A nitrogen-enriched graphene nanomaterial (GN3) for energy storage in supercapacitors, developed by researchers at the Czech Advanced Technology and Research Institute (CATRIN) of Palacký University Olomouc, has been included in the European Commission’s <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://innovation-radar.ec.europa.eu/innovation/66621">Innovation Radar database as a technology with strong commercial potential</a>. The material has been assessed as highly market-ready, with significant potential to create new markets. Palacký University, which coordinated the prestigious European Innovation Council project TRANS2DCHEM, has also been recognised among the project’s key innovators.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CATRIN_Grafenovy_material_z_Olomouce_se_dostal_mezi_perspektivni_evropske_inovace_0d2a178219.jpg" alt="CATRIN: Graphene nanomaterial developed in Olomouc recognised among Europe’s most promising innovations" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CATRIN_Grafenovy_material_z_Olomouce_se_dostal_mezi_perspektivni_evropske_inovace_0d2a178219.jpg 156w," sizes="100vw" width="480" height="480">Innovation Radar is a European platform that identifies promising innovations and key innovators emerging from research and innovation projects funded by the European Union.“This is a great honour and recognition of our work. The excellent assessment within the Innovation Radar platform demonstrates the potential of CATRIN—and of Palacký University as a whole—to transform scientific discoveries into products with strong commercial potential. Recognition by independent experts highlights the technology’s high level of market readiness, which is exceptional even in the context of other outstanding projects supported by the European Innovation Council,” said Jiří Navrátil, Technology Transfer Coordinator at CATRIN.The nitrogen-enriched graphene electrode material, based on graphene—a two-dimensional material consisting of a single layer of carbon atoms—was developed by researchers in Olomouc seven years ago. It originated from Michal Otyepka’s prestigious European Research Council project focused on the 2D chemistry of fluorographene.In the following years, researchers demonstrated the material’s significant potential for electrical energy storage, particularly in supercapacitors, which represent a promising alternative to today’s widely used lithium-ion batteries. Development of prototype supercapacitors with unique properties began under the prestigious European Innovation Council project TRANS2DCHEM, in collaboration with partners from Bar-Ilan University in Israel and the Italian company ITELCOND. The next logical step was the establishment of the spin-off company Atomiver, which has been operating since 2024.“The continuous growth in global energy consumption and the rapid expansion of electronic devices are driving strong demand for high-performance, stable energy storage components. Our electrode material is unique because it pushes the current limits of commercially available technologies, particularly in terms of volumetric energy density—the amount of electrical energy that can be stored within a given volume. Compared with existing technologies, our material enables several-fold higher energy density. Its inclusion in the Innovation Radar database encourages us to continue developing the technology and bring it closer to commercial production,” said Michal Otyepka, one of the inventors of the technology and co-owner of the spin-out company.The material is protected by several international patents, which have been licensed by Atomiver from Palacký University.“Supercapacitors incorporating our graphene material could one day help ensure the safe operation of large data centres, Internet of Things (IoT) networks, transport systems, grid-scale energy storage, electronics for space applications and implantable medical devices,” added Veronika Šedajová, one of the inventors of the technology.The significance of the technology was previously recognised when Atomiver was selected for the NATO DIANA accelerator programme, one of only 74 companies chosen from more than 2,600 applicants. The company has also received support from CzechInvest through its Technology Incubation programme.“We are currently in intensive discussions with investors, who have shown strong interest in the technology, not least because the electrode material we have developed also has considerable potential for applications in other industries,” said Andrew Hladký, Director of Atomiver.<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://innovation-radar.ec.europa.eu/innovation/66621">Innovation Radar</a> serves as a platform for investors, entrepreneurs and the wider public to discover emerging technologies.

Graphene nanomaterial developed in Olomouc recognised among Europe’s most promising innovations

