<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

<p><strong>IR spectroscopy is a ubiquitous analytical technique that was first used during World War II. Since that time it has undergone significant development, providing a means for the analysis of many types of samples both in the laboratory and in the field.</strong></p>
<p>This session will focus on the theory of Infrared and will discuss some modern infrared analytical techniques.</p>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Louis Tisinger, PhD (Application Engineer, Molecular Spectroscopy, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Louis (Lou) Tisinger has a Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry from Miami University in Oxford Ohio, where his graduate research involved the study of ATR imaging and microscope performance in vibrational spectroscopy. Most of his career has been related to pre- and post-sales support of FTIR spectrometers, microscopes, imaging systems, and thermal analytical instruments, focusing on analyzing customer samples, demonstrations, post-sales training, troubleshooting, and R&amp;D.</p>
</blockquote>


Agilent Technologies: A Discussion on the Theory of IR Spectroscopy

A Discussion on the Theory of IR Spectroscopy

This session will focus on the theory of Infrared and will discuss some modern infrared analytical techniques.

<p><strong>Why are corrected baselines important in making a good uv-vis (nir) measurement? What are the components of a baseline and what do they tell us about the performance of the instrument? We will be examining these and other baseline questions during this presentation/demo.</strong></p>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Mark Fisher, PhD (Application Engineer, Molecular Spectroscopy, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Mark, an Application Scientist for Agilent Technologies, has over 30 years of experience in molecular spectroscopy. He has held roles in Agilent&#39;s UV-Vis-NIR, fluorescence, and atomic absorption product portfolios. In addition to identifying industry trends and new business needs, Mark&#39;s responsibilities include application development, pre and post-sales support, as well as acting as a customer advocate for new product and technology opportunities. Mark received his doctorate in analytical chemistry from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.</p>
</blockquote>


Agilent Technologies: What’s in a UV-Vis-NIR Baseline

What’s in a UV-Vis-NIR Baseline

Why are corrected baselines important in making a good uv-vis (nir) measurement? What are the components of a baseline and what do they tell us?

<p><strong>Polarizers are a common accessory on UV-VIS-NIR spectrometers.  Though not needed for every measurement, there are certain common experiments where it is important to have one.</strong></p>
<p>We will discuss in this presentation how polarizers operate in the spectrometer and some examples of when they are needed for transmission and reflection spectroscopy.</p>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Scott Melis, PhD (Application Scientist, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Scott Melis has a PHD in Physics from Georgetown University in Washington, DC and started with Agilent in 2021 as a Molecular Spectroscopy Application Scientist. In his graduate work, Scott studied nanoparticle formation and growth for a variety of applications. Projects that he worked with include developing processes to deposit and characterize semiconducting molecular nano-cocrystals for use in optoelectronic devices as well as controlling polymer nanoparticle size through rapid mixing conditions.</p>
</blockquote>


Agilent Technologies: When Do I Need a Polarizer on my UV-Vis-NIR?

When Do I Need a Polarizer on my UV-Vis-NIR?

We will discuss how polarizers operate in the spectrometer and some examples of when they are needed for transmission and reflection spectroscopy.

<p><strong>Your new Cary 3500 UV-Vis has arrived, been installed, and now you need to collect data. This presentation will walk you through various applications such as Scan, Kinetics, and Thermal Melts and the process of setting up instrument parameters and collecting data.</strong></p>

Agilent Technologies: Agilent Webinars On Demand

Scans, Kinetics, and Thermal Melts: An UV/Vis Application Workshop

Cary 3500 UV-Vis - We will walk you through various applications such as Scan, Kinetics, and Thermal Melts and the process of setting up instrument parameters

