Nutrient imbalances caused by industrial pollution were not affected by extreme climate events 

<p><strong>In the week from November 2, the following webinars await you in the field of atomic and molecular spectroscopy and spectrometry</strong></p><blockquote><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinars"><strong>👉 DETAILS AND REGISTRATION IN THE WEBINARS SECTION</strong></a></h4><p><strong>👉 Search and filter in the largest global database</strong> with over <strong>6 000 GC, LC, MS and spectroscopy webinars</strong>.</p></blockquote><div><div><div><div><h5><span><strong>1. Technology Networks: When Good Analytical Methods Become a Problem</strong></span></h5><ul><li><div><div><span>Tu, 3.11.2026 18:00 CET</span></div></div></li><li><div><div><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/webinar/6678"><span>Registration</span></a></div></div></li></ul><p>Join our webinar on analytical method lifecycle management in biopharmaceuticals. Learn when and why to reassess established methods for QC and transfer.</p></div><div><h5><span><strong>2. C&amp;EN: From Reaction to Release: Raman and NIR Analysis for Fertilizer Production</strong></span></h5><ul><li><div><div><span>We, 4.11.2026 19:00 CET</span></div></div></li><li><div><div><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/webinar/6698"><span>Registration</span></a></div></div></li></ul><p>Learn how Raman and NIR spectroscopy can accelerate fertilizer production analysis, reduce reagent use, and support reliable quantitative measurements for phosphate, urea, and ammonium nitrate.</p></div><div><h5><span><strong>3. Metrohm: Bring Your Work to Kids: Test, Don't Guess</strong></span></h5><ul><li><div><div><span>Th, 5.11.2026 10:00 CET</span></div></div></li><li><div><div><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/webinar/6699"><span>Registration</span></a></div></div></li></ul><p>Join Metrohm and RI Analytical for a fun 30-minute science experience where kids become science detectives and discover how analytical testing helps keep water, toys, and everyday products safe.</p></div><div><h5><span><strong>4. AZoM: Gas Analysis Across Semiconductor Manufacturing: From Bulk Gas Quality to Process Emissions</strong></span></h5><ul><li><div><div><span>Th, 5.11.2026 17:00 CET</span></div></div></li><li><div><div><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/webinar/6682"><span>Registration</span></a></div></div></li></ul><p>Join the Thermo Fisher Scientific webinar on semiconductor gas analysis. Discover APIX UHP and MAX-iR FTIR for high-purity gas and emissions control.</p></div></div></div></div>