Measurement results are only fit for purpose if the measurement uncertainty (MU) is reliable and has a magnitude small enough for the intended use. The target MU is the maximum admissible uncertainty defined for a specific measurement goal.&nbsp;In compliance assessment, the MU should be small enough to enable identification of deviations from compliance relevant to the interests to be protected (such as public health or industrial productivity). Too large an uncertainty would not provide the required protection, while an uncertainty that is too small could mean the use of unnecessary expensive measurements.&nbsp;The Eurachem/CITAC guide on ‘Setting and Using Target Uncertainty in Chemical Measurement’ suggests how to set upper boundaries for the uncertainty based on the intended use of the result [1].&nbsp;The impact of the MU on decisions is illustrated in a fictional scenario.&nbsp;<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Eurachem_Setting_Target_Measurement_Uncertainty_2_daf2cb4ec8.jpg" alt="Eurachem: Setting Target Measurement Uncertainty" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Eurachem_Setting_Target_Measurement_Uncertainty_2_daf2cb4ec8.jpg 150w," sizes="100vw" width="740" height="770">Mr. Reis is a farmer planning to sell oranges to a juice producer. The juice producer checks oranges for thiabendazole pesticide residues and Brix level (degrees Brix provides a measure of orange juice sweetness). The producer only accepts oranges with thiabendazole residues below 1 mg kg-1 and a Brix level above 55 °Bx, paying more if the Brix level is above 65 °Bx.&nbsp;Mr. Reis contracted Laboratory C to analyse his oranges before shipping them to the producer knowing that the customer also checks the oranges in its laboratory. Mr. Reis was very happy with the results provided by Laboratory C although the pesticide residue analyses were expensive.&nbsp;The producer accepted the oranges but decided to pay less than expected.&nbsp;After asking the juice producer, the detailed results of both laboratories were compared. This showed that although the results were metrologically compatible they supported different decisions on the oranges’ price.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Eurachem_Setting_Target_Measurement_Uncertainty_3_aa7c28e61a.jpg" alt="Eurachem: Setting Target Measurement Uncertainty - Laboratory C" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Eurachem_Setting_Target_Measurement_Uncertainty_3_aa7c28e61a.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="927" height="192"><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Eurachem_Setting_Target_Measurement_Uncertainty_4_4588f40881.jpg" alt="Eurachem: Setting Target Measurement Uncertainty - Juice producers Laboratory" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Eurachem_Setting_Target_Measurement_Uncertainty_4_4588f40881.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="911" height="195">The measurement of thiabendazole residues performed by Laboratory C is associated with an extremely low uncertainty making measurements more expensive than necessary. However, the uncertainty associated with the determination of the Brix level is too large, making compliance decisions too uncertain.Measurement results are only fit for the intended use if the measurement uncertainty (MU) is smaller than a maximum acceptable value (i.e. the target MU).&nbsp;Even if the customer or the regulator does not define the target MU, the laboratory should define it to decide if the measurement is fit for the intended use. The Eurachem/CITAC guide [1] suggests the use of different indicators of the measurement quality requirement to define the target MU. Information used to define the target MU is presented from the most likely to become harmonised to the ones supported with less adequate data. The following figure presents this hierarchy of adequacy with numbers from #1 to #9.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Eurachem_Setting_Target_Measurement_Uncertainty_01cd73bb2c.jpg" alt="Eurachem: Setting Target Measurement Uncertainty" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Eurachem_Setting_Target_Measurement_Uncertainty_01cd73bb2c.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="900"><blockquote>Approaches to defining the target MU described in the Eurachem/CITAC Guide, where utg and Utg represent the target standard and expanded uncertainties, respectively. (the numbers in the bottom of the circles identify the sections of the Guide)</blockquote>

