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

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

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

LabRulez at analytica 2026

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

News from LabRulezICPMS Library - Week 13, 2026

Article

Events

Application

Science and research

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

Eurachem

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

LabRulez

Agilent Technologies

Bruker

Shimadzu Corporation

<p><strong>AA or ICP-OES/MS is often viewed as the golden standard to analyze elements during the pharmaceutical manufacturing process, from drug discovery to the QA/QC of final formulations.</strong></p>
<p>While extremely accurate, these techniques have the downside of requiring the sample to be in liquid form when analyzing, resulting in a very arduous sample-preparation process and long analysis time.</p>
<p>In this seminar, we would introduce Energy-Dispersive X-Ray Fluoroscopy (EDX) as an alternative technique to perform elemental analysis that requires little sample preparation, is easy to use and can provide results quickly; and how it could be used in various areas of the pharmaceutical industry.</p>
<p>Learning Objectives:</p>
<ul>
<li><p><strong>Understanding how EDX can be used to perform elemental analysis</strong></p>
</li>
<li><p><strong>Understanding how EDX can be used in the Pharma Industry</strong></p>
</li>
<li><p><strong>Advantages of using EDX for elemental analysis</strong></p>
</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Tan Teck Beng (Senior Product Specialist, Shimadzu (Asia Pacific) Pte. Ltd.)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Tan Teck Beng has been providing application support for XRF, XRD, EPMA, SPM and ESCA for the past 19 years in Shimadzu (Asia Pacific). He has conducted numerous Application Seminars and Workshops on Materials Characterization/Failure Analysis/Restriction of Hazardous Substances in many countries in the region, including Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, India, Philippines, Myanmar, Vietnam and Singapore.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>He is currently providing Application and Technical Support for Shimadzu&#39;s Scientific Instruments for more than 200 companies in Asia Pacific Region.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Mizuno Motohisa (Deputy General Manager, Scientific Sales, Shimadzu (Asia Pacific) Pte. Ltd.)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Mizuno-san has worked for Sales for the past 20 years in Shimadzu Japan. He has worked at Shimadzu’s Tokyo and Kyushu and Kansai branch offices and has extensive experience in catering to customers belonging to pharma, academia, food and chemical, among others. Before moving to Shimadzu (Asia Pacific), he served as a Sales Manager in the Kansai branch for the past 3 years, where he was in-charge of pharma customers as part of the Analytical &amp; Measuring Instruments Division.</p>
</blockquote>


Shimadzu: EDX: A Fast & Simple Technique for Pharmaceutical Elemental Analysis

EDX: A Fast & Simple Technique for Pharmaceutical Elemental Analysis

Energy-Dispersive X-Ray Fluoroscopy (EDX) as an alternative technique to perform elemental analysis that requires little sample preparation.

EDX: A Fast & Simple Technique

<p><strong>Over the past few decades, the widespread utility and applicability of X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) in research and development has made it the most popular and widely used technique of surface analysis.</strong></p>
<p>Our latest generation spectrometer, the AXIS Supra+, combines market leading spectroscopic and imaging capabilities with automation to ensure high sample throughput and ease of use. State-of-the-art performance including fast, high spatial resolution XPS imaging reveals the lateral distribution of surface chemistry and aids further characterisation with selected area analysis. We demonstrate the capabilities of the AXIS Supra+ and the technique of XPS in answering materials characterisation questions in application areas such as thin-films, biomaterials and Li-ion batteries.</p>
<p>Learning Objectives:</p>
<ul>
<li><p><strong>Understand the basic principles of XPS Instrumentation</strong></p>
</li>
<li><p><strong>Achieve a total peace of mind for user through the highest level of automation</strong></p>
</li>
<li><p><strong>Understand importance of high sensitivity &amp; high energy resolution XPS</strong></p>
</li>
<li><p><strong>Explore new opportunities by high spatial resolution parallel imaging</strong></p>
</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Simon Hutton (Ph.D.) (Sales Manager, Kratos Analytical Ltd)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Dr. Hutton is currently Sales Manager for surface analysis products at Kratos Analytical. He started as an applications specialist and still has a &#39;hands-on&#39; approach to instrument sales, acquiring applications data when time allows. Simon has many years experience of XPS and surface analysis.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p> <strong>Presenter:</strong> Adam Roberts (Ph.D.) (Marketing Manager, Kratos Analytical Lt)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Dr. Roberts joined Kratos Analytical as an Applications Specialist in the Surface Analysis business in 1998. With over 20 years of experience in applications of surface analysis for materials characterisation Adam has great depth of knowledge of the subject. This scientific experience has been developed in parallel with commercial sales and marketing of the scientific instruments supplied by Kratos Analytical.</p>
</blockquote>


