<h4><strong>Do you use results of chemical analyses as a basis for your decisions and judgements?</strong></h4><p>Those of us working in accredited laboratories or dealing with issues concerning the quality of measurements, would like to inform you about some important changes concerning the way the results of measurements are presented. These changes make it easier for you as an end-user to make correct decisions.</p><h4><strong>Nobody is perfect!</strong></h4><p>Results of analyses cannot be perfect! We hope this does not come as a big surprise to you. We use the term <strong>measurement uncertainty </strong>to describe this lack of perfection.</p><h4><strong>The analytical process</strong></h4><p>In each step of the analytical work, from sampling to the final measurement, deviations from the true value occur and measurement conditions vary. We take measures and perform controls regularly to assure that these deviations and variations together are small enough to make sure the end result fulfils your requirements. When we don’t have full information about all of the steps, e.g. when sampling and initial sample preparation are performed by you as a customer, you can assist us by providing detailed information about how that work was performed. Our experts are ready to advise on all matters regarding sampling. Please contact the laboratory beforehand.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Eurachem_Important_information_to_our_customers_concerning_the_quality_of_measurements_2_d885f6b051.jpg" alt="Eurachem: The analytical process" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Eurachem_Important_information_to_our_customers_concerning_the_quality_of_measurements_2_d885f6b051.jpg 139w," sizes="100vw" width="562" height="630"></p><h4><strong>Results should be fit-for-the-purpose</strong></h4><p>The accuracy of the results must of course not be too low nor too high since this would increase the costs. It should be fit for the intended purpose. If you are unsure on what level of accuracy you need, do not hesitate to contact the laboratory.</p><h4><strong>Uncertainty and limiting values</strong></h4><p>Many analyses are made to assure that limiting values are not exceeded. Without information about the measurement uncertainty it may appear to be very easy to make decisions, but these decision may be incorrect, with, e.g. economical consequences when rejecting instead of accepting a product, judicial consequences when returning a verdict of guilty instead of not guilty, or medical consequences when carrying out an unnecessary treatment. There are numerous examples!</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Eurachem_Important_information_to_our_customers_concerning_the_quality_of_measurements_3_f0ef8edc77.jpg" alt="Eurachem: Uncertainty and limiting values" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Eurachem_Important_information_to_our_customers_concerning_the_quality_of_measurements_3_f0ef8edc77.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="932" height="453"></p><p>With a realistic measurement uncertainty the information included in the result becomes much more useful.</p><h4><strong>It will be easier to compare results</strong></h4><p>Most laboratories have until now chosen not to state measurement uncertainty in the test report. Instead, such information has only been given when the customer has asked for it</p><p>In the future, information about the measurement uncertainty will appear more frequently in the test report. It is also possible that you will bump into new and unfamiliar quality terms. This is due to the fact that there are new international guides and standards describing a common and partly new terminology. One of the objectives is to make it easier for you as a customer to compare test results.</p><h4><strong>What could it look like?</strong></h4><p>When reporting the test result we will give the normal information about what we have measured. When the results are followed by uncertainty statements, they are presented as intervals within which the true values are expected to lie with a certain level of confidence (usually 95%). In the example below the lead content is 1.65 ± 0.15 mmol·kg-1, that is between 1.50 and 1.80. The measurement uncertainty is also often reported relatively, in %.</p><ul><li><strong>Total lead content (Pb): </strong>1.65 mmol·kg<sup>-1</sup>&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Measurement uncertainty:</strong> 0.15 mmol·kg<sup>-1</sup> (9.1%)&nbsp;</li></ul><p>The stated uncertainty is an expanded measurement uncertainty (<i>U</i>). It was obtained by multiplying the combined standard uncertainty <i>u<sub>c</sub></i> with a coverage factor <i>k</i> equal to 2. This corresponds approximately to a 95 % confidence interval.</p><h4><strong>All’s well that ends well...</strong></h4><p>The requirements for a consistent way of reporting test results are increasing. Therefore, those of us involved in measurements are eager to assure ourselves that we understand your needs. You will notice this in your contacts with us before, during and after the test assignment. We hope that you will be satisfied with the final result.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Eurachem_Important_information_to_our_customers_concerning_the_quality_of_measurements_4_f870b1a7b8.jpg" alt="Eurachem: All’s well that ends well..." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Eurachem_Important_information_to_our_customers_concerning_the_quality_of_measurements_4_f870b1a7b8.jpg 159w," sizes="100vw" width="713" height="701"></p>