Setting Target Measurement Uncertainty

Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezICPMS Library in the week of 10th August 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, Shimadzu and Thermo Fisher Scientific!<h3>1. Agilent Technologies: Accurate and Robust Measurement of Elemental Impurities in Pharmaceuticals by ICP-MS</h3>Implementation of Indian Pharmacopeia General Chapter 5.10 compliant workflow using the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=7850">Agilent 7850 ICP-MS</a><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_elemental_impurity_pharma_7850_icp_ms_5994_9312en_agilent_78f5dc61d6.pdf">Full PDF for download</a>&nbsp;</li></ul>Elemental impurity testing is a vital part of pharmaceutical quality assurance because trace metals can enter drug products at various points of the manufacturing process. Impurities may originate from raw materials and excipients, leach from processing equipment, remain as residues from catalysts, or arise through environmental or packaging related contamination. Even at very low concentrations, certain metals pose toxicological risks, making their assessment and control essential for ensuring product safety.&nbsp;To address these risks, global regulatory bodies—including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the European Medicines Agency (EMA), and other members of the International Council for Harmonization (ICH)—require manufacturers to perform systematic risk assessments and ongoing monitoring of elemental impurities. The harmonized ICH Q3D guideline provides the framework for this evaluation by defining toxicology based permitted daily exposure (PDE) limits. It also outlines expectations for analytical testing, reporting, and control strategies across a variety of dosage forms.&nbsp;To align with these international regulatory standards, the draft Indian Pharmacopeia (IP) General Chapter 5.10 has been developed to harmonize with the corresponding requirements of the European, Japanese, and U.S. Pharmacopeias.6 Harmonization will ensure that India’s regulatory framework reflects globally accepted best practices for assessing and controlling elemental impurities. It will also ensure that pharmaceutical products manufactured for the Indian and global markets meet internationally aligned safety standards. As part of these harmonized expectations, IP General Chapter 5.10 mandates the quantitative determination of specified elemental impurities using validated, high performance analytical technologies such as ICP MS or ICP OES. These techniques provide the sensitivity, selectivity, and sample throughput required to reliably measure trace-level elemental impurities and demonstrate compliance with PDE based limits.&nbsp;An <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=7850">Agilent 7850 ICP-MS</a> was used in this study to meet the trace level elemental impurity requirements defined in IP General Chapter 5.10. Designed to quantify elements at low concentrations, the 7850 achieves detection limits suitable for accurate, confident measurement of impurities at sub ppb levels. Its advanced ORS4 collision cell technology uses helium (He) mode to effectively remove polyatomic interferences across multiple analytes, enabling reliable measurement of secondary or qualifier isotopes. This capability supports analyte confirmation as required by regulatory guidelines, including IP 5.10, ICH Q2(R1), USP &lt;233&gt;, and USP &lt;1225&gt;. The combination of sensitivity and spectral clarity is essential when testing regulated pharmaceutical products, where accuracy, reproducibility, and compliance with pharmacopeial limits are required.&nbsp;The 7850 ICP-MS delivers robust performance in real-world pharmaceutical environments, where complex matrices and routine, high throughput testing are the norm. The hightemperature plasma improves matrix tolerance, minimizes matrix-induced interferences, and enhances ionization efficiency.8 This capability provides higher and more consistent sensitivity for poorly ionized elements such as As, Cd, and Hg, as well as platinum group elements (PGEs) including Os, Ir, and Pt. The 7850 ICP-MS system’s high matrix tolerance also enables efficient handling of diverse sample types, including active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), excipients, and finished dosage forms, without excessive dilution or instrument downtime. Long term signal stability ensures consistent results throughout long analytical runs, minimizing re-analysis and supporting dependable quality control (QC) testing.&nbsp;The 7850 offers streamlined, workflow-based operation with intuitive software and pre-configured method templates that are aligned with pharmacopeial guidelines. Instrument parameters are automatically optimized, simplifying method development, minimizing operator intervention, and ensuring consistent analytical performance.&nbsp;This application note outlines an end-to-end analytical workflow designed to help laboratories comply with the elemental impurity requirements of IP General Chapter 5.10 using ICP MS. Twenty four elements were determined in three types of oral drug products, and the method was evaluated against the performance criteria specified in IP 5.10.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>The analytical approach described in draft Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) General Chapter 5.10 for the determination of elemental impurities in pharmaceutical products was applied in this study using ICP-MS. Three over-the-counter oral tablet drugs were acid digested by microwave, spiked at various J levels, and analyzed for 24 target elements using an Agilent 7850 ICP-MS.&nbsp;The 7850 ICP-MS, equipped with a robust plasma system and the ORS4 collision/reaction cell operating in helium mode, effectively minimized polyatomic interferences and enabled accurate measurement of target isotopes and qualifier ions. Its wide dynamic range detector further supported the analysis of all three oral drug products using a single analytical method and standard operating conditions.&nbsp;Instrument setup and method development were simplified by selecting General Purpose plasma conditions, applying automated lens tuning, and using the ICH/USP preset method in the Agilent ICP-MS MassHunter software.&nbsp;The method met all performance criteria outlined in IP 5.10, including specificity, accuracy, spike recovery, stability, and system suitability for both limit and quantitative procedures. Instrument detection limits were significantly lower than the J values for oral drugs, ensuring reliable quantification of elemental impurities at regulatory control levels.&nbsp;Overall, the results confirm that the 7850 ICP-MS provides a reliable, sensitive, and efficient platform for compliance with IP 5.10 requirements for elemental impurity testing in oral drug products. The simplified method development, robust interference removal, and workflow-based operation significantly reduce analytical complexity while supporting consistent regulatory compliance for routine pharmaceutical quality control laboratories.<h3>2. Shimadzu: Evaluation of Particle Size in Chocolate —Evaluation of Particle Size Distribution and Coarse Particles that Affect Texture</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_01_00624_en_ea48de171d.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul><h5>User benefits</h5><ul><li>The solid particle size distribution in chocolate can be easily measured using the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=SALD-2300">SALD-2300</a>.&nbsp;</li><li>The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=iSpect+DIA-10">iSpect DIA-10</a> enables not only the measurement of particle size distribution but also, the number concentration of particles in a specified particle size range.</li></ul>Particle size distribution is one of the physical properties that describe the characteristics of materials and products containing particulate matter. In some cases, the difference in characteristics can be described simply by the average particle size. In other cases, the amount of particles above a certain size is important. The values to be noted vary depending on the type of material, product, and its intended use.