Sample dilution is a routine part of elemental analysis—but it can also become a significant source of manual work, variability, and laboratory bottlenecks. When samples fall outside the calibration range, contain high particulate loads, or require different dilution factors, analysts may need to stop a sequence, prepare new dilutions, and repeat measurements.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Reducing_Errors_and_Increasing_Throughput_in_ICP_MS_and_ICP_OES_with_Automated_Dilution_61d41669d9.webp" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: Reducing Errors and Increasing Throughput in ICP-MS and ICP-OES with Automated Dilution" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Reducing_Errors_and_Increasing_Throughput_in_ICP_MS_and_ICP_OES_with_Automated_Dilution_61d41669d9.webp 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1024" height="512">The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/products/2637">prepFAST 3 autodilution system</a> is designed to bring dilution directly into the analytical workflow, combining high-throughput sample introduction with automated dilution for <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/icpms/products?category=232&amp;manufacturerItems=3&amp;search=icap">ICP-MS</a> and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/icpms/products?category=227&amp;manufacturerItems=3">ICP-OES</a> analysis. The system supports both undiluted FAST analysis and diluted sample analysis, allowing laboratories to handle different sample requirements within a single automated workflow.<h3>From manual dilution to an automated workflow</h3>With prepFAST 3, samples can either be introduced undiluted or diluted automatically before analysis. For undiluted samples, the system loads the sample and injects it for analysis using the FAST workflow. When a dilution factor greater than one is required, the sample is loaded into the dilution line, diluted by syringe into the sample line, and then injected for analysis.Integration with <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/products/1489">Thermo Scientific Qtegra Intelligent Scientific Data Solution Software</a> extends this automation into the analytical method itself. Users can prescribe dilution factors for standards and samples directly in the sample list.More importantly, dilution can respond to analytical results. If an analyte exceeds method-defined quality-control levels, the sample can be automatically returned to the sample list and reanalyzed at a higher dilution factor until its concentration falls within the specified range.This turns dilution from a separate sample-preparation step into part of the analytical decision-making process.<h3>Intelligent QC-driven dilution</h3>Automation becomes particularly valuable when unexpected samples enter a sequence. Instead of requiring an analyst to identify an over-range result, prepare another dilution, and restart the analysis, Qtegra and prepFAST 3 can trigger reanalysis based on user-defined criteria.The workflow can also respond to internal-standard recovery. If internal-standard recovery fails, prepFAST can rerun the sample using a prescribed dilution and continue doing so up to a user-defined maximum. Likewise, when an elemental concentration exceeds the calibration range, the system can trigger reanalysis through the Intelligent Dilution functionality, with the reanalysis limits and target range defined by the user.The result is an analytical workflow designed to reduce manual intervention while keeping dilution decisions tied to predefined method and QC criteria.<h3>Keeping challenging samples moving</h3>Automation is only useful if the sample introduction system can keep running. High-particulate, unfiltered, and fiber-containing samples can present a particular challenge because particles may clog valves or nebulizers.The prepFAST 3 FilterProbe addresses this at the autosampler probe. An inline CTFE filter traps larger particles and fibers before they reach downstream components. While the sample is being analyzed, the filter is rapidly backflushed at the waste station using a syringe-driven process, preparing the system for the next sample. As illustrated by the brine pipeline sludge example on page 12, the concept is intended to extend automation even to highly challenging, particulate-rich samples. The presentation notes that this approach can help minimize valve and nebulizer maintenance while maintaining high throughput.<h3>Knowing whether the sample actually loaded</h3>Another potential source of analytical problems is incomplete sample loading. SampleSense3 adds sensor-based monitoring to the workflow. It detects samples, accounts for viscosity by adjusting loading timing, and can detect and log incomplete loading caused by conditions such as a clogged filter, capped vial, or empty vial.That capability helps shift the workflow from simply automating physical sample movement toward monitoring whether the automated process is functioning as intended.