Scans, Kinetics, and Thermal Melts: An UV/Vis Application 

<p><strong>Cannabis is a new and popular industry with potential for exponential growth over the coming decade. As the industry continues to mature, regulations surrounding its quality are expected to become more stringent.&nbsp;</strong></p><p>This webinar will discuss the basic principles needed to ensure that laboratory data are both compliant and defensible according to ISO 17025 and current Good Manufacturing Procedures (cGMP). The webinar will also cover the differences between method validation, verification, and modification. The instrumental method validation process will be reviewed step-by-step and will include the documentation necessary for methods to be approved by ISO-17025:2017 auditors as well as most other regulatory bodies. Tips and tricks for successful validations are provided.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Topics covered include:</strong></p><ul><li>Data Integrity</li><li>Instrument Qualifications</li><li>Method Validation</li><li>Method performance parameters like accuracy, precision, linearity, LOD, LOQ, and robustness</li><li>ISO-17025:2017 Documentation</li></ul><p><strong>Key Learning Objectives:</strong></p><ul><li>Fundamentals of data integrity</li><li>Importance of instrument qualifications</li><li>Understand why and when a method needs to be validated</li><li>Elements of method validation</li><li>Tips and tricks in method validation</li></ul><p><strong>Who Should Attend:</strong></p><ul><li>Laboratory personnel working in compliant laboratories and/or requiring reliable and accurate analysis data.</li><li>Testing facilities of cannabis-derived products (Hemp or Marijuana)</li><li>ISO 17025 accredited labs</li></ul><p><strong>In case of any technical questions. please contact Martha Devia: </strong><a href="mailto:Mdevia@mjhlifesciences.com"><strong>Mdevia@mjhlifesciences.com</strong></a></p><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Donna Payne (Analytical Chemist, Quality Systems Manager ISO 17025:2017 Certified Food Lab, CEO AnalytEval)</p><p>Growing up in South Florida, Donna Payne wanted to be a scientist from age 9. She graduated from the University of Miami with a BS in Chemistry. Donna attended graduate school at the University of South Florida in Tampa, earning an MS degree in Physical Analytical Chemistry. She gained invaluable experience in Quality Assurance working on the manned space program as well as other aerospace and defense programs. Donna spent 17 years as a professor of Chemistry at two colleges in the Houston, Tx, area and has managed a private, ISO-17025:2017 certified analytical food lab for the last 6 years. She specializes in analytical method development and method validation.</p><p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Matt Abrahms (Compliance Application Expert, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)</p><p>Matt Abrahms is a laboratory compliance specialist focused on instrument qualifications and computer system validation. He is a frequent speaker at Agilent’s compliance seminars/webinars and has authored multiple whitepapers. He has performed over 100 instrument qualifications in GMP environments and works closely with Agilent’s customers to comply with new regulatory updates. As a specialist he collaborates with Agilent’s solutions unit and service teams to ensure the quality of Agilent’s compliance delivery.</p></blockquote>

How to Ensure Laboratory Compliance in Your Cannabis Testing Lab

The basic principles needed to ensure that laboratory data are both compliant and defensible according to ISO 17025 and cGMP

How to Ensure Laboratory Compliance in Your Cannabis Lab

<p><strong>The analysis of toxic elements in cannabis is an important aspect, to assure that the final product is safe for both medicinal and recreational uses. Analysis of As, Cd, Hg &amp; Pb are of great importance, especially for those patients that have immunodeficiency’s as the presence of these elements would cause further complications in the associated recovery.&nbsp;</strong></p><p>Analysis of trace elements by ICP-MS is a routine, proven method to detect low levels of these elements in various matrices.In addition to the plant material and final products (edibles and oil concentrates for example), the analysis of all components used in the productions process, soils, nutrients is also necessary to determine if the plants are taking up toxic elements, as well as, the required elements for efficient growing processes. Final products and the associated processes to produce edibles and delivery method of the final product to the patient may also be analyzed to assure nothing is introduced during process manufacturing and drug delivery.&nbsp;</p><p>ICP-MS is a technique that is easy to use and allows a full story for the entire process from start to finish, assuring the products are safe and contain no toxic elements, but also include the necessary nutrients to produce the most effective product for distribution.</p><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter:</strong> L. Craig Jones (ICP-MS Application Scientist, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)</p><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>

Fundamentals of ICP-MS Analysis and Its Applications for Low Level Elemental Determination in Cannabis

The analysis of toxic elements in cannabis is an important aspect to assure that the product is safe. Analysis of trace elements by ICP-MS is a routine method.

ICP-MS Basics - Low-Level Elemental Analysis in Cannabis

<p><strong>The Importance of Reliable THC Concentration and the Role of Analytical Data.</strong></p><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Jodi McDonald (President, Keystone Labs Inc.)</p></blockquote>

The Importance of Reliable THC Concentration and the Role of Analytical Data

The Importance of Reliable THC Concentration and the Role of Analytical Data.

The Importance of Reliable THC Concentration

<div><div><div><div><p><strong>The basic principles of FTIR-based gas analysis are covered in this webinar. We will show how easy it is to define quantification methods to determine gas concentrations even in complex gas mixtures. Quantification of gas mixtures is performed without requiring calibration measurements.</strong>&nbsp;</p><p>In addition, simulated IR spectra made with the consideration of actual measurement parameters (e.g., temperature, pressure, spectral resolution, etc.) can be modeled with the new simulation function in the OPUS GA software.</p><h5><strong>Key Learning Points:</strong></h5></div><div><div><div><div><div><div><ul><li>Introduce yourself to real-time, automatic, FTIR-based Gas Analysis</li><li>Learn how Bruker allows for the calibration-free analysis of over 350 compounds with no standard gases required!</li><li>For the first time, learn about Bruker's new Simulation Tool which equips the user with the ability to optimize quantification themselves of even complex gas mixtures</li></ul><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter: &nbsp;</strong>Dr. Benjamin Frank (Technical Sales Specialist - Raman and Gas Analytics)</p><p>CML Systems Sales &amp; Customer Service, Bruker Optics)</p></blockquote></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>

Bruker: Quantitative FTIR-Gas Analysis: As Easy As Can Be

Quantitative FTIR-Gas Analysis: As Easy As Can Be

The basic principles of FTIR-based gas analysis are covered in this webinar.