&nbsp;Here, chocolate is taken as an example of a product where particle size control is important. An example is presented of measuring the particle size distribution and the quantity of particles within a specific size range to assess the texture of chocolate.&nbsp;When performing chocolate quality control, the particle size distribution is generally evaluated using a laser diffraction-type particle size distribution analyzer. In this article, in addition to using the SALD-2300 Laser Diffraction Particle Size Analyzer, the iSpect DIA-10 Dynamic Particle Image Analysis System is also employed to show the possibility of a slightly different evaluation approach to investigating the relationship between particle size/concentration and texture.<h4>Measurement of Particle Size Distribution by <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=SALD-2300">SALD-2300&nbsp;</a></h4>Chocolate is solid at room temperature. Therefore, it must be dissolved (dispersed) in a solvent to measure the particle size distribution of the solid particles contained within it. Samples must also be diluted to a concentration suitable for the particle size distribution measuring analyzer. Isopropanol was selected as the dispersant because it can dissolve oil and fat and disperse the solid particles to measure the particle size distribution of just the solid particles in the chocolate.&nbsp;Two commercial milk chocolate samples were used: sample F and sample UF. Taste tests were conducted by several individuals (including the author), and comparisons were made prior to measurement. The taste tests focused on texture differences and the smoothness on the palate and tongue. The results showed that although there were differences among individuals, most perceived sample UF as smoother than sample F, while sample F feltslightly rough.<h4>Particle Size and Number Concentration Measurement by <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=iSpect+DIA-10">iSpect DIA-10&nbsp;</a></h4>So far, the particle size distribution of two types of chocolate has been measured using the SALD-2300, and the relationship between the results and the texture has been examined. Next, we considered the measurement results obtained using the iSpect DIA-10.&nbsp;The iSpect DIA-10 is different from general image analysis type particle size measurement equipment, and it has the advantage of being able to detect almost all particles within the measurement range. As a result, it is possible to accurately calculate the number concentration in the measurement solution.From the SALD-2300 measurement results, it is clear that the sample contains about 20 to 30 percent particles that are below 5 µm, which is the minimum measurement size of iSpect DIA-10. Therefore, it is not possible to capture the number concentration of all particlesin the sample.&nbsp;On the other hand, since no particles exceed the measurement limit of 100 µm and almost all particles in the coarse particle region can be detected, it is possible to calculate the number concentration of particles above a certain size.&nbsp;The results of measurements of samples F and UF using the iSpect DIA-10 are presented below. The dispersion procedure is the same as that for the SALD-2300 shown in Table 1, but the final concentration is equivalent to that of 0.1 g of chocolate dispersed in 1000 mL of isopropanol due to a further 50 times dilution during measurement.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>In this article, the particle size distribution of chocolate was measured using two instruments, the SALD-2300 and the iSpect DIA-10, and introduced the relationship between these results and the texture perceived when the chocolate was eaten. By looking at the results of the two measurement methods together, it is believed that a more in-depth analysis is possible.&nbsp;In particular, the results of the number concentration of coarse particles measured using the iSpect DIA-10 are considered useful for evaluating texture based on the quantity of coarse particles. This can be expected to be effective in the food field and other fields where the abundance of small quantities of coarse particlesisimportant.<h3>3. Thermo Fisher Scientific: From waste to performance: Reactive extrusion upcycling validated by rheology and chemical (FTIR) imaging</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/from_waste_to_performance_an1803_en_8b501f445c.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Global plastic production exceeds 400 million tons annually, with polypropylene among the most widely used polymers. This high volume of polymer production results in large amounts of plastic ending up in our environment. Recycling is a strong potential solution; however, mechanical recycling often leads to molecular weight degradation via chain scission, limiting performance in secondary applications.&nbsp;Upcycling through reactive extrusion provides a pathway to restore or enhance performance by incorporating recycled streams into high-value matrices. Polyamide 12 (PA12) offers superior mechanical and thermal properties but is immiscible with polypropylene due to thermodynamic incompatibility.Compatibilization using PP-g-MA enables interfacial stabilization through in situ formation of diblock copolymers via reaction between maleic anhydride groups and PA12 amine end groups. This study evaluates several aspects of the resultant plastic products:&nbsp;<ul><li>Molecular degradation of reprocessed PP&nbsp;</li><li>Rheological signatures of interfacial stabilization&nbsp;</li><li>Mechanical property recovery&nbsp;</li><li>Quantitative chemical homogeneity via FTIR mapping</li></ul><h4>Materials and methods</h4>Specimens were molded using the HAAKE MiniJet Pro Piston injection molding system:&nbsp;<ul><li>25 mm disc specimens for rheology &nbsp;</li><li>Dog-bone specimens for tensile testing</li></ul>Rheological characterization was performed using oscillatory rheology. A HAAKE MARS iQ rotational rheometer was employed, measure key features.&nbsp;<ul><li>Parallel plate geometry&nbsp;</li><li>Amplitude sweep (LVR determination)&nbsp;</li><li>Frequency sweep (viscoelastic response)</li></ul><h5>FTIR microscopy and chemical mapping</h5>While rheological and mechanical testing provide indirect evidence of interfacial stabilization, direct chemical verification of phase distribution is required to confirm compatibilization efficiency. Immiscible polymer blends such as PP/PA12 exhibit morphology-dependent performance governed by droplet size, spatial distribution, and interfacial adhesion.&nbsp;Micro-ATR Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy enables spatially resolved chemical analysis without extensive sample preparation. The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=3&amp;search=RaptIR">Nicolet RaptIR+ FTIR microscope</a> was used to collect high-density chemical maps of blend cross-sections, providing direct insight into compositional uniformity and interfacial mixing.&nbsp;ATR sampling was selected to minimize preparation artifacts and avoid the need for thin microtomed sections. The evanescent wave penetration depth of less than a few microns enables surface-sensitive chemical characterization while maintaining high spectral quality.&nbsp;To enable quantitative phase mapping, distinct and non-overlapping spectral markers were selected:&nbsp;<ul><li>PA12 amide I band (~1636 cm⁻¹) – characteristic carbonyl stretch of polyamide</li><li>PP methyl deformation (~1376 cm⁻¹) – characteristic polypropylene signature</li></ul>These bands were chosen for specific reasons:&nbsp;<ul><li>High intensity&nbsp;</li><li>Minimal overlap&nbsp;</li><li>Structural specificity</li></ul><h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>Reactive extrusion of reprocessed polypropylene with PA12 using PP-g-MA successfully produced a mechanically robust upcycled material containing 50% recycled content.&nbsp;Key outcomes:&nbsp;<ul><li>Rheology confirmed enhanced interfacial stability.&nbsp;</li><li>Tensile properties were restored to near-virgin PA12 performance.&nbsp;</li><li>FTIR chemical mapping provided quantitative compositional uniformity analysis.&nbsp;</li><li>Statistical treatment of mapping data enabled objective evaluation of compatibilization efficiency.&nbsp;</li></ul>The integrated workflow combining extrusion, molding, rheology, and FTIR microscopy enables accelerated development of sustainable polymer blends with validated performance.

