In the evolving landscape of <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/us/en/home/industrial/manufacturing-processing/steel-manufacturing.html?icid=CAD_blog_metals_2025Jan">steel manufacturing</a>, the focus on efficiency, sustainability, and superior quality has become increasingly important. As the global demand for steel continues to rise, so does the need to produce it in a way that minimizes environmental impact, conserves resources, and helps to ensure high standards of product quality. Advanced technologies play a crucial role in supporting clean steel manufacturing, enhancing both the quality and efficiency of production while significantly reducing the environmental impact of the industry.&nbsp;A key aspect of modern steel manufacturing is the use of advanced elemental analysis technologies such as <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/us/en/home/industrial/spectroscopy-elemental-isotope-analysis/spectroscopy-elemental-isotope-analysis-learning-center/elemental-analysis-information/xrf-technology.html?icid=CAD_blog_metals_2025Jan">X-ray Fluorescence </a>(XRF) and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/us/en/home/industrial/spectroscopy-elemental-isotope-analysis/spectroscopy-elemental-isotope-analysis-learning-center/elemental-structural-analysis-information/oes-academy.html?icid=CAD_blog_metals_2025Jan">Optical Emission Spectrometry</a> (OES). These methods are essential for helping to ensure the purity and quality of raw materials used in steel production.&nbsp;<h4>Importance of XRF and OES in steel manufacturing</h4>XRF allows for rapid, non-destructive analysis, providing precise measurements of elemental composition. This is important because maintaining high-quality standards in steel production requires accurate knowledge of the materials being used. Using devices like<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1978"> XRF spectrometers</a> or <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1992">handheld XRF analyzers</a> helps enable manufacturers to quickly and accurately assess the elemental makeup of raw materials, helping to ensure that they meet the necessary specifications for producing high-quality steel. This helps prevent the inclusion of unwanted elements that could compromise the steel’s integrity and performance.&nbsp;OES offers high sensitivity for detecting trace elements, helping to ensure that even the smallest impurities are identified and managed effectively. This is crucial because trace elements, even in minute quantities, can significantly affect the properties of steel. By employing technologies like <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/us/en/home/industrial/spectroscopy-elemental-isotope-analysis/oes-xrd-xrf-analysis/optical-emission-spectrometry/instruments.html">optical emission spectrometers</a>, manufacturers can detect and control these impurities, helping to ensure that the final product maintains the desired properties and meets stringent quality standards. This level of sensitivity is particularly important in applications where the steel’s purity and consistency are critical, such as in construction, automotive, and aerospace industries.&nbsp;<h4>Real-time process monitoring with process analytical technology</h4>The integration of Process Analytical Technology (PAT), such as <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/us/en/home/industrial/cement-coal-minerals/cement-coal-minerals-learning-center/cement-analysis-production-information/pgnaa-pftna-technology/technology.html?icid=CAD_blog_metals_2025Jan">Prompt Gamma Neutron Activation Analysis</a> (PGNAA) and Pulsed Fast Thermal Neutron Activation (PFTNA), further enhances the quality control process. These technologies provide real-time, online analysis of bulk materials, enabling continuous monitoring and control of the composition of raw materials and intermediates. Real-time data is essential for making immediate adjustments to the production process, reducing waste and improving overall efficiency. An <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/order/catalog/product/CBOMNIAGILE?icid=CAD_blog_metals_2025Jan">online elemental analyzer</a> is an example of such advanced PAT technology.