h3>Day 5: Friday, 14 February</h3><h4>Roundtable Expert Discussion</h4>Our experts will come together to discuss the best practices to streamline your analytical workflows and enhance your efficiency. We will cover some questions asked during the week, as well as answer new questions during the roundtable discussion. &nbsp;<blockquote>Presenter: Ernie Hillier (Independent Pharmaceutical Consultant, EJH Consulting)</blockquote>

Webinar Series & Expert Roundtable (Day 5)

Webinar Series & Expert Roundtable (Day 5) - Roundtable Expert Discussion

Food and environment testing labs face many challenges and are under pressure to maximize efficiency, productivity, and profitability. Customers expect rapid analysis, with testing done using best-in-class instrument and methods that comply with constantly evolving test regulations. Agilent provides instrumentation, software, consumable, services, and support to help you meet your food and environment testing challenges.In this second session we will talk about the analysis of microplastics in the environment and food.<blockquote>Presenter:&nbsp; Dr. Nopparat Vorapalawut (Spectroscopy Solutions Development Manager, Agilent Technologies)Nopparat joined Agilent Technologies in position of Spectroscopy Application Field Service Engineer and is currently Agilent’s Spectroscopy product specialist based in Thailand.She graduated Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry and having previously worked in post-doctoral researcher in France and join Agilent in 2016.At Agilent, she is supporting in technical sales and requirement from customers.</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Optimizing your food environmental testing: Expert tips and insights with atomic and molecular spectroscopy

Molecular Spectroscopy

In this second session we will talk about the analysis of microplastics in the environment and food.

Session 2: Molecular Spectroscopy

Since its development in 1883, the Kjeldahl method of protein determination had been the standard in laboratories across the world. It wasn’t until the 1990s that the Dumas method began acquiring a foothold. Though the Dumas method was technically older than the Kjeldahl, only recent technological developments have made it easily accessible to labs, and “easily accessible” is certainly one way to describe the modern Dumas method of protein determination—especially how LECO does it!Join us for this 30 minute webinar where Michael Jakob, LECO European Product Manager, discusses how LECO’s protein analyzers streamline the Dumas method for protein determination. The webinar also features an online demonstration of running a sample on the FP828 in our Berlin lab.<blockquote>Presenter: Michael Jakob (LECO European Product Manager)</blockquote>

LECO: Protein Done Right with LECO - 1 Method, 1 Calibration, 1 Speed ... Fast 

Kjeldahl vs Dumas - How Do You Determine Protein?

Join us for this 30 minute webinar where Michael Jakob discusses how LECO’s protein analyzers streamline the Dumas method for protein determination.

By attending this presentation, you will:<ul><li>Learn strategies to tackle elemental analytical challenges while promoting sustainability in the battery recycling and refining process.</li><li>Discover how automation enhances accuracy and efficiency in analytical processes, from streamlined workflows to automated calibration preparation.</li><li>Explore the use of advanced dilution systems to boost sample throughput, simplify liquid sample handling, and ensure consistent precision.</li><li>Learn about sustainable lithium extraction techniques using deep eutectic solvents, a method that is more environmentally friendly and efficient compared to traditional methods.</li></ul>Event OverviewJoin us for an insightful webinar on sustainable lithium-ion battery recycling! Discover greener solvents and learn how ICP-OES seamlessly handles alternatives to traditional inorganic solutions. Explore how managing elemental impurities optimizes battery performance, yield, and safety. Gain insights into cutting-edge tools like ICP-OES and the ADS 2 auto-diluter system for precise element quantification for refined materials. Streamline your workflow with automation to enhance accuracy and efficiency. Don’t miss this opportunity to transform recycling practices and drive a greener future!Key Topics<ul><li>Actionable insights for sustainability and analytical challenge</li><li>Automation for workflow optimization</li><li>Advanced systems for increased throughput and precision</li></ul>Who Should Attend?<ul><li>Analytical chemists, laboratory managers, battery recycling specialists, environmental scientists, material scientists, and engineers.</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Leo Huang (Atomic Spectroscopy Application Scientist, Agilent Technologies)Leo Huang is based at Agilent’s Spectroscopy Technology Innovation Centre in Melbourne, Australia, and is participating in an internship program as an Application Scientist. Along with the internship, Leo continues his studies in Environmental Sciences and is interested in initiatives that promote sustainability.Leo has experience with experimental procedures, report write-up and attention to best laboratory practices. With a foundation in chemistry and a passion for environmental protection, Leo aims to contribute to an Innovative solutions that address pressing environmental challenges.Presenter: Ana Gonzalez (Atomic Spectroscopy Application Scientist, Agilent Technologies)Ana is based in Wilmington, Delaware, USA. With a robust background in atomic spectroscopy instruments, Ana boasts international experience in the development and validation of analytical methods tailored for the geochemical industry. Her expertise extends to lithium-ion battery technology, where she has made significant contributions to the comprehensive understanding of lithium brine characterization in South America, as well as the analysis of lithium battery components such as cathodes, anodes, and electrolytes. Ana's proficiency also encompasses molecular spectroscopy and chemometrics, as evidenced by her notable publications in these fields. She holds a Master of Science degree in Plant Biotechnology from CINVESTAV, México, complemented by a Bachelor of Science degree in Biotechnology Engineering. With her diverse skill set and passion for advancing scientific knowledge, Ana continues to drive innovation and excellence in her field. &nbsp;</blockquote>

Separation Science: Eco-Friendly Extraction Methods for Lithium-Ion Battery Recycling and Elemental Analysis of Impurities in Recovered Metal Sulphates

Eco-Friendly Extraction Methods for Lithium-Ion Battery Recycling and Elemental Analysis of Impurities in Recovered Metal Sulphates

Sustainable lithium-ion battery recycling! Discover greener solvents and learn how ICP-OES seamlessly handles alternatives to traditional inorganic solutions.