Important information to our customers concerning the quality of measurements

<h4><strong>A comprehensive analysis of renewable fuel testing technologies, automation, and ISO-compliant proximate analysis</strong></h4><p>The growing demand for renewable energy has increased the importance of accurate biofuel characterization. Biomass feedstocks and finished fuels must be carefully analyzed to ensure quality, efficiency, and compliance with international standards. LECO analytical instrumentation supports this work through automated and highly reliable analytical technologies.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/TGA_801_Termogravimetricka_analyza_vlhkosti_popela_tekavych_latek_a_ztraty_zihanim_b73c4cf493.jpg" alt="LECO: Advancing Biofuel Characterization with LECO Analytical Instrumentation: LECO’s TGA801, used for automated biofuel analysis." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_TGA_801_Termogravimetricka_analyza_vlhkosti_popela_tekavych_latek_a_ztraty_zihanim_b73c4cf493.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1164" height="435"></p><h3><strong>Automated Proximate Analysis with LECO’s TGA801</strong></h3><p>The<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1877"> <strong>LECO TGA801 thermogravimetric analyzer</strong> </a>is designed for automated determination of moisture, volatile matter, and ash content in solid fuels. The system can analyze up to 19 samples simultaneously and combine all three parameters into one automated run, improving efficiency and reproducibility.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/LECO_Advancing_Biofuel_Characterization_with_LECO_Analytical_Instrumentation_31e96f1c96.jpg" alt="LECO Advancing Biofuel Characterization with LECO Analytical Instrumentation: TGA801 system with ceramic turntable and crucibles for ISO 18123 volatile matter determination." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_LECO_Advancing_Biofuel_Characterization_with_LECO_Analytical_Instrumentation_31e96f1c96.jpg 235w," sizes="100vw" width="860" height="573"></p><h3><strong>Comparison with ISO Reference Methods</strong></h3><p>To validate the performance of the automated TGA801 system, comparative studies were conducted using internationally recognized ISO reference methods. Moisture determination was compared with ISO 18134, ash content with ISO 18122, and volatile matter with ISO 18123. These standards prescribe specific temperatures and analytical procedures, but also permit automated systems if equivalent performance can be demonstrated.</p><p>The comparison included a broad range of materials such as wood pellets, peat, coal, plastics, and waste-derived fuels. Moisture and ash results generated by the TGA801 showed extremely close agreement with the manual ISO procedures. This strong correlation confirms that automated thermogravimetric analysis can provide the same reliability as conventional methods while greatly increasing throughput and reducing labor requirements.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/LECO_Advancing_Biofuel_Characterization_with_LECO_Analytical_Instrumentation_2_3887128788.jpg" alt="LECO: Advancing Biofuel Characterization with LECO Analytical Instrumentation: ISO method crucibles for manual volatile determination." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_LECO_Advancing_Biofuel_Characterization_with_LECO_Analytical_Instrumentation_2_3887128788.jpg 172w," sizes="100vw" width="1264" height="1145"></p><h3><strong>Volatile Matter Correlation Results</strong></h3><p>For volatile matter analysis, both ISO and TGA procedures measure mass loss during a fixed period at 900 °C. The TGA method introduces an additional heating ramp from the moisture determination step at approximately 105 °C to the higher volatile matter temperature. Despite this procedural difference, the resulting data demonstrated excellent agreement.</p><p>Testing performed on wood pellets showed a strong linear relationship between the ISO and TGA methods with an R² value of approximately 0.94. The maximum deviation observed was only 1.06%, while the average difference between methods was approximately 0.1%. These results confirm the ability of the TGA801 to produce highly accurate volatile matter measurements across a variety of biomass and fuel matrices.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/LECO_Advancing_Biofuel_Characterization_with_LECO_Analytical_Instrumentation_2_40f7189cef.jpg" alt="LECO Advancing Biofuel Characterization with LECO Analytical Instrumentation: Correlation and comparative data between ISO methods and LECO TGA analysis." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_LECO_Advancing_Biofuel_Characterization_with_LECO_Analytical_Instrumentation_2_40f7189cef.jpg 172w," sizes="100vw" width="1065" height="967"><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/LECO_Advancing_Biofuel_Characterization_with_LECO_Analytical_Instrumentation_1_7519e8e646.jpg" alt="LECO Advancing Biofuel Characterization with LECO Analytical Instrumentation: Correlation and comparative data between ISO methods and LECO TGA analysis." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_LECO_Advancing_Biofuel_Characterization_with_LECO_Analytical_Instrumentation_1_7519e8e646.jpg 228w," sizes="100vw" width="1641" height="1120"></p><h3><strong>Advantages of Automated Biofuel Analysis</strong></h3><ul><li>High sample throughput with simultaneous multi-sample analysis.</li><li>Fully automated workflows reducing operator involvement.</li><li>Integrated determination of moisture, ash, and volatile matter in one run.</li><li>Excellent reproducibility and data consistency.</li><li>Strong agreement with ISO reference methods without additional calibration.</li><li>Improved data security and laboratory efficiency.</li><li>Suitable for research laboratories, industrial quality control, and fuel certification.</li></ul><h3><strong>Automate Your Lab Today</strong></h3><p>LECO analytical instrumentation provides a comprehensive solution for modern biofuel characterization. From calorific value determination and elemental composition analysis to ash fusibility and automated proximate analysis, these technologies support both scientific research and industrial production with fast, reliable, and reproducible results.<br><br>The TGA801 demonstrates how automation can significantly improve laboratory efficiency while maintaining full compliance with ISO reference methods. By integrating moisture, ash, and volatile matter analysis into a single automated workflow, the system reduces labor requirements, increases throughput, and enhances data quality.<br><br>As renewable energy continues to expand globally, advanced analytical systems will remain essential for ensuring fuel quality, supporting regulatory compliance, and driving innovation in sustainable energy technologies. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1877"><strong>Explore the features of the LECO TGA801 today.</strong></a></p>