Shimadzu: X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy Technology

X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy Technology

Understand the basic principles of XPS Instrumentation.

<p><strong>Microwave Plasma Atomic Emission Spectrometer (MP-AES) is a suitable instrument for the multi-elemental analysis of a wide range of sample types, including complex organic matrices, and with the lowest cost of ownership.</strong></p>
<p>Faster, easy to use and with better performance than Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AA), this technique is used in various industries. In this seminar we will discuss the basics, tips and tricks and applications for the MP-AES.</p>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Sima Singha, PhD (ICP-OES Application Scientist, Atomic Spectroscopy, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>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.</p>
</blockquote>


Agilent Technologies: Fundamentals of Atomic Spectroscopy: MP-AES

Fundamentals of Atomic Spectroscopy: MP-AES

The basics, tips and tricks and applications for the MP-AES.

<p><strong>This series will go through the Fundamentals of Atomic Spectroscopy, with a focus on Flame and Graphite Furnace AA.</strong></p>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Greg Gilleland (Application Scientist, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>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.</p>
</blockquote>


Agilent Technologies: Fundamentals of Atomic Spectroscopy: AA

Fundamentals of Atomic Spectroscopy: AA

Fundamentals of Atomic Spectroscopy, with a focus on Flame and Graphite Furnace AA.

<p><strong>Understanding the plasma fundamentals is crucial in optimizing your ICP system to perform its best in different applications.</strong></p>
<p>In this webinar, the formation of an analytical plasma, different temperature zones of a plasma, as well as the effects of instrument parameters on the plasma condition will be discussed. With the basic understanding of plasma fundamentals, you and your ICP system can be the best partner at work!</p>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Yan Cheung (Applications Chemist, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Yan received her Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry from Indiana University Bloomington. She joined Agilent Technologies as an Application Scientist in the Life Science and Chemical Analysis team in April 2020. Yan has extensive experience in operating and method development in ICP-MS. Yan also has years of experience working in the oil and gas industry.</p>
</blockquote>


Agilent Technologies: Analytical Plasma Fundamentals and the Impact on your Results

Analytical Plasma Fundamentals and the Impact on your Results

The formation of an analytical plasma, different temperature zones of a plasma, as well as the effects of instrument parameters on the plasma condition.

Analytical Plasma Fundamentals and the Impact on your Result

<p><strong>Techniques and tools for improved wash out of “sticky” elements, such as B, Tl, and Hg, on an Agilent ICP-MS will be discussed.</strong></p>
<p>An understanding where the individual elements stick in the instrument aids in the chemistry and the sequence of rinse solutions used for their removal.  Use of the Pre-emptive rinse and Intelligent Rinse features within the MassHunter software greatly improve washout of these sticky elements.  Features and setup of an Integrated Sample Introduction System (ISIS) also reduce carry over of these elements. Eliminating contamination increases the probability that accurate sample results can be obtained.  Sources of common lab contaminants and methods used for their elimination will also be discussed. A semi-Cool plasma technique may be discussed to demonstrate how to calibrate and obtain somewhat lower levels of alkali metals in the presence of their interferences.</p>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Ana García-González (Atomic Spectroscopy Application Scientist, Agilent Technologies)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Ana Garcia is the Atomic Spectroscopy Application Scientist at Agilent Technologies. Ana has a broad background in atomic spectroscopy technologies, including international experience developing and validating analytical spectroscopy methods for the geochemical industry. She has also published in the fields of molecular spectroscopy and chemometrics. Ana holds a MSc in plant Biotechnology at CINVESTAV, México, and a Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology Engineering.</p>
</blockquote>


