Interlaboratory comparisons (ILCs) have been used for more than a century and many important concepts are linked to them. This leaflet addresses the basic terminology of ILCs, why some colloquial terms can be misleading or misunderstood, and the importance of harmonisation.&nbsp;An ‘ILC’ is the organisation, performance and evaluation of measurements or tests on the same or similar items by two or more laboratories in accordance with predetermined conditions [1]. ILCs have a variety of overall – and detailed – objectives, the three most common [2] being:<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Eurachem_Let_s_call_a_PT_scheme_a_PT_scheme_3_9993b9fb0f.jpg" alt="Eurachem: Let’s call a PT scheme a PT scheme" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Eurachem_Let_s_call_a_PT_scheme_a_PT_scheme_3_9993b9fb0f.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1516" height="472"><h4>Some comparisons have special names&nbsp;</h4>The evaluation of participant (laboratory, organisation or individual) performance is typically referred to as ‘proficiency testing’ (PT) or ‘external quality assessment’ [1]. When the main objective is evaluating the performance of, for example, a candidate standard method, the ILC is often called a ‘method performance study’ or a ‘collaborative study’ [2, 3]. The former is quite clear whereas wording such as “collaborative” and “cooperative” just stresses joint effort. A project aimed at producing a new certified reference material may involve several laboratories conducting analyses on agreed properties [4]. Not surprisingly, this work is sometimes labelled as a ‘material certification study’. Special ILCs used to demonstrate measurement capabilities of National Metrology Institutes are called ‘key comparisons’, ‘supplementary comparisons’, and ‘pilot studies’ [5].&nbsp;<h4>Some terms can be confusing&nbsp;</h4>Other terms for ILCs, including ‘ring test’, ‘round robin’ and ‘circle analysis’, are common in the literature. They have, however, been used for different objectives and different designs and may be ambiguous or understood differently by laboratory staff. The use of these terms may, for example, imply a specific way of distributing the ILC sample. ISO/IEC 17043 uses ‘sequential scheme’, for a PT where a unique item is transferred between the participants and ‘simultaneous scheme’, in which similar items from a batch are distributed simultaneously to the participants [1].&nbsp;Terms like ‘measurement audit’, ‘interlaboratory testing scheme’, ‘measurement comparison scheme’, ‘rapid performance evaluation scheme’ and ‘intercalibration’ may not correctly reflect the category of laboratory involved, or the type of work participants do during the ILC.&nbsp;When in 1994 the IUPAC defined and described three major types of ‘interlaboratory studies’, the word ‘study’ was preferred to synonyms such as ‘trial’, ‘exercise’, ‘test’, ‘evaluation’ or ‘check’ [2].<h4>Let’s try to harmonise&nbsp;</h4>Many laboratory staff are unaware of official terms related to ILCs but recognise the acronym PT and words like ‘ring test’. Ideally, we would use a common scientific language, but harmonisation is time consuming. Terms appear and disappear and definitions change. The same term can be defined differently, even in different international standards. Lack of standards and guidelines in local languages can cause confusion and contribute to spreading of less appropriate terms.&nbsp;<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Eurachem_Let_s_call_a_PT_scheme_a_PT_scheme_2_820043ce8b.jpg" alt="Eurachem: Let’s call a PT scheme a PT scheme" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Eurachem_Let_s_call_a_PT_scheme_a_PT_scheme_2_820043ce8b.jpg 234w," sizes="100vw" width="1006" height="671">Much confusion can be avoided by clear reference to relevant standards and sectoral guides. ISO/ IEC 17043 [1] and ISO 13528 [6] contain many important concepts related to PT schemes and other ILCs. Some of these are also incorporated into ISO/IEC 17025 [7]. Additional useful, and free, tools are the Eurachem PT Guide [8] and the ISO online browsing platform [9].&nbsp;In writing guidance and instructions, remember that the term ‘interlaboratory comparison’ has a broad meaning and can be used for all cases described above. Sometimes this is clear enough for the reader. In other cases, use acknowledged terms that reflect the detailed objective of the ILC. Let’s call a PT scheme a PT scheme!

Let’s call a PT scheme a PT scheme!

