Colourful vortices, loops and currents resembling magnetic storms or abstract digital art. This is what maps of magnetically induced electron currents look like, created by an international team including chemists from CEITEC Masaryk University while studying molecules containing gold, mercury and the rare element astatine.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CEITEC_Chemici_z_CEITEC_zachytili_elektronove_boure_ve_zlate_a_rtuti_4_7b12d14b21.jpeg" alt="CEITEC: CEITEC Chemists Capture Electron Storms in Gold and Mercury" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CEITEC_Chemici_z_CEITEC_zachytili_elektronove_boure_ve_zlate_a_rtuti_4_7b12d14b21.jpeg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="834">What may at first glance resemble visualisations of outer space or ocean currents is in fact taking place inside molecules themselves. Here, electrons form complex currents and vortices whose shapes vary depending on the type of atom and the nature of the chemical bond.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CEITEC_Chemici_z_CEITEC_zachytili_elektronove_boure_ve_zlate_a_rtuti_3_9e2f79434f.jpeg" alt="CEITEC: CEITEC Chemists Capture Electron Storms in Gold and Mercury" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CEITEC_Chemici_z_CEITEC_zachytili_elektronove_boure_ve_zlate_a_rtuti_3_9e2f79434f.jpeg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="834">And this is where Einstein enters the picture. In heavy elements, electrons move so rapidly that their behaviour is influenced by the effects of special relativity. Without relativistic physics, some of these remarkable electron patterns would not exist at all.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CEITEC_Chemici_z_CEITEC_zachytili_elektronove_boure_ve_zlate_a_rtuti_8_5fc3a0ed98.jpeg" alt="CEITEC: CEITEC Chemists Capture Electron Storms in Gold and Mercury" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CEITEC_Chemici_z_CEITEC_zachytili_elektronove_boure_ve_zlate_a_rtuti_8_5fc3a0ed98.jpeg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="827">While some atoms are surrounded by almost perfectly symmetrical current flows, others generate distorted vortices or local turbulences resembling miniature electron storms. Using advanced computational methods, the researchers were able to capture these differences in unprecedented detail.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CEITEC_Chemici_z_CEITEC_zachytili_elektronove_boure_ve_zlate_a_rtuti_5_0e0f36c76a.jpeg" alt="CEITEC: CEITEC Chemists Capture Electron Storms in Gold and Mercury" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CEITEC_Chemici_z_CEITEC_zachytili_elektronove_boure_ve_zlate_a_rtuti_5_0e0f36c76a.jpeg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="834">The results provide not only new insights into the behaviour of heavy elements but also a visually fascinating glimpse into a world that normally remains hidden from human eyes.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CEITEC_Chemici_z_CEITEC_zachytili_elektronove_boure_ve_zlate_a_rtuti_7_462defafce.jpeg" alt="CEITEC: CEITEC Chemists Capture Electron Storms in Gold and Mercury" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CEITEC_Chemici_z_CEITEC_zachytili_elektronove_boure_ve_zlate_a_rtuti_7_462defafce.jpeg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="834">Scientists study such phenomena because the behaviour of electrons determines how stable molecules are, how they react, and what properties they possess. In heavy elements, however, the rules of classical chemistry often reach their limits – and relativity comes into play.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CEITEC_Chemici_z_CEITEC_zachytili_elektronove_boure_ve_zlate_a_rtuti_01832dca81.jpeg" alt="CEITEC: CEITEC Chemists Capture Electron Storms in Gold and Mercury" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CEITEC_Chemici_z_CEITEC_zachytili_elektronove_boure_ve_zlate_a_rtuti_01832dca81.jpeg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="834">A better understanding of these effects could eventually contribute to the design of new catalysts or materials based on heavy metals. For the researchers themselves, studying such electron structures is also a way of exploring one of the least intuitive realms of modern chemistry.The study was published in <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://doi.org/10.1021/jacsau.6c00346">JACS Au</a>.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CEITEC_Chemici_z_CEITEC_zachytili_elektronove_boure_ve_zlate_a_rtuti_6_a2a8433b8b.jpeg" alt="CEITEC: CEITEC Chemists Capture Electron Storms in Gold and Mercury" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CEITEC_Chemici_z_CEITEC_zachytili_elektronove_boure_ve_zlate_a_rtuti_6_a2a8433b8b.jpeg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="834"><blockquote><h4>Original article</h4><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/jacsau.6c00346">Link between Spin–Orbit Relativity and Magnetically Induced Current Densities in Heavy-Atom Hydrides: trans-Ligand Influence</a></h4>Daniel Blasco, Jan Novotný, James R. Asher, Raphael J. F. Berger, Stanislav Komorovsky, Radek MarekJACS Au 2026, 6, 6, 3323–3335<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://doi.org/10.1021/jacsau.6c00346">https://doi.org/10.1021/jacsau.6c00346</a><h6>licensed under <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/">CC-BY 4.0&nbsp;</a></h6></blockquote><h4>Abstract</h4>Interactions between individual atoms underpin the structure and behavior of matter. These interactions govern atomic positions and dynamics, as well as the organization of electrons─particularly in the frontier region. Because electrons lie at the core of chemical phenomena, numerous theoretical frameworks have been developed to rationalize the molecular structure and properties. Electronic motion within molecules and the resulting induced currents provide powerful probes of the molecular or supramolecular structure, building on and going beyond molecular orbital and valence bond theories. In particular, current density offers a spatially-resolved description of the electronic response to external perturbations, enabling direct analysis of electron delocalization and magnetic response in molecular systems. In this work, the effect of relativistic spin–orbit (SO) coupling on the strength and topology of the magnetically induced current density (MICD) is analyzed in depth for a series of model heavy-atom hydrides at the four-component Dirac-Kohn–Sham level. For the most simple molecules, TlH, HAt, and AuH, we demonstrate a connection between the SO effects on the molecular geometry, strength and topology of MICDs, and ligand 1H NMR shielding. For model HMX molecules, where M = AuI, HgII; X = F, Cl, Ph, CH3, H, SiH3, BH2, the hydride deshielding due to the slight elongation of the M–H bond upon increasing the trans-ligand influence (TLI) of X is shown to be marginal when compared to that originating from the electronic SO effect. In particular, the inclusion of SO effects gives rise to highly localized paratropic MICD vortices on the hydride position of those complexes bearing strong TLI ligands. Our results disprove the previously proposed governing role of the current around the metal atom (similar to the classical Buckingham-Stephens model for transition metal hydrides) associated with TLI-induced variations in the metal–hydrogen bond length in determining the characteristic ligand 1H NMR shifts.

