ISC 2026 - Day 2

<h4><strong>What if you could compress 179 days of grueling laboratory workflow into just 14 hours?</strong></h4><p><strong>In this episode of ‪ChromatographyTalk‬, ‪Organomation‬ General Manager David Oliva sits down with analytical chemist Laura Penabad to discuss her groundbreaking new research in biocatalysis and high-throughput screening. Evolving engineered enzymes typically requires checking thousands of variants—a massive bottleneck when traditional Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) runs take minutes per sample. Laura reveals how her team built a modular screening platform that shatters this limitation, running samples 128 times faster than standard methods without sacrificing analytical accuracy.</strong></p><p>Laura breaks down the "orchestra" of technologies making this possible, including coupling nanoliter droplet microfluidics with Cyclic Ion Mobility-Mass Spectrometry (cIM-MS) to separate complex chemical isomers in milliseconds. She also shares the chaotic but triumphant behind-the-scenes stories of her PhD journey—from presenting a "comically bad" early poster at ASMS to recruiting an undergraduate mechanical engineer to build custom automation software from scratch.</p><p>If you are an early-career researcher, a mass spec enthusiast, or curious about the future of synthetic biology and machine learning in chemistry, this episode is packed with invaluable intuition and advice.</p><h3><strong>Video Transcription</strong></h3><h4><strong>From Months to Hours: Droplet Ion Mobility–MS for Biocatalysis Screening</strong></h4><p><strong>High-throughput screening is central to directed enzyme evolution, but conventional analytical workflows can create a difficult compromise: extremely fast screens often provide limited structural information, while techniques such as LC-MS offer much richer chemical insight at the cost of throughput. In a recent interview, analytical chemist Laura described how her work with droplet-based cyclic ion mobility mass spectrometry is helping bridge that gap—providing rapid analysis while retaining the ability to distinguish structurally similar products.</strong></p><p>Her research grew from an initially modest proof of concept into a screening platform capable of analyzing a 96-well plate in roughly ten minutes. The resulting workflow was approximately <strong>128 times faster than a conventional three-minute LC-MS analysis</strong>, opening new possibilities for directed evolution campaigns in which thousands of enzyme variants need to be evaluated.</p><h4>Directed evolution needs better analytical screening</h4><p>Biocatalysis takes advantage of enzymes as highly selective catalysts capable of performing reactions under relatively mild conditions. Directed evolution extends those capabilities by deliberately modifying enzyme sequences, expressing large numbers of variants, screening their activity, and using the best-performing mutants as starting points for subsequent rounds of evolution.</p><p>The process can be repeated multiple times, progressively steering an enzyme toward improved activity, altered substrate specificity, or even chemistry that does not occur naturally.</p><p>But the effectiveness of directed evolution depends heavily on the screening step. The more variants that can be analyzed—and the more useful chemical information that can be collected for each one—the more effectively researchers can explore the enormous sequence space available to an enzyme.</p><p>For Laura, this created a clear analytical challenge: develop a screening platform that was substantially faster than conventional chromatographic analysis without sacrificing the structural discrimination needed for chemically similar products.</p><h4><strong>From an imperfect first experiment to a working platform</strong></h4><p>The project did not begin with a polished high-throughput workflow.</p><p>Laura recalled looking back at her <strong>2023 ASMS poster</strong>, where the early system was still working with standards rather than true isomeric samples. Droplet introduction was slow—around six seconds per droplet—and the signals were far from the ideal reproducible, square, flat-topped profiles expected from replicate droplets.</p><p>Nevertheless, simply producing a droplet signal represented an important first milestone.</p><p>The decisive change came when the project stopped being treated merely as a demonstration that droplet ion mobility–MS could work and instead became a deliberate effort to build a <strong>robust screening platform</strong>.</p><p>Laura approached the problem in modules. First came reliable droplet introduction. Then the ion mobility separation method. Quantification became another independent component. Matrix effects were introduced later, gradually making the system resemble the conditions expected with real screening samples.</p><p>Each layer was tested before another was added.</p><p>This stepwise strategy became one of the central principles of the project: rather than attempting to optimize the entire system simultaneously, individual components were developed, challenged, and then assembled into an increasingly realistic workflow.</p><h4><strong>Finding the middle ground between speed and structural information</strong></h4><p>One of the biggest analytical problems in high-throughput screening is distinguishing products with the same nominal or exact mass.</p><p>Constitutional isomers may contain the same atoms and therefore generate the same mass-to-charge ratio, while differing only in how functional groups are arranged within the molecular structure. Very rapid optical or mass-based screens may therefore struggle to distinguish them.</p><p>Traditional LC-MS can solve many of these problems through chromatographic separation, but a several-minute analysis rapidly becomes impractical when thousands of enzyme variants must be screened.</p><p>Ion mobility offered Laura’s team another option.