Webinars LabRulezICPMS Week 45/2026

<p><strong>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.</strong></p><p><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"></p><p>The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/products/2637"><strong>prepFAST 3 autodilution system</strong></a> is designed to bring dilution directly into the analytical workflow, combining high-throughput sample introduction with automated dilution for<strong> </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/icpms/products?category=232&amp;manufacturerItems=3&amp;search=icap"><strong>ICP-MS</strong></a> and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/icpms/products?category=227&amp;manufacturerItems=3"><strong>ICP-OES</strong></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.</p><h3><strong>From manual dilution to an automated workflow</strong></h3><p>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.</p><p>Integration with <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/products/1489"><strong>Thermo Scientific Qtegra Intelligent Scientific Data Solution Software</strong></a> extends this automation into the analytical method itself. Users can prescribe dilution factors for standards and samples directly in the sample list.</p><p>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.</p><p>This turns dilution from a separate sample-preparation step into part of the analytical decision-making process.</p><h3><strong>Intelligent QC-driven dilution</strong></h3><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p>The result is an analytical workflow designed to reduce manual intervention while keeping dilution decisions tied to predefined method and QC criteria.</p><h3><strong>Keeping challenging samples moving</strong></h3><p>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.</p><p>The prepFAST 3 <strong>FilterProbe</strong> 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.</p><h3><strong>Knowing whether the sample actually loaded</strong></h3><p>Another potential source of analytical problems is incomplete sample loading. <strong>SampleSense3</strong> 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.</p><p>That capability helps shift the workflow from simply automating physical sample movement toward monitoring whether the automated process is functioning as intended.</p><h3><strong>Designed around uptime and usability</strong></h3><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><h3><strong>More analysis, less sample handling</strong></h3><p>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.</p><p>By combining <strong>high-throughput sample introduction, prescribed and QC-driven autodilution, automated reanalysis, particulate management, and sample-loading monitoring</strong>, 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.</p><p>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.</p><h5><strong>Acknowledgement</strong></h5><p>I would like to thank <strong>Torben Stichel, Joerg Axthelm and Sebastian Voelker </strong>Field Applications Scientist, Germany, Trace Elemental Analysis and for the support on this blog and the webinars</p><h3><strong>References:</strong></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"><strong>Fehler reduzieren, Durchsatz steigern: Autoverdünnung mit PrepFast am ICP-MS</strong></a></li><li>Product Spotlight:<strong> </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/pdf/sl_004425_intelligent_autodilution_esi_prepfast3_sl004425_en_0d3490e91e.pdf"><strong>Qtegra Intelligent Scientific Data Solution Software</strong></a></li><li>Sign up for our webinars live and on demand</li></ul><h5><strong>English</strong></h5><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/webinar/5795"><strong>Lunch and Learn Tips and Tricks Series: Qtegra Part 1</strong></a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/webinar/5976"><strong>Lunch and Learn Tips and Tricks Series: Qtegra Part 2</strong></a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/webinar/5977"><strong>Lunch and Learn Tips and Tricks Series: Trace Elemental Analysis (ICP-OES &amp; ICP-MS)</strong></a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/webinar/5978"><strong>Trace Elemental Analysis: Ask the Expert</strong></a></li></ul><h5><strong>Deutsch</strong></h5><ul><li><strong>19. März 2026</strong><br><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://event.on24.com/wcc/r/5179134/393E071E3B501943730958BA6203F477"><strong>Interne Standards in der ICP-OES: Ein Praxisguide für zuverlässige Qualitätssicherung im Labor</strong></a></li><li><strong>18. Juni 2026</strong><br><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://event.on24.com/wcc/r/5179292/AE4C576B6A54D1AC182F7F77573D380F"><strong>Fehler reduzieren, Durchsatz steigern: Autoverdünnung mit PrepFast am ICP-MS</strong></a></li><li><strong>17. September 2026</strong><br><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://event.on24.com/wcc/r/5179423/B5019C560431BADCA2A76E54E4EFE56F"><strong>ICP-OES smarter nutzen: Probendurchsatz erhöhen, Ressourcen sparen</strong></a></li><li><strong>17. Dezember 2026</strong><br><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://event.on24.com/wcc/r/5179530/94EEDD1F56138F5EEE2AF24E29E6C12A"><strong>Qtegra ISDS Software Unlocked – Live im Expertengespräch</strong></a></li></ul><blockquote><p><strong>Visit us on&nbsp;</strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/chromatography-&amp;-mass-spectrometry/posts/?feedView=all"><strong><u>LinkedIn:</u></strong></a><strong>&nbsp;</strong>#ICPMS #ICPOES #AutomatedDilution #LabAutomation</p></blockquote>

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

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rHGH fragment or AOD-9604 (LCMS+CHNS) analysis

Combined LC-MS, CHNS and HPLC analysis of rHGH fragment 176–191 and AOD-9604 for identification, amount, peptide purity and contamination screening.