<h3>Designed around uptime and usability</h3>prepFAST 3 also introduces hardware features intended to simplify routine operation and maintenance. Multiposition Magnetic SnapValves can be removed without tools and use a two-valve sampling architecture for FAST and prepFAST operations.High-purity quartz syringes are used for dilution and sample carrier delivery, with 6 mL and 3 mL syringe configurations respectively. The system also incorporates a hinged, single-screw mounting design intended to simplify syringe maintenance and replacement.Together with features such as FilterProbe, SampleSense3 and a shortened probe configuration, these elements are designed around a practical laboratory objective: keeping automated analytical sequences running with less intervention.<h3>More analysis, less sample handling</h3>For laboratories processing large numbers of samples by ICP-MS or ICP-OES, improving productivity does not necessarily mean making the measurement itself faster. Significant gains can come from reducing the manual steps surrounding each measurement.By combining high-throughput sample introduction, prescribed and QC-driven autodilution, automated reanalysis, particulate management, and sample-loading monitoring, prepFAST 3 moves several traditionally manual activities into the analytical sequence itself. The objective is straightforward: rapidly analyze both diluted and undiluted samples while improving the user experience and maintaining a compact laboratory footprint.For elemental-analysis laboratories looking to reduce repetitive sample preparation and increase unattended operation, automated dilution offers a way to make the workflow—not just the instrument—more efficient.<h5>Acknowledgement</h5>I would like to thank Torben Stichel, Joerg Axthelm and Sebastian Voelker Field Applications Scientist, Germany, Trace Elemental Analysis and for the support on this blog and the webinars<h3>References:</h3><ul><li>Watch this webinar on demand in German language: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://event.on24.com/wcc/r/5179292/AE4C576B6A54D1AC182F7F77573D380F">Fehler reduzieren, Durchsatz steigern: Autoverdünnung mit PrepFast am ICP-MS</a></li><li>Product Spotlight: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/pdf/sl_004425_intelligent_autodilution_esi_prepfast3_sl004425_en_0d3490e91e.pdf">Qtegra Intelligent Scientific Data Solution Software</a></li><li>Sign up for our webinars live and on demand</li></ul><h5>English</h5><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/webinar/5795">Lunch and Learn Tips and Tricks Series: Qtegra Part 1</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/webinar/5976">Lunch and Learn Tips and Tricks Series: Qtegra Part 2</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/webinar/5977">Lunch and Learn Tips and Tricks Series: Trace Elemental Analysis (ICP-OES &amp; ICP-MS)</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/webinar/5978">Trace Elemental Analysis: Ask the Expert</a></li></ul><h5>Deutsch</h5><ul><li>19. März 2026 <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://event.on24.com/wcc/r/5179134/393E071E3B501943730958BA6203F477">Interne Standards in der ICP-OES: Ein Praxisguide für zuverlässige Qualitätssicherung im Labor</a></li><li>18. Juni 2026 <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://event.on24.com/wcc/r/5179292/AE4C576B6A54D1AC182F7F77573D380F">Fehler reduzieren, Durchsatz steigern: Autoverdünnung mit PrepFast am ICP-MS</a></li><li>17. September 2026 <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://event.on24.com/wcc/r/5179423/B5019C560431BADCA2A76E54E4EFE56F">ICP-OES smarter nutzen: Probendurchsatz erhöhen, Ressourcen sparen</a></li><li>17. Dezember 2026 <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://event.on24.com/wcc/r/5179530/94EEDD1F56138F5EEE2AF24E29E6C12A">Qtegra ISDS Software Unlocked – Live im Expertengespräch</a></li></ul><blockquote>Visit us on&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/chromatography-&amp;-mass-spectrometry/posts/?feedView=all">LinkedIn:</a>&nbsp;#ICPMS #ICPOES #AutomatedDilution #LabAutomation</blockquote>

Reducing Errors and Increasing Throughput in ICP-MS and ICP-OES with Automated Dilution

Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezICPMS Library in the week of 2nd November 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><h3>1. Agilent Technologies: ICP-MS Elemental Impurity Analysis of Pharmaceuticals Following USP and ICH Protocols</h3>Routine oral drug analysis using the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/icpms/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=9500">Agilent 9500 Triple Quadrupole ICP-MS</a> in Advanced Helium Mode<ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/pdf/an_elemental_pharma_AHM_9500_icp_ms_5995_0021en_agilent_32a608446d.pdf">Full PDF for download</a>&nbsp;</li></ul>All pharmaceutical products must be evaluated to demonstrate that they are safe for patients and effective for their intended therapeutic use. As part of this evaluation, potentially toxic elemental impurities must be monitored. The relevant requirements and procedures are specified by organizations such as the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) and the International Council for Harmonisation of Technical Requirements (ICH). ICH Q3D(R2) establishes Permitted Daily Exposure (PDE) values for 24 elements and includes the elements specified in USP General Chapter &lt;232&gt;.1,2 USP General Chapter &lt;233&gt; describes the analytical procedures and validation requirements for determining elemental impurities.3 In this study, the 24 elements listed in ICH Q3D(R2) were analyzed using an ICP-MS method based on USP &lt;233&gt; to meet the requirements of both ICH and USP.Agilent ICP-MS systems, including single quadrupole (SQ) and triple quadrupole (QQQ) instruments, have been extensively tested and used in pharmaceutical laboratories for many years.4 The instruments deliver reliable, high-quality data, supported by trusted service teams, qualification services, and compliance solutions. To extend the benefits of ICP‑QQQ technology to a wider range of laboratories, Agilent has developed the 9500 ICP-QQQ, an entry-level triple quadrupole ICP-MS.5 Unlike traditional ICP-QQQ systems, which are often used for advanced applications, the 9500 is designed for routine sample analysis. It combines excellent interference removal, dependable performance, and straightforward operation, enabling laboratories to benefit from ICP‑MS/MS capability in high‑volume daily workflows while still supporting more complex research projects.&nbsp;<h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/icpms/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=9500">Agilent 9500 Triple Quadrupole ICP-MS&nbsp;</a></h4>The 9500 ICP-QQQ is equipped with the Dual-Cell System (DCS), a new collision/reaction cell (CRC) that incorporates two independently controlled ion guides. The DCS enables effective removal of many spectral interferences through a new standard cell-gas mode, Advanced Helium Mode (AHM), which uses Kinetic Energy Discrimination (KED) and Collision-Induced Dissociation (CID) mechanisms.6 This enhanced helium (He) mode provides efficient removal of polyatomic interferences while maintaining sufficient high sensitivity in the low-mass range, making it suitable for the analysis of most analytes in the majority of sample types.&nbsp;AHM replaces the need for conventional multitune operation using no gas, He, and high energy (HE)He modes. By eliminating gas switching between these modes, AHM simplifies operation and improves sample throughput.&nbsp;In pharmaceutical samples, AHM is particularly advantageous for the analysis of elements such as lithium (Li), which typically has low sensitivity in conventional He mode, as well as vanadium (V), chromium (Cr), arsenic (As), and selenium (Se), which are susceptible to polyatomic interferences.&nbsp;While AHM effectively resolves many polyatomic ion interferences, such as oxide ions (MO+ ) and argon-based ions (ArM+ ), it is less effective at suppressing doubly charged ion interferences (M++). However, a reactive cell gas mode known as Air cell mode has been developed for the 9500 that reduces M++ interferences through ion–molecule reactions with oxygen (O2 ).7 In Air cell mode, ambient air is purified through an air filter before being introduced into the cell. Using MS/MS settings to control which analyte ions enter the DCS and interact with O2, the 9500 ICP-QQQ ensures effective interference removal of M++, as well as challenging polyatomic species that AHM cannot fully suppress.This note describes the analysis of 24 elements in an over-the-counter (OTC) oral drug product using the 9500 ICP-QQQ in AHM. The method was evaluated for both limit and quantitative procedures against the performance criteria specified in the ICH guidance and USP Chapters.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>A rapid method for the simultaneous determination of the 24 elemental impurities specified in ICH Q3D (R2) was successfully developed using the Agilent 9500 Triple Quadrupole ICP-MS. Operating the 9500’s Dual-Cell System (DCS) in Advanced Helium Mode (AHM) effectively suppressed polyatomic interferences while maintaining sufficient sensitivity across the entire mass range. This performance enabled quantification of all target elements in an oral drug product using a single gas mode. Eliminating conventional multitune operation and gas switching also enabled a faster and more streamlined ICP‑MS workflow.