</p><p>Rather than separating compounds on a chromatographic timescale, ion mobility can differentiate ions according to their gas-phase behavior on a much shorter timescale. In the workflow described in the interview, this created a useful compromise: not the kilohertz throughput possible with some simple screening technologies, but dramatically faster structural differentiation than conventional LC-MS.</p><p>The goal was therefore not simply to achieve the fastest possible screen, but to find a <strong>middle-throughput analytical regime with enough resolving power to answer chemically meaningful questions</strong>.</p><h4><strong>A 96-well plate in about ten minutes</strong></h4><p>That strategy eventually produced one of the most striking results of the project.</p><p>The droplet cyclic ion mobility–MS platform processed a <strong>96-well plate in roughly ten minutes</strong>, while maintaining quantitative results comparable with the conventional LC-MS workflow used for comparison. According to the interview, this represented an approximately <strong>128-fold increase in analysis speed relative to a three-minute LC-MS run</strong>.</p><p>Laura described the successful plate experiment less as a surprise than as confirmation that the modular development strategy had worked.</p><p>Before reaching that point, the workflow had already been challenged through a sequence of increasingly demanding experiments: droplet formation, ion mobility separation, calibration, matrix-containing calibration, and cross-testing analytes at different concentrations. By the time the complete plate was analyzed, each individual part of the analytical system had already been tested under progressively more realistic conditions.</p><h4><strong>What does that speed mean for directed evolution?</strong></h4><p>The impact becomes even clearer when the workflow is considered at the scale of an entire directed-evolution campaign.</p><p>Laura’s manuscript estimated that a <strong>five-round campaign involving 5,000 variants would require approximately 179 days using the conventional LC-MS workflow but only about 14 hours using the new platform</strong>.</p><p>Compressing months of analytical work into less than a day has consequences beyond laboratory productivity.</p><p>It allows researchers to screen more enzyme variants and therefore sample a larger portion of sequence space. But the resulting datasets may also become increasingly valuable for computational approaches.</p><p>Rather than retaining information only about the best-performing enzyme variant, researchers can preserve data describing variants that performed poorly as well as those that succeeded. When genotype and phenotype information remain linked through the well-plate workflow, these larger datasets can potentially provide richer input for machine-learning models designed to guide subsequent rounds of enzyme evolution.</p><p>Faster analysis therefore does more than accelerate an existing experiment—it can change the scale and design of the experiment itself.</p><h4><strong>Balancing ion mobility resolution and signal</strong></h4><p>Increasing cyclic ion mobility separation time can improve resolution, but it also introduces an important trade-off: additional passes can reduce signal.</p><p>Laura optimized this balance experimentally by continuously infusing mixtures containing both isomers and progressively adjusting the ion mobility conditions. After tuning parameters such as wave height and velocity, increasing the separation to <strong>three passes</strong> provided baseline resolution at the high analyte concentrations used during method development.</p><blockquote><p><strong>Concentration, however, also mattered.</strong></p></blockquote><p>At higher ion populations, space-charge effects could broaden peaks and reduce the baseline separation. This meant that the optimal number of passes could not be selected independently of the concentration range required by the final assay.</p><p>Her broader advice for optimization is therefore application-driven: decide first what the analytical method actually needs to accomplish.</p><p>More speed will almost always require sacrificing something—resolution, signal intensity, quantitative precision, or another performance parameter. The key is to identify which compromise the application can tolerate and then optimize the system around that requirement.</p><h4><strong>Solving droplet carryover with a practical compromise</strong></h4><p>Droplet-based workflows present their own engineering challenges, including carryover between neighboring samples.</p><p>In Laura’s system, analytes showed little tendency to partition into the fluorinated oil separating aqueous droplets within the Teflon tubing. The more troublesome carryover occurred closer to electrospray ionization, where a small amount of sample could remain associated with the interface and appear when the next droplet arrived.</p><p>Rather than adding excessive engineering complexity to an already elaborate platform, the researchers adopted a pragmatic solution: a <strong>sacrificial wash droplet</strong> between analytical samples.</p><p>It is an example of a recurring theme throughout the project. The objective was not to construct the theoretically most sophisticated droplet system, but to create a screening workflow that remained sufficiently robust, reproducible, and practical for large numbers of samples.</p><h4><strong>High-throughput analysis also requires high-throughput data processing</strong></h4><p>Accelerating the mass spectrometry experiment created another bottleneck: the data.</p><p>The instrument produced a continuous intensity-versus-time trace rather than a neatly organized well-plate dataset. With small experiments, Laura could manually identify individual droplets and process the results in spreadsheets. That approach quickly became unrealistic as sample numbers increased.</p><p>The solution emerged through collaboration with an undergraduate mentee, Aiden, who helped develop a dedicated software tool for processing the continuous traces.