&nbsp;<h4>Environmental monitoring and worker safety</h4>Environmental monitoring technologies help ensure that steel manufacturing processes do not negatively impact the surrounding environment. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/us/en/home/industrial/manufacturing-processing/steel-manufacturing/solutions.html?icid=CAD_blog_metals_2025Jan#regulatory-compliance">Air quality monitoring systems</a> track emissions of pollutants such as sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, helping to ensure compliance with environmental regulations. Additionally, radiation detection systems like <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/us/en/home/industrial/radiation-detection-measurement/instruments.html?icid=CAD_blog_metals_2025Jan#handheld-instruments">personal radiation detectors</a> help prevent contaminated scrap metal from entering the production process, safeguarding both the quality of the steel and the health of workers.&nbsp;<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Advancing_Clean_Steel_Manufacturing_with_Modern_Technologies_231e8f92fb.jpg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: Advancing Clean Steel Manufacturing with Modern Technologies" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Advancing_Clean_Steel_Manufacturing_with_Modern_Technologies_231e8f92fb.jpg 235w," sizes="100vw" width="2121" height="1414"><h4>Enhancing sustainability with efficient scrap analysis</h4>Material verification and scrap analysis are also critical in modern steel manufacturing. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1996">Handheld XRF analyzers</a> can provide rapid and accurate identification of metal alloys, which is essential for sorting and recycling scrap metal. This supports the use of recycled materials in steel production and helps ensure that the final product meets high-quality standards. Efficient recycling of scrap metal contributes to the sustainability of steel manufacturing.&nbsp;<h4>Precision in rolling processes</h4>In the hot and cold rolling processes, precise <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/us/en/home/industrial/manufacturing-processing/steel-manufacturing/technologies.html?icid=CAD_blog_metals_2025Jan#thickness-and-coating-measurement">gauging systems</a> help ensure that the steel produced meets exact specifications for thickness, width, hardness, and strength. These systems use advanced sensors and control mechanisms to continuously monitor and adjust the rolling process, helping to minimize defects and reduce scrap. This level of precision is essential for producing high-quality steel products while maximizing mill yield.&nbsp;<h4>Supporting low carbon steel production</h4>The push towards low carbon steel production is critical in the fight against climate change. Advanced technologies play a significant role in this transition. By optimizing raw material usage and improving process efficiency, technologies such as XRF, OES, and PAT can help reduce the overall carbon footprint of steel production. Real-time monitoring allows for immediate adjustments that enhance process efficiency and reduce waste.&nbsp;Recycling is another key component of low carbon steel production. Efficient <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/us/en/home/industrial/manufacturing-processing/steel-manufacturing/solutions.html?icid=CAD_blog_metals_2025Jan#scrap-processing">scrap analysis</a> and material verification technologies help enable the use of recycled materials, reducing the need for virgin raw materials and the associated environmental impact. These technologies help ensure that recycled steel meets high-quality standards, making it a viable option for sustainable steel production.&nbsp;<h4>Summary</h4>Overall, advanced technologies can provide comprehensive support for clean and low carbon steel manufacturing. From elemental analysis and real-time process monitoring to rigorous environmental monitoring, these technologies collectively can enhance the quality, efficiency, and sustainability of steel production. By adopting these advanced solutions, steel manufacturers have the opportunity to meet the growing demand for high-quality, clean steel and contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly industry.&nbsp;

