Eurachem and CITAC welcome analysts interested in the evaluation of chemical analysis uncertainty and in how to use this information in results interpretation. The Eurachem Week 2026 will begin with a training course on “Evaluation of the measurement uncertainty from in-house precision and recovery data” scheduled for Sunday, 10 May 2026. A two-days workshop on “Quality in Analytical Measurements: Uncertainty Evaluation and Results Interpretation” open to all interested participants will take place from 11 to 12 May 2026. On 13 May 2026, the Eurachem Working Groups will convene, followed by the Eurachem General Assembly, which will bring together the Executive and national delegates on 14 and 15 May. Both Working Group Meetings and the General Assembly are restricted to their members.The results of qualitative and quantitative chemical analyses should have an acceptable uncertainty, which should ideally be reported and considered in results interpretation.For many analytical applications, simplified uncertainty evaluations can determine uncertainty values that meet the defined requirements for this parameter. The workshop will focus on the key technical challenges involved in practical evaluations of measurement uncertainty based on precision and recovery data gathered during in-house method validation and quality control. There will be a discussion of how to model the variation of the measurement uncertainty within the analytical range and how to handle divergent recovery values from the analysis of various reference materials. A session on the use of measurement uncertainty in conformity assessment will explore how the risk of false conformity decisions can be managed.<blockquote><h5>New Eurachem guidance on using in-house precision and recovery data will be discussed at the workshop.</h5></blockquote>Topics will also include the validation and uncertainty evaluation for qualitative analyses with particular attention to current accreditation requirements for these types of analysis. The last session of the workshop will be dedicated to the evaluation of measurement uncertainty arising from sampling and using it to judge the fitness for purpose, and hence validation, of measurement procedures that include sampling. Four sessions of the workshop will include engaging breakout sessions where participants will have the chance to share their views about challenging aspects of the analytical work. Participants are invited to propose posters and oral communications on session topics or any other relevant topic for analytical chemists or stakeholders of the analytical work.<h3>Registration</h3><blockquote>👉<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://conferences.chemistry.pt/register/eurachem2026">Register here for the workshop</a></blockquote><h4>Registration Fees</h4><h5>Early bird (EUR) - Until April 15th</h5><ul><li>Workshop: Regular participant (11 &amp; 12 May 2026): 400 EUR</li><li>Workshop: Student (11 &amp; 12 May 2026): 250 EUR</li><li>Eurachem Working Group1 (13 May 2026): 75</li><li>General Assembly2 (14 &amp; 15 May 2026): 250</li><li>Training On Uncertainty Evaluation3 (10 May 2026): 150</li></ul><h5>After April 15th</h5><ul><li>Workshop: Regular participant (11 &amp; 12 May 2026): 450 EUR</li><li>Workshop: Student (11 &amp; 12 May 2026): 300 EUR</li><li>Eurachem Working Group1 (13 May 2026): 100</li><li>General Assembly2 (14 &amp; 15 May 2026): 300</li><li>Training On Uncertainty Evaluation3 (10 May 2026): 200</li></ul><blockquote>§ - 50 EUR reduction for members of Eurachem, CITAC, SPQ, RELACRE, ForMEQ and SPMet at the workshop.10% reduction for organisations that registered more than one participant.1 - Working group members2 - Eurachem members3 - 50% reduction for workshop participants</blockquote><h3>Workshop</h3><h4>Eurachem/CITAC Workshop on Quality in Analytical Measurements:</h4><h5>Uncertainty Evaluation and Results Interpretation</h5>The results of qualitative and quantitative chemical analyses should have an acceptable uncertainty, which should ideally be reported and considered in results interpretation. For many analytical applications, simplified uncertainty evaluations can determine uncertainty values meeting defined requirements for this parameter. The workshop will focus on the key technical challenges involved in practical evaluations of measurement uncertainty based on precision and recovery data gathered during in-house method validation. It will be discussed how to model the variation of the measurement uncertainty within the analytical range and how to handle divergent recovery values from the analysis of various reference materials. A session on the use of measurement uncertainty in conformity assessment will explore how the risk of false conformity decisions can be managed.Topics will also include the validation and uncertainty evaluation of qualitative analyses with particular attention to current accreditation requirements for these types of analysis. The last session of the workshop will be dedicated to the evaluation of measurement uncertainty arising from sampling and using it to judge the fitness for purpose, and hence validation, of measurement procedures that include sampling.Four sessions of the workshop will include engaging breakout sessions where participants will have the chance to share their views about challenging aspects of the analytical work. Participants are invited to propose posters and oral communications on session topics or any other relevant topic for analytical chemists or stakeholders of the analytical work.<h3>Training Course</h3><h4>Evaluation of the measurement uncertainty from in-house precision and recovery data</h4><ul><li>10 May 2026</li></ul>A course on the fundamentals of the evaluation of the measurement uncertainty from in-house precision and recovery data will be held on Sunday, 10 May 2026. This training is targeted for analysts with a basic understanding of the measurement uncertainty concept, how uncertainty components propagate, and how the combined uncertainty is expanded. Following the morning presentation of the theory of uncertainty evaluation, the afternoon will be dedicated to applying the theory to real-world cases. Trainees should have basic skills in using Microsoft Excel spreadsheets and bring a laptop with Microsoft Excel to complete the exercises. The interaction between trainers and trainees will be promoted to guarantee learning efficiency.<h5>Trainers:</h5><ul><li>Ricardo Bettencourt da Silva, Faculdade de Ciências da Universidade de Lisboa, Portugal (rjsilva@ciencias.ulisboa.pt)</li><li>Stephen L. R. Ellison - UK National Measurement Laboratory (NML) hosted at LGC, United Kingdom</li><li>Vicki Barwick - UK National Measurement Laboratory (NML) hosted at LGC, United Kingdom</li></ul><h4>Agenda</h4><h5>8:00 Registration</h5><h5>9:00 Opening</h5><h5>9:05 Identifying, combining, and expanding uncertainty components: Theory and examples</h5><h5>9:45 Precision uncertainty: Theory and examples</h5><h5>10:30 Coffee break</h5><h5>10:50 Trueness-related uncertainty: Theory and examples</h5><h5>12:00 Additional questions and discussion</h5><h5>12:30 Lunch</h5><h5>13:30 Application example 1</h5><h5>15:30 Coffee break</h5><h5>15:50 Application example 2</h5><h5>17:00 Additional questions and discussion</h5><h5>17:30 Closing</h5><h3>Venue</h3>The series of Eurachem events will be held in:<ul><li>Meliã Lisboa Aeroporto ****</li><li>Rua C,2 1749-125 Lisboa, Portugal&nbsp;</li></ul>