</p><p>Laura defined how the software should behave and how the analytical information should be organized, while Aiden developed the computational implementation. The workflow itself was subsequently adjusted to make automated data processing more reliable—for example, by introducing marker columns that allowed the software to recognize the end of each plate row.</p><p>The resulting tool can accept the acquired traces together with information about plate dimensions and replicates and automatically return parameters including <strong>peak identity, duration, and the corresponding well position</strong>. A later version also generated an automatically populated heat map.</p><p>The experience illustrates how improving analytical throughput often requires simultaneous development of instrumentation, experimental design, and informatics. Making the measurement faster is useful only if the resulting data can be processed at a comparable speed.</p><h4><strong>Mentoring became part of the scientific process</strong></h4><p>The software project also reflects another theme Laura emphasized throughout the interview: the value of mentoring.</p><p>Several younger researchers contributed directly to the development of the final platform. Laura described mentees not simply as additional hands in the laboratory but as scientists capable of proposing their own hypotheses and experimental ideas.</p><p>Working with undergraduate researchers also influenced the way she organized experiments.</p><p>Because their available laboratory time was limited, each task needed to have a clear purpose. That encouraged a more disciplined approach to experimental planning: instead of performing experiments simply because they could be done, the team had to ask which experiment would most efficiently answer the next important question.</p><p>In that sense, mentoring became another mechanism for improving the research itself.</p><h4><strong>The next step: continuous, automated screening</strong></h4><p>Despite the dramatic increase in analytical speed, the current workflow still includes manual operations such as loading tubing and connecting the sample stream to the mass spectrometer.</p><p>The next engineering challenge is therefore automation.</p><p>Laura described ongoing work using the <strong>Venturi effect</strong> to pull samples directly from wells into the droplet system. Building on previous work in the laboratory with 96-well plates, she has already tested this approach with as many as <strong>2,000 samples</strong>.</p><p>The long-term direction is clear: continuous and robust droplet generation, automated handling of thousands of samples, rapid ion mobility separation, mass spectrometric detection, and automated reconstruction of the resulting data into plate-based outputs.</p><p>Combining those elements could move the system closer to the type of large-scale screening required for increasingly ambitious biocatalysis campaigns.</p><h4><strong>Learning mass spectrometry one problem at a time</strong></h4><p>Laura also reflected on the broader experience of developing the platform during her PhD.</p><p>Ion mobility and mass spectrometry initially appeared intimidating, particularly because they combine concepts from analytical chemistry, physical chemistry, separations, instrumentation, and electrical engineering. What eventually changed was not simply learning more facts, but developing the ability to move repeatedly between theory and experiment.</p><p>An unexpected result sends the researcher back to the underlying theory. A better understanding suggests a modified experiment. That experiment creates another observation, gradually building intuition about how the system behaves.</p><p>Her advice to early-career scientists is therefore to accept that this process takes time.</p><p>Advanced analytical techniques may initially appear overwhelming, but understanding develops incrementally through repeated interaction between theory, experimentation, failure, and refinement. Equally important, she emphasized the role of the supportive ion mobility–mass spectrometry community in making a technically demanding field more approachable for young researchers.</p><p>From the first inconsistent droplets to a platform capable of processing thousands of samples, that iterative mindset ultimately shaped the entire project.</p><blockquote><p><strong>This text has been automatically transcribed from a video presentation using AI technology. It may contain inaccuracies and is not guaranteed to be 100% correct.</strong></p></blockquote><blockquote><h4><strong>Concentrating on Chromatography Podcast</strong></h4><p>Dive into the frontiers of chromatography, mass spectrometry, and sample preparation with host David Oliva. Each episode features candid conversations with leading researchers, industry innovators, and passionate scientists who are shaping the future of analytical chemistry. From decoding PFAS detection challenges to exploring the latest in AI-assisted liquid chromatography, this show uncovers practical workflows, sustainability breakthroughs, and the real-world impact of separation science. Whether you’re a chromatographer, lab professional, or researcher you'll discover inspiring content!</p><p>You can find <strong>Concentrating on Chromatography Podcast </strong>in podcast apps:</p><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://open.spotify.com/show/1wZg67rCjoGju4yhqxI3tL"><strong>Spotify</strong></a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://podcasts.apple.com/tz/podcast/concentrating-on-chromatography/id1788429185"><strong>Apple podcast</strong></a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://podscan.fm/podcasts/concentrating-on-chromatography"><strong>podscan</strong></a></li></ul><p>and on <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.youtube.com/@ChromatographyTalk/videos"><strong>YouTube channel</strong></a></p></blockquote>