Advancing Clean Steel Manufacturing with Modern Technologies

Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezICPMS Library in the week of 15th 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: Smooth Migration from Single Quadrupole ICP-MS to the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=9500">Agilent 9500 ICP-QQQ</a></h3>Automated method transfer using the Batch Conversion Tool of Agilent OpenLab ICP-MS software<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>Transitioning from a single quadrupole (SQ) ICP-MS to a triple quadrupole ICP-MS (ICP-QQQ) might appear daunting or disruptive, usually requiring the redevelopment of analytical methods and workflows. Users often wonder if they can reuse existing batches and whether routine processes will be interrupted during this switch.&nbsp;Switching from SQ ICP-MS to the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=9500">Agilent 9500 ICP-QQQ</a> involves minimal disruption. Agilent provides a solution that enables smooth, automated transfer of existing SQ ICP-MS methods to the 9500 ICP-QQQ, all while preserving the current batch logic and analytical purpose.This note explains how the Batch Conversion Tool in Agilent OpenLab ICP-MS software facilitates automated batch conversion. It allows users to seamlessly transition from SQ ICP-MS to the 9500 ICP-QQQ without needing to rebuild methods or alter their existing workflows.&nbsp;Three key aspects of method migration are addressed in this document:&nbsp;<ul><li>The design concept and conversion behavior of the Batch Conversion Tool, detailing which batch elements are preserved or adapted during conversion.&nbsp;</li><li>It also explains the rationale behind the available conversion options and how the advanced cell technologies of the 9500, such as Advanced Helium Mode (AHM) and Air cell mode, support operational continuity and potential performance improvements after migration.&nbsp;</li><li>Additionally, it outlines a typical end-to-end migration workflow, including methods for reviewing the postconversion process and assessing data quality using built-in indicators.&nbsp;</li></ul>These points collectively show that switching from SQ ICP-MS to the 9500 ICP-QQQ can be seamless. They also illustrate how to carry out method transfer in a controlled and transparent manner, providing a practical framework for refining the method when necessary.<h4>What is the Batch Conversion Tool?&nbsp;</h4>The Batch Conversion Tool is a feature of OpenLab ICP-MS software that transforms batches created for Agilent SQ ICP-MS systems into formats compatible with the 9500 ICP-QQQ (see Figure 1).&nbsp;Batches made for <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=7700">Agilent 7700</a>, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=7800">7800</a>, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=7850">7850</a>, and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=7900">7900 </a>ICP-MS instruments using Agilent ICP-MS MassHunter or OpenLab ICP-MS software can be imported and converted. During this process, the tool applies predefined rules to produce a batch suitable for the 9500, all while maintaining the original batch setup.&nbsp;These conversion rules are based on Agilent’s over 10 years of experience in ICP-QQQ development and applications. By harnessing this expertise, the Batch Conversion Tool automatically implements optimal measurement conditions and reaction strategies for each analyte, ensuring strong interference control and consistent analytical performance post-migration.Manually recreating batch components like element selections, isotope settings, and QC configurations can be time-consuming. Alternatively, the Batch Conversion Tool automates this process, usually finishing within seconds.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>The Batch Conversion Tool in Agilent OpenLab ICP-MS software allows for easy, automated transfer of existing SQ ICP-MS batches to the Agilent 9500 ICP-QQQ, without affecting current analytical workflows.&nbsp;By maintaining batch structure and analytical intent, users can switch to the 9500 ICP-QQQ without needing to rebuild methods or disrupt daily operations. The tool also offers structured conversion options to help users harness the advanced features of the 9500 platform.&nbsp;Additionally, migration from non-Agilent ICP-MS systems can be streamlined through element list import via the Method Advisor, providing an efficient way to create methods when transitioning to Agilent equipment. Overall, moving from SQ ICP-MS to the 9500 ICP-QQQ is a smooth, controlled process that ensures continuity and offers opportunities for method enhancement.<h3>2. Shimadzu: Static Puncture Strength of Geotextile Products Usinga 50mmProbe</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_07_2603_en_2470aa6ee5.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Geotextiles are permeable geosynthetic materials, typically made from polypropylene or polyester, available in woven and non-woven forms. They provide separation, filtration, drainage, and reinforcement, improving soil stability, load distribution, and the durability of infrastructure such as roads, railways, embankments, landfills, and retaining structures.