Eurachem/CITAC Workshop on Quality in Analytical Measurements 2026

Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezICPMS Library in the week of 9th February 2026? Check out new documents from the field of spectroscopy/spectrometry and related techniques!<blockquote>👉 <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library">SEARCH THE LARGEST REPOSITORY OF DOCUMENTS ABOUT SPECTROSCOPY/SPECTROMETRY RELATED TECHNIQUES</a></blockquote><blockquote>👉 Need info about different analytical techniques? Peek into <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/library">LabRulezLCMS</a> or <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library">LabRulezGCMS</a> libraries.</blockquote>This week we bring you application notes by Agilent Technologies, Metrohm, Shimadzu and Thermo Fisher Scientific!<h3>1. Agilent Technologies: Black Pepper Origin Differentiation Using Large ICP-MS Datasets and Chemometric Tools</h3>Elemental profiling using an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=1&amp;search=7850+ICP-MS">Agilent 7850 ICP-MS</a> and Agilent <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=1&amp;search=Mass+Profiler+Professional+software">Mass Profiler Professional (MPP) software</a><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_black_pepper_origin_7850_icp_ms_5994_8741en_agilent_7c190968ef.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Black pepper’s high value and global demand are drivers for economically motivated adulteration, a fraudulent practice that can pose public health risks. Because black pepper is most often sold in ground, crushed, or mixed forms, its supply chain is difficult to monitor and manage. Also, consumer campaigns against deforestation and the European Union Regulation on Deforestation-free (EUDR) products have increased calls for greater sourcing transparency. Products with a known geographical indication can demand a higher price. Companies do not want to become implicated in false claims about the sourcing of products, and many are keen to have full visibility of their products’ origin. To address this need, the European Commission has established the Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) system to protect regional specific products, thereby promoting their unique characteristics based on geographical origin and traditional competence of production. The PGI scheme has increased the demand for detailed information regarding the geographical source of food products, a trend that is likely to continue as EUDR is implemented across the EU and associated markets. Verifying the geographical origin of black pepper using elemental fingerprints is highly relevant to protecting value chain stakeholders, ensuring both quality and traceability while upholding the principles of food integrity.&nbsp;Several analytical methods can be used for profiling certain elements in foods. However, inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) is unique because of its rapid throughput, multi-element capability, ultratrace sensitivity, isotopic analysis, versatility across sample types, low sample volume requirements, compliance with regulatory requirements, and low cost.3&nbsp;The Agilent 7850 ICP-MS is equipped with an Octopole Reaction System (ORS4 ), a collision/reaction cell (CRC) that uses helium (He) gas and Kinetic Energy Discrimination (KED) to remove polyatomic interferences on key analytes.4 If left unchecked, these interferences can affect data accuracy in complex food products. The integration of the 7850 with Agilent ICP-MS MassHunter software streamlines data analysis. When integrated with chemometric analysis, ICP-MS demonstrates high precision in multi-elemental profiling of diverse food matrices, effectively distinguishing their geographical origin.5&nbsp;In this study, 150 black pepper samples from five countries (Brazil, Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Vietnam) were analyzed using the 7850 ICP-MS to obtain elemental fingerprints of the samples. Agilent Mass Profiler Professional (MPP) software was used to process the ICP-MS elemental data and to construct chemometric models for distinguishing the geographical origin of the samples, as adapted from Chilaka et al.5<h4>Experimental&nbsp;</h4><h5>Instrumentation&nbsp;</h5>An <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=1&amp;search=7850+ICP-MS">Agilent 7850 single-quadrupole ICP-MS</a> was used for the analysis of 38 elements in the black pepper samples. Sample introduction was performed via a peristaltic pump connected to an Agilent MicroMist nebulizer and an Agilent SPS 4 autosampler. All elements were measured using helium collision (He KED) mode, except for boron (B), which was analyzed in no gas mode. Instrument control was performed using <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=1&amp;search=MassHunter">Agilent ICP-MS MassHunter 5.1 software</a>, and data processing was conducted using <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=1&amp;search=Mass+Profiler+Professional+software">Agilent MPP software</a>, version 15.1. Instrument operating conditions as shown in Table 1.