News from LabRulezLCMS Library - Week 43, 2026

<p><strong>Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezICPMS Library in the week of 19th October 2026? Check out new documents from the field of spectroscopy/spectrometry and related techniques!</strong></p><blockquote><p><span style="font-size:20px;">👉 </span><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library"><span style="font-size:20px;"><strong>SEARCH THE LARGEST REPOSITORY OF DOCUMENTS ABOUT SPECTROSCOPY/SPECTROMETRY RELATED TECHNIQUES</strong></span></a></p></blockquote><blockquote><p><strong>👉 Need info about different analytical techniques?</strong> Peek into <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/library"><strong>LabRulezLCMS</strong></a> or <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library"><strong>LabRulezGCMS</strong></a> libraries.</p></blockquote><p>This week we bring you application notes by <strong>Agilent Technologies, LECO, Metrohm </strong>and <strong>Shimadzu!</strong></p><h3><strong>1. Agilent Technologies: Nickel and Cobalt Separation using Methyl Fluoride for Ni-59 Determination by ICP-QQQ</strong></h3><p><strong>Evaluation of the </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/icpms/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=8900"><strong>Agilent 8900 ICP-QQQ</strong></a><strong> for novel isobar separation affecting radionuclides</strong></p><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/pdf/2026_10_15_Nickel_and_Cobalt_Separation_using_Methyl_Fluoride_for_Ni_59_Determination_by_ICP_QQQ_c37c0a26b0.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a><strong>&nbsp;</strong></li></ul><p>Decommissioning of nuclear sites represents a significant global challenge given the range of sample types and radionuclides that must be characterized. In the UK alone, the estimated final decommissioning cost for existing sites is predicted to range from £95 to 218 billion. Accurate measurement of radionuclides in decommissioning wastes improves measurement confidence and can contribute to safer, more cost-effective decommissioning.<sup>1,2</sup>&nbsp;</p><p>Nickel-59 is a radionuclide that is primarily formed through long-term neutron bombardment of stable <sup>58</sup>Ni in steel in nuclear reactors. It has a long half-life of 76,000 ± 5000 years.<sup>3</sup> Accurate characterization of <sup>59</sup>Ni is therefore important for appropriate waste sentencing and long-term monitoring.<sup>4</sup></p><p>Mass spectrometry, including triple quadrupole ICP-MS (ICP-QQQ), is increasingly used as a rapid technique for measuring long-lived radionuclides in decommissioning wastes. For this approach to be effective, isobaric, polyatomic, and tailing interferences must first be removed. In the case of <sup>59</sup>Ni, monoisotopic <sup>59</sup>Co, polyatomic <sup>58</sup>Ni<sup>1</sup>H, and peak tailing from the adjacent <sup>58</sup>Ni peak (68.08% abundance)<sup>5</sup> must all be fully separated before measurement. Previous mass spectrometric measurements of <sup>59</sup>Ni have been performed using accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS).<sup>6,7</sup> However, there is no routine analytical technique in place for <sup>59</sup>Ni determination. So far, significant interferences have prevented measurement of <sup>59</sup>Ni by ICP-MS. Offline separation of Ni and Co using anion exchange or extraction chromatography is effective.<sup>8,9</sup> However, because<sup> 59</sup>Co is monoisotopic, some level of interference at m/z 59 is still expected.&nbsp;</p><p>The in-instrument interference removal capability of ICP-QQQ has been shown to benefit multiple medium- and long-lived radionuclides, including <sup>90</sup>Sr, <sup>93</sup>Zr, <sup>99</sup>Tc, <sup>129</sup>I, and <sup>135</sup>/<sup>137</sup>Cs.<sup>10–12</sup> A recent study using methyl fluoride (CH<sub>3</sub>F) as a cell gas for the determination of a range of radionuclides by ICP-QQQ suggested that this method may be close to being considered an analytical technique for <sup>59</sup>Ni.<sup>13</sup> This study builds on those results through a detailed characterization of CH<sub>3</sub>F as a cell gas for Ni/Co separation using an Agilent 8900 ICP-QQQ.</p><h4><strong>Experimental</strong></h4><h5><strong>Instrumentation&nbsp;</strong></h5><p>All measurements were performed using an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/icpms/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=8900"><strong>Agilent 8900 ICP-QQQ</strong></a> (#100 Advanced Applications model) located at the Agilent Center of Excellence in Cheadle, UK. The instrument was equipped with a MicroMist nebulizer, a Scott double-pass spray chamber, a 2.5&nbsp;mm internal-diameter quartz torch, Ni sample and skimmer cones, and x-lens. Before use, the instrument was tuned using a mixed stable standard solution to ensure that sensitivity, measurement uncertainty, oxide and doubly charged ion formation rates, and mass axis settings were within operational norms.&nbsp;</p><p>The instrument is equipped with four cell gas lines. The CH<sub>3</sub>F cylinder (Air Products) was pre-diluted to 10% CH<sub>3</sub>F, with the balance in helium (He). It was introduced through the hydrogen cell line, which allows flow rates up to 10&nbsp;mL/min.