<div><div><div><div><p><strong>Our part two of the "FT-IR Spectroscopy in Academia" series is all about physics. Xia Stammer starts by introducing the technical principles of FT-IR spectroscopy. She explains how an interferometer works and how we can use its capabilities to answer typical, unusual and of course difficult questions in physics. Our presenter will then give an overview of the applications of FT-IR spectroscopy in physics.</strong></p><h5><strong>Goal of the webinar:</strong></h5></div><div><div><div><div><div><div><ul><li>Provide a fundamental introduction to the applications in which FT-IR is used in current physics research and to provide the audience with a basic technical understanding of infrared spectroscopy.</li></ul><h5><strong>Who Should Attend?</strong></h5></div></div></div></div></div><div><div><div><div><div><div><ul><li>PhD students</li><li>University staff and junior professors</li><li>Optics and spectroscopy enthusiasts</li><li>Research and development professionals</li></ul><h5><strong>Topics Discussed:</strong></h5></div><div><div><div><div><div><div><ul><li>Technical principles of FT-IR spectroscopy</li><li>Basics of time-resolved spectroscopic techniques</li><li>Meta material characterization</li><li>Emission spectroscopy (VCSEL, thermal)</li><li>Semiconductors and silicon</li><li>Superconductors</li></ul><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Dr. Xia Stammer&nbsp;</p><p>Dr. Xia Stammer studied physical chemisty at Ruhr-Uni Bochum and KIT with a focus on surface functionalization and characterization.</p><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Dr. Simon Hugo Schlindwein</p><p>Dr. Simon Hugo Schlindwein studied chemistry at the University of Stuttgart with a focus on organic phosphorus and sulfur chemistry.</p></blockquote></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>

Bruker: FT-IR in Academia: Physics Applications

 FT-IR in Academia: Physics Applications 

This webinar provides a fundamental introduction to FTIR applications in current physics research and offers a basic technical overview of infrared spectroscopy

 FT-IR in Academia: Physics Applications

<div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><p><strong>This 35-minute webinar gives a general outline of the applicability of infrared spectroscopy in the field of chemistry. The speakers briefly explain the basics of FT-IR spectroscopy and the according techniques to obtain molecular information. The goal is to give the audience a clear overview of the possible applications of FT-IR spectroscopy in chemistry. There will be a moderated live Q&amp;A session afterwards.</strong></p><h5><strong>Who Should Attend?</strong></h5></div><div><div><div><div><div><div><ul><li>PhD students</li><li>University staff</li><li>Laboratory managers</li><li>Junior professors</li></ul><h5><strong>Topics Discussed:</strong></h5></div><div><div><div><div><div><div><ul><li>FT-IR fundamentals and measurement techniques</li><li>reaction tracings</li><li>Investigation of catalytic processes</li><li>Crystallinity and polymorphism</li><li>Spectroscopy in the glovebox</li><li>FT-IR microscopy&nbsp;</li></ul></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Dr. Xia Stammer&nbsp;</p><p>Dr. Xia Stammer studied physical chemisty at Ruhr-Uni Bochum and KIT with a focus on surface functionalization and characterization.</p><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Dr. Simon Hugo Schlindwein</p><p>Dr. Simon Hugo Schlindwein studied chemistry at the University of Stuttgart with a focus on organic phosphorus and sulfur chemistry.</p></blockquote></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>

Bruker: FT-IR in Academia: Chemistry Applications

FT-IR in Academia: Chemistry Applications

This 35-minute webinar gives a general outline of the applicability of infrared spectroscopy in the field of chemistry.

ICPMS webinars focusing on Academy/Principles - page 9

FT-IR in Academia: Chemistry Applications

FT-IR in Academia: Physics Applications

Quantitative FTIR-Gas Analysis: As Easy As Can Be

The Importance of Reliable THC Concentration and the Role of Analytical Data

Fundamentals of ICP-MS Analysis and Its Applications for Low Level Elemental Determination in Cannabis

How to Ensure Laboratory Compliance in Your Cannabis Testing Lab

Scans, Kinetics, and Thermal Melts: An UV/Vis Application Workshop

When Do I Need a Polarizer on my UV-Vis-NIR?

What’s in a UV-Vis-NIR Baseline

A Discussion on the Theory of IR Spectroscopy

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