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>This study investigated the potential of ICP-MS elemental profiling coupled with chemometric analysis for geographical origin discrimination of black pepper samples from five countries, including Brazil, Cambodia, India, Indonesia, and Vietnam. A total of 38 elements was measured in 150 black pepper samples using the Agilent 7850 ICP-MS. Chemometric analysis was performed on the ICP-MS elemental data using Agilent Mass Profiler Professional (MPP) software. The PCA analysis exhibited satisfactory reliability and classification rates and demonstrated potential for the authentication of the geographical origin of black pepper. However, the separation of the Cambodian and Vietnamese samples was less distinct than the other groups, revealing potential similarities in elemental profiling between the bordering countries, which share similar climatic, geological, and agricultural conditions. Using LDA and RF classification models on the black pepper test set, we achieved a high overall accuracy in determining the geographical origin of the samples. These findings provide empirical support for the combined use of elementomics and chemometric techniques in black pepper authentication, contributing to fraud prevention. The study also demonstrates the potential of the method for application to other food types.<h3>2. Metrohm: Milk powder analysis by near-infrared spectroscopy</h3>Determination of moisture, fat, lactose, and protein content<ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_nir_128_download_867321cfb0.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>For milk powder producers, final product control is essential to meet strict regulatory standards, guarantee comprehensive quality assurance, ensure consistent nutritional quality, and extend shelf life. These are all especially important for infant formula and dairy ingredients used in sensitive applications. Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) is a fast, reagentfree method for measuring key quality parameters such as moisture, protein, lactose, and fat content directly in milk powder. The NIRS solution requires no sample preparation, enabling real-time monitoring either in the lab or directly on the production line. This allows producers to react quickly to process variations, minimize waste, and maintain product integrity batch after batch.<h4>EXPERIMENTAL EQUIPMENT&nbsp;</h4>More than 600 samples of powdered milk from different suppliers were analyzed on an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=56&amp;search=OMNIS+NIR">OMNIS NIR Analyzer</a> (Figure 1). The different milk powders were placed into an OMNIS sample cup and analyzed in diffuse reflection mode. To include sample variety, the sample rotated during measurement to collect spectra from different locations. The automatically averaged spectra were used for model development. Reference values were obtained by official methods, e.g., AOAC 927.05 (moisture), AOAC 939.02 (protein), and AOAC 932.06 (fat). For the lactose content determination, a phenol-sulfuric acid method was used.<h4>CONCLUSION</h4>This Application Note presented the analysis of milk powder using NIR spectroscopy. Models for several quality parameters (fat, protein, lactose, and moisture content) were created. Independent validation samples confirmed the robustness and reliability of the models, with high correlation coefficients and low prediction errors achieved across all parameters. Notably, the dataset included samples from diverse global origins, capturing a broad range of product variability. This study shows that NIRS can be successfully integrated into the quality control workflow for dairy powder analysis.<h3>3. Shimadzu: Analysis of Electrolyte and Electrode in LIB Degraded by Overcharge and High Temperature</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_01_01064_en_b4f9f4330a.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul><h4>User Benefits</h4><ul><li>ICP-AES enables accurate quantification of cathode material dissolved in electrolytes.</li><li>GC-MS assesses degradation from components in electrolytes with unknown usage.</li><li>EDXRF easily evaluates transition metals, phosphorus, fluorine, and other elements deposited on electrodes</li></ul>When lithium-ion batteries are used in EVs or ESS applications, numerous cells are connected in series and parallel to form modules, and multiple modules are further connected to construct a pack. In such configurations—where many cells are connected in series—the state of charge of individual cells varies, as shown in Figure 1. Moreover, because the cells are densely packed to reduce volume, the ambient temperature experienced by each cell also varies. In this application, we conducted cycle tests under overcharged or high-temperature conditions, disassembled the degraded pouch cells, and analyzed both the electrolytes and the electrodes.