The countdown is on for one of the world’s leading conferences dedicated to food analysis. The 12th International Symposium on Recent Advances in Food Analysis (RAFA 2026), taking place in Prague from 3–6 November 2026, is approaching two important milestones: the Early Bird registration deadline and the deadline for oral abstract submissions, both ending on 30 June 2026. Researchers, analysts, industry professionals, regulators, and students are encouraged to secure their participation at a reduced registration rate and take advantage of the opportunity to present their latest scientific results to the international food analysis community.RAFA 2026 will once again bring together leading experts from academia, industry, and regulatory organizations to discuss the latest developments in food safety, authenticity, contaminants, non-target screening, PFAS, microplastics, food contact materials, artificial intelligence, and advanced analytical technologies. The preliminary program already features an outstanding lineup of internationally recognized speakers addressing some of the most pressing challenges in modern food analysis and food safety.<h3>Registration</h3><blockquote>👉<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://rafa.easyevent.eu/tickets/">Register to attend RAFA 2026!</a>Early-bird registration until 30 June, 2026</blockquote>After successful submission of your registration, you will receive by e-mail (i) an automatic confirmation of receipt indicating the total amount of payment due (either for bank transfer or for on-line payment by card), (ii) login to Member section where you can administrate your profile, submit your abstracts, and from September 2026 register for satellite events, workshops and seminars. If it will not be delivered within a few minutes after submission of your registration please contact us at RAFA2026@vscht.cz.As soon as payment of registration fee is processed, you will also receive by e-mail (iii) confirmation of payment.<h4>Registration Fees</h4><ul><li>Smart rate (Until 30 June, 2026): € 655</li><li>Regular registration (Until 30 September, 2026): € 855</li><li>Late registration (From 1 October, 2026): € 955</li><li>Student rate*&nbsp;<ul><li>Until 30 June, 2026: € 465</li><li>From 1 July, 2026: € 605</li></ul></li></ul>* The proof of student status (e.g. copy of a student identify card) is requested as an attachment of the registration form.<h5>The regular registration fee will include:</h5><ul><li>Attendance at all scientific sessions, workshops, seminars, vendor seminars and other satellite events</li><li>Access to the poster and exhibition area</li><li>Conference kit (name badge, conference bag, conference documents, certificate of participation, certificate of presentation on request)</li><li>Final programme</li><li>E-Book of Abstracts</li><li>Coffee breaks</li><li>Buffet luncheons</li><li>Welcome drink</li></ul>In the registration form you can register free of charge for the welcome drink and you can also order ticket(s) for the conference dinner (€ 85).Please note that your registration is firm when your payment has been received.<h3>Abstract submission</h3><blockquote>👉<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://rafa.easyevent.eu/tickets/">Submit your ABSTRACT HERE!</a>In order to submit an abstract, you must first register to attend RAFA 2026. After registration you will receive an access to the Member section where you can submit your abstract(s).</blockquote>&nbsp;After successful submission of your abstract you will receive an automatic confirmation of receipt of submitted abstract via e-mail. If it will not be delivered within a few minutes after submission of your abstract please check at first your spam box-mail and then contact us at RAFA2026@vscht.cz.Please ensure that your abstract does not contain spelling, grammatical or scientific errors. Even though modifications of your submitted abstract will be allowed in the Abstract section of the Member section until the deadline for the abstract submission, please be confident on the lack of errors in your final version prior to starting the submission process.The abstract will be reproduced exactly as submitted. No proofreading will be done, although some corrections may be requested by the reviewers.If you need to withdraw your abstract, a written statement reflecting the reasons for this decision must be sent to RAFA2026@vscht.cz no later than September 30, 2026.<h4>Important notice:</h4><blockquote>1 registered participant can submit no more than 2 abstracts.</blockquote>To apply for a young scientist’s oral presentation, as an indication please respect the rule that you should be born in 1991 or later.The text of the abstract should be limited to 3000 characters including spaces. Tables and pictures are not allowed.Abstracts of oral presentations and posters will be included into the "e-Book of Abstracts" only after receipt of the conference registration fee. Any payment of the registration fee has to be received until September 30, 2026, otherwise contribution(s) will not be included into the e-Book of Abstracts and the Conference programme.<h3>Program</h3><h4>Invited Speakers</h4><h5>Food allergen risk assessment: Past, present, future</h5><ul><li>Ben Remington from Remington Consulting Group B.V., Utrecht, the Netherlands &amp; University of Nebraska, USA</li></ul>Food allergy and allergen management are global public health issues, and consumer protection depends on transparent and trustworthy labelling. While 30 years of scientific advances show that low level exposures, or reference doses, are unlikely to trigger reactions in most allergic individuals, harmonized and globally aligned regulations are still needed to promote consistent allergen risk assessment and labelling decisions. This presentation will discuss the landscape of allergen risk assessment, global policy developments, current research and future needs in the area.<h5>Unmasking hidden adulteration in honey: Strategies for detecting and characterizing honeys produced from sugar-fed colonies</h5><ul><li>Oscar Nuñez Burcio from University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain</li></ul>From hive to jar, not all honey tells the same story. This presentation addresses hidden adulteration associated with sugar-fed bee colonies, highlighting implications for authenticity, production practices, and the need for a more precise characterization of honey to ensure consumer trust.<h5>Analytical and toxicological methods for safety of food contact materials</h5><ul><li>Erich Leitner from Graz University of Technology, Institute of Analytical Chemistry and Food Chemistry, Graz, Austria</li></ul>Food packaging plays a critical role in protecting and preserving food throughout the supply chain. All packaging materials intended to come into contact with food must comply with strict EU safety rules. Due to increased complexity of packaging solutions, lowering legal limits and increasing numbers of target compounds, we also have to adapt the strategies used to verify and guarantee the safety of these materials.<h5>Data-driven strategies to reduce complexity in non-target HRMS analysis of food samples</h5><ul><li>Anneli Kruve from Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden</li></ul>LC/HRMS based non-target screening can detect hundreds to thousands of chemical features in complex food and environmental samples. Investigating all of these in detail is practically impossible, so which ones to focus on? Novel computational tools developed in computational mass spectrometry allow predicting the toxicity and concentration of the detected chemical features even if these have not yet been fully structurally elucidated. Combining these predictions enables us to focus on the chemical features possessing high risk.<h5>Role of AI in the identification of emerging food systems risks</h5><ul><li>Ákos Bernard Jóźwiak from Syreon Research Institute, Budapest, Hungary</li></ul>AI-assisted evidence synthesis – spanning curated scientific evidence, exposome data, and network analysis – is the backbone of next-generation emerging chemical food safety risk identification, enabling earlier signals and more resilient surveillance systems.<h5>Challenges of microplastics analysis in the context of food safety</h5><ul><li>Dorte Herzke from Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway</li></ul>Food and food packaging are major sources of micro- and nanoplastic exposure. Plastics used in processing, storage, and packaging can release particles through heat, abrasion, and degradation. Small particles below 2 µm may cross gut barriers and carry chemicals, highlighting the need for robust and sensitive measurement methods.<h5>Never-ending analytical challenges in PFAS analysis of food</h5><ul><li>Darina Dvořáková from University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Prague, Czechia</li></ul>Exploring and monitoring PFAS in food requires advanced strategies. Combining targeted, suspect, and non-target HRMS analysis, determination of total fluorine and sum parameters, and novel sensors provides new insights into PFAS occurrence and supports food safety monitoring.<h5>An overview of the latest scientific knowledge on process contaminants in food for appropriate risk management measures</h5><ul><li>Thierry Delatour from Nestlé Research, Lausanne, Switzerland.</li></ul>Recent scientific findings related to acrylamide and furans formation, occurrence and analytical methods in food provide important insights for risk management.