</p><h4><strong>Conclusion&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>The results demonstrate a significant step towards enabling radioactive 59Ni measurement by ICP-QQQ using optimized cell gas conditions. The stable isotope 60Ni was used as a stable analog of 59Ni as there is no available radioactive standard to evaluate 59Ni directly. Operating the Agilent 8900 ICP-QQQ with a fixed CH3F cell gas flow rate of 10.0 mL/min, and added helium, would provide the most effective separation of 59Co and 59Ni product ions. This approach has the potential to allow the concentration of the radioactive Ni isotope to be reliably assessed.&nbsp;</p><p>The method can next be tested on dissolved steel samples, which are the main sample matrix of interest within the nuclear industry. A broader issue is the lack of a suitable 59Ni tracer for method development and validation, which will need to be addressed as interest in this radionuclide increases.</p><h3><strong>2. LECO: Determination of Moisture in Pet Food</strong></h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/pdf/TGM_800_MOISTURE_PET_FOOD_203_821_735_dc5b444f40.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><p>Determining moisture in pet food is fundamental for quality control, regulatory compliance, and nutritional evaluation. Pet food nutrient guarantees (protein, fat, fiber, etc.) are expressed on an as-fed basis and moisture content affects how these nutrients are calculated. High moisture content often reflects a lower nutrient concentration. To compare different pet food products fairly, nutrients are often converted to a dry matter basis, requiring accurate moisture data. High moisture content in non-canned pet food products can also lead to mold growth, toxin production, and yeast proliferation, which can be detrimental to an animal's health. This is especially important in semi-moist products, fresh/frozen diets, and treats.&nbsp;</p><p>Pet food regulations and industry standards worldwide establish requirements for product labeling, nutritional declarations, and quality control. Moisture content is a critical parameter, as declared values must accurately reflect product composition and meet applicable requirements. Moisture levels that exceed declared values can result in product recalls, customer complaints, reduced shelf life, and increased product waste. As a result, accurate and reliable moisture determination is essential for maintaining product quality, protecting brand reputation, and preserving consumer confidence.</p><h4><strong>Instrument Model and Configuration&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) is an analytical technique in which changes in sample mass due to changes in the physical and chemical properties of materials is measured as a function of temperature and time. TGA is commonly used to determine selected characteristics of materials that exhibit either mass loss or gain due to decomposition, oxidation, or loss of volatile materials such as moisture. Macro TGA systems typically use a nominal one-gram sample mass to allow more accurate mass change measurements in heterogeneous materials.</p><p>The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/products/1878"><strong>LECO TGM800</strong></a> is a macro thermogravimetric analyzer designed to determine the moisture content of materials using a mass loss-on-drying technique. Mass loss of the sample is measured as a function of the oven temperature while controlling the atmosphere and ventilation rate. The TGM800 allows up to 16 samples to be analyzed simultaneously, with a maximum oven temperature of 175 °C.</p><h3><strong>3. Metrohm: Fish meal analysis by near-infrared spectroscopy</strong></h3><p><strong>NIR spectroscopy reduces analysis time from hours to seconds</strong></p><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/pdf/an_nir_148_download_f4365741c6.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><p>Regarding animal nutrition, fish meal is a premium source of omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential minerals. Due to its nutritional properties, it is not only widely used in aquaculture, but also as an additive to swine feed and poultry feed. To analyze the main quality components of fish meal, such as fiber, fat, protein, moisture, and ash content, multiple wet chemistry methods are usually needed. Instead of waiting hours for the results from these wet chemical techniques, near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) delivers results within seconds without the use of chemicals. This allows manufacturers to execute frequent checks against product specifications and perform fish meal quality control with ease.</p><h4><strong>EXPERIMENTAL EQUIPMENT&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>More than 1700 samples of fish meal from different suppliers were analyzed with an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/icpms/library?mainauthorItems=220&amp;search=OMNIS+NIR"><strong>OMNIS NIR Analyzer Solid</strong></a> (Figure 1) and a large sample cup. Every fish meal powder sample was measured in reflection measurement mode at five different positions to create an average spectrum. This minimizes sample inhomogeneities and results in a more representative NIR spectrum. Model development and validation was performed with the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/icpms/library?mainauthorItems=220&amp;search=OMNIS+software"><strong>OMNIS Software</strong></a>.