Agilent Technologies: How to Minimize Contamination and Carry Over Issues on ICP-MS

How to Minimize Contamination and Carry Over Issues on ICP-MS

Sources of common lab contaminants and methods used for their elimination.

How to Minimize Contamination and Carry Over Issues

<p><strong>Trace elemental analysis by inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) is an essential analysis technique in regulated and non-regulated laboratories.</strong></p>
<p>Join us to learn how advances in ICP-MS are unlocking the true potential of this technique by removing barriers and providing significant insights that simplify workflows and reduce common time traps in ICP-MS analysis.</p>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> L. Craig Jones (ICP-MS Application Scientist, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Craig has been with Agilent for over 15 years as an ICP-MS applications scientist. He has been involved with multiple type of applications for ICP-MS, including environmental, pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, semiconductor, geologic, and clinical analyses, to name a few. Previous to Agilent he worked in an environmental lab performing analysis and supervising both the inorganic and organic sections of the laboratory. In his spare time, Craig enjoys volunteering at the local marine science center, mountain biking, hiking and relaxing at the beach. Craig obtained a bachelor of science degree in chemistry from Fort Lewis College in Durango, CO.</p>
</blockquote>


Agilent Technologies: Effortless Trace Element Analysis: Avoid Common Time Traps with a Smart ICP-MS

Effortless Trace Element Analysis: Avoid Common Time Traps with a Smart ICP-MS

Learn how advances in ICP-MS are unlocking the true potential of this technique by removing barriers and providing significant insights that simplify workflows.

Effortless Trace Element Analysis: Avoid Common Time Traps

<div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><p><strong>Our third and last part of the series "FT-IR Spectroscopy in Academia" is all about bio sciences. Martin Luft and Michel Stromereder begin their presentation with a brief look at the literature and continue by highlighting recent advances in protein research. More fundamental applications are also presented, with regular dips into adjacent topics to demonstrate the true value of FT-IR in the bio science.</strong></p><h5><strong>Goal of the Webinar:</strong></h5></div><div><div><div><div><div><div><p>Demonstrate the unique abilities and high relevance of FT-IR spectroscopy in bio science and provide the audience with a basic technical understanding of how proteins and other complex biological samples are analyzed.</p><h5><strong>Who Should Attend:</strong></h5></div></div></div></div></div><div><div><div><div><div><div><ul><li>PhD students, post-docs, professors</li><li>University staff and students</li><li>Biotech researchers</li><li>Biotech industry professionals</li><li>Bio science enthusiasts</li></ul><h5><strong>Topics Discussed:</strong></h5></div><div><div><div><div><div><div><ul><li>Proteins in biology, pharma, and food science</li><li>API and formulation development in pharma</li><li>Biochemicals and biopolymers in material science</li><li>Biofluids and tissue imaging in medical science</li></ul></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Martin Luft (Application Specialist)</p><div><p>Martin Luft has been an application specialist in the field of FT-IR spectroscopy and its application in life science for more than 20 years.</p></div><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Michel Stromereder (Product Manager)</p><p>Michel Stromereder joined Bruker as a product manager and is responsible for the life science solution portfolio of the INVENIO product line.</p></blockquote></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>

Bruker: FT-IR in Academia: Bio Science Applications

FT-IR in Academia: Bio Science Applications

Learn about the unique role of FT-IR in biosciences and gain a basic understanding of how proteins and complex biological samples are analyzed.