&nbsp;The method was evaluated in accordance with the requirements of USP &lt;233&gt;, including detectability, precision, intermediate precision, specificity, and accuracy. All 24 elements met the applicable acceptance criteria. The RSDs for the primary isotopes were less than 3% in the precision study, and results obtained on different days met the intermediate precision criterion. Acceptable recoveries were obtained at all evaluated spike levels from 0.3 to 1.5&nbsp;J.&nbsp;AHM provided low detection limits and background equivalent concentrations for all 24 elements, including V, Cr, As, and Se, which are susceptible to polyatomic interferences arising from the sample matrix. These results demonstrate effective interference removal capability and quantitative performance of the method. The use of a preset USP/ICH method in the Agilent OpenLab ICP-MS software further simplified method setup and routine operation.&nbsp;In addition, Air cell mode provides a complementary massshift approach for specific sample matrices affected by spectral interferences that cannot be sufficiently resolved using AHM alone. Examples include doubly charged rare earth element ion interferences on As and Se.&nbsp;Overall, the 9500 ICP-QQQ method using AHM met the requirements of both ICH and USP for the determination of elemental impurities in the OTC drug sample. The ability to accurately determine the target elements at 0.3&nbsp;J confirms that the method is suitable for monitoring elemental impurities at concentrations as low as 30% of the J value.&nbsp;The single-mode analytical approach simplifies operation, reduces analysis time, and improves sample throughput, making it suitable for routine pharmaceutical analysis.<h3>2. LECO: Metallography of Lithium-Ion Battery Coated Foils</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/pdf/METALLOGRAPHY_LITHIUM_ION_BATTERY_COATED_FOILS_203_821_726_ec2c1207dc.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>As the demand for renewable energy and green technologies accelerates, companies are prioritizing powerful, efficient, and reliable energy storage solutions. Lithium-ion batteries have rapidly become the leading clean energy choice across automotive, defense, and stationary storage applications. Most lithium-ion cells use a graphite anode paired with either a Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) or Lithium Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC) cathode. During manufacturing, the anode and cathode slurries are coated onto thin metal foils, which makes metallographic inspection a critical quality control step. Metallography enables precise evaluation of key battery performance factors, including adhesion, coating and foil thickness, and porosity. These characteristics directly influence charge-discharge efficiency, energy density, and overall safety, helping manufacturers prevent defects that could otherwise lead to performance loss or hazardous failures.<h4>Understanding Battery Foil Coating&nbsp;</h4>Thickness measurements of anode and cathode coatings are essential for preventing downstream issues such as reduced battery efficiency, shortened battery life, and the risk of thermal runaway. Irregular coatings can generate localized hotspots that worsen with every charge– discharge cycle. To minimize manufacturing waste and maintain quality, it is recommended to check coating thickness at multiple stages of the production process.&nbsp;These measurements reveal uniformity and flatness across the foil. The material should be evenly distributed with homogeneous particle dispersion and be free of defects such as holes, cracks, delamination, or scratches. By monitoring thickness in real time, manufacturers can adjust parameters, such as coating speed or calendering gaps, to optimize performance and improve overall process efficiency.<h4>Image Analysis for Coating Thickness Measurements&nbsp;</h4>LECO's image analysis software, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/products/1860">PAX-it</a>, provides users with an enhanced user interface to automate and generate reports based on common metallographic inspections for coated foils, including coating and layer thicknesses. Samples in the as-polished condition are suitable for observation and these measurements (Figure 7).