<h4>Analysis of electrolyte and electrode</h4>Electrolytes and electrodes were extracted from the batteries degraded through the cycle tests (hereafter referred to as “degraded cells”) and analyzed using the instruments shown in Figures 3–5. It is known that electrolytesin degraded cells contain transition metals (Ni, Co, Mn) dissolved from the cathode active material1). In addition, electrolyte solvents are known to generate characteristic degradation products as deterioration progresses2). By analyzing these degradation-related elements and compounds, the degradation state of the battery can be assessed. In this article, we propose a multifaceted evaluation of electrolytes using <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=3&amp;search=ICPE-9820">ICP-AES</a> and GC-MS. On both the cathode and anode, insulating layers known as CEI/SEI form on the electrode surfaces. Under improper charging conditions, excessive formation of these layers can lead to capacity loss. Furthermore, the dissolved metals from the cathode deposit and precipitate on the anode. These deposits can cause internal short circuits, posing risks such as fire hazards. While such electrode conditions are typically evaluated by ICP-AES or XPS to examine elemental content or surface chemical states, this article introduces a simpler evaluation method using <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=3&amp;search=EDX-8100">EDXRF</a>.<h4>Summary</h4>Analysis of the electrolytesfrom degraded batteries using ICP-AES and GC-MS revealed dissolution of transition metals as well as the formation of degradation products. Furthermore, EDXRF analysis of the electrodes enabled straightforward detection of changesin elemental composition, including transition metals, fluorine, and phosphorus. These analytical techniques allow for a multifaceted evaluation of battery degradation. In real-world battery operation, fluctuations in charging conditions and ambient temperature introduce variability in degradation states. By assessing degradation mechanisms individually, as demonstrated in thisreport, it is possible to obtain insights that contribute not only to improving intrinsic battery performance but also to optimizing implementation methods and control conditions.<h3>4. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Analyzing Spinel refractory MgO-Al2O3 premix using <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=2&amp;search=ARL%E2%84%A2+X%E2%80%99TRA+Companion">ARL X’TRA Companion XRD</a></h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/spinel_refractory_xrd_an41525_en_75f2527e78.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Spinel refractories—primarily magnesia–alumina (MgAl₂O₄)— are the workhorses of high-temperature linings in steel ladles, cement rotary kilns, glass tanks, and non-ferrous smelters. Their appeal lies in a combination of shock resistance, chemical stability against basic slags, and an expansion behavior that mitigates cracking. Depending on the duty, they are used as bricks, castables, or gunned repairs, sometimes with engineered microstructures that blend spinel with periclase, corundum, or zirconia to tune creep, corrosion, and spalling performance.&nbsp;X-ray diffraction (XRD) underpins manufacturing control from raw mix to fired product. During synthesis, XRD tracks the solid-state reaction of MgO and Al₂O₃ into spinel, verifying the disappearance of periclase and alumina and quantifying the spinel fraction by Rietveld analysis. Lattice parameters reveal cation stoichiometry and solid-solution effects; peak breadth trends indicate crystallite growth and microstrain, proxies for sintering progress. In finished components, XRD detects secondary phases such as calcium aluminates introduced by binders, slags, impurities, and it provides fingerprinting for batch-to-batch consistency after thermal exposure. Embedded into routine QA/QC, XRD shortens feedback loops, stabilizes recipes, and links processing conditions to the microstructure that governs refractory life.<h4>Instrument &amp; software&nbsp;</h4>The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=2&amp;search=ARL%E2%84%A2+X%E2%80%99TRA+Companion">Thermo Scientific™ ARL™ X’TRA Companion</a> X-Ray Diffractometer (c.f. Figure 1) is a simple, easy-to-use benchtop instrument for routine phase analysis as well as more advanced applications. The ARL X’TRA Companion uses a θ/θ goniometer (160 mm radius) in Bragg-Brentano geometry coupled with a 600 W X-ray source (Cu or Co). The radial and axial collimation of the beam is controlled by divergence and Soller slits, while air scattering is reduced by a variable beam knife. An integrated water chiller is available as an option. Thanks to the state-of-the art solid state pixel detector (55x55 μm pitch), the ARL X’TRA Companion provides very fast data collection and comes with single-click Rietveld quantification capabilities and automated result transmission to a LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System) seamless integrated into Thermo Scientific™ SolstiX™ Pronto instrument control software.<h4>Your benefits&nbsp;</h4>The ARL X’TRA Companion XRD workflow delivers answers in minutes, quantifying MgO, α-Al₂O₃, and MgAl₂O₄ while resolving Ca–Si silicates and trace Fe-spinels. Subtle differences between corundum and spinel are cleanly separated, and LOI drivers—carbonates, brucite, and Mg-sulfates—are identified and trended. These insights let you compute spinel potential, anticipate pore-closing expansion, and set the right pre-dry / prefire schedule to avoid spalling. You can clearly distinguish mid-grade, ore-derived feeds from premium low-silica materials, tighten incoming QA, and optimize formulations for cement/lime kilns, tundish linings, and other carbon-free basic applications.