CEITEC Chemists Capture Electron Storms in Gold and Mercury 

In the week from July 27, the following webinars await you in the field of atomic and molecular spectroscopy and spectrometry<blockquote><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinars">👉 DETAILS AND REGISTRATION IN THE WEBINARS SECTION</a></h4>👉 Search and filter in the largest global database with over 5 500 GC, LC, MS and spectroscopy webinars.</blockquote><h5>1. Agilent Technologies: Fast, Non-Destructive Pharmaceutical Analysis with the Agilent TRS100</h5><ul><li>We, 29.7.2026 07:30 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/6390">Registration</a></li></ul>Accelerate pharmaceutical quality control with the Agilent TRS100. Learn how non-destructive analysis of intact tablets and capsules eliminates sample preparation while improving workflow efficiency.<h5>2. Anton Paar: Next-Generation Flow Chemisorption with Autosorb 3300</h5><ul><li>We, 29.7.2026 15:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/6403">Registration</a></li></ul>Discover how the Autosorb 3300 simplifies flow chemisorption measurements, making advanced catalyst characterization more accessible while improving efficiency and ease of use.<h5>3. Bruker: Advancing Coordination Chemistry with Single Crystal X-ray Diffraction</h5><ul><li>Th, 30.7.2026 10:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/6375">Registration</a></li></ul>Explore how Bruker's latest single-crystal X-ray diffraction (SC-XRD) innovations support coordination chemistry research with improved structural characterization and analytical capabilities.<h5>4. Agilent Technologies: Spectral Flow Cytometry Masterclass – Session 2</h5><ul><li>Fr, 31.7.2026 08:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/6391">Registration</a></li></ul>Advance your spectral flow cytometry skills with practical guidance on high-dimensional panel design, sample preparation, and spectral unmixing strategies.

Webinars LabRulezICPMS Week 31/2026

Photocatalytic degradation and transformation of pharmaceuticals using exfoliated metal-free g-C3N4

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Since its establishment in 2011, CEITEC has quickly developed into a cutting-edge infrastructure for research which performs highly alongside the best institutes in Europe. Among the main priorities of CEITEC are the promotion of a motivating and dynamic international scientific environment, the provision of state-of-the-art research infrastructure, and the policy of open communication and equal opportunities.