&nbsp;With the “Measurement Sequence” capability, users can repeatedly measure thicknesses from a captured image (Figure 8). The Measurement Sequence is set up to prompt an operator to make measurements based on predefined parameters and locations. It is often recommended to use multiple measurements and areas of a sample for an accurate average of the entire layer of interest (Figure 9). Pass/Fail criteria can be established to alert a user if any of the measurements don't meet quality standards. This can also be used to observe any coating inconsistencies, like porosity or inclusions, that could lead to failure. Users also have the option to customize and print out Excel reports for traceability purposes.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>Metallographic inspection is a critical quality control tool in lithium-ion battery manufacturing, directly impacting performance, safety, and reliability. Accurate evaluation of coating thickness, adhesion, and uniformity on anode and cathode foils helps prevent efficiency losses, premature failure, and safety risks such as thermal runaway. Because these foils are highly sensitive to deformation, careful sectioning, delicate cold mounting, and controlled grinding and polishing are essential to preserve the true microstructure. LECO's recommended preparation methods and consumables enable consistent, deformation-free surfaces suitable for precise analysis. When combined with PAX-it image analysis software, manufacturers can reliably measure coating and foil thickness, detect defects, and generate traceable reports. Overall, a well-controlled metallographic workflow supports optimized process control, reduced manufacturing waste, and the production of safer, higherperforming lithium-ion batteries.<h3>3. Metrohm: Automated quality control of diesel using near-infrared spectroscopy</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/pdf/an_nir_080_download_ee71fd0827.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Key parameters for diesel fuel quality testing include the cetane index (ASTM D613), flash point (ASTM D56), density (ASTM D975), T95 (ISO 3405), and viscosity at 40 °C (ISO 3104). Usually, determining these properties is labor intensive and time consuming, requiring multiple analytical techniques and dedicated instrumentation. The OMNIS NIR Analyzer Liquid provides a fast, reliable, and reagentfree solution to simultaneously determine these diesel fuel properties without sample preparation. The precise temperature control ensures that all samples are measured in compliance with ASTM D8340, ASTM D8321, and ASTM D6122. Combined with the OMNIS Sample Robot M – NIR, the system offers fully automated operation for maximum lab efficiency.<h4>EXPERIMENTAL EQUIPMENT&nbsp;</h4>Diesel samples were measured with an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/icpms/library?mainauthorItems=220&amp;search=OMNIS+NIR">OMNIS NIR Analyzer Liquid</a> (Figure 1) in transmission mode over a wavelength range of 1000–2250 nm. Reproducible spectrum acquisition was achieved using the built-in temperature control at 30 °C. An OMNIS Sample Robot M – NIR was used for fully automated sample measurement with disposable vials (8 mm pathlength). The vials are closed, which reduces the flammability risk for fuel samples to an absolute minimum. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/icpms/library?mainauthorItems=220&amp;search=OMNIS+software">OMNIS Software</a> was used for all data acquisition and prediction model development.<h4>CONCLUSION</h4>This Application Note shows the feasibility of using NIR spectroscopy for the quality control of diesel. Determination of cetane index, cetane number, T95, density, flash point, and viscosity in diesel can be done simultaneously in a few seconds by using the OMNIS NIR Analyzer Liquid. The possibility of fully automated analysis in combination with the OMNIS Sample Robot M – NIR increases throughput, maximizing efficiency. With the OMNIS pre-calibration of diesel (6.06008.009), users can measure all the mentioned parameters from day one.<h3>4. Shimadzu: Analysis of Fluorine by EDXRF —A Simple Check for PFAS in Electrical and Electronic Components</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/pdf/an_01_00977_en_27a7e26bb5.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul><h5>User benefits</h5><ul><li>EDXRF analyzes halogens (F, Cl, Br, and I) more easily than absorption/emission methods.</li><li>Fluorine (F) on the material surface is detected directly, without sample preparation.</li><li>Simultaneous halogen analysis enables simple screening for the possible use of halogenated flame retardants.