Eco-Friendly Lithium Battery Recycling & Impurity Analysis

With the growing number and diversity of microorganisms infecting humans and animals and 2024 data showing a rise in zoonotic diseases, accurate microbiological testing is vital for detecting foodborne pathogens, spoilage organisms, and technological strains.In a food veterinary laboratory, the identification and typing of pathogens such as Salmonella, Listeria, and moulds are crucial for ensuring food safety and public health. This scientific panel focuses on advanced methodologies for detecting these microorganisms, including rapid techniques such as MALDI-TOF MS and FTIR-spectroscopy.Foodborne pathogens like Salmonella, Listeria, and moulds pose significant risks to public health, making their accurate identification and typing in food and veterinary laboratories essential. PCR, FTIR-spectroscopy and MALDI-TOF MS offer different approaches. MALDI-TOF MS identifies microorganisms based on their unique protein fingerprints, providing rapid and cost-effective results. This technique is particularly advantageous for data analysis up to species level, due to its speed, as it can deliver results within minutes once the organism is cultured.Key questions to be addressed in the panel include: Which is the recommended method for quick, broad-spectrum identification? Are MALDI-TOF MS and FTIR-spectroscopy effective tools for confirming Salmonella and Listeria? And can FTIR-spectroscopy deliver same-day identification and typing results once the organism is cultured?Furthermore, this panel will explore the latest advancements in pathogen confirmation from colony material, including new workflows for mould identification and the application of FTIR-spectroscopy for contamination root cause analysis. Attendees will also hear about new applications of FTIR-spectroscopy for faster, more accurate Salmonella and Listeria typing.&nbsp;Key learning points:<ul><li>New database content of MALDI-TOF MS</li><li>New workflow of confirmation and typing of Salmonella and Listeria by MALDI-TOF MS and FTIR-spectroscopy</li><li>New workflow for identification of moulds.</li></ul><div><blockquote>Presenter: Francis Muchaamba (Postdoc Researcher at Institute for Food Safety and Hygiene, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich )Currently Postdoc Researcher at University of Zurich. Doctor of Veterinary Medicine &amp; Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Zurich, CH. Study of Veterinary Medicine at University of Zimbabwe.Presenter: Sébastien Vacher (Scientific Affairs)Nearly 20 years with &nbsp;Conidia. Research Doctorate, Microbiology at University Claude Bernard Lyon and formation sur la gestion d’entreprises, at emlyon business school.Presenter: Olaf Degen (Director Industry Microbiology)Worked for five years at Bruker and is currently Director Industry Microbiology. Microbiology Researcher at Humboldt University Berlin. Dipl.-Biologist at Freie University Berlin. MBA, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA &amp; WHU, Vallendar, Germany.&nbsp;Presenter: Sarah Guerriat (Researcher at Department of Food technology, Safety and Health)Recently finished Doctor of Veterinary Medicine at University of Liège. Study of Veterinary Medicine at Université libre de Bruxelles, Belgium.</blockquote>&nbsp;</div>

New Food Magazine: Enhancing food safety labs with rapid detection of Salmonella, Listeria and moulds

Enhancing food safety labs with rapid detection of Salmonella, Listeria and moulds

Advanced methodologies for detecting microorganisms, including rapid techniques such as MALDI-TOF MS and FTIR-spectroscopy.

MALDI-TOF MS and FTIR detection of pathogens

<h4>The Problem:</h4>Buffer exchange and concentration of biologic samples can be time-consuming and frustrating, even with a small number of samples. Achieving precise targets often requires repeated adjustments, costing valuable time and focus.<h4>The Solution:</h4>Unagi is the first fully hands-free benchtop solution for buffer exchange and sample concentration. It automates all the tedious steps typically required, letting you process up to 8 samples at once with starting volumes from 0.5 to 8 mL. With intuitive software and precise process control, Unagi ensures you consistently hit your exchange and concentration targets — with recoveries of 96% or higher.<h4>The Proof:</h4>Join us to see just how easy it is to run buffer exchange or concentration workflows on Unagi. We’ll demonstrate the process using real biologic samples and show how Unagi delivers accurate, consistent results for proteins and mAbs.<blockquote>Presenter: Nelis Denys (Product Manager, Unagi, Unchained Labs)Moderator: Ross Walton, PhD (Sr. Applications Scientist, Unchained Labs)</blockquote>

Unchained Labs: Change it up with hands-free buffer exchange on Unagi

Change it up with hands-free buffer exchange on Unagi

Unagi automates buffer exchange and concentration for biologics—hands-free, fast, and accurate with ≥96% recovery. See it in action in this webinar.