News from LabRulezICPMS Library - Week 33, 2026

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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.

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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.

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Understanding the chemical stability of MXenes under realistic operating conditions is essential for their reliable use in ion separation and electrochemical systems.&nbsp;In this webinar, we highlight the application of inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES, Agilent-5900) as a powerful analytical tool to quantitatively evaluate elemental evolution during MXene degradation.&nbsp;By tracking dissolved species in the solution, ICP-OES enables precise assessment of metal leaching and oxidation under pH and temperature control. Furthermore, we investigate the ion selectivity of Ti₃C₂Tₓ MXene channels and their underlying physicochemical origins. We demonstrate that the interlayer spacing and surface chemistry critically regulate ion mobility, leading to pronounced Li+ selectivity among monovalent and multivalent ions. In these studies, ICP-OES 5900 serves as an indispensable analytical platform, helping us establish a fundamental basis for the application of MXenes in ion separation technologies.<blockquote>Presenter: Yuan Zhang (Research Assistant Professor, Drexel Nanomaterials Institute, Drexel University)Dr. Yuan Zhang is a Research Assistant Professor at the Drexel Nanomaterials Institute, Drexel University. An Alexander von Humboldt Fellow and a Cotswold Postdoctoral Fellow, she earned her Ph.D. in Leibniz Institute for New Materials in Germany. Her expertise spans materials science and electrochemistry, focusing on molecular-scale ion transport, 2D MXene nanofluid, and energy storage.</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Elemental Evaluation of MXene Degradation and Application in Ion Separation

Elemental Evaluation of MXene Degradation and Application in Ion Separation

Study MXene stability and ion separation with Agilent. Learn how the 5900 ICP-OES tracks degradation, oxidation, and lithium selectivity

Evaluating MXene Degradation & Ion Separation via ICP-OES

Renewable energy resources such as solar are promising complements to the combustion of fossil fuels. However, the intermittent and diurnal nature of sunlight necessitates economical and efficient energy storage technologies. A promising approach to both storing solar energy and generating combustible liquid fuels is driving the transformation of abundant energy-poor feedstocks (CO2, H2O) into energy-dense liquid fuels using energy from solar photons, known as “artificial photosynthesis.”&nbsp;One approach for artificial photosynthesis is to immobilize fuel-producing molecular catalysts onto light-absorbing semiconductor materials to create “hybrid photoelectrodes,” allowing for both the stability of heterogenous surfaces and the tunability of molecular catalysts. The Center for Hybrid Approaches in Solar Energy to Liquid Fuels (CHASE) is a multi-institutional energy innovation hub which aims to advance hybrid photoelectrodes for the light-driven generation of liquid fuels from CO2 and H2O. A variety of chemical techniques, including sonochemical hydrosilylation, π-π stacking, and electrochemical grafting, are utilized to anchor ruthenium and rhenium molecular CO2-reduction catalysts to a silicon surface.&nbsp;To study the efficacy of these catalyst loading techniques, Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (employing an Agilent 7850 ICP-MS) is leveraged to quantify catalyst surface coverage. Silicon samples are digested in an HNO3/HCl matrix to solubilize ruthenium and rhenium metal centers. As each anchored molecular catalyst contains one metal center, surface coverage estimates can be drawn by pairing ICP-MS data with the dimensions of the catalyst and the size of the silicon photoelectrode. From these data, key conclusions are drawn which correlate anchoring technique, reaction time, and silicon morphology to the loadings of these molecular catalysts. This information provides a guiding framework for next-generation designs of hybrid photoelectrodes.<blockquote>Presenter: Jillian L. Dempsey (Director, Center for Hybrid Approaches in Solar Energy to Liquid Fuels (CHASE) and an Associate Editor for ACS Electrochemistry)Jillian L. Dempsey is a professor at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She is currently the Director of the Center for Hybrid Approaches in Solar Energy to Liquid Fuels (CHASE) and an Associate Editor for ACS Electrochemistry.Jillian received her S.B. from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 2005 where she worked in the laboratory of Prof. Daniel G. Nocera. As an NSF Graduate Research Fellow, she carried out research with Prof. Harry B. Gray and Dr. Jay R. Winkler at the California Institute of Technology, receiving her PhD in 2011. From 2011–2012 she was an NSF ACC Postdoctoral Fellow with Daniel R. Gamelin at the University of Washington.In 2012, Jillian joined the faculty at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Her research group explores charge transfer processes associated with energy capture and conversion, including proton-coupled electron transfer reactions and electron transfer across interfaces. Her research bridges molecular and materials chemistry and relies heavily on methods of physical inorganic chemistry, including transient absorption spectroscopy and electrochemistry.She has received numerous awards including the Harry B. Gray Award for Creative Work in Inorganic Chemistry by a Young Investigator (2019), the J. Carlyle Sitterson Award for Teaching First-Year Students (2017), a Sloan Research Fellowship (2016), a Packard Fellowship for Science and Engineering (2015), the Agnes Fay Morgan Research Award (2020), the University Award for Advancement of Women (2021), and the Brown Investigator Award (2026).</blockquote><blockquote>Presenter: Rebecca E. Powers (Graduate Student, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill)Rebecca (Becca) E. Powers is a fourth-year graduate student at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in Prof. Jillian L. Dempsey’s research group.Becca graduated summa cum laude with a B.S. in Chemistry and B.S. in Physics from Creighton University in 2022. At Creighton University, she researched in the laboratories of Dr. Kayode Oshin and Dr. Janet Seger. While pursuing degrees in both chemistry and physics, Becca conducted research across both fields, including work on the Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider (RHIC) at Brookhaven National Laboratory. Becca was selected as both a Clare Boothe Luce fellow and a Goldwater Scholar during her undergraduate studies.Becca joined Prof. Jillian Dempsey’s lab in 2022 and began researching as a part of the Center for Hybrid Approaches in Solar Energy to Liquid Fuels (CHASE). Her research explores the chemical and physical properties of semiconducting photoelectrodes for photon capture and solar fuel generation. Becca’s research utilizes a large range of techniques, including electrochemistry, inductively coupled plasma-mass spectroscopy (ICP-MS), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and time-resolved infrared spectroscopy (TRIR). Becca’s outreach and research efforts have been recognized with a Prof. James Tamage Dobbins Award and UNC Chemistry Graduate Student Award for Research Excellence.</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: ICP-MS for Hybrid Photoelectrode Characterization