Advancing Biofuel Characterization with LECO Analytical Instrumentation

<p><strong>In the week from July 6, the following webinars await you in the field of atomic and molecular spectroscopy and spectrometry</strong></p><blockquote><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinars"><strong>👉 DETAILS AND REGISTRATION IN THE WEBINARS SECTION</strong></a></h4><p><strong>👉 Search and filter in the largest global database</strong> with over <strong>5 500 GC, LC, MS and spectroscopy webinars</strong>.</p></blockquote><h5><strong>1. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Lunch and Learn Tips and Tricks Series: Trace Elemental Analysis (ICP-OES &amp; ICP-MS)</strong></h5><ul><li>Tu, 7.7.2026 12:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/5977">Registration</a></li></ul><p>Learn practical tips to optimize ICP-OES and ICP-MS performance, improve data quality, streamline troubleshooting and maintenance, and enhance sample preparation for more efficient elemental analysis.</p><h5><strong>2. SelectScience: Expanding the 4D-STEM Toolbox for Advanced Materials Characterization</strong></h5><ul><li>Tu, 7.7.2026 15:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/6318">Registration</a></li></ul><p>Explore how Timepix4 detector technology advances 4D-STEM workflows, enabling high-resolution imaging, data-driven acquisition, and new opportunities in electron microscopy.</p><h5><strong>3. Anton Paar: Microwave Digestion: The Foundation of Accurate Trace Metal Analysis</strong></h5><ul><li>We, 8.7.2026 09:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/6321">Registration</a></li></ul><p>Build robust workflows for trace metal analysis. Learn how microwave digestion ensures fast, contamination-free, and complete sample preparation across complex food matrices.</p><h5><strong>4. Wiley: From liquids to solids: expand what your UV-Vis-NIR Spectrometer can do</strong></h5><ul><li>We, 8.7.2026 16:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/6367">Registration</a></li></ul><p>Discover how the Agilent Cary UV-Vis-NIR spectrometer, together with Specac accessories, enables reliable analysis of liquids, powders, films, pellets, and highly scattering solid samples.</p><h5><strong>5. SelectScience: The next generation ICP-MS designed to wow trace element analysts</strong></h5><ul><li>We, 8.7.2026 16:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/6320">Registration</a></li></ul><p>Upgrade your trace-element analysis. Discover how the new Agilent 9500 ICP-MS eliminates interferences and simplifies method development for complex matrices.</p><h5><strong>6. LECO: Dry Matter and Ash Determination in Wastewater and Sewage Sludge</strong></h5><ul><li>Th, 9.7.2026 16:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/6324">Registration</a></li></ul><p>Optimize wastewater analysis. Learn how automated thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) replaces manual drying and ashing steps to determine dry matter and ash in sewage sludge.</p><h5><strong>7. Waters Corporation: Cracking the Code on Nitrogen Methods</strong></h5><ul><li>Th, 9.7.2026 17:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/6327">Registration</a></li></ul><p>Learn the fundamentals of nitrogen analysis for wastewater testing. Explore analytical methods, QA/QC, sample handling, compliance reporting, and troubleshooting for accurate environmental monitoring.</p><h5><strong>8. Agilent Technologies: ICP Expert 7.8: Booming ICP-OES Software Innovation</strong></h5><ul><li>Th, 9.7.2026 20:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/6368">Registration</a></li></ul><p>Discover what's new in ICP Expert™ 7.8 and how the latest software innovations can improve data quality, simplify routine operation, and increase day-to-day laboratory efficiency.</p>