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X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) spectrometry is a widely used analytical technology for the determination of elemental concentrations in various sample types (liquids, powders, granules, solids, …). Key benefits of XRF include high precision &amp; accuracy, ease-of-use, and short time-to-result. The required sample preparation is minimal compared to alternative technologies like ICP-OES. Even though XRF sample preparation is fast and simple, doing it right is pivotal for using XRF successfully, especially for high-throughput industrial applications. By choosing the appropriate preparation approach and following certain best practice steps, you can save time and money while ensuring the necessary data quality.
Which foil should I use for which liquid? Do I need to polish my sample? When should I grind, press or fuse a sample? And why? 
These and more questions will be answered.
Register now to learn about optimal sample preparation for XRF! 
In our lab sessions, we will show valuable tips and tricks for various applications and materials. Our experts will answer your questions during our Q&amp;A session.
<h5>Agenda (60 min)</h5>
<ul>
<li>Basics of Sample Preparation</li>
<li>Lab Session 1: Liquid Samples</li>
<li>Lab Session 2: Powders &amp; Pellets</li>
<li>The Effect of Grain Size, Pressing and Matrix </li>
<li>Lab Session 3: Fused Beads </li>
<li>Lab Session 4: Small Spot &amp; Mapping</li>
<li>Q&amp;A Session with our Experts</li>
</ul>
<h5>Best practice examples will be provided for:</h5>
<ul>
<li>All Techniques and Sample Types</li>
<li>Mining &amp; Cement</li>
<li>Petrochemicals &amp; Polymers</li>
<li>RoHS Analysis (Small Spot)</li>
<li>Defect Analysis (Mapping) </li>
<li>and more …</li>
</ul>
<h5>Who should attend?</h5>
<ul>
<li>QA Managers</li>
<li>Head of Laboratories </li>
<li>Consultants</li>
<li>Lab Technicians</li>
<li>Researchers</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Dr. Kai Behrens (Head of XRF Product Line Management, Bruker AXS)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Dr. Adrian Fiege (Product Manager XRF, Bruker AXS)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Renata Janjic (Application Scientist XRF, Bruker AXS)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Frank Portala (Product Manager XRF, Bruker AXS)
</blockquote>

Bruker: XRF Unveiled: Mastering the Art of Sample Preparation

XRF Unveiled: Mastering the Art of Sample Preparation

We will show valuable tips and tricks for various applications and materials. Our experts will answer your questions during our Q&A session.

Modern laboratories work under pressure to deliver stable, repeatable results. Automated preparation and controlled sample handling help laboratories reduce variability and keep processes dependable. This live webinar will explain how standardized grinding, dilution, and pellet pressing support consistent sample quality and strengthen the reliability of elemental analysis across diverse materials.Automated transport, pre‑set validation steps, and secure data exchange reduce manual touchpoints and lower the risk of operator errors. This streamlined workflow improves throughput, stabilizes routine tasks, and supports analytical confidence in demanding environments. These advantages apply to raw meal, clinker, cement, slag, ores, oxidic materials, and ferroalloys—areas where reliable ED‑XRF conditions matter most.The webinar will also show how the combination of HERZOG automation and the SPECTRO XEPOS creates an integrated ED‑XRF workflow. The system delivers stable excitation, high‑resolution detection, and flexible measurement strategies that help laboratories maintain strong analytical performance with minimal effort.<h4>Key Takeaways</h4><ul><li>Automated workflows create consistent sample quality and improve reproducibility.</li><li>Integrated validation and data transfer reduce errors and support unattended operation.</li><li>Scalable automation increases throughput and enhances analytical confidence.</li></ul>The webinar will take around 30 minutes, after which we'll answer your questions live.<h5>Join us live:</h5><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 WissmannProduct 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>

AMETEK / SPECTRO: How Automated ED-XRF Workflows Strengthen Elemental Analysis Performance

How Automated ED-XRF Workflows Strengthen Elemental Analysis Performance

Webinar on automated sample prep and ED-XRF workflows improving reproducibility, throughput and analytical reliability.

ICPMS webinars focusing on Sample prep - page 1

How Automated ED-XRF Workflows Strengthen Elemental Analysis Performance

XRF Unveiled: Mastering the Art of Sample Preparation

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Photocatalytic degradation and transformation of pharmaceuticals using exfoliated metal-free g-C3N4

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CEITEC Chemists Capture Electron Storms in Gold and Mercury