Droplet Cyclic Ion Mobility Mass Spec: Compressing Months of Enzyme Screening Into Just 14 Hours

ISC 2026 - Day 3

Article

Events

Video

Scientists

Interview

The International Symposium on Chromatography (ISC) represents the oldest conference series focussing on separation science. ISC symposia have been organised since 1956 in each even year. ISC is internationally recognised as one of the premier meeting series for discussion of all modes of chromatography and separation science with a broad coverage of techniques and applications.

International Symposium on Chromatography - (ISC)

Organomation, founded in 1959, designs and manufactures high-quality nitrogen evaporators and extraction systems. Known for innovation and durability, their lab instruments are used globally for efficient sample preparation with strong customer support.

Organomation

Thermo Scientific ARL PERFORM'X Sequential X-Ray Fluorescence Spectrometer

Solve analytical challenges in a wide range of applications with X-ray fluorescence with sample surface mapping and small spot analysis with Thermo Scientific ARL PERFORM'X Sequential X-Ray Fluorescence Spectrometer

<p><strong>Solve analytical challenges in a wide range of applications with one comprehensive tool. The Thermo Scientific™ ARL™ PERFORM'X Sequential X-Ray Fluorescence Spectrometer for advanced materials characterization integrates bulk elemental analysis with mapping and small spot analysis to create a solution that evaluates up to 90 elements in nearly any solid or liquid sample.</strong></p><p>Industries as diverse as metallurgy, petroleum, polymers, mining, glass, cement and refractories as well as labs dealing with geochemistry, materials science, environmental research and forensics will benefit from its performance and versatility.</p><p>With the ARL PERFORM'X spectrometer, analysis of materials in varied sizes, coatings, layers, heterogeneities and inclusions or requiring wide elemental coverage, wide concentration ranges and varied samples matrices is achieved with desired precision and limits of detection.</p><h5><strong>Advanced Technology</strong></h5><ul><li>Digitally mastered gearless goniometer based on Moiré fringe electro-optical technology, for precise and robust angular positioning of all its components.</li><li>Powerful OXSAS software and standard-less Thermo Scientific™ <strong>QuantAS™</strong> and Thermo Scientific™ <strong>UniQuant™ Analysis Packages </strong>provide simple and rapid analysis of totally unknown samples with no standards required.</li><li>Thermo Scientific™ <strong>PetroilQuant™ Pre-calibration program</strong>, capable of quantifying up to 30 elements in a variety of fuels, light and heavy distillates and lubricants both quickly and cost-effectively.</li><li>UCCO technology: Ultra Closely Coupled Optics for highest performance from boron to uranium.</li><li>IQ/OQ &amp; Remote Diagnostics for easy installation and serviceability.</li></ul><h5><strong>Main Features</strong></h5><ul><li>Large library of factory calibrations covering many metals and non-metals applications.</li><li>Material composition mapping and quantification capability.</li><li>Small spot analysis for contamination or defect identification and quantification.</li><li>Industry-leading liquid sample recognition and leak prevention design.</li><li>Wide dynamic range (from sub ppm to 100%) and excellent precision.</li><li>Integrated comprehensive sample changer allows large numbers of different samples to be treated fully automatically in mixed batches.</li><li>Faster analysis cycle time for high throughput lab applications using XY-loader for fully automated sample management.</li><li>Easy, non-destructive sample preparation.</li></ul><h5><strong>Models</strong></h5><ul><li><strong>ARL PERFORM'X 1500W</strong>: Cost effective low-power system, no external water cooling required.</li><li><strong>ARL PERFORM'X 2500</strong>W: High performance mid-power system, no external water cooling required.</li><li><strong>ARL PERFORM'X 4200W</strong>: Highest power system for the most demanding applications.</li></ul><h5><strong>Recommended for</strong></h5><ul><li>Geological and environmental applications.</li><li>Petroleum products, polymers and chemicals.</li><li>Materials science and forensics.</li><li>Major, minor and trace elemental analysis in raw materials, glasses, ceramics and refractories.</li><li>Specialty alloys, metals and ores.</li><li>Mining, minerals and cement.</li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Scientific_ARL_PERFORM_X_Sequential_X_Ray_Fluorescence_Spectrometer_5_6bac427b14.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific: ARL PERFORM'X Sequential X-Ray Fluorescence Spectrometer - Application" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Scientific_ARL_PERFORM_X_Sequential_X_Ray_Fluorescence_Spectrometer_5_6bac427b14.jpg 198w," sizes="100vw" width="547" height="432"></p>

Thermo Scientific FlashSmart Elemental Analyzer CHNS/O

The Thermo Scientific™ FlashSmart™ Elemental Analyzer (EA), based on the modified Dumas Method, is a flexible solution that expands your CHNS/O analysis with over 20 configurations in one system.