Webinars LabRulezICPMS Week 28/2026

Article

Product

Webinars

Application

Academy

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

Eurachem

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

LabRulez

In 1936, the Laboratory Equipment Company introduced the first rapid carbon determinator for the American iron and steel industry.  Today, almost 80 years later, LECO is recognized globally as a leader in the development of high-quality analytical instrumentation, mass spectrometers, comprehensive two-dimensional chromatography, metallography & optical equipment as well as consumables.

LECO

Agilent Technologies

<p><strong>This presentation aims to provide a comprehensive introduction to Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR).</strong></p>
<p>The central focus is on the essential principles underlying FTIR, as well as offering valuable insights and practical strategies to optimize its use in both lab and field environments. This session will not only elucidate the theory and mechanics of FTIR but also present effective tips and tricks that aid in enhancing the performance and reliability of FTIR spectrometry.</p>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Yanqia Wang, PhD (Application Engineer, Molecular Spectroscopy, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Dr. Yanqia Wang started working for Agilent Technologies Inc. as a FTIR application Engineer in 2013, providing pre-&amp;post-sale application support. The products he covers from Bench-top FTIR microscopes to various Mobile FTIR spectrometers. Dr. Wang received his PhD of analytical chemistry from Duke University in 2004, doing dynamic IR spectroscopy research. Then he joined Fitzpatrick Center for Photonics at Duke University, doing Tissue Raman spectrometer instrumentation. Since 2007, Dr. Wang worked for Avery Dennison Corp. as a spectroscopist, providing molecular analytical support to the research &amp; development.</p>
</blockquote>


Agilent Technologies: A Workshop on the Fundamentals and Tips & Tricks of FTIR

A Workshop on the Fundamentals and Tips & Tricks of FTIR

Essential principles underlying FTIR, as well as offering valuable insights and practical strategies to optimize its use in both lab and field environments.

<p><strong>The fundamentals of fluorescence analysis will be discussed. Topics considered will be choosing the best excitation wavelength, identifying interferences like the Raman band and second order peaks from the monochromator. Concentration quenching, environmental factors, and a variety of other factors will be discussed.</strong></p><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter:&nbsp;</strong> Dean Brown (Application Scientist, Molecular Spectroscopy, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)</p><p>A graduate of the University of Maryland and West Virginia University. Started as research scientist at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine developing clinical laboratory assays. Transitions to an Applications Scientist for Uv/Vis/Nir, Fluorescence, IR and Raman spectroscopy. He has published numerous papers in the field of molecular spectroscopy and served on a number of Committees.</p></blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Agilent Webinars On Demand

Back to Basics with Fluorescence: A Tips & Tricks Workshop

The fundamentals of fluorescence analysis will be discussed - choosing the best excitation wavelength, identifying interferences and a variety of other factors.