News from LabRulezICPMS Library - Week 07, 2026

Although modern agriculture needs to be based on accurate real-time data on soil, plant, and environmental conditions, affordable, sufficiently sensitive, and robust monitoring devices for this purpose are currently missing. According to scientists, low-cost sensors based on new smart materials and printing technologies offer a suitable solution. The results of multidisciplinary research thus far and proposals for the development of these devices have been presented by researchers from Czechia, Great Britain, Spain, and the USA in a review article in the prestigious journal <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-026-68778-6#Abs1">Nature Communications</a>.“Sensor technologies for monitoring plant health are still in their infancy. Only simple sensors capable of monitoring basic parameters such as pH, soil moisture, or temperature are commonly available on the market. However, if farmers are to face current challenges, including climate change, and ensure sufficient food for humanity, they need much more effective tools that will enable them to monitor, for example, various pathogens, including bacteria and fungi. In our opinion, a suitable solution is a combination of new smart materials and printing for the production of inexpensive, durable, and scalable materials,” said the article’s first author, David Panáček from CATRIN, who worked on the study during his internship at Imperial College London.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CATRIN_Soucasne_senzory_nestaci_Vedci_navrhuji_novou_cestu_ke_sledovani_zdravi_rostlin_b4014952a3.jpg" alt="CATRIN: David Panáček" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CATRIN_Soucasne_senzory_nestaci_Vedci_navrhuji_novou_cestu_ke_sledovani_zdravi_rostlin_b4014952a3.jpg 208w," sizes="100vw" width="1536" height="1152">Sensors for monitoring plant health, for example, lag behind similar devices used in human medicine. According to the authors, advances in materials science, which will enable the development of scalable sensor technologies, play a key role in this potential shift. “Printing techniques, including inkjet printing, screen printing, aerosol printing, 3D printing, and direct laser writing, offer flexible ways to produce flexible sensors, large-area sensors, and sensors integrated directly into plants. The review article summarizes recent advances in printable low-dimensional materials for agricultural sensors, analyzes their physico-chemical properties in relation to sensor performance, and discusses key challenges and future opportunities requiring interdisciplinary integration,” said one of the corresponding authors, Michal Otyepka.The research brought together materials scientists, chemists, biologists, sensing experts, and printing technology specialists. Materials research and the use of graphene-based smart materials were led by scientists from CATRIN at Palacký University and VŠB-Technical University of Ostrava. Plant biologists from CATRIN contributed their knowledge of plant development, their responses to stress conditions, and the monitoring of their properties. Researchers from Imperial College London took care of the electronics, while representatives from<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/companies/36"> CEITEC – VUT</a> focused on printing technologies. The team also included leading experts in sensing from the Catalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology in Barcelona, and Joseph Wang of the University of California San Diego, the “father of sensing and electrochemistry,” also contributed his extensive knowledge.“This is a groundbreaking study on this topic, which has managed to attract some truly big names in their respective fields. Last but not least, the study demonstrates that interdisciplinarity at CATRIN gives rise to completely new and promising research topics, such as plant sensing and its use for studying plant-environment interactions and smart agriculture,” added another corresponding author, Nuria De Diego.

Current sensors are not good enough. Scientists propose a new way to monitor plant health

Article

Events

Application

Scientific article

Science and research

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

Eurachem

The Czech Advanced Technology and Research Institute (CATRIN) at Palacký University is a cutting-edge scientific hub dedicated to advancing research in the fields of nanotechnology, biotechnology, and biomedicine. At its core, CATRIN boasts outstanding scientific teams, featuring international researchers. We emphasize interdisciplinarity, foster global collaborations, and work to translate our research findings into practical applications.

CATRIN

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

Separation Science

Agilent Technologies

Shimadzu Corporation

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.
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.
Learning Objectives:
<ul>
<li>Understand the basic principles of XPS Instrumentation
</li>
<li>Achieve a total peace of mind for user through the highest level of automation
</li>
<li>Understand importance of high sensitivity &amp; high energy resolution XPS
</li>
<li>Explore new opportunities by high spatial resolution parallel imaging
</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Simon Hutton (Ph.D.) (Sales Manager, Kratos Analytical Ltd)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
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.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
 Presenter: Adam Roberts (Ph.D.) (Marketing Manager, Kratos Analytical Lt)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
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.
</blockquote>

Shimadzu: X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy Technology

X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy Technology

Understand the basic principles of XPS Instrumentation.

Recently, there is an increased demand for surface observation &amp; analysis of elemental distribution on sample surfaces, particularly for metals where it can be used for failure analyses.
Being the most effective non-destructive technique for qualitative and quantitative elemental analysis, Shimadzu would like to introduce the Electron Probe Micro-Analyzer (EPMA) as a precise &amp; accurate technique for surface characterization.
Learning Objectives:
<ul>
<li>Understand the principles behind EPMA
</li>
<li>Understand the difference between EPMA and SEM-EDS
</li>
<li>Explore how you can conduct micro-analysis using EPMA
</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Eka Widianto Thamrin (Sales Executive, Shimadzu (Asia Pacific) Pte. Ltd.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Eka Widianto Thamrin has been selling Shimadzu&#39;s Scientific Instruments such as OES, XRF, XRD, EPMA and SPM in Shimadzu (Asia Pacific) for the past 3 years. During this time, he has sold several EPMA units to universities, governments and private companies in various countries in the region, such as Thailand and India - including the first FE-EPMA unit in ASEAN.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Tan Teck Beng (Senior Product Specialist, Shimadzu (Asia Pacific) Pte Ltd)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Tan Teck Beng is the Senior Product Specialist for Scientific Instrument in Shimadzu Asia Pacific. He has been providing application support for OES, XRF, XRD, EPMA, SPM and ESCA for the past 19 years. He has conducted numerous Application Seminars and Workshops on Materials Characterization/Failure Analysis/Restriction of Hazardous Substances in countries supported by Shimadzu Asia Pacific. The countries where he has conducted include Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, India, Philippines, Myanmar, Vietnam and Singapore. He is currently providing Application and Technical Support for Shimadzu Scientific Instruments for more than 200 companies in Asia Pacific Region utilizing shimadzu scientific instruments. He has an MSc degree in Materials Science from the National University of Singapore.
</blockquote>

Shimadzu: EPMA: A Revolutionary Approach to Micro-Analysis

EPMA: A Revolutionary Approach to Micro-Analysis

The Electron Probe Micro-Analyzer (EPMA) as a precise & accurate technique for surface characterization.