ICP-MS for Hybrid Photoelectrode Characterization

Learn how the Agilent 7850 ICP-MS quantifies catalyst surface coverage on hybrid photoelectrodes to advance artificial photosynthesis and solar fuel research

Hybrid Photoelectrode Characterization via ICP-MS

Choosing the right internal standard is critical to achieving accurate, reliable ICP‑OES results—but knowing how and when to apply one isn’t always straightforward. In this webinar, we’ll review the fundamental principles of internal standardization in ICP‑OES and provide practical guidance on selecting the most appropriate internal standards for different elements, sample types, and analytical challenges. You’ll learn how internal standards help correct for signal drift, matrix effects, and sample introduction variability, as well as common pitfalls to avoid. Through real‑world examples, we’ll demonstrate how proper internal standard selection and implementation can improve data quality, confidence, and consistency across both routine and more challenging analyses.<blockquote>Presenter: Ana García González (Atomic Spectroscopy Application Scientist, Agilent Technologies)Ana Garcia is the Atomic Spectroscopy Application Scientist at Agilent Technologies. Ana has a broad background in atomic spectroscopy technologies, including international experience developing and validating analytical spectroscopy methods for the geochemical industry. She has also published in the fields of molecular spectroscopy and chemometrics. Ana holds a MSc in plant Biotechnology at CINVESTAV, México, and a Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology Engineering.</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Learn to Select and Apply the Proper Internal Standard in ICP-OES

Learn to Select and Apply the Proper Internal Standard in ICP-OES

Learn how to select and apply internal standards in ICP-OES. Correct for matrix effects, signal drift, and sample introduction variability effectively

Selecting & Applying Internal Standards in ICP-OES

Laboratories are under growing pressure to handle increasing volumes of samples and data while operating under tighter regulatory inspection, all without compromising turnaround times or traceability. In this context, many organizations attempt to extend existing workflows and legacy tools, which can introduce inefficiencies, increase manual effort, and create compliance risks. At the same time, it is not always clear which digital solutions are best suited to address these challenges.This presentation illustrates how modern digital laboratory environments streamline routine activities by minimizing manual tasks and embedding compliance directly into everyday workflows. Drawing on a real-world use case, we show how automated capture of data from multiple sample measurements at the point of execution enables a continuous, sample-centric workflow.By removing manual interventions and paper-based processes, laboratories can improve efficiency and visibility, support faster and more reliable decision-making while remaining responsive to evolving customer demands.<h4>Learning Points</h4><ul><li>The role of different systems (LIMS, SDMS, ELN) within the digital lab landscape and how they differ from each other's</li><li>How WebLab manages laboratory operations from a sample perspective, enabling you to track every sample, stage, and next action across workflows</li><li>How automated data capture from connected instruments helps reduce errors, lower contamination risks, and accelerate sample processing</li><li>You will see, through a real-life example, how integrated digital workflows improve data quality, accelerate reporting, and increase operational efficiency</li></ul><h4>Who should attend</h4>Professionals working in small to mid‑sized laboratories, including:<ul><li>Directors and Managers of Analytical, QC, or Contract Labs</li><li>Lab Operations and QA/QC Leaders</li><li>Digitalization and IT at organizations transitioning from paper, Excel, or legacy systems to LIMS</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Peter Bellstedt, PhD (Director of Business Development and Product Manager at SciY)Peter studied Biochemistry at the University of Jena before completing a PhD on the structural characterization of a DNA repair protein using solution and solid-state NMR. He was then appointed as the head of the NMR Spectroscopy Platform in Jena, Germany, where he pioneered the implementation of modern, highly efficient data-driven workflows. After five years, he moved to the University of Zurich, Switzerland, as a principal investigator, where his lab focused on structure-based drug discovery. This year, he brought his wealth of experience to the LOGS by SciY team, focusing on efficient workflow solutions for research labs and facilities on a global scale.</blockquote>

SciY: From Legacy Workflows to Paperless Labs: Track Every Sample, Process, and Decision

From Legacy Workflows to Paperless Labs: Track Every Sample, Process, and Decision

Transition from paper to a paperless lab. Discover how WebLab, LIMS, and automated data capture streamline sample tracking and boost compliance