<h3><strong>Lead the way in elemental analysis with a single instrument handling all applications.</strong></h3><p>You and your team can solve more laboratory challenges, improve workflow and minimize downtime. The <strong>Thermo Scientific™ FlashSmart™ Elemental Analyzer </strong>(EA), based on the <strong>modified Dumas Method</strong>, is a flexible solution that expands your <strong>CHNS/O</strong> analysis with <strong>over 20 configurations</strong> <strong>in one system</strong>. Powerful software supports automated and precise reports, making everything easier for you and your team.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Scientific_Flash_Smart_Elemental_Analyzer_CHNS_O_2_efeac51a98.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific™ FlashSmart™ Elemental Analyzer CHNS/O" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Scientific_Flash_Smart_Elemental_Analyzer_CHNS_O_2_efeac51a98.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1424" height="888"></p><h3><strong>Why choose the FlashSmart EA?</strong></h3><h4><strong>The confident choice</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Precise and reliable</strong> system that delivers accurate results</li><li><strong>Easy maintenance</strong></li><li><strong>Easy to use </strong>for reduced need for staff training</li><li>Modern design combines simple user input with <strong>dedicated software features</strong></li><li><strong>Better return on investment </strong>as the system is modular and grows with your analytical requirements</li></ul><h4><strong>Simple</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Gas chromatographic method for real-time view of the analytical process and pathway:</strong> anytime, anywhere</li><li><strong>Streamlined sample preparation </strong>without the need for dangerous chemicals as Kjeldahl Method</li><li><strong>Complete EA software</strong> for effortless operation</li></ul><h4><strong>Modular</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Over 20 configurations in one instrument:</strong> no need for software upgrade</li><li><strong>Up to two autosamplers </strong>on the same analyzer</li><li>Higher sample throughput and automation with the <strong>Thermo Scientific™ MultiValve Control (MVC) Module</strong>, without manual intervention</li><li>Operates with <strong>helium</strong> and <strong>argon </strong>as carrier gas</li></ul><h4><strong>Automated</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Unattended operation</strong> of the FlashSmart EA: analyses can run <strong>24/7</strong> for complete results anytime, anywhere</li><li>Dedicated <strong>Thermo Scientific™ EagerSmart™ </strong>Data</li><li>Handling Software controlling all analytical parameters, Thermo <strong>Scientific™ OxyTune™ Function</strong>, an autosampler and the MVC Module</li><li><strong>Lower cost </strong>per analysis and greater productivity</li></ul><h4><strong>Accurate</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Certified </strong>and uncompromised precision and accuracy for a wide range of applications, from research to routine analysis</li><li><strong>Compliance with most recognized EA Official Methods: </strong>AOAC, AOCS, AACC, ASTM, ASBC, ISO, EN, CEN, EPA, IFFO</li><li><strong>OEA CookBook</strong> with <strong>thousands</strong> of determinations and methods for optimal results</li></ul><h4><strong>Robust</strong></h4><ul><li>Robust, specially designed features that you can rely on for decades</li><li><strong>GC separation column operating for years without the need for replacement: </strong>it is not a consumable</li><li>Long term investment for your laboratory, which guarantees<strong> reliability and accuracy</strong> of analysis</li></ul><h3><strong>Access more applications: become the reference laboratory in your field</strong></h3><p>No matter which direction you take, your lab and equipment will be able to adapt to support any strategy. Flexible systems enable you to react to the new, whilst delivering accurate and reproducible results. With the <strong>FlashSmart EA</strong> your lab can easily handle varying sample types, obtain from 1 to 5 element determinations and achieve maximum sample throughput.</p><h4><strong>CHNS/O Analyzer Configuration</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Perform 5 elements analysis with TCD</strong></li><li><strong>Organic Chemistry: </strong>organo-metallic compounds, polymers, plastic, synthetic rubbers, fibers, explosives, catalysts, textiles, pesticides, detergents, and fluorine-compounds.</li><li><strong>Petro-chemistry &amp; Energy: </strong>Coals, cokes, crude oils, alternative fuels, petroleum derivates, lubricants, oil additives, and graphite.</li><li><strong>Environmental: </strong>Soils, sediments, and rocks, composts, wastes, sewage/sludge, pesticides, water solution, waste water, particulates in air by filters, particulates in water by filters, and woods.</li><li><strong>Material Characterization: </strong>Battery, glue/resins, papers, rubbers, cement, ceramics, carbon/glass fibers, tires, pigments and dyes, refractory materials, building materials, inorganic materials, metals, textile fibers, and wood powders.</li></ul><h3><strong>Performance that takes you further</strong></h3><p>With powerful yet easy operation, your team can process <strong>more samples every day</strong>. When you need to analyze more elements, you can adapt the <strong>FlashSmart EA on-site </strong>to your applications or <strong>add a second reactor</strong> to unlock more capabilities.</p><h4><strong>Instantly connect</strong></h4><ul><li>Thermal Conductivity Detector (TCD)</li></ul><h4><strong>Sample introduction modularity</strong></h4><ul><li>Up to <strong>two Thermo Scientific™ MAS Plus Autosamplers</strong></li><li>One MAS Plus Autosampler and one manual liquid sampler</li></ul><h4><strong>Carrier gas options</strong></h4><ul><li>Helium</li><li>Argon option for lower cost and regular supply</li><li>Switch to nitrogen or argon when in Stand-By Mode</li></ul><h4><strong>Gas chromatographic method: real-time analysis</strong></h4><ul><li>Proper quantification of the <strong>five elements</strong></li><li><strong>“Open window” </strong>function giving information on what is happening inside the analyzer in real-time</li><li>Straightforward and intuitive workflow without valves</li><li>No absorption or desorption of gases needed</li></ul><figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:1482/903;" src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Scientific_Flash_Smart_Elemental_Analyzer_CHNS_O_3_ae03e912c7.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific™ FlashSmart™ Elemental Analyzer CHNS/O" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Scientific_Flash_Smart_Elemental_Analyzer_CHNS_O_3_ae03e912c7.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1482" height="903"></figure><h3><strong>Software automates consistent sampling and reports</strong></h3><h4><strong>Software</strong></h4><p>The <strong>Thermo Scientific EagerSmart Data Handling Software</strong> allows you to leave the <strong>FlashSmart EA </strong>unattended to get completed analysis, with full, user-friendly reports. The software controls all analytical parameters, flows, autosamplers and detectors, by suggesting the most favourable analytical conditions for your samples.</p><ul><li><strong>Automated transfer</strong> <strong>of the sample</strong> weight from the balance to the software</li><li><strong>Automated evaluation of Heat Values</strong> (Gross and Net Heat Values) for fuels and alternative fuels</li><li><strong>CO2 Emission Trade</strong> for environmental control</li><li><strong>Different Protein Factors</strong> for food and animal feed</li><li><strong>Inserting of the Humidity value</strong> for solid samples and of the Density for liquid samples</li><li><strong>Automated Minimal Formula determination </strong>for pharmaceutical or fine chemicals applications</li><li><strong>Automated evaluation of C/N, C/H and C/S ratio</strong></li><li><strong>Automated data transfer</strong> to Microsoft Excel, LIMS and others</li></ul><h4><strong>Automated functions</strong></h4><ul><li>Auto-Start</li><li>Auto-Ready</li><li>Auto-Stand-By</li><li>Auto-Off</li><li>Auto Leak Test</li></ul><h4><strong>Unique and dedicated OxyTune function</strong></h4><p>The Thermo Scientific <strong>OxyTune Function</strong> automatically evaluates the oxygen needed for combustion, according to the weight and nature of your sample.</p><h4><strong>MultiValve Control Module: future-proof lab with more throughput and less costs</strong></h4><p>By switching the analysis from the left channel to the right one (or viceversa), the MVC Module increases your analysis throughput. When the system is not in use overnight, on weekends, or for a prolonged period of time you can also reduce helium consumption and overall cost of analysis by switching from helium to nitrogen or argon.</p><ul><li>Fully automated and software controlled</li><li>No need to change hardware or software configuration</li><li>Optional feature for extended lab throughput</li><li>Easy to add</li></ul>