24 targeted elemental impurities in three drug products were determined following new USP chapters &lt;232&gt;/&lt;233&gt; using Shimadzu ICPMS-2030.
The method was evaluated and validated according to the procedures defined by USP &lt;233&gt; and combined with microwave digestion for sample preparation. Good calibration linearity, repeatability, stability and specificity were achieved for all 24 impurities. Low LODs and LOQs were obtained as compared to the target limits from USP &lt;232&gt;. The ICP-MS method applying universal He collision mode provides a high throughput method for routine elemental impurity analysis in pharmaceutical products. 
Learning Objectives:
<ul>
<li>Background and introduction to the new USP chapters &lt;232&gt;/&lt;233&gt; 
</li>
<li>Understand the ICP-MS method for elemental impurity analysis in drugs
</li>
<li>Explore the method evaluation and validation conducted
</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Raymond Li (Ph.D) (Senior Application Chemist, Shimadzu (Asia Pacific))
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Dr. Raymond joined Centre of Application Solutions, SAP since 2017. He obtained his B.S. from Nankai University in Material Chemistry in 2003 and Ph.D. from University of Singapore in 2008. He has been a research fellow at Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore. Before joining Shimadzu, he has 7 years’ experience in the R&amp;D department at PerkinElmer. His expertise lies in elemental analysis in various applications and specializes in ICP and ICPMS.
</blockquote>

Shimadzu: Validation of Quantitative Method for Determination of Elemental Impurities in Pharmaceutical Products Following USP 232/233 on ICPMS-2030

Validation of Quantitative Method for Determination of Elemental Impurities in Pharmaceutical Products Following USP 232/233 on ICPMS-2030

Understand the ICP-MS method for elemental impurity analysis in drugs.

Validation of Quantitative Method for Determination

This webcast will consist of two parts. Part 1 will start off with a basic introduction to UV/Vis/NIR integrating spheres.
We will then consider samples, such as plastic films and colored Spectralon®, that illustrate how sphere diameter can impact spectral accuracy in both reflectance and scatter transmission measurements. This section will conclude with a look at how sample surface texture and sample placement against the sphere’s port, can result in unusual artifacts in the spectra.
Part 2 will discuss two novel integrating sphere applications within the rapidly growing technology field of nanomaterials.
Carbon nanotubes constitute a large arena of products where UV/Vis/NIR spectroscopy, employing an integrating sphere, is functional in both research and quality control. The webcast will conclude with a detailed look at the UV/Vis/NIR spectroscopy of butterfly wings. The colors on most butterfly wings do not arise from either dyes or pigments, but from nanostructures that physically diffract, rather than absorb light. As such, they represent an interesting platform to investigate the potential for spectroscopic materials characterization of nanostructures attached to surfaces.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Jeffrey L. Taylor, Ph.D. (Molecular Spectroscopy Guru, Industry Expert With Over 35 Years of Experience)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Dr. Jeffrey L. Taylor received his Bachelor of Science degree from Georgia College and State University with dual majors in Physiology and Organic Chemistry. He obtained a Master of Science degree from the University of Georgia in Toxicology and later a Doctor of Philosophy degree from the same school in Biochemistry and Spectroscopy.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
He has spent his career of over 35 years with major spectroscopy instruments manufacturers, mainly working as Field Product Specialist and Senior Staff Scientist. Areas of expertise include technical support of sales, customer support/training, applications design and development, software specification/evaluation, and instrumental design and evaluation. He is the author of numerous application notes, conference presentations and webcasts, and holder of several patents.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Dr. Taylor, although retired, maintains his desire to contribute to the field. He is currently a consultant for Shimadzu Scientific Instruments to assist with sales support, application support and development of web-based educational resources.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Sudhir Dahal, Ph.D. (Product Manager - Molecular Spectroscopy, Shimadzu Scientific Instruments)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Sudhir Dahal is Product Manager of Molecular Spectroscopy group at Shimadzu Scientific Instruments, USA. He joined the company after obtaining his PhD from University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC), where he researched and collaborated on developing novel spectroscopy-based technique for brain tumor cell detection. At Shimadzu Scientific Instruments, he and his group are responsible for overall sales support of molecular spectroscopy products in North America, Central America and parts of South America. The products include UV-Vis-NIR, FTIR, Fluorescence spectrophotometers and accessories.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
His everyday responsibilities include, but are not limited to, teaching classes to sales/technical support engineers and customers, producing scientific literatures, researching new products and applications, representing Shimadzu at conferences and promoting the products through various marketing campaigns.
</blockquote>

Shimadzu: Plastic Films, Fabrics, Nano Particles, and Butterfly Wings: Novel, “Outside the Box”, Uses For UV/Vis/NIR Integrating Spheres

Plastic Films, Fabrics, Nano Particles, and Butterfly Wings: Novel, “Outside the Box”, Uses For UV/Vis/NIR Integrating Spheres

Basic introduction to UV/Vis/NIR integrating spheres. Two novel integrating sphere applications within the rapidly growing technology field of nanomaterials.