</li></ul>Asregulations on PFAS and halogenated organic flame retardants tighten in the EU1), 2) and some U.S. states3), 4), there is a growing need to identify at an early stage whether halogens such as fluorine are present in electrical and electronic materials. Rapid supply-chain screening is also increasingly required. The energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometer <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/icpms/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=8100">EDX-8100</a> requireslittle to no sample preparation and can quickly and easily detect halogenssuch asfluorine (F), chlorine (Cl), and bromine (Br). EDX-8100 quickly shows whether these halogens are present, helping narrow down regulated products and prioritize samples for detailed analysis. This article demonstrates the usefulness of halogen detection by EDXRF using an ETFE-coated wire and a relay as examples.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>As shown above, fluorine can be detected and quantified rapidly and easily when its content is about 0.1 wt% or higher. In addition to intentional use, the presence of fluorine compounds can also be confirmed in cases of unintentional inclusion,such as transfer or contamination. In the electrical and electronics field, demand for analysis related to PFAS and halogenated flame retardants is expected to increase in the future, and EDXRF is useful as a simple initial screening method

News from LabRulezICPMS Library - Week 45, 2026

Light and urea. These are two "basic ingredients" that can be enough for effective and gentle water purification. This has been proven by new research conducted by scientists from CEITEC Brno University of Technology (BUT). Although this is only basic research and scientists will continue to build on it, its results can already be used in practice.Urea is an organic substance that is commonly found in nature. Thanks to this, it is widely available.The key is its modification, in which scientists obtain a special compound of carbon and nitrogen from it. This can then be used for photocatalysis. "Our compound therefore serves as a catalyst that is activated by incident light. Thanks to this, substances that eliminate impurities present in water begin to be released," says Daina Arenas Buelvas from the Quantum Molecular Magnetism team at CEITEC BUT, who led the research.This represents a significant shift compared to current methods. Filters that capture impurities are now used to purify water. These filters then need to be removed and the captured substances disposed of. The carbon and nitrogen compound formed from urea, when hit by the light, both captures and decomposes pollutants. In laboratory tests this is done with an efficiency of up to 97%.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CEITEC_Cisteni_vody_pomoci_svetla_Laboratorni_testy_prokazaly_ucinnost_az_97_2_719253ff50.jpeg" alt="CEITEC BUT/Jakub Rozboud: Purifying Water Using Light? Laboratory Tests Have Shown 97% Efficiency: Daina Dayana Arenas Buelvas preparing samples." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CEITEC_Cisteni_vody_pomoci_svetla_Laboratorni_testy_prokazaly_ucinnost_az_97_2_719253ff50.jpeg 235w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="1067"><h3>A unique method that freezes particles</h3>The research is also unique thanks to the technology used. The scientists used EPR spectroscopy, which can capture free radicals whose lifetime is only a few nanoseconds and “freezes” them, giving scientists the space to examine them.“This allowed us to describe the entire reaction that took place in the material. We thus obtained information that we and other scientists can use in follow-up research,” points out Daina Arenas Buelvas.<blockquote>Researchers use a technique called spin trapping to confirm that the material produces reactive oxygen species that break down impurities. Since these molecules are too short-lived to be detected directly, a special 'trap' molecule is added to convert them into a stable, measurable compound, definitively proving that the material generates the active cleaning agents.</blockquote>The results of the research were <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2214993726002150?via%3Dihub">published</a> in the prestigious scientific magazine Sustainable Materials and Technologies. In addition to the Quantum Molecular Magnetism team of Vinicius Tadeu Santana from CEITEC BUT, the Brazilian scientific teams of Felipe La Porta from the University of Paraná and Débora Quadreli from the University of Londrina, and the team of Christian M. M. Rocha from the University of Barranquilla, Colombia, also participated in it.<h3>They will test the use against microplastics</h3>The scientists verified the effectiveness of graphitic carbon nitride, which is the name of the used carbon and nitrogen compound, in water contaminated with methylene blue. Thanks to the photocatalytic reaction, the compound removed 97.2% of the impurities.The wide availability of urea and the easy treatment required to obtain the key compound allow for rapid implementation in practice. At the same time, other scientific works can follow up on this research.Daina Arenas Buelvas also plans to do the same. "I want to find out whether it is possible to use photocatalysis in graphitic carbon nitride to remove microplastics. But we are only at the beginning," adds the scientist, who came to the Czech Republic from Colombia.