Thermo Scientific™ FlashSmart™ Elemental Analyzer NC/Soil

<h3><strong>Lead the way in elemental analysis with a single instrument handling all applications.</strong></h3><p>You and your team can solve more laboratory challenges, improve workflow and minimize downtime. The <strong>Thermo Scientific™ FlashSmart™ Elemental Analyzer </strong>(EA), based on the <strong>modified Dumas Method</strong>, is a flexible solution that expands your <strong>CHNS/O</strong> analysis with <strong>over 20 configurations</strong> <strong>in one system</strong>. Powerful software supports automated and precise reports, making everything easier for you and your team.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Scientific_Flash_Smart_Elemental_Analyzer_CHNS_O_2_efeac51a98.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific™ FlashSmart™ Elemental Analyzer NC/Soil" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Scientific_Flash_Smart_Elemental_Analyzer_CHNS_O_2_efeac51a98.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1424" height="888"></p><h3><strong>Why choose the FlashSmart EA?</strong></h3><h4><strong>The confident choice</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Precise and reliable</strong> system that delivers accurate results</li><li><strong>Easy maintenance</strong></li><li><strong>Easy to use </strong>for reduced need for staff training</li><li>Modern design combines simple user input with <strong>dedicated software features</strong></li><li><strong>Better return on investment </strong>as the system is modular and grows with your analytical requirements</li></ul><h4><strong>Simple</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Gas chromatographic method for real-time view of the analytical process and pathway:</strong> anytime, anywhere</li><li><strong>Streamlined sample preparation </strong>without the need for dangerous chemicals as Kjeldahl Method</li><li><strong>Complete EA software</strong> for effortless operation</li></ul><h4><strong>Modular</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Over 20 configurations in one instrument:</strong> no need for software upgrade</li><li><strong>Up to two autosamplers </strong>on the same analyzer</li><li>Higher sample throughput and automation with the <strong>Thermo Scientific™ MultiValve Control (MVC) Module</strong>, without manual intervention</li><li>Operates with <strong>helium</strong> and <strong>argon </strong>as carrier gas</li></ul><h4><strong>Automated</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Unattended operation</strong> of the FlashSmart EA: analyses can run <strong>24/7</strong> for complete results anytime, anywhere</li><li>Dedicated <strong>Thermo Scientific™ EagerSmart™ </strong>Data</li><li>Handling Software controlling all analytical parameters, Thermo <strong>Scientific™ OxyTune™ Function</strong>, an autosampler and the MVC Module</li><li><strong>Lower cost </strong>per analysis and greater productivity</li></ul><h4><strong>Accurate</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Certified </strong>and uncompromised precision and accuracy for a wide range of applications, from research to routine analysis</li><li><strong>Compliance with most recognized EA Official Methods: </strong>AOAC, AOCS, AACC, ASTM, ASBC, ISO, EN, CEN, EPA, IFFO</li><li><strong>OEA CookBook</strong> with <strong>thousands</strong> of determinations and methods for optimal results</li></ul><h4><strong>Robust</strong></h4><ul><li>Robust, specially designed features that you can rely on for decades</li><li><strong>GC separation column operating for years without the need for replacement: </strong>it is not a consumable</li><li>Long term investment for your laboratory, which guarantees<strong> reliability and accuracy</strong> of analysis</li></ul><h3><strong>Access more applications: become the reference laboratory in your field</strong></h3><p>No matter which direction you take, your lab and equipment will be able to adapt to support any strategy. Flexible systems enable you to react to the new, whilst delivering accurate and reproducible results. With the <strong>FlashSmart EA</strong> your lab can easily handle varying sample types, obtain from 1 to 5 element determinations and achieve maximum sample throughput.</p><h4><strong>NC Soil Configuration</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Determination of Total Nitrogen, Total Carbon, and Total Organic Carbon.</strong></li><li><strong>Environmental: </strong>Soils, sediments, and rocks, composts, wastes, sewage/sludge, pesticides, water solution, waste water, particulates in air by filters, particulates in water by filters, and woods.