Deadline for RAFA 2026 Early Registration and Oral Abstract Submission is approaching

Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezICPMS Library in the week of 22nd June 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 technical note by Agilent Technologies, application note by Shimadzu and other document by Thermo Fisher Scientific!<h3>1. Agilent Technologies: Dual-Cell System (DCS) and Advanced Helium Mode (AHM)</h3>Technological developments for higher sensitivity and better interference removal than traditional He-KED<ul><li>Technical note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/te_batch_conversion_tool_9500_icp_ms_5994_9214en_agilent_0a1bba76e2.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul><h4>Evolution of Agilent’s Collision Reaction Cell (CRC) technology&nbsp;</h4><ul><li>2001: Launched the first ICP-MS with CRC—the Agilent 7500c with Octopole Reaction System (ORS)&nbsp;</li><li>2011: Introduced High Energy Helium Mode (HEHe) using Collision Induced Dissociation (CID)&nbsp;</li><li>2012: Released the world’s first Triple Quadrupole ICP-MS—the Agilent 8800 ICP-QQQ&nbsp;</li><li>2016: Launched the second generation Triple Quadrupole ICP-MS with Axial Acceleration—the Agilent 8900 ICP-QQQ&nbsp;</li><li>2026: Introduced the innovative Dual-Cell System (DCS) and Advanced Helium Mode (AHM) for the Agilent 9500 ICP-QQQ</li></ul>Collision/Reaction Cell (CRC) technology is now a standard feature in modern ICP-MS systems, providing a reliable means of eliminating spectral interferences that compromise data quality. ICP-MS systems with integrated CRCs range from single quadrupole (SQ) ICP-MS used in environmental and food analysis, to triple quadrupole ICP-MS (ICP-QQQ) for advanced research applications. For routine applications, Helium Kinetic Energy Discrimination (He KED) mode, commonly referred to as helium mode (He mode), is the most widely used CRC operational mode. The widespread use of He mode is due to its universal effectiveness in reducing a broad range of polyatomic interferences without the need for element-specific optimization.&nbsp;Unlike CRCs that rely on reactive cell gases and require complex tuning (often referred to as reaction cells), He mode effectively mitigates many commonly occurring polyatomic ion interferences without the need for intricate adjustments. In contrast, reaction cells often require careful selection of gas type (such as ammonia or oxygen) and tuning parameters based on the specific interfering ions on analytes of interest.&nbsp;Building on the simplicity of He mode, Agilent has developed Advanced Helium Mode (AHM) for the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=9500">Agilent 9500 Triple Quadrupole ICP-MS (ICP-QQQ)</a>. AHM represents a breakthrough in interference removal technology, enabled by the newly designed Agilent Dual-Cell System (DCS) and high-speed cell voltage control. These innovations deliver high sensitivity across the mass range and superior interference removal performance for routine applications. Compared to conventional He mode, AHM demonstrates the following improvements:<ul><li>Around a 20-fold sensitivity improvement for low-mass elements, such as beryllium (Be) and boron (B)&nbsp;</li><li>Around a 2-fold improvement for mid-to-high mass elements&nbsp;</li><li>A reduction of more than 33% in data acquisition time while maintaining detection limits (DLs), accelerating analytical measurement times&nbsp;</li></ul>AHM not only replaces traditional He KED but also consolidates multiple tuning modes including no gas, He, and HEHe into a single, streamlined mode. Integrated into the 9500 ICP-QQQ, AHM is a next-generation standard He mode that is faster, simpler, and delivers higher performance than its predecessor. This technical note describes the performance enhancement mechanisms of the DCS and AHM. It also includes some comparative results with conventional He KED mode to highlight the analytical improvements of AHM.<h4>Overview and advantages of AHM&nbsp;</h4>Typically, multi-element ICP-MS methods apply no gas mode to the determination of low-mass elements like Be and B due to low sensitivity in traditional He KED mode. Consequently, many routine ICP-MS applications have required multiple tune setups, combining no gas, He, and HEHe. Each mode switch introduces a delay due to cell pressure stabilization requirements.&nbsp;In practice, low-mass elements (m/z &lt; 23) are generally unaffected by polyatomic ion interferences, so KED is often unnecessary. Therefore, in AHM, different voltages are applied to the DCS (effectively disabling KED) for low-mass elements, while keeping standard settings for elements with m/z ≥ 23.&nbsp;The DCS voltages are dynamically switched in sync with Q2 using a high-speed voltage control circuit, providing over 20× sensitivity improvement for low-mass elements compared to conventional He mode. AHM eliminates the need to run in no gas mode, greatly simplifying the method. As a default approach, AHM alone is suitable for most applications.1<h3>2. Shimadzu: Damping Force Characteristic Test of Suspension Struts [JASO C611]</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_01_01017_en_2fbbb9c247.