Plastic Films, Fabrics, Nano Particles, and Butterfly Wings

Most people think solutions in a cuvette when referring to spectrophotometers; however, in the world of materials characterization, rarely are solutions the primary sample.
Here the samples can be anything from solid, creams, gels, particle suspensions, films, and in some cases actual human beings (sunscreen characterization). These samples all have one thing in common, they are impossible to dilute. The materials characterization high performance spectrophotometer must have the ability to measure high absorbance values (8 to 10 absorbance units). Instrumental parameters that are crucial to measuring materials characterization samples are stray light, noise, resolution, and scan speed. In this presentation we will address how these inter-related parameters influence measurement success.
Most measurements for the above-mentioned samples are not of the simple transmission type. Reflection, both specular and diffuse, and scatter transmission measurements abound in the world of materials characterization. It is vital that the proper accessory be employed to match the measurement desired. This presentation will address the function of integrating spheres and how they can be used to measure both diffuse reflection and transmission. Also discussed will be the difference between a relative and absolute reflection measurement. Finally, an overview will be given of important accessories related to the materials characterization marketplace. Register now!
<blockquote>
Presenter: Jeffrey L. Taylor, Ph.D. (Molecular Spectroscopy Guru, Industry Expert With Over 35 Years of Experience)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Dr. Jeffrey L. Taylor received his Bachelor of Science degree from Georgia College and State University with dual majors in Physiology and Organic Chemistry. He obtained a Master of Science degree from the University of Georgia in Toxicology and later a Doctor of Philosophy degree from the same school in Biochemistry and Spectroscopy.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
He has spent his career of over 35 years with major spectroscopy instruments manufacturers, mainly working as Field Product Specialist and Senior Staff Scientist. Areas of expertise include technical support of sales, customer support/training, applications design and development, software specification/evaluation, and instrumental design and evaluation. He is the author of numerous application notes, conference presentations and webcasts, and holder of several patents.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Dr. Taylor, although retired, maintains his desire to contribute to the field. He is currently a consultant for Shimadzu Scientific Instruments to assist with sales support, application support and development of web-based educational resources.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Sudhir Dahal, Ph.D. (Product Manager - Molecular Spectroscopy, Shimadzu Scientific Instruments)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Sudhir Dahal is Product Manager of Molecular Spectroscopy group at Shimadzu Scientific Instruments, USA. He joined the company after obtaining his PhD from University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC), where he researched and collaborated on developing novel spectroscopy-based technique for brain tumor cell detection. At Shimadzu Scientific Instruments, he and his group are responsible for overall sales support of molecular spectroscopy products in North America, Central America and parts of South America. The products include UV-Vis-NIR, FTIR, Fluorescence spectrophotometers and accessories.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
His everyday responsibilities include, but are not limited to, teaching classes to sales/technical support engineers and customers, producing scientific literatures, researching new products and applications, representing Shimadzu at conferences and promoting the products through various marketing campaigns.
</blockquote>

Shimadzu: UV/Vis/NIR Spectroscopy in the Arena of Materials Characterization Research and Quality Control: How Instrumental Performance and Accessories Define Success

UV/Vis/NIR Spectroscopy in the Arena of Materials Characterization Research and Quality Control: How Instrumental Performance and Accessories Define Success

The function of integrating spheres and how they can be used to measure both diffuse reflection and transmission.

UV/Vis/NIR Spectroscopy in the Arena of Materials

As the world grapples with COVID-19 pandemic and plans for the aftermath, digitalization of laboratory workspace has become more urgent than ever before.
In the future, most scientists will be telecommuting - away from the laboratory – for data analysis and reporting. Time spent in the laboratory itself will be solely for the purpose of analysing samples and pushing data into a secure database to be retrieved remotely. In this 45-min webinar, we will be discussing Shimadzu’s Informatics solutions – how different workflow solutions will facilitate the digitalization of your laboratory workspace by connectng your laboratory instruments, saving the data as well as allowing remote access and control for the users.
Learning Objectives
<ul>
<li>Understand how your team can start preparing your laboratory to the New Normal with Informatics Solutions
</li>
<li>Explore technologies that allows remote access to your laboratory from anywhere
</li>
<li>Implement effective data management and increasing productivity &amp; compliance in laboratories
</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Sateesh Tummala (Assistant Manager, IT &amp; Informatics, Shimadzu (Asia Pacific) Pte Ltd)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Sateesh is associated with Shimadzu since beginning of his career. He started with technical support in India and expanded his scope for supporting ASEAN and South Asian countries. He has wide experience in Pharma domain and well versed with regulatory compliance guidelines. Sateesh is currently leading the informatics team in Shimadzu Asia Pacific, Singapore leading promotion and technical support of Shimadzu Informatics solutions and Caliber LIMS products in the region.
</blockquote>

Shimadzu: Digital Transformation of Laboratory Workspace – Enhancing Workflow with Analytical Intelligence

Digital Transformation of Laboratory Workspace – Enhancing Workflow with Analytical Intelligence

How different workflow solutions will facilitate the digitalization of your laboratory workspace by connectng your laboratory instruments.