</p><h4><strong>CONCLUSION</strong></h4><p>This Application Note shows the feasibility of using near-infrared spectroscopy for fish meal feed analysis. The main composition parameters of protein, fat, ash, fiber, and water content are determined in seconds without the use of chemicals. NIRS helps to save costs and improve lab safety when compared to standard wet chemistry methods. By using NIRS for efficient multiparameter analysis, quality control laboratories can save hours of time per sample measurement (Table 1), resulting in much higher sample throughput.</p><h3><strong>4. Shimadzu: X-Ray Fluorescence Analysis of Crude Drugs</strong></h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/pdf/an_01_01310_en_f21532d74d.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><h5><strong>User benefits</strong></h5><ul><li>Energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) analysis enables rapid, non-destructive analysis of inorganic elements in crude drugs with only simple sample preparation.&nbsp;</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/icpms/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=ALTRACE+EDXRF"><strong>ALTRACE EDXRF spectrometers </strong></a>offer sufficient analytical sensitivity for screening samples with respect to the limits specified in the Japanese Pharmacopoeia for testing heavy metals and arsenic.&nbsp;</li><li>Qualitative-quantitative analysis can easily determine the elemental composition of crude drugs, including not only heavy metals but also mineral components.</li></ul><p>Crude drugs are derived from natural sources, such as plants and animals. Qualitative and quantitative analysis of their elemental composition is important for ensuring their quality and safety. In particular, the content of mineral components and heavy metals in crude drugs can vary depending on the cultivation environment and processing steps. Therefore, they must be evaluated by appropriate analytical methods.&nbsp;</p><p>Methods for analyzing elemental composition include colorimetric methods, such as specified in the Japanese Pharmacopoeia (JP) for testing heavy metals and arsenic. Instrumental techniques, such as atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS), inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES), and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), are also used in some cases.&nbsp;</p><p>The heavy metals test protocol in the JP adds a sodium sulfide reagent under acidic conditions and then evaluates resulting coloration as a lead (Pb)-equivalent value. That offers the advantage of being able to assessthe total amount of heavy metals with a simple process. However, it has several drawbacks, including the need for skilled operation and reagent handling, as well as limited sensitivity and reproducibility.&nbsp;</p><p>In contrast, though AAS and ICP-AES, ICP-MS enable highly sensitive and highly accurate analysis, they require complete dissolution of samples in an acid, such as nitric acid or hydrochloric acid, as well as advanced expertise in chemical pretreatment. In addition, the instrument running costs and installation requirements can make their adoption difficult. Given such background circumstances, the adoption of analytical methods that enable rapid analysis with simplersample preparation are increasingly expected.&nbsp;</p><p>This article describes examples of analyzing hazardous heavy metals in crude drugs using the calibration curve method and examples of qualitative-quantitative analysis using the Fundamental Parameter (FP) method, both performed with an energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF)spectrometer.</p><h4><strong>Features of EDXRF&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>A major feature of <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/icpms/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=ALTRACE+EDXRF"><strong>ALTRACE EDXRF Spectrometer</strong></a> is that samples can be analyzed as-is or with only simple sample preparation, such as crushing. It can be used to analyze samples in various forms, including solids, powders, and liquids, and elements with a wide range of concentrations, from the ppm level to 100 %.&nbsp;</p><p>Two quantitative analysis methods are available, which can be selected according to the given application. The calibration curve method requires standard samples and the FP (fundamental parameter) method does not require standard samples and derives quantitative values based on theoretical intensity calculations.&nbsp;</p><p>In addition, because EDXRF spectrometry is a non-destructive analytical technique, the same sample can be subsequently reanalyzed by other analytical methods, which is also a major advantage.</p><h4><strong>Conclusion&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>EDXRF spectrometry is an effective technique for simple, rapid, non-destructive analysis of mineral components and heavy metals in crude drugs. By using an ALTRACE EDXRF spectrometer, the burden on analysts associated with sample preparation can be reduced and large numbers of samples can be analyzed efficiently. As the quality control and monitoring of hazardous elements become increasingly important, X-ray fluorescence analysis holds considerable promise as a useful alternative technique in the field of crude drug analysis.</p>