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul><h5>User Benefits</h5><ul><li>Damping force characteristic tests on suspension struts can be performed based on the JASO C611 standard.&nbsp;</li><li>Combination test enables automatic speed change and measurement.&nbsp;</li><li>High responsiveness of the EMT series enables testing at high excitation speed.</li></ul>Various components play an important role in achieving a comfortable ride in vehicles. Among them, the suspension strut used in the suspension system is an important component that stabilizes the vehicle body by mitigating the impact caused by uneven road surfaces.&nbsp;“JASO C611 Suspension Struts for Automobiles”1), a standard of JASO (Japanese Automotive Standards Organization), established by JSAE, specifies the definition, quality, and test method for suspension struts. There is no international standard that is equivalent to JASO C611.&nbsp;In order to improve the performance of suspension struts, it is necessary to measure the damping force against speed by changing the excitation speed. The performance of suspension struts can be confirmed by measuring the response, such as the relationship between speed and damping force and the Lissajous waveform.&nbsp;This article introduces an example of the test method “Damping Force Characteristic Test” specified in JASO C611, which was conducted on a Shimadzu EMT series electromagnetic fatigue testing machine.<h4>Testing Equipment&nbsp;</h4>The EMT-1kNV-50 electromagnetic dynamic and fatigue testing machine was used in this test. Fig. 1 shows a photograph of the testing machine. The electromagnetic actuator with extremely high frequency response enables highly accurate dynamic testing. In this test, the maximum test speed was 0.6 m/s. The EMT seriesis most suitable for testing at such high frequencies.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>A damping force characteristic test on a suspension strut based on JASO C611 was conducted using an EMT series electromagnetic fatigue testing machine and Windows software for 4830. The test conditions were set using the excitation speed, and it was confirmed that the test was accurately controlled as set. The standard “JASO C611 Suspension Struts for Automobiles” referred to this time is derived from “JASO C602 Automotive Parts - Telescopic Shock Absorbers for Suspension Systems”2). Although C602 also prescribes a damping force characteristic test, it is almost equivalent to the C611, and the test machine configuration can be used by replacing the jig.<h3>3. Thermo Fisher Scientific: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/2206">Hypulse Surface Analysis System</a></h3><ul><li>Other document</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Hypulse_DS_0516_EN_05_2025_1998238_WEB_0e44628a5e.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul><h4>Key features&nbsp;</h4><ul><li>Unique depth profiling capability. The femtosecond laser ablation system provides controlled material removal without inducing chemical damage to your sample.&nbsp;</li><li>Fast, efficient XPS. Quick sample pump-down times, a unique sample viewing system, and high sensitivity for all analysis areas help ensure exceptional data quality, even for highly challenging samples.&nbsp;</li><li>Co-incident additional spectroscopy. Optimize the information obtained from features of interest with the addition of optional analytical techniques, including ion scattering spectroscopy, reflected electron energy loss spectroscopy, and UV photoelectron spectroscopy.&nbsp;</li><li>Fully featured software. The latest version of the Avantage Data System is included for data collection and analysis, with the ability to import data into Thermo Scientific Maps Software for correlation with electron microscopy images.</li></ul><h4>Technical highlights&nbsp;</h4><h5>Micro-focused, monochromated aluminum K-alpha X-ray source&nbsp;</h5><ul><li>Computer-controlled quartz-crystal monochromator&nbsp;</li><li>Software-adjustable spot size&nbsp;</li><li>Spot size range: 10–400 μm&nbsp;</li><li>Motorized, water-cooled anode with 16 positions&nbsp;</li></ul><h5>Electron optics and analyzer</h5><ul><li>Electrostatic objective lens&nbsp;</li><li>Full 180° hemispherical μ-metal shielded analyzer&nbsp;</li><li>Continuously selectable pass energy: 1–400 eV&nbsp;</li><li>128-channel, signature-corrected, positionsensitive detector&nbsp;</li><li>Automatic energy scale and transmission function calibration&nbsp;</li></ul><h5>Charge compensation system&nbsp;</h5><ul><li>Patented dual-beam electron and ion source&nbsp;</li><li>Beam energy for charge compensation: 0–5 eV&nbsp;</li></ul><h5>Femtosecond-laser ablation system&nbsp;</h5><ul><li>Fully integrated 1,030 nm pulsed femtosecond-laser source&nbsp;</li><li>Class 1 laser system&nbsp;</li><li>Tunable pulse energy up to 1 mJ&nbsp;</li><li>Computer-controlled attenuation optimizes ablation conditions&nbsp;</li><li>Beam imaging module for system calibration and alignment</li></ul>