</li><li><strong>Material Characterization: </strong>Battery, glue/resins, papers, rubbers, cement, ceramics, carbon/glass fibers, tires, pigments and dyes, refractory materials, building materials, inorganic materials, metals, textile fibers, and wood powders.</li><li><strong>Agronomy &amp; Marine Science: </strong>Soil, plants (leaves, roots, fruit), sediments, humus, algae, plankton, particulate matter in water by filters, water, and fertilizer.</li></ul><h3><strong>Performance that takes you further</strong></h3><p>With powerful yet easy operation, your team can process <strong>more samples every day</strong>. When you need to analyze more elements, you can adapt the <strong>FlashSmart EA on-site </strong>to your applications or <strong>add a second reactor</strong> to unlock more capabilities.</p><h4><strong>Instantly connect</strong></h4><ul><li>Thermal Conductivity Detector (TCD)</li></ul><h4><strong>Sample introduction modularity</strong></h4><ul><li>Up to <strong>two Thermo Scientific™ MAS Plus Autosamplers</strong></li><li>One MAS Plus Autosampler and one manual liquid sampler</li></ul><h4><strong>Carrier gas options</strong></h4><ul><li>Helium</li><li>Argon option for lower cost and regular supply</li><li>Switch to nitrogen or argon when in Stand-By Mode</li></ul><h4><strong>Gas chromatographic method: real-time analysis</strong></h4><ul><li>Proper quantification of the <strong>five elements</strong></li><li><strong>“Open window” </strong>function giving information on what is happening inside the analyzer in real-time</li><li>Straightforward and intuitive workflow without valves</li><li>No absorption or desorption of gases needed</li></ul><figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:1482/903;" src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Scientific_Flash_Smart_Elemental_Analyzer_CHNS_O_3_ae03e912c7.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific™ FlashSmart™ Elemental Analyzer NC/Soil" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Scientific_Flash_Smart_Elemental_Analyzer_CHNS_O_3_ae03e912c7.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1482" height="903"></figure><h3><strong>Software automates consistent sampling and reports</strong></h3><h4><strong>Software</strong></h4><p>The <strong>Thermo Scientific EagerSmart Data Handling Software</strong> allows you to leave the <strong>FlashSmart EA </strong>unattended to get completed analysis, with full, user-friendly reports. The software controls all analytical parameters, flows, autosamplers and detectors, by suggesting the most favourable analytical conditions for your samples.</p><ul><li><strong>Automated transfer</strong> <strong>of the sample</strong> weight from the balance to the software</li><li><strong>Automated evaluation of Heat Values</strong> (Gross and Net Heat Values) for fuels and alternative fuels</li><li><strong>CO2 Emission Trade</strong> for environmental control</li><li><strong>Different Protein Factors</strong> for food and animal feed</li><li><strong>Inserting of the Humidity value</strong> for solid samples and of the Density for liquid samples</li><li><strong>Automated Minimal Formula determination </strong>for pharmaceutical or fine chemicals applications</li><li><strong>Automated evaluation of C/N, C/H and C/S ratio</strong></li><li><strong>Automated data transfer</strong> to Microsoft Excel, LIMS and others</li></ul><h4><strong>Automated functions</strong></h4><ul><li>Auto-Start</li><li>Auto-Ready</li><li>Auto-Stand-By</li><li>Auto-Off</li><li>Auto Leak Test</li></ul><h4><strong>Unique and dedicated OxyTune function</strong></h4><p>The Thermo Scientific <strong>OxyTune Function</strong> automatically evaluates the oxygen needed for combustion, according to the weight and nature of your sample.</p><h4><strong>MultiValve Control Module: future-proof lab with more throughput and less costs</strong></h4><p>By switching the analysis from the left channel to the right one (or viceversa), the MVC Module increases your analysis throughput. When the system is not in use overnight, on weekends, or for a prolonged period of time you can also reduce helium consumption and overall cost of analysis by switching from helium to nitrogen or argon.</p><ul><li>Fully automated and software controlled</li><li>No need to change hardware or software configuration</li><li>Optional feature for extended lab throughput</li><li>Easy to add</li></ul>

Thermo Scientific ARL X900 XRF Spectrometer

Powerful WDXRF spectrometer with optional XRD, dual-loading, and combined sequential/simultaneous analysis for fast, precise results in metals, cement, and mining industries.