&nbsp;During transportation, installation, and service geotextiles can be exposed to concentrated loads and sharp objects which can reduce the effectiveness of materials therefore puncture resistance is a critical parameter for evaluating geotextile durability. The puncture resistance of geotextiles are commonly determined as per ASTM D62411) and ISO 122362), which measures the force required to penetrate the fabrics using a standard plunger. Overall, puncture resistance testing plays a vital role in ensuring the long-term durability and reliability of geotextilesin demanding engineering applications.&nbsp;The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=AGS-X2">Shimadzu AGS-X2 series Universal Testing Machine </a>is a high-precision universal testing system designed for accurate evaluation of mechanical properties such as tensile, compression, and puncture resistance. It features advanced control technology, high data acquisition rates, and reliable load measurement, ensuring consistent and reproducible results. The system is operated using TRAPEZIUMX-V software, enabling efficient test control, data acquisition, and analysis that complies with national and international standards.<h4>2. Test Method&nbsp;</h4>The test was conducted on the non-woven geotextile using the AGS-50kNX2D UTM, shown in the Figure 1. Two different samples (1000 and 400 GSM) were procured from the market and five specimens were prepared from various areas of each sample. Table 1 shows testing apparatus and test conditions and Figure 2 shows the typical clamping and loading system.<h4>4. Conclusion</h4>The test results are consistent across multiple specimens and exhibit gradual deformation behavior. This indicates that the material can withstand high penetration forces without sudden failure, demonstrating its ability to effectively resist localized stresses.&nbsp;Geotextiles are available in different GSM values, representing mass per unit area and directly influence their mechanical and physical performance. Lower GSM geotextiles are lighter, flexible and lower thickness making them suitable for applications involving moderate loads. In contrast higher GSM geotextiles are thicker and denser, offering significantly higher puncture resistance and making them suitable for heavy duty applications.&nbsp;The Shimadzu’s universal testing machine AGS-X2 series demonstrated accurate, stable, and repeatable performance for conducting puncture resistance testing in accordance with ASTM D6241 and ISO 12236. The system provided precise control of crosshead speed, reliable load measurement, and clear identification of the initial peak load as required by the standard. The high-resolution load–displacement data acquisition enabled accurate determination of puncture strength and displacement at maximum force. Overall, the Shimadzu system ensures compliance with ASTM D6241 and ISO 12236 requirements and offers a dependable solution for quality control, research, and material comparison of geotextiles.¨<h3>3. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Small parts analysis with the Niton Apollo LIBS Analyzer</h3><ul><li>Other document (Smart note)</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/small_parts_analysis_with_the_niton_apollo_libs_analyzer_sn1608_en_c69d4c0695.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Small parts and precision components are critical to product quality and safety. Their limited surface areas and complex geometries make them some of the most challenging items to analyze accurately. Traditional optical emission spectroscopy (OES) delivers excellent accuracy but often lacks the portability needed for challenging environments.&nbsp;The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/2000">Thermo Scientific™ Niton™ Apollo™ Handheld Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) Analyzer</a> changes the equation by delivering accurate analysis of steel and stainless steel in a portable format.<h4>A lower cost of ownership, with repeatability and reliability you can trust&nbsp;</h4>For industries where a single incorrect part can have significant consequences, consistency is crucial. The Apollo analyzer delivers the dependable features you need, in a unit designed to save users time and money over the long term:&nbsp;<ul><li>Carbon detection – Detects carbon for equivalent carbon content (C.E.) for welding &amp; L/H grade ID of stainless steel&nbsp;</li><li>Efficient argon use – Optimized purge minimizes gas consumption.&nbsp;</li><li>Reduced downtime – Portable OES-like accuracy eliminates long lab lead time.</li><li>Rugged durability – Field-ready build lowers repair and replacement costs.&nbsp;</li><li>Ease of training – Intuitive interface reduces errors and onboarding costs.</li><li>Designed to perform – Reliable data across a wide range of finishes and geometries&nbsp;</li></ul>By combining technical performance with durability and efficiency, the Apollo analyzer delivers the lowest total cost of ownership in its class.&nbsp;<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>The Niton Apollo LIBS analyzer sets the standard for small parts analysis. With its unique argon seal and updated small nose design, it delivers repeatable, OES-like accuracy unmatched by any other handheld LIBS device for the analysis of steel and stainless-steel including carbon. Add in a lower total cost of ownership, and the Apollo analyzer becomes the clear choice for manufacturers and inspectors who demand precision, reliability, and value.