News from LabRulezICPMS Library - Week 26, 2026

Article

Events

Application

Academy

RAFA provides an overview of contemporary trends in ANALYTICAL & BIOANALYTICAL STRATEGIES IN FOOD QUALITY AND SAFETY CONTROL and discusses CHALLENGES / NOVEL APPROACHES IN FOOD AND NATURAL PRODUCTS ANALYSIS.

Recent Advances in Food Analysis (RAFA)

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

Thermo Fisher Scientific

In this webinar we provide an introduction to the new patented Emission Suppression Technology (EST) for the Thermo Scientific Argus VI Static Vacuum Mass Spectrometer.
EST revolutionizes noble gas isotope ratio mass spectrometry by switching off ionization during sample introduction, removing the trade-off between precision and equilibration time.
We will demonstrate how by pausing sample consumption, EST allows measurements to be made on properly equilibrated samples, resulting in dramatic improvements in both the accuracy and precision of noble gas isotope ratios. We explain the potential that this technology has for dramatically boosting signal sensitivity through modification of prep benches and sample introduction methods.
Key Learnings:
<ul>
<li>What is EST and how does it work?
</li>
<li>Impact of EST on Ar-Ar dating
</li>
<li>The future of NG-MS with EST
</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Lionnel Mounier (IRMS Business Development Manager, Thermo Fisher Scientific)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
A polar glaciologist and palaeoclimatologist by training, Lionnel has been working with isotopes for 38 years including 34 years in the commercialization of isotope ratio mass spectrometers (IRMS) and notably noble gas isotope ratio mass spectrometers (NG IRMS).
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Issaku Kohl (Product Manager, Thermo Fisher Scientific)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Issaku manages the gas IRMS, noble gas MS and Orbitrap Exploris Isotope Solutions product lines at Thermo Fisher Scientific. He is an Isotope Geo- and Cosmochemist by training and he draws on years of experience in traditional and advanced stable gas isotope applications in Earth sciences. With this background, he is now driving the development of the gas isotope MS product portfolio.
</blockquote>

Thermo Scientific: Emission Suppression Technology: Revolutionizing noble gas mass spectrometry

Emission Suppression Technology: Revolutionizing noble gas mass spectrometry

Introduction to the new patented Emission Suppression Technology (EST).