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CEITEC_Cisteni_vody_pomoci_svetla_Laboratorni_testy_prokazaly_ucinnost_az_97_3_0b9e23b800.jpeg" alt="CEITEC BUT/Jakub Rozboud: Purifying Water Using Light? Laboratory Tests Have Shown 97% Efficiency: EPR laboratory at CEITEC BUT." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CEITEC_Cisteni_vody_pomoci_svetla_Laboratorni_testy_prokazaly_ucinnost_az_97_3_0b9e23b800.jpeg 235w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="1067"><blockquote><h4>Article&nbsp;</h4><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2214993726002150?via%3Dihub">Unraveling precursor effects on the cytotoxicity, adsorption and photocatalytic Performance of g-C3N4 materials: Insights from experimental and computational approaches</a></h4>Daina D.A. Buelvas, João P.A. de Jesus, Lucie Kotásková, Christian M.M. Rocha, Débora H. Quadreli, Juliana M. Serpeloni, Glaura S.A. Fernandes, Bruno L.S. Vicentin, Vinicius T. Santana, Felipe A. La Porta&nbsp;Sustain. Mater. Technol., 2026, 48, e02064<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.susmat.2026.e02064">10.1016/j.susmat.2026.e02064</a></blockquote>

 Purifying Water Using Light? Laboratory Tests Have Shown 97% Efficiency 

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LECO VX4 Compact Inverted Microscope

LECO VX4 is a compact inverted metallurgical microscope delivering high-resolution imaging, polarized light, and advanced optics for precise microstructural analysis in materials and educational labs.

The LECO VX Series metallurgical microscopes are advanced microscopy solutions designed for materials laboratories that require high-resolution imaging, reliable performance, and consistent metallographic results. Built with a strong focus on precision, repeatability, and ease of operation, the VX Series supports a wide range of applications across automotive, aerospace, academic research, and quality assurance laboratories.From routine microstructural evaluation to detailed failure investigations, the VX Series delivers the optical quality and robustness professionals expect. Integrated digital imaging systems and compatibility with LECO’s analytical software tools ensure efficient workflows, clear documentation, and scalable solutions for laboratories of all sizes. The VX3, VX4, and VX5 models allow laboratories to select the configuration that best matches their technical and budgetary requirements.<h4>Why the VX Series Is Ideal for Metallography</h4>LECO metallographic microscopes play a critical role in examining the microstructure of metals and alloys. This essential step in metallographic analysis enables detailed evaluation of grain size, phase distribution, and structural features, helping users identify defects and assess material quality. The high level of detail provided by the VX Series supports quality control, failure analysis, and materials inspection across a broad range of industries.<h4>LECO VX4 Compact Inverted Microscope</h4>The LECO VX4 is a compact yet powerful inverted microscope designed for metallurgical and educational laboratories. It features a bright LED polarized light source suitable for both mounted and unmounted samples, delivering excellent contrast and image clarity. Engineered for strong optical performance and intuitive operation, the VX4 combines modern imaging technology with automated functionality to support demanding material investigations.The VX4 is well suited for microstructural analysis such as grain size determination, pearlite/ferrite evaluation, nodularity assessment, dendrite arm spacing measurements, and advanced failure analysis. Full compatibility with LECO’s analytical software enhances efficiency in image capture, analysis, data management, and reporting, making the VX4 a practical and future-ready solution for metallography and materials characterization.<h4>Key Features of the VX4</h4><ul><li>Variable LED light source with built-in lever condenser, including field and aperture diaphragms</li><li>Trinocular viewing head with 10× / 22 mm adjustable focusing eyepieces</li><li>Revolving nosepiece accommodating up to five objectives</li><li>Standard objectives: 5×, 10×, 20×, and 50×</li><li>Optional 100× objective available</li><li>Brightfield observation with 360° polarizer/analyzer</li><li>Coaxial coarse and fine focus controls for precise adjustment</li><li>Ergonomic mechanical XY stage for smooth sample positioning</li></ul>

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