News from LabRulezICPMS Library - Week 25, 2026

Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezICPMS Library in the week of 3rd 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 and Shimadzu and other document by Thermo Fisher Scientific!<h3>1. Agilent Technologies: Determination of Toxic Elements in Durian and Jackfruit Using an Agilent Automated ICP-MS System According to China GB 5009.268</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_icpms_durian_5994_9351en_agilent_fcafe537c7.pdf">Full PDF for download</a>&nbsp;</li></ul>Fruit is an essential part of daily human nutrition, providing vital vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber.3 The Chinese market, with over 1.4 billion people, has become one of the largest fruit markets in the world. It is expected that China's total fruit consumption will reach about 312 million tons by 2025.4 Additionally, fruit imports are projected to exceed 9 million tons annually, underscoring the country's strong domestic demand and reliance on imported supplies.&nbsp;Within this context, China has become a major export destination for Asian countries, including Vietnam, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Philippines, Indonesia, and others. Thanks to favorable climate conditions and a wide variety of tropical fruit cultivars, these countries have strategically increased their fruit exports to satisfy Chinese market demand. Specifically, products such as durian and jackfruit have gained significant popularity, playing an increasingly vital role in regional agricultural trade.&nbsp;However, the biggest challenge for those countries when entering the Chinese market is strict food safety regulations, especially limits on trace elements and heavy metals such as lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), and arsenic (As). The General Administration of Customs of the People's Republic of China (GACC) sets very low Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs, Table 1). Additionally, the large, continuous volume of fruit exports makes time a critical factor, as any delay can affect product quality and reduce its economic value. This situation places significant pressure on testing laboratories, requiring the development of stable, rapid, and accurate methods to ensure continuous and reliable operations.&nbsp;To address these challenges, the Agilent ICP Workflow Automation System offers a practical solution. The ICP‑MS 7900 provides high-throughput, highly sensitive, and precise measurements of trace elements and heavy metals, including Pb, Cd, Hg, and As. The combination of ADS2 and AVS helps reduce sample turnaround time and cost per analysis. The Advanced Dilution System (ADS2) automatically performs important tasks such as preparing a multipoint calibration from a single stock standard up to 400 times, diluting samples above the calibration range, or, if there is an internal standard recovery issue, eliminating the need for manual dilution. The Advanced Valve System (AVS) automatically rinses the sample introduction system while the next sample is being analyzed, virtually eliminating the delays typical of conventional analysis. Using controlled argon bubble injection between the sample and rinse solution prevents mixing, reducing uptake and rinse times. This study describes the use of the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=7900">Agilent 7900 ICP-MS</a>, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=SPS+4">Agilent SPS 4 autosampler</a>, AVS, and ADS2 auto-dilution for the analysis of four toxic elements in durian and jackfruit samples using the China GB 5009.268 method.1<h4>Results and discussion&nbsp;</h4><h5>Automatic calibration standards and Instrument stability&nbsp;</h5>A 7-point calibration curve automatically prepared using the ADS 2 demonstrated excellent linearity over the concentration range of 0.05–10 µg/L. Using a 1/x weighted regression without forcing the calibration through the origin, all analytes achieved coefficients of determination (R²) ≥ 0.995 (Figure 3), with back-calculated concentrations within 90–110% of their theoretical values, confirming the suitability of the calibration range for routine quantification. The integrated automation workflow significantly improved laboratory productivity by completing calibration preparation and analysis in approximately 1.5 minutes per sample. By minimizing manual operations and operator intervention, the ADS 2 reduced the risk of contamination and human error while enabling higher sample throughput for routine food safety testing.&nbsp;To evaluate instrument stability during continuous operation, the variation in internal standard recoveries was monitored throughout an analytical sequence of more than 70&nbsp;consecutive samples. The recoveries of the three internal standards across different measurement modes remained consistently within the ±20% acceptance limit throughout the analytical sequence (Figure 4). Blank samples interspersed between concentration intervals showed no evidence of carryover, demonstrating effective system cleanliness and analytical robustness. These results confirm the excellent long-term stability and robust matrix tolerance of the Agilent 7900 ICP-MS, providing reliable performance for high-throughput routine food safety testing.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>The Agilent 7900 ICP-MS, integrated with the SPS 4 autosampler, ADS 2, and AVS, delivers a fully automated, high-throughput workflow for routine trace-level multi-element analysis. By eliminating manual standard preparation and minimizing operator intervention, the solution reduces labor costs, improves data consistency, and empowers laboratories to maximize productivity and analytical capacity to meet increasing testing demands.