Paperless Labs & Sample Tracking: Digital LIMS Workflows

Fentanyl and synthetic drugs have fundamentally changed how law enforcement handles narcotics testing, raising the stakes for officer safety, operational speed and evidence handling. In this live discussion, Rhode Island counterdrug analyst Erik Burmeister will share how testing workflows actually work in the field today, from roadside seizures to controlled environments.Learn how agencies deploy tools like handheld Raman, trace detection and traditional methods to safely identify substances while maintaining investigative momentum. Through real-world examples, this webinar will explore key decision points, current limitations (including lab backlogs) and practical lessons you can apply within your own agency.<h5>By joining this webinar, you will learn:</h5><ul><li>How agencies are improving officer safety during narcotics identification.</li><li>Where handheld tools fit within real-world testing workflows.</li><li>When to conduct on-scene versus controlled environment testing.</li><li>Key limitations and decision points in narcotics identification today.</li><li>Operational benefits agencies are seeing from modern identification tools.</li></ul><blockquote>Speaker: Erik BurmeisterErik Burmeister is a seasoned intelligence and law enforcement professional with over 20 years of service in the Rhode Island Army National Guard, including three combat deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. For the past nine years he has served as a criminal analyst with the Rhode Island National Guard Counterdrug Program. Through this role Burmeister has spent seven years assigned to the Rhode Island State Police High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force, followed by two years with the Rhode Island State Police Intelligence Unit. His work focuses on supporting state and federal efforts to combat drug trafficking and strengthen intelligence-driven policing.</blockquote><blockquote>Speaker: Dr. Adam J. HopkinsAdam has served as the Spectroscopy Product Manager at Metrohm USA since 2016, supporting the development and application of handheld and laboratory spectroscopic solutions for substance identification and chemical analysis. He earned his Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of Oregon, where he specialized in nonlinear optical spectroscopy. Prior to joining Metrohm Hopkins spent several years developing spectroscopic technologies for standoff and noncontact sensing applications, with expertise in Raman spectroscopy, LIBS and other advanced analytical techniques. Through his work with law enforcement, forensic, and industrial organizations, he helps agencies evaluate and implement technologies that support safer, faster identification of unknown substances in the field and laboratory. Hopkins has authored more than 20 peer-reviewed publications and conference proceedings and is the inventor on three patents related to spectroscopic technologies.</blockquote>

Metrohm: Safer Narcotics Identification in the Fentanyl Era - Lessons from Rhode Island State Police

Safer Narcotics Identification in the Fentanyl Era: Lessons from Rhode Island State Police

Learn how Rhode Island State Police use handheld Raman tools for safe fentanyl identification and faster field drug analysis in this live webinar

Safer Narcotics & Fentanyl Identification: Field Workflows

In this webinar we will discuss raw material verification testing through transparent and non-transparent packaging using the new Agilent Vaya Raman system. Vaya is the first handheld Raman spectrometer incorporating spatially offset Raman spectroscopy (SORS) technology for the quick identification of raw materials through containers. SORS reduces the need for sampling, saving cost, and resources by testing incoming goods quickly in the warehouse. Vaya combines the capabilities of conventional Raman systems with SORS for maximum sample/container compatibility. A range of container/material combinations will be discussed.<blockquote>Presenter: Luciana Terra (Application Scientist, Molecular Spectroscopy, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)Luciana Terra has a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Chemistry from the Federal University of Alfenas (Unifal-MG) as well as a Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry, on Chemometrics, from the State University of Campinas (Unicamp), where she developed work focused on petroleum quality and derivatives using high-resolution Mass Spectrometry, NIR, and chemometrics methodologies. As part of her Ph.D., she also worked at the University of Calgary in Canada. While completing her Master’s Degree at Unicamp, Luciana developed a new methodology for drug polymorphism detection using NIR imaging and chemometrics tools for quality assurance in the pharmaceutical industry. In 2019, she joined Agilent Technologies as an Application Scientist for Molecular Spectroscopy in UV-Vis, Fluorescence, IR, and Raman techniques, at Agilent Technologies, in Brazil.</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Verifying Raw Materials with a Handheld Instrument

Verifying Raw Materials with a Handheld Instrument

Master raw material verification through non-transparent containers with the Agilent Vaya handheld SORS Raman system. Reduce sampling costs and downtime

Handheld SORS Raman: Raw Material Testing with Agilent Vaya

An accessory to make absolute specular measurements for specific angles has been available for decades. It's limitation is that it is not easily adaptable to measuring absolute reflectance at any given angle. The Cary 7000 with its unique accessory design has changed the difficulty of the measurement from being a limitation to one of ease. Adding the desire to measure both reflectance and transmission at the same angle increases the design problem which previously was dealt with by using two accessories, one for reflectance and one for transmission. This approach led to uncertainties in knowing the measurements were being made on the same spot. This presentation will look at the design of an absolute reflectance accessory along with the ease of use to be able to collect absolute specular measurements at nearly any user desired angles.<blockquote>Presenter: Scott Melis, PhD (Application Scientist, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)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.</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Absolute Specular Reflectance made Easy in UV-Vis-NIR

Absolute Specular Reflectance made Easy in UV-Vis-NIR

Master absolute specular reflectance and transmission measurements in UV-Vis-NIR. Learn how Agilent Cary 7000 enables variable-angle testing