<p><strong>A standard ATR measurement using FT-IR technique for the mid IR spectral range usually lasts a few seconds to half a minute. This is very convenient and fast for identification, verification of substance or similar routine analysis. But when it comes to applications, for which temporal resolution is required, e.g. kinetics studies, reaction monitoring, identification and separation of intermediate species or characterization of pulsed laser, time-resolved FT-IR spectroscopy (TRS) is mandatory.</strong></p><p>With up-to-date electronics, long-time experience and knowhow, Bruker as a FT-IR manufacturer can provide research spectrometers achieving a temporal resolution of a few ms , µs or even ns, depending on the applied TRS technique. The rapid-scan technique is limited to a time resolution in the low millisecond range and is widely used to characterize the kinetics of single shot chemical reactions. For repetitive kinetics, step-scan overcomes these limitations and reaches a time resolution down to the low nanosecond range. Interleaved TRS is a technique applicable to a certain class of repetitive kinetics, where the measurement time is used much more efficiently compared to step-scan. A Bruker research spectrometer can be equipped with all above TRS options. Depending on the application and the required temporal resolution, one of these options can be applied.</p><p>In the upcoming free-of-charge two-part webinar about TRS techniques you will learn about the functional principles, practical handling, instrumental setups and application fields of the time-resolved FT-IR techniques.</p>

Bruker: Different TRS Techniques of FT-IR

Different TRS Techniques of FT-IR

This free two-part webinar covers the principles, setup, handling, and applications of time-resolved FT-IR (TRS) techniques in research and practical use.

<p><strong>In an emission experimental setup, the sample itself acts as light source of the spectrometer and may emit light in various scenarios, e.g.: thermal emission, photoluminescence or the characterization of self-made lasers and other emission devices. Therefore, emission spectroscopy is established in versatile application fields in academia as well as in industrial applied research &amp; development or failure analysis.</strong></p><p>Bruker provides innovative instrumental solutions for emission spectroscopy with a broad palette of research spectrometers, dedicated measurement modules and accessories. In a series of customer webinars, we will explain the basic principles and give application examples as well as practical handling hints for emission spectroscopy.</p><div><div><div><div><blockquote><h5><strong>Part 1: General Setup of Emission Experiments and Determination of Emissivity.</strong></h5><p><a data-g-name="CallToAction" data-tracking="{&quot;classification&quot;:&quot;default&quot;,&quot;webinarDate&quot;:1595203200000,&quot;onWebinar&quot;:true,&quot;external&quot;:true}" data-protectable="" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://register.gotowebinar.com/recording/6908255056900555277"><strong>Watch Recording of Part 1&nbsp;</strong></a></a></p></blockquote><div><blockquote><h5><strong>Part 2: Photoluminescence (PL) Experiments: Challenges and the Suitable Instrumental Solutions.</strong></h5><p><a data-g-name="CallToAction" data-tracking="{&quot;classification&quot;:&quot;default&quot;,&quot;webinarDate&quot;:1595203200000,&quot;onWebinar&quot;:true,&quot;external&quot;:true}" data-protectable="" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://register.gotowebinar.com/recording/216857088501568015"><strong>Watch Recording of Part 2&nbsp;</strong></a></a></p></blockquote><div><blockquote><h5><strong>Part 3: Step Scan as a Powerful Tool for Emission Experiments and Source Characterization.</strong></h5><p><a data-g-name="CallToAction" data-tracking="{&quot;classification&quot;:&quot;default&quot;,&quot;webinarDate&quot;:1595203200000,&quot;onWebinar&quot;:true,&quot;external&quot;:true}" data-protectable="" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://register.gotowebinar.com/recording/6306834291730245889">W<strong>atch Recording of Part 3&nbsp;</strong></a></a></p></blockquote></div></div></div></div></div></div>

FTIR Emission Spectroscopy

We will explain the basic principles and give application examples as well as practical handling hints for emission spectroscopy.

ICPMS webinars focusing on Academy/Principles - page 8