Digital Transformation of Laboratory Workspace

There is currently a great deal of regulatory focus on data integrity, especially in the QC Laboratory.
This is causing pharmaceutical (and other) companies to re-examine their practices and processes and their use of analytical instruments and data management systems in order to not only assure data integrity, but to do so in a way that is capable of demonstrating compliance with international regulatory requirements.
This webinar will present on the topic of laboratory data integrity, examining this from the perspective of Laboratory Management, Supervisors and Technicians.
Topics covered will include:
<ul>
<li>What are the risks associated with a lack of data integrity and a background and overview of current and future regulatory trends
</li>
<li>Current regulatory guidance
</li>
<li>How risks to data integrity arise and what to do to address the cultural and technical risks
</li>
<li>How modern laboratory instruments and data management systems can assure technical compliance with data integrity requirements
</li>
<li>Intended Audience: Laboratory Data Owners (Managers) and Data Stewards (Laboratory Supervisors and Technicians).
</li>
</ul>
By viewing this webinar you will learn:
<ul>
<li>Why data integrity is important in assuring product quality and patient safety
</li>
<li>Why there is a significant focus on data integrity amongst international regulators
</li>
<li>Key steps to take to assure data integrity in the laboratory
</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: David Stokes (Principal Consultant and Director, Convalido Consulting Ltd, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, UK)
</blockquote>

Shimadzu: Assuring Laboratory Data Integrity in a Time of Enhanced Regulatory Oversight

Assuring Laboratory Data Integrity in a Time of Enhanced Regulatory Oversight

Laboratory data integrity, examining this from the perspective of Laboratory Management, Supervisors and Technicians.

Assuring Laboratory Data Integrity

By automating the links between CDS and LIMS, a lab cam increase productivity and reduce errors.
Agilent has multiple ways to help labs do this for Agilent CDS systems as well as non-CDS data sources. This talk will give an overview of tools that help labs achieve bi-directional direct integration of sample information and results from Agilent CDS plus other sources and LIMS.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Dr. Ute Bober (Informatics Division, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Ute Bober is a Product Owner for the Software and Informatics Division at Agilent Technologies, where she focuses on delivering, maintaining and marketing software for effective laboratory workflow management. Ute has more than 20 years of professional experience in informatics. She started her career as an analytical research chemist and soon took the opportunity to develop towards software and informatics by working in field support, product management and product marketing at Hewlett Packard and Agilent Technologies. Since 2013 she is bringing here knowledge into the field of technical marketing where she currently owns the Sample Scheduler for OpenLab.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Increase Throughput and Reduce Errors by Automating LIMS Connectivity

Increase Throughput and Reduce Errors by Automating LIMS Connectivity

Overview of tools that help labs achieve bi-directional direct integration of sample information and results from Agilent CDS plus other sources and LIMS.

Increase Throughput and Reduce Errors by Automating LIMS

Your quest for a lab system to increase the automation and achieve a higher throughput is now compromised by the requirements for remote working and social distancing.
At the same time, a lab cannot operate without people actually being physically in the lab. So how can we minimize staff presence on premises while maintaining operations? In this session, we will discuss how to balance these two objectives and how to optimize working remotely including discussions around data security and operative aspects. Key Learning Objectives. Learn what it takes to successfully implement an end-to-end solution to manage all content, context, and results in the lab. Discuss aspects to consider to evaluate, implement and operate a remote Lab Workflow solution. Tips for how to make physical and digital processes come together.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Nicolas Louvet (Software Product Manager, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Nicolas Louvet joined Agilent Technologies in 2005 as an ELN Services Consultant in the Software &amp; Informatics Division, became the Product Manager for OpenLab ELN, and currently serves as the Software Product Manager for SLIMS. He has more than 15 years of experience working directly with clients needing to digitalize their laboratory processes. His area of expertise is focused on workflow and content management in the laboratory.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Laboratory Workflow Solutions: What to expect when you’re away from the lab?

Laboratory Workflow Solutions: What to expect when you’re away from the lab?

How to balance these two objectives and how to optimize working remotely including discussions around data security and operative aspects.

What to expect when you’re away from the lab?

The modern laboratory has data collected and reported from a variety of different instruments and locations.
Agilent’s Enterprise Content Manager can store that data and make metadata available for searching through a variety of data specific filters or customized PDF templates. The Metadata ReUse program can then help query and combine that data into an XML/Excel format for further reporting.
Key Learning Objectives
<ul>
<li>Introduction to the ECM-XT Web Client Interface
</li>
<li>MetaData Reuse tool features overview
</li>
<li>XML/Excel Export function of the the MetaData Reuse Tool
</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Richard Mutkoski (Laboratory Informatics Application Engineer, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Richard Mutkoski began with Agilent (HP) in 1995. He has been an Application Engineer in Agilent’s Laboratory Informatics for the past 18 years. Prior to his career at Agilent Rich spent 12 years in a variety of small pharmaceutical firms in both R&amp;D and QA/QC capacities affording him first-hand knowledge of those workflows, bottlenecks and challenges.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: The Power of Using Existing Meta-Data for Lab Wide Reporting

The Power of Using Existing Meta-Data for Lab Wide Reporting