News from LabRulezICPMS Library - Week 43, 2026

<div><p><strong>Sample preparation is a critical step in the analytical process, transforming raw samples into analysis-ready materials that significantly impact downstream applications. Mastering sample preparation is essential for producing high-quality, reliable data across various fields, such as environmental monitoring, pharmaceutical development, food safety testing, forensic analysis, and research.</strong></p><p>Proper preparation ensures that samples accurately represent the substance being analyzed, free from contamination or background interferences. Consistent sample preparation methods enable reproducibility, allowing experiments to be reliably replicated by different labs or on different days. Sample preparation also enhances sensitivity, because detecting trace substances is crucial across forensic, clinical research, pharmaceutical testing and more. Streamlining the preparation process reduces time and resources, making analysis more efficient and cost-effective.</p><p>This article provides an in-depth exploration of sample preparation techniques, covering their principles, applications, and best practices to facilitate informed decision-making and optimal analytical outcomes.</p></div><div><div><div><div><h3><strong>Types of Sample Preparation Techniques</strong></h3><p>Sample preparation techniques can be categorized into several types based on the sample state and analytical requirements.</p></div></div></div></div><div><div><div><div><h3><strong>Solid Sample Preparation Techniques</strong></h3></div></div></div></div><div><p><strong>Homogenization and Grinding:</strong> Homogenization and grinding involve breaking down large particles into a uniform mixture to ensure representative sampling, using methods such as mechanical grinding with ball mills or mortar and pestle, cryogenic grinding with liquid nitrogen, or ultrasonic homogenization.</p><ul><li><strong>Drying:</strong> Drying removes moisture from samples to prevent interference with analysis, through methods including oven drying, freeze-drying, vacuum drying, and spray drying.</li><li><strong>Solid-Phase Extraction (SPE):</strong> The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/products?category=136&amp;manufacturerItems=50"><strong>solid-phase extraction</strong></a> technique selectively retains analytes by retaining target analytes using solid sorbents, including reversed-phase sorbents like C18, normal-phase sorbents like silica, and ion-exchange sorbents like quaternary amine. A weak wash can be utilized to remove weakly bound sample impurities before a strong wash solvent releases the analytes for further analysis.</li><li><strong>Solid-Phase Microextraction (SPME):</strong> SPME is a solvent-free extraction technique that uses fiber-based or in-tube SPME to extract analytes from samples.</li><li><strong>Protein Precipitation:</strong> A technique in clinical research labs, proteomics or drug discovery labs to separate proteins from a solution or complex mixture. The process involves loading sample onto a media, mixing or centrifugation and vacuum extraction to remove the sample protein free. This can also be done in a tube with solvents but requires more centrifugation and precision in pipetting. Additionally, protein precipitation plus phospholipid removal products allow for simultaneous removal of proteins and phospholipids for improved MS results.</li></ul></div><div><div><div><div><h3><strong>Liquid Sample Preparation Techniques</strong></h3></div></div></div></div><div><p><strong>Dilution and Filtration:</strong> Dilution and filtration involve reducing analyte concentration and removing particulate matter from liquid samples using membrane filtration, glass fiber filtration, or centrifugation.</p><ul><li><strong>Liquid-Liquid Extraction (LLE):</strong> LLE separates compounds based on solubility in two immiscible liquids, using techniques such as separatory funnel extraction or continuous liquid-liquid extraction.</li><li><strong>Supported/Solid Liquid Extraction (SLE) or called Liquid-Solid Extraction:</strong> Liquid-solid extraction transfers analytes from liquid to solid phase using solid-phase extraction or liquid-solid chromatography.</li><li><strong>Dialysis:</strong> Dialysis separates molecules based on size through diffusion across semi-permeable membranes.</li></ul></div><div><div><div><div><h3><strong>Other Sample Preparation Techniques</strong></h3></div></div></div></div><div><p><strong>QuEChERS:</strong> <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.phenomenex.com/techniques/quechers"><strong>QuEChERS</strong></a><strong> </strong>(Quick, Easy, Cheap, Effective, Rugged, and Safe) is a sample preparation technique commonly used in analytical chemistry for food and environmental analyses. QuEChERS is favored for its simplicity, speed, and cost-effectiveness, making it ideal for high-throughput laboratories analyzing complex matrices like fruits, vegetables, and other food products.</p><ul><li><strong>Microwave-Assisted Extraction:</strong> Microwave-Assisted Extraction (MAE) uses microwave energy to heat the solvent and sample, causing rapid thermal effects that enhance the extraction of target compounds. The microwave radiation penetrates the sample, leading to the vibration of polar molecules, which generates heat. This heating process disrupts the cell walls of plant or biological material, allowing faster and more efficient release of analytes into the solvent.