<p><strong>The Thermo Scientific™ ARL™ X900 XRF Spectrometer is a robust, next-generation wavelength-dispersive X-ray fluorescence (WDXRF) analyzer with optional integrated XRD capability, tailored for the most demanding industrial environments in metals, cement, and mining industries. It delivers fast, precise elemental and phase composition results with exceptional reliability and uptime.</strong></p><p>Thanks to its inherently safe "tube above sample" geometry, a large single vacuum chamber, and dual-sample loader, the ARL X900 ensures high throughput and stable long-term operation—even under harsh conditions. It combines simultaneous and sequential WDXRF capabilities with flexible configurations that include up to 32 fixed monochromators and up to two gearless goniometers.</p><h3><strong>Application Domains</strong></h3><ul><li><strong>Metals:</strong> Iron, steel, pig iron, DRI, slags, ferro-alloys, copper/brass/bronze, aluminum alloys (including bath ratio), zinc, tin, nickel, cobalt, titanium, magnesium, super-alloys.</li><li><strong>Cement:</strong> Raw meal, clinker, free lime, clinker phases, limestone, slags, refractories, ceramics.</li><li><strong>Mining &amp; Minerals:</strong> Rocks, ores, concentrators, general oxides, soils and sediments, fluorspar.</li><li><strong>Other Industries:</strong> Glass, ceramics, polymers, contract laboratories.</li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Scientific_ARL_X900_XRF_Spectrometer_3_6602834bbd.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific™ ARL™ X900 XRF Spectrometer" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Scientific_ARL_X900_XRF_Spectrometer_3_6602834bbd.jpg 158w," sizes="100vw" width="1023" height="1009"></p><h3><strong>Key Features</strong></h3><ul><li><strong>Combined simultaneous and sequential WDXRF</strong> for ultimate speed and analytical flexibility.</li><li><strong>Tube-above-sample geometry</strong> protects the X-ray tube from contamination or breakage.</li><li><strong>Single large vacuum chamber</strong> provides stable analytical conditions and protects sensitive components.</li><li><strong>5GN+ X-ray tube</strong> and high-power generator deliver higher X-ray intensity and lower detection limits.</li><li><strong>Fixed channel monochromators</strong> for ultra-fast simultaneous analysis with no moving parts.</li><li><strong>Gearless goniometers</strong> enable precise sequential scanning with high durability and no mechanical wear.</li><li><strong>Compact XRD system</strong> for phase identification and quantification in a single instrument.</li><li><strong>SCX detectors</strong> provide enhanced precision for matrix elements.</li><li><strong>Dual-sample loader</strong> allows pre-loading of the next sample, significantly reducing dead time.</li><li><strong>20-position rotary or large XY magazines</strong> support unattended operation.</li><li><strong>Automation-ready</strong> with integration options for SMS robotic systems.</li><li><strong>Turnkey calibrations</strong> with certified reference materials ensure immediate use and reliable results.</li><li><strong>UniQuant™ standardless analysis</strong> delivers results of unknown samples within minutes.</li><li><strong>OXSAS™ analytical software</strong> offers intuitive operation, process control, batch analysis, and powerful calibration tools.</li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Scientific_ARL_X900_XRF_Spectrometer_4_2eae64f7ba.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific™ ARL™ X900 XRF Spectrometer: Cross-section of the ARL X900 Spectrometer, showing the instrument components that ensure high uptime and stable analytical results" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Scientific_ARL_X900_XRF_Spectrometer_4_2eae64f7ba.jpg 206w," sizes="100vw" width="1373" height="1042"></p><h3><strong>Efficiency and Flexibility</strong></h3><p>By combining fast sequential analysis, high-speed fixed-channel detection, and concurrent sample handling, the ARL X900 optimizes throughput. It minimizes measurement cycle times, making it ideal for high-volume production control, failure analysis, and R&amp;D applications.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Scientific_ARL_X900_XRF_Spectrometer_5_234ac79d92.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific™ ARL™ X900 XRF Spectrometer: ARL X900 Spectrometer integrates fixed channels for simultaneous analysis and a goniometer for sequential WDXRF analysis, combining two essential techniques within a single instrument." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Scientific_ARL_X900_XRF_Spectrometer_5_234ac79d92.jpg 221w," sizes="100vw" width="1474" height="1042"></p><h3><strong>Automation and Software</strong></h3><p>With <strong>Thermo Scientific™ OXSAS™ software</strong>, the ARL X900 supports fully automated, unattended 24/7 operation. Features include:</p><ul><li>EasyOXSAS interface for streamlined routine workflows.</li><li>Real-time SPC (Statistical Process Control).</li><li>Analytical Assistant and multivariable regression for optimized calibration.</li><li>SCT Manager for tracking control, set-up, and standard samples.</li></ul><h3><strong>Service and Support</strong></h3><p>Thermo Fisher Scientific provides global service logistics, expert field engineers, and flexible service agreements. Whether it’s during installation, warranty, or post-warranty periods, you benefit from:</p><ul><li>Increased productivity and uptime.</li><li>Access to expert advice and application support.</li><li>Custom training to fully leverage your instrument’s capabilities.</li></ul><p><strong>Unlock the power of the ARL X900 Spectrometer</strong> and ensure your elemental analysis meets the highest standards of speed, precision, and reliability.</p>

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