EST: : Revolutionizing noble gas mass spectrometry

To reconstruct the evolution of the Earth and life over geologic timescales, scientists need accurate and precise analytical methods with high sample throughput.
Using elemental abundances and isotopic ratios of carbon, nitrogen, sulfur and hydrogen, key information can be unlocked from geoscience samples. By attending this webinar, you will get an introduction to the answers provided by geosciences samples and why scientists use elemental analysis and IRMS to find those answers.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Dr. Eva Stueeken (Lecturer, School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of St Andrews)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Eva obtained a BSc in Geosciences &amp; Astrophysics at Jacobs University in Bremen, Germany, in 2004 and a PhD in Geochemistry and Astrobiology at the University of Washington in Seattle, USA, in 2014. Under a NASA postdoctoral fellowship, she then moved to the University of California Riverside, USA, for two-and-a-half years before joining the University of St Andrews in Scotland, UK, as an independent research fellow in 2017. In 2020, she took up at lecturer position in geochemistry at the University of St Andrews. Eva’s research focuses on the evolution of biogeochemical cycles over Earth history. She combines field geology with geochemical analyses and experiments to reconstruct past life and environments and to investigate linkages between volcanic processes and Earth’s biosphere. Abundances and isotopic ratios of carbon, nitrogen, sulfur and hydrogen – the main ingredients for life – are one of her major analytical tools. Examples of current projects include the storage of nitrogen in continental crust, the production of organic matter in lightning reactions, and the impact of ore-forming fluids on past oceans. Eva is currently supervising two PhD students and has published numerous publications in international journals.
</blockquote>

Thermo Scientific: Unlocking Information from Geological Samples with Carbon, Nitrogen, Sulfur and Hydrogen

Unlocking Information from Geological Samples with Carbon, Nitrogen, Sulfur and Hydrogen

Introduction to the answers provided by geosciences samples and why scientists use elemental analysis and IRMS to find those answers.

Unlocking Information from Geological Samples with Carbon

We present the first nitrogen isotopic and trace element analyses from during a “Snowball Earth” glaciation, and suggest they indicate oxidative continental weathering and mildly oxygenated marine waters.
Specifically, we measured three sections of the Ghaub formation, which is the Marinoan glacial unit in northern Namibia. The Marinoan is the second of two Cryogenian Snowball Earth glaciations.
In all sections, we analyzed δ15N values and redox sensitive trace elements, including U, V, and Mo. All measured units are from a marginal marine environment. Two sections are synglacial; one composed of detritial siliciclastics and one of detrital carbonate, both with a minor clay fraction. The third section was deposited during the terminal deglaciation and is comformably overlain by the basal Ediacarab Keilberg cap dolostone.
Trace element data demonstrate two key observations. First, the presence of trace elements in a marine setting is consistent with delivery from the continents via oxic weathering. Active weathering occurred on the continents during Snowball Earth. Secondly, enrichments are consistent with mildly oxygenated subglacial ocean waters.
δ15N values from both synglacial sections range from +1 to +3‰, consistent with small but persistent volumes of oxygenated water. Most dissolved N was NH4+ from N-fixing (δ15N =0‰), with small reservoirs of NO3-. Denitrification of NO3- enriched the oceanic N isotopes a few per mil. An increase in oxygenated water during the deglaciation was accompanied by increased NO3- and denitrification, causing δ15N values to increase to near modern levels. Deglacial values are thus more enriched, between +3 to +5‰.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Dr. Ben Johnson (Assistant Professor, Iowa State University)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Ben is a geologist and geochemist with broad interests that span Earth History and Earth System Science. He uses a variety of rock archives, including chemical sediments, glacial tills, and igneous rocks as records of the interactions between life, the oceans, the atmosphere, and the solid Earth over deep time. He uses field work, analytical and isotope geochemistry, and numerical modeling to investigate deep time questions about Earth history. He is also interested in astrobiology and planetary science!
</blockquote>

Thermo Scientific: Oxygen and Nitrogen Under the Ice: Trace Elements and δ15N Evidence for Oxic Weathering and Oxygenated Waters During the Snowball Earth Marinoan Glaciation, Ghaub Formation, Namibia

Oxygen and Nitrogen Under the Ice: Trace Elements and δ15N Evidence for Oxic Weathering and Oxygenated Waters During the Snowball Earth Marinoan Glaciation, Ghaub Formation, Namibia

The first nitrogen isotopic and trace element analyses from during a “Snowball Earth” glaciation, and suggest they indicate oxidative continental weathering.