&nbsp;Excellent sensitivity, long-term stability, and robust interference removal, together with satisfactory recoveries, repeatability, and reproducibility for As, Cd, Pb, and Hg at an LOQ of 5 µg/kg, demonstrate reliable analytical performance. Compliance with Chinese regulatory requirements further position the Agilent automation solution as a cost-effective platform for high-volume food safety testing and export quality assurance, enabling laboratories to confidently support the growing demand for exports to the Chinese&nbsp;market.<h3>2. Shimadzu: TOC Evaluation of Surfactants</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_01_01160_en_539fba0ba2.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul><h5>User benefits</h5><ul><li>TOC can be evaluated accurately using the TC-IC method, even for foaming surfactants.&nbsp;</li><li>The ASI-L autosampler enables automatic, continuous measurement of multiple samples, improving analytical efficiency.</li></ul>Surfactants are important chemicals widely used in detergents and dispersants for pharmaceutical equipment cleaning processes, chemical manufacturing processes, and environmental water management. If surfactant residues remain after such processes, they can not only affect manufacturing processes and final product quality, but also increase the organic load in wastewater and environmental water. Therefore, quality control is also needed for organic matter derived from surfactants.&nbsp;Total organic carbon (TOC) analysis is effective for evaluating the quality of surfactants. In general, the NPOC (non-purgeable organic carbon) method is often selected for TOC measurement in terms of sample volume and analysis time requirements. On the other hand, because surfactants have both hydrophilic and hydrophobic groups in their structure, they tend to foam even at low concentrations. When such samples are measured by the NPOC method, which involves acid addition and sparging, foaming can cause the sample to overflow from the syringe vessel inside the instrument into the waste line. That can result in measurement valuesthat are lower than the true value.&nbsp;This article compares TOC measurement results for surfactants obtained by the NPOC method and the TC-IC method using the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=TOC-L">Shimadzu TOC-L total organic carbon analyzer</a>, which uses the combustion oxidation method.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>Table 5 summarizes the results obtained by measuring sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate solutions, used here as representative surfactant samples, by the NPOC method and the TC-IC method. With the NPOC method, the TOC recovery rates were below 50 % for all samples, whereas the TC-IC method produced satisfactory TOC recovery rates close to 100 % for all samples.Sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate solutions (carbon concentration: 0.5 mg/L) is also used in Japanese Pharmacopoeia (JP) recovery tests. For surfactants that readily foam, such as in this example, NPOC measurements involving acid addition and sparging may affect measurement accuracy due to sample loss. For such samples, accurate TOC values can be obtained by using the TC-IC method. In addition, by using the ASI-L autosampler, multiple samples can be measured automatically and continuously.<h3>3. Thermo Fisher Scientific: How rhodium plating can affect gold XRF results</h3><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products?category=315&amp;manufacturerItems=3&amp;search=niton">Thermo Scientific™ Niton™ XRF Analyzers</a> can help precious metals professionals detect rhodium (Rh) plating and interpret gold (Au) results with confidence.<ul><li>Other document (smart note)</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/rhodium_plating_can_affect_gold_xrf_results_sn1862_en_331edc099a.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul><h4>Benefits of XRF in jewelry analysis&nbsp;</h4>Niton XRF analyzers provide capabilities that can enhance a jeweler’s operations in several ways:&nbsp;<ul><li>Identify Rh-plated gold items during routine testing&nbsp;</li><li>Reduce confusion around unexpected Au readings&nbsp;</li><li>Support more confident buying, selling, refining, and verification decisions&nbsp;</li><li>Help explain results to customers, suppliers, and trading partners&nbsp;</li></ul><h4>Reduce risk in precious metals trading&nbsp;</h4>In precious metals trading, small differences in reported gold concentration can affect pricing, settlement, customer trust, and supplier relationships. Recognizing Rh plating helps users avoid unnecessary disputes, retesting, or destructive testing when the surface finish is influencing the measurement.&nbsp;<h4>Best practices&nbsp;</h4>One should always check the result for Rh when Au appears lower than expected.&nbsp;<ul><li>Test multiple locations, especially where plating may vary&nbsp;</li><li>Look for worn or unplated areas when appropriate&nbsp;</li><li>Interpret Au results in the context of surface finish and item history&nbsp;</li><li>If appropriate, remove the rhodium plating prior to XRF analysis to evaluate the underlying alloy&nbsp;</li></ul><h4>The bottom line&nbsp;</h4>Rhodium plating can make a properly karated gold item appear to return a lower Au result when it is evaluated by XRF. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products?category=315&amp;manufacturerItems=3&amp;search=niton">Niton XRF analyzers</a> can detect Rh at the surface, helping precious metals professionals recognize plating, interpret results correctly, and make more confident decisions.

News from LabRulezICPMS Library - Week 32, 2026

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LabRulez

4th European Sample Preparation Conference - 3rd Green and Sustainable Analytical Chemistry Conference (EuSP 2026 | GSAC 2026)

Thermo Fisher Scientific Mass Spectrometry Users’ Meetings 2026

Waters Corporation Advanced MS Day

Validated Method for PFAS Testing in Food, Including Meats

Confidence in PFAS Data: Smarter Sample Prep, Contamination Control, Highly Sensitive and Robust MS

From sample to result: advanced sample prep strategies for food and environmental matrices