Absolute Specular Reflectance in UV-Vis-NIR: Cary 7000

<h5>The Problem&nbsp;</h5>Most researchers developing LNPs are stuck in the shade with one-by-one LNP makers that either run costly single use consumables or need a whole extra run to clean the mixer and flowpath before pressing on with more formulations. They tie researchers to the lab bench, and often consume more reagents than you’d ideally want. At the end of the day, this means fewer samples processed, with more hands-on time and higher per experiment costs&nbsp;<h5>The Solution</h5>Sunscreen stops formulation labs from getting burnt by high costs, wasted reagents and laborious sample processing with 100% re-usable mixers and automated sample processing in a 96 well plate format. Using as little as 400 µL of sample per formulation and running a sample every 3-4 minutes, you get more formulations in less time from less material – all while you bask in the extra hours you thought you’d never get back.&nbsp;<h5>The Proof&nbsp;</h5>In this virtual seminar we’ll shed light on how Sunscreen’s automation enables fully hands-free LNP formulation, learn about the benefits of mixing LNPs with Sunnies, and check out the impact of Sunscreen vs one-by-one approaches.&nbsp;<blockquote>Presenter: Ben Knappett, PhD (Sr. Product Manager, The Sunny Suite, Unchained Labs)Ben Knappett is the Sr. Product Manager for the Sunny Suite, Unchained Labs’ automated microfluidic nanoparticle synthesis instruments, used primarily for LNP encapsulation in drug delivery, vaccines, and gene therapy applications. Ben received his MChem degree from Durham University, and completed a PhD in nanoparticle synthesis and characterization at the University of Cambridge. Ben previously worked for Particle Works as Head of Science and Applications, playing a key role in the development and commercialization of the instruments that now make up the Sunny Suite.</blockquote>

Unchained Labs: Make your LNP formulation workflow shine with Sunscreen

Make your LNP formulation workflow shine with Sunscreen

Automate LNP formulation with the Sunscreen system. Learn how 96-well plate automation and reusable mixers reduce reagent waste and speed up workflows.

Automated LNP Formulation Workflows: Sunscreen Platform

Precious metals testing demands speed, accuracy, and confidence. Whether verifying purity, identifying alloy composition, or supporting incoming inspection and quality control, organizations need analytical results they can trust. In this webinar, discover how modern ED-XRF technology enables fast, nondestructive elemental analysis and helps streamline precious metals testing workflows. The new SPECTROSCOUT kt has been designed specifically for users who require reliable assay results, easy operation, and flexible deployment directly where measurements are needed.Join our experts for an in-depth introduction to the SPECTROSCOUT kt and learn how it delivers accurate precious metals analysis in as little as 30 to 90 seconds. You'll see how advanced ED-XRF technology supports the determination of gold, silver, and other precious metal concentrations while helping users improve throughput, reduce uncertainty, and make informed decisions faster. The webinar will also explore key applications including jewelry testing, hallmark verification, recycling, refining, and point-of-sale analysis.<h5>What You'll Learn</h5><ul><li>How the SPECTROSCOUT kt enables fast, nondestructive elemental analysis of precious metals and alloys</li><li>How advanced ED-XRF technology delivers reliable purity verification and alloy identification</li><li>How a compact, portable analyzer can improve productivity and testing flexibility across multiple environments</li></ul><h4>Join us live:</h4><ul><li>10:30 AM CEST (Berlin); 4:30 PM SGT (Singapore) — Time Slot 1</li><li>11:00 AM EDT (New York); 5:00 PM CEST (Berlin) — Time Slot 2</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Dirk Wissmann&nbsp;Dirk Wissmann is the Product Manager for XRF instruments at SPECTRO Analytical Instruments and is responsible for the strategic development of the complete product line including application development and product support. Dirk’s experience in spectroscopy began with his graduate work in physics at the university in Siegen, Germany. He moved to SPECTRO in 1990 with assignments in quality control, training, application development, and marketing.</blockquote>

SPECTRO / AMETEK: Introducing the SPECTROSCOUT kt: Accurate Precious Metals Assays — Anywhere

Introducing the SPECTROSCOUT kt: Accurate Precious Metals Assays — Anywhere

Learn how SPECTROSCOUT kt enables rapid ED-XRF analysis of gold, silver, and alloys for purity testing, hallmarking, recycling, and quality control.

SPECTROSCOUT kt Precious Metals Assays

<h4>Build Confidence in Your Laboratory Data</h4>Reliable laboratory data doesn't happen by chance, it is the result of a quality assurance program designed to detect risk, drive consistency, and support continuous improvement.In this webinar, we'll explore the four foundational elements of an effective QA program: method development, analyst training, ongoing performance monitoring, and corrective action. Learn how laboratories can use precision, accuracy, control charting, trending analysis, and root cause investigations to identify issues before they impact data quality.We'll also discuss practical strategies for verifying method performance, demonstrating analyst competency, sustaining long-term process control, and using certified reference materials as independent tools to strengthen confidence in analytical results.Whether you are building a new QA program or looking to improve an existing one, this session provides actionable guidance for creating a robust and sustainable framework for quality.<h5>Key takeaways</h5><ul><li>Build a more effective and sustainable laboratory QA program.</li><li>Use precision, accuracy, and control charting to improve data quality and identify issues early.</li><li>Apply root cause analysis and certified reference materials to strengthen performance and corrective actions.</li></ul>Who should attendThis webinar is designed for Quality Assurance (QA) and Quality Control (QC) managers, analytical chemists and laboratory scientists, laboratory managers and supervisors.Don't miss it!<blockquote>Speaker:&nbsp;Christy Abbas, PhD (Sr. Product Marketing Manager, Waters ERA)Christy has been with Waters ERA for six and a half years. Her career spans roles at an instrument manufacturer, a biopharmaceutical laboratory, and a mining company. She earned her PhD in Applied Chemistry from the Colorado School of Mines.Throughout her career, Christy has supported the nuclear, pharmaceutical, and chemical industries, as well as academia. Drawing on her background in analytical chemistry, product development, marketing, and sales, she is focused on expanding Waters ERA’s product portfolio to better meet evolving customer needs.</blockquote>

Foundations of a Sustainable, High-Performing QA Program

Build a sustainable QA program for your laboratory. Learn how control charting, root cause analysis, and reference materials drive data confidence

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