Oxygen and Nitrogen Under the Ice: Trace Elements and δ15N

Uranium-lead geochronology provides valuable insight into the timing and rates of various geological processes throughout Earth’s history.
Isotope dilution thermal ionization mass spectrometry is the most precise and accurate technique for U-Pb geochronology. This technique is generally applied to single zircon crystals or crystal fragments yielding small amounts of Pb (typically &lt; 100 pg) and U (approximately 1 ng) following separation by chromatographic techniques in a very clean environment. Precise and accurate analysis of such small samples requires sensitive ion detection systems.
For higher spatial resolution, in-situ analysis by laser ablation ICP-MS is the preferred method allowing routine, high sample throughput U-Pb dating. For challenging zircons with low U and Pb content, high sensitivity is crucial.
The combination of U-Pb with the Lu-Hf chronometer in zircon is a very powerful and commonly used tool in the geosciences for investigating the processes that control crust-mantle evolution and their timing. Laser ablation multicollector ICP-MS enables determination of high precision in-situ Lu-Hf data required for reliable interpretation.
This webinar highlights the latest advances in U-Pb and Lu-Hf analysis of zircons by Isotope Dilution TIMS, as well as in-situ laser ablation sector field, single collector and multicollector ICP-MS, with a focus on optimizing methodologies using recent development such as the Thermo Scientific™ 1013 Ω Amplifier Technology™ and the Jet Interface.
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Presenter: Dr. Laura Bracciali (Application Manager, IOMS, Thermo Fisher Scientific)
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After receiving her Ph.D. in Earth Sciences from the University of Pisa, Laura took post-doctoral research positions at the Italian Antarctic Research Program, the British Geological Survey, and Lancaster University. Before joining Thermo Fisher Scientific in 2020 as Product Specialist, Laura was manager of the LA U-(Th)-Pb Geochronology Division at Stellenbosch University.
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Presenter: Dr. Grant Craig (Application Manager, IOMS, Thermo Fisher Scientific)
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From Scotland, Grant undertook a Ph.D. at Loughborough University, in collaboration with the UK’s NERC Isotope Geosciences Laboratory, on the analysis of sub-micron sized uranium oxide particles by LA-ICP-MS. Grant joined Thermo Fisher Scientific as a post-doctoral researcher within the EU ITN &quot;IsoNose,&quot; and is currently the Application Manager for MC-ICP-MS.
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Presenter: Dr. Hauke Vollstaedt (Product and Application Manager, IOMS, Thermo Fisher Scientific)
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Hauke received his Ph.D. at the GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel. At the University of Bern, he continued researching in the field of non-traditional stable isotopes by measuring Se isotope composition in meteorites and lunar rocks. Since 2017, Hauke has been working at Thermo Fisher Scientific as Application and Product Manager TIMS, MC-ICP-MS, and HR-ICP-MS.
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Thermo Scientific: Optimizing Methodologies in U-Pb and Lu-Hf Analysis of Zircons using TIMS, MC-ICP-MS and HR-ICP-MS

Optimizing Methodologies in U-Pb and Lu-Hf Analysis of Zircons using TIMS, MC-ICP-MS and HR-ICP-MS

Latest advances in U-Pb and Lu-Hf analysis of zircons by Isotope Dilution TIMS, as well as in-situ laser ablation sector field, single collector.

Optimizing Methodologies in U-Pb and Lu-Hf Analysis

The beverage industry suffers from fraudulent activities that include incorrect labeling of products and adulteration, which has a significant impact on consumer safety, brand names, and reputation.
Stable isotope measurements can differentiate between beverage samples that otherwise share identical chemical composition. This differentiation is given by the isotope fingerprints. The isotope fingerprint in beverage products is region- or process-specific, which means that products can be differentiated based on geographical region (e.g. wine or tequila ), agricultural sources (e.g. whiskey), and brewing processes (e.g. sake). Fraudulent practices such as mislabeling, sugar addition, or watering of wines and spirits can be unraveled.
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Presenter: Mario Tuthorn (Product Marketing Manager, Thermo Fisher Scientific)
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After completing his PhD in Isotope Biogeochemistry at the University of Bayreuth, Germany, Mario joined Thermo Fisher Scientific in Bremen in 2016 as an application specialist for the Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometry portfolio, developing applications and methods for compound specific isotope analysis in a variety of fields by using gas and liquid chromatography. Since 2019, Mario has taken on the Product Marketing Manager role for gas isotope ratio MS and organic elemental analyzer instrumentation, focusing on product positioning and marketing activities.
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Thermo Scientific: Beverage Fraud Prevention using Isotope Fingerprints

Beverage Fraud Prevention using Isotope Fingerprints

The beverage industry suffers from fraudulent activities that include incorrect labeling of products and adulteration.