</li><li><strong>Ultrasonic-Assisted Extraction:</strong> Ultrasonic-Assisted Extraction (UAE) employs high-frequency sound waves (ultrasound) to disrupt the cell structure of the sample material. Ultrasound causes cavitation (the formation of microbubbles) in the liquid, which collapses violently, generating localized high pressure and temperature. This leads to the breakdown of the sample matrix, enhancing mass transfer between the solvent and analyte.</li><li><strong>Supercritical Fluid Extraction:</strong> Supercritical Fluid Extraction (SFE) involves using fluid at its supercritical state (above its critical temperature and pressure) to extract analytes. In this state, the fluid exhibits properties of both a gas and a liquid, allowing it to diffuse like a gas and dissolve substances like a liquid.</li><li><strong>Pressurized Liquid Extraction:</strong> Pressurized Liquid Extraction (PLE), also known as accelerated solvent extraction (ASE), uses solvents at elevated and high pressures to extract analytes from solid or semi-solid matrices. Under these conditions, the solvent's viscosity and surface tension are reduced, improving its ability to penetrate the sample matrix and dissolve the analytes more efficiently.</li><li><strong>Immunocapture:</strong> A technique that uses antibodies to selectively isolate and concentrate specific target molecules, such as proteins, from a complex mixture. This method leverages the high specificity of antibodies for their antigens (target molecules) to achieve purification and enrichment of the target, which can then be analyzed or further processed.</li></ul></div><div><div><div><div><h3><strong>Optimizing and Implementing Sample Preparation Techniques</strong></h3></div></div></div></div><div><p>Validating and optimizing sample preparation methods is crucial to ensure accuracy, precision, and reliability. This involves evaluating several parameters, including recovery, precision, accuracy, robustness, and selectivity. Method validation protocols typically involve verifying the method's performance characteristics, such as detection limits, quantitation limits, and linearity.</p><p>Optimization techniques, such as experimental design and response surface methodology, help refine the sample preparation process. These approaches enable analysts to systematically evaluate the effects of various factors, including extraction solvent, temperature, and time, on the method's performance.</p><p>Even with validated and optimized methods, several issues may arise during <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.phenomenex.com/techniques/sample-preparation"><strong>sample preparation</strong></a>.</p><ul><li>Contamination can occur through improper handling, storage, or equipment cleaning, leading to inaccurate results.</li><li>Analyte loss, low recovery, or degradation can result from inadequate stabilization, storage, or handling procedures.</li><li>Inconsistent results may stem from variations in the sample matrix, instrumentation, wrong solvent/phase selection, or operator technique.</li><li>Instrument malfunctions can compromise results.</li></ul><p>To address the common challenges in sample preparation, laboratories should identify root causes and apply corrective measures, such as re-examining sample handling and storage procedures, verifying instrument calibration, or adjusting method parameters. Additionally, following best practices and safety considerations is crucial to prevent accidents and ensure a safe working environment. This includes wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) and adhering to laboratory safety protocols for waste disposal and chemical handling.</p><p>Regular quality control measures are also vital to ensure reliable results. Laboratories should implement standard operating procedures (SOPs), verify reagent purity and stability, monitor environmental conditions, and maintain instruments through regular calibration and maintenance. Furthermore, continuous training and competency assessment for laboratory personnel are essential.</p><p>Implementation of these measures is crucial for laboratories to ensure the quality and reliability of their sample preparation methods, ultimately supporting accurate and meaningful analytical results.</p></div><div><div><div><div><h3><strong>Conclusion</strong></h3></div></div></div></div><div><p>Robust sample preparation has proven instrumental in fields like environmental monitoring (e.g., detecting isolating pollutants using SPE), pharmaceutical development (e.g., bioanalytical testing with LLE and SPME), and food safety clean-up (e.g., QuEChERS for pesticide residue analysis).</p><p>As analytical chemistry evolves, emerging trends like automation, miniaturization, and green chemistry will further enhance efficiency, sensitivity, and sustainability for sample preparation techniques. Ultimately, high-quality sample preparation is essential for delivering accurate, reliable, and groundbreaking research outcomes.</p></div>

Sample Preparation Techniques for Precision in Analysis

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Sample Preparation Techniques for Precision in Analysis

News from LabRulezICPMS Library - Week 43, 2026

News from LabRulezLCMS Library - Week 43, 2026