<p><strong>The Pharmaceutical industry is required to verify all incoming raw materials that will go into making of the drug product. The typical sequence is to first quarantine the raw materials, then move it to the sampling room and take an aliquot for analysis in the laboratory. The material is then moved to a second quarantine location until it is verified, then it can be put on the warehouse shelf and used in production.&nbsp;</strong></p><p>Raman spectroscopy can circumvent this multi-step process by identifying the incoming material directly on the warehouse floor through the unopened container using SORS technology. The material can then be immediate placed in the warehouse for production.</p><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter:&nbsp;</strong> Dean Brown (Application Scientist, Molecular Spectroscopy, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)</p><p>A graduate of the University of Maryland and West Virginia University. Started as research scientist at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine developing clinical laboratory assays. Transitions to an Applications Scientist for Uv/Vis/Nir, Fluorescence, IR and Raman spectroscopy. He has published numerous papers in the field of molecular spectroscopy and served on a number of Committees.</p></blockquote>

Through Barrier Chemical Analysis and Identification: Tips & Tricks Workshop

Raman spectroscopy can identify the incoming material directly on the warehouse floor through the unopened container using SORS technology. 

Through Barrier Chemical Analysis and Identification

<div><div container-id="cq-colctrl-lt0" comp-id="A1"><div><p><strong>This session will delve into model training, method validation, tips and tricks to improve or ensure method robustness and custom methods.</strong></p><p>Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your understanding and skills!</p><blockquote><p>First session: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/5748"><strong>Watch on-demand here</strong></a></p></blockquote><h5><strong>In this webinar, you'll learn:</strong></h5><ul><li>How to build method training&nbsp;</li><li>Method validation</li><li>How to ensure model robustness on the Vaya?</li><li>What is a custom method on Vaya?</li></ul><p>This webinar is beneficial for all Vaya users or any pharma/biopharma customers interested to know more on through-packaging raw materials identification.</p><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Chris Welsby (Raman ID Product Line Manager, Agilent Technologies)</p><p>Chris is a PhD chemist, graduating from Cardiff University in 2001 having studied heterogenous catalysis, now focusing on molecular spectroscopy products intended for the pharma industry, namely Spatially Offset Raman Spectroscopy (SORS) through barrier technology, to enable verification of raw material ID through packaging in the warehouse environment. Chris has worked as part of the marketing team on Spatially Offset Raman applications since 2016, firstly as an Applications Scientist and latterly as a Marketing Product Manager of the Vaya handheld for raw material ID.</p></blockquote></div></div></div>

Agilent Technologies: Tip and Tricks – How to Best Use the Handheld Raman Vaya

Tip and Tricks – How to Best Use the Handheld Raman Vaya

Join us for the second session on Vaya Method Development Tips and Tricks!

How to Best Use Handheld Raman Vaya

<div><div container-id="cq-colctrl-lt0" comp-id="A1"><div><p><strong>Join us for an insightful session on Vaya Method Development Tips and Tricks! Dive into the world of Spatially Offset Raman Spectroscopy (SORS) and the Agilent Vaya Handheld Raman. We'll explore the unique value proposition of SORS and provide guidance on developing robust methods on the Vaya for ID testing in a manufacturing environment. Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your understanding and skills!</strong></p><h5><strong>Key learning objectives:</strong></h5><ul><li>What is spatially offset Raman spectroscopy?</li><li>How to interpret the information supplied by the Vaya?</li><li>How to develop robust methods on the Vaya?</li><li>What is a custom method on Vaya?</li></ul><h5><strong>Who should attend?</strong></h5><p>All Vaya user or any pharma/biopharma customers interested to know more on through-packaging raw materials identification.</p><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Frederic Prulliere (Product Manager Raman ID, Agilent Technologies)</p><p>Frederic Prulliere is the Product Manager for the Raman ID product line at Agilent Technologies. Prulliere leads the product development of spatially offset Raman spectroscopy-based solutions, particularly for verifying raw materials at reception. He joined Agilent Technologies in 2012 as a business development manager for mobile Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR).</p></blockquote></div></div></div>

ICPMS webinars focusing on Tips & Tricks - page 1