Isotope fingerprints of nitrogen, carbon and sulfur are a powerful tool to interpret the diet, movement, and mobility of populations in archaeology and ecology studies. Typical sample materials are bone collagen or dentine. The challenge for sequential δ15N, δ13C and δ34S analysis of such samples is driven by extremely low concentration of sulfur (typically &lt;0.3 weight % S), and the samples are often rare and size limited.
This presentation will describe how we have optimized our Thermo Scientific EA IsoLink System with the new High Performance Kit for sulfur analysis to allow for high precision and accuracy NCS analysis. 
Here we will focus on hardware optimization and instrument maintenance to reduce SO2 carry-over, and the High Sensitivity Method setup that allows for SO2 pre-concentration.
What you will learn:
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<li>Introduction to the elemental analyzer workflow</li>
<li>System hardware optimization via High Performance Kit for sulfur analysis</li>
<li>High Sensitivity Method setup for NCS analysis</li>
<li>Analysis setup and data evaluation using Thermo Scientific Qtegra ISDS Software</li>
<li>Maintenance procedures for the EA IsoLink IRMS system</li>
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Who should join:
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<li>Scientists and chemists interested in elemental analysis </li>
<li>Lab managers and analysts that have analytical challenges in CNS elemental analysis of collagen samples or similar</li>
<li>Research laboratories that want to learn about expending their analytical capabilities</li>
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Can&#39;t join at this time? Register anyway to receive a link to the recording to watch at your convenience
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Presenter: Dr. Meike Fischer (Product Specialist, EA-IRMS, Thermo Fisher Scientific)
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After completing her PhD at the Max Planck Institute for Solar System Research, in collaboration with the Geoscience Center Göttingen, Germany, Meike joined Thermo Fisher Scientific, Bremen in 2021 as a Product Evaluation Specialist and supported development of the new software for gas IRMS – Thermo Scientific Qtegra ISDS Software. Since 2022 Meike has taken on a Product Specialist role focusing on elemental analyzer instrumentation and gas equilibration analysis, developing applications and methods for isotope analysis in a variety of fields.
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Thermo Fisher Scientific: Improved EA-IRMS NCS workflow for archaeology and ecology applications

Improved EA-IRMS NCS workflow for archaeology and ecology applications

Optimized Thermo Scientific EA IsoLink System with the new High Performance Kit for sulfur analysis to allow for high precision and accuracy NCS analysis.

EA-IRMS NCS for archaeology and ecology applications

<div><div container-id="cq-colctrl-lt0" comp-id="A1"><div>Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are persistent industrial fluorinated compounds harmful to human and ecosystem health. PFAS contamination is a significant environmental issue, with these substances found globally, from tap water to remote locations. Identifying PFAS sources is challenging due to diverse manufacturing processes and environmental pathways.While stable isotopic analysis has been applied to study the source and fate of micropollutants in the environment in the past, recent developments in Thermo Scientific Orbitrap-based isotope ratio mass spectrometry (Orbitrap-IRMS) have unlocked a unique opportunity for more comprehensive isotopic approach to study source apportionment and track degradation of PFAS.Join our experts in exploring how Orbitrap-IRMS overcomes challenges of classical PFAS isotopic characterization and provides a framework for studying PFAS source apportionment both in controlled settings and in the environment.<h5>Webinar highlights:</h5><ul><li>Understanding isotopic analysis: why and how stable isotopic analyses are used to study the source and fate of micropollutants in the environment</li><li>Benefits of Orbitrap-IRMS: how Orbitrap-based IRMS technology allows deriving intramolecular isotopic information faster and with less sample</li><li>Isotope fingerprinting of PFAS: Newly developed method for determining the stable carbon isotopic composition (δ13C) of PFOA</li><li>Source apportionment framework: δ13C of PFOA allow separating multiple lots of the PFOA from one supplier from one another</li></ul>Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the future of PFAS source apportionment. Register now!<blockquote>Presenter: Dr. Paul K. Wojtal (Postdoctoral Scholar, Center for Marine Science, University of North Carolina Wilmington)Paul is a graduate of Brown University (Sc.B. in Chemistry, 2016) and the University of Miami (Ph.D. in Oceanography, 2024). His undergraduate thesis and Ph.D. dissertation both employed classical isotopic analysis techniques to study environmental problems. In his postdoctoral research, he has transitioned to using the Orbitrap-IRMS platform to study PFAS in a wide range of environments.Presenter: Dr. Brett Davidheiser (IRMS Application Scientist, Thermo Fisher Scientific)Brett has a wide experience in isotope ratio mass spectrometry from his PhD at the University of Glasgow, running a stable isotope lab at CU Boulder, to his work at Thermo Fisher Scientific as applications scientist. He is currently involved in helping new users come up to speed with Thermo Scientific Orbitrap Exploris Isotope Solutions for natural abundance isotope ratio analysis.</blockquote></div></div></div>

Thermo Fisher Scientific: Differentiating PFAS sources using Orbitrap-IRMS

Differentiating PFAS sources using Orbitrap-IRMS

Learn how Orbitrap-IRMS advances PFAS isotopic analysis, enabling precise source apportionment and degradation studies with improved isotope fingerprinting.

ICPMS webinars focusing on IRMS - page 1