<p><span><strong>This analysis is designed to identify and determine the amount and purity of recombinant Human Growth Hormone fragment 176–191 and AOD-9604. It combines LC-MS, CHNS and HPLC to provide information about peptide identity, net peptide content, peptide purity and potential contamination with other peptides or degradation products.</strong></span></p><p><span>The test can detect and measure either target compound. It is therefore not necessary to know in advance whether the sample contains rHGH fragment 176–191 or AOD-9604.</span></p><h4><span><strong>rHGH Fragment 176–191</strong></span></h4><p><span>rHGH fragment 176–191, also known as somatropin 176–191, is a peptide corresponding to amino acids 176 to 191 of Human Growth Hormone. It consists of 16 amino acids and represents the C-terminal region of the HGH molecule.</span></p><p><span>Its molecular weight is approximately 1,799 Da. It differs from AOD-9604 in the first amino acid of its sequence.</span></p><h4><span><strong>AOD-9604</strong></span></h4><p><span>AOD-9604 is a synthetically modified peptide derived from Human Growth Hormone fragment 176–191. Like the rHGH fragment, it contains 16 amino acids, but its sequence begins with tyrosine instead of phenylalanine.</span></p><p><span>This structural difference allows the two peptides to be distinguished by LC-MS. The molecular weight of AOD-9604 is approximately 1,815 Da.</span></p><h4><span><strong>Analytical Methods</strong></span></h4><h5><span><strong>LC-MS – Identification and Contamination Screening</strong></span></h5><p><span>LC-MS is used to confirm the identity of the peptide in the sample. It also provides screening for detectable contamination with other peptides and peptide degradation products.</span></p><h5><span><strong>CHNS – Net Peptide Content Determination</strong></span></h5><p><span>CHNS elemental analysis measures the carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen and sulphur content of the sample. The measured values can be used to determine Net Peptide Content.</span></p><p><span>Because the sample is combusted during CHNS analysis, the result is not affected by solubility issues that may complicate chromatographic measurement of peptide amount.</span></p><h5><span><strong>HPLC – Peptide Purity Determination</strong></span></h5><p><span>HPLC is used to determine peptide purity and the relative proportion of the main peptide component compared with chromatographically detectable impurities.</span></p><h4><span><strong>What the Analysis Determines</strong></span></h4><ul><li><span>Identity of rHGH fragment 176–191 or AOD-9604</span></li><li><span>Amount of peptide in the sample</span></li><li><span>Net peptide content determined by CHNS</span></li><li><span>Peptide purity determined by HPLC</span></li><li><span>Presence of other peptides or degradation products detected by LC-MS</span></li><li><span>Differentiation between rHGH fragment 176–191 and AOD-9604</span></li></ul><h4><span><strong>Analysis Parameters</strong></span></h4><ul><li><span><strong>Target compounds:</strong> rHGH fragment – somatropin 176–191 and AOD-9604</span></li><li><span><strong>CAS number of AOD-9604:</strong> 221231-10-3</span></li><li><span><strong>Molecular weight of AOD-9604:</strong> 1,815 Da</span></li><li><span><strong>AOD-9604 sequence:</strong> H-Tyr-Leu-Arg-Ile-Val-Gln-Cys(1)-Arg-Ser-Val-Glu-Gly-Ser-Cys(1)-Gly-Phe-OH</span></li><li><span><strong>CAS number of rHGH fragment:</strong> 66004-57-7</span></li><li><span><strong>Molecular weight of rHGH fragment:</strong> 1,799 Da</span></li><li><span><strong>rHGH fragment sequence:</strong> H-Phe-Leu-Arg-Ile-Val-Gln-Cys(1)-Arg-Ser-Val-Glu-Gly-Ser-Cys(1)-Gly-Phe-OH</span></li><li><span><strong>Identification method:</strong> LC-MS</span></li><li><span><strong>Amount determination method:</strong> CHNS</span></li><li><span><strong>Peptide purity method:</strong> HPLC</span></li><li><span><strong>Detection limit:</strong> less than one twentieth of the usual dosage per vial</span></li><li><span><strong>Result format for lyophilizates:</strong> mg per vial and peptide purity</span></li><li><span><strong>Alternative result format:</strong> m/m purity and peptide purity</span></li><li><span><strong>Minimum lyophilizate sample:</strong> one whole unopened vial containing the lyophilizate</span></li><li><span><strong>Minimum raw API powder sample:</strong> 30 mg in a sealed glass vial to prevent moisture absorption</span></li><li><span><strong>Average turnaround time:</strong> 7 business days</span></li></ul><blockquote><h5><span><strong>Important Notice</strong></span></h5><p><span>The alternative m/m purity result format is intended exclusively for raw API powders. For lyophilized samples, the standard result format provides the peptide amount in mg per vial together with peptide purity.</span></p></blockquote><h4><span><strong>Additional Analyses</strong></span></h4><h5><span><strong>TFA Analysis</strong></span></h5><ul><li><span>Detection and measurement of trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) in the sample. Results are reported in mg per vial.</span></li></ul><h5><span><strong>Raw Data</strong></span></h5><ul><li><span>Delivery of the available raw analytical data from the primary test and all applicable additional analyses.</span></li></ul><h5><span><strong>Fentanyl Presence Analysis</strong></span></h5><h5><span><strong>Alternative Result Format – m/m Purity</strong></span></h5><ul><li><span>Alternative reporting of the result as mass-by-mass purity. This option is intended exclusively for raw API powders.</span></li></ul><h5><span><strong>Variance Testing</strong></span></h5><ul><li><span>Analysis of multiple sample units to assess variation within a single batch. All submitted samples must originate from the same batch of the same product.</span></li></ul><h5><span><strong>pH Measurement</strong></span></h5><h5><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/2522"><span><strong>Endotoxin Analysis</strong></span></a></h5><ul><li><span>Measurement of bacterial endotoxins, particularly lipopolysaccharides (LPS), in the sample. This analysis is available only for finished products and should not be ordered for raw powders.</span></li><li><span>The standard test provides accurate results up to 10 EU per vial. Values above 10 EU per vial are estimated and require an additional test with a different dilution for precise determination. Sending two vials is therefore recommended.</span></li><li><span>Where endotoxin levels above 10 EU per vial are expected, the method can be calibrated for the higher range in advance.</span></li></ul><h5><span><strong>Additional Report</strong></span></h5><ul><li><span>A separate additional laboratory report issued under a different client name.</span></li></ul><h5><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/2527"><span><strong>Sterility Testing</strong></span></a></h5><ul><li><span>TAMC and TYMC testing checks the product for the presence of bacteria, yeasts and moulds. Additional unopened sample units must be submitted for analysis. The average turnaround time for this test is 14 days.</span></li></ul><h5><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/2525"><span><strong>Heavy Metals Analysis</strong></span></a></h5><ul><li><span>Detection of arsenic, cadmium, lead and mercury in the sample. Testing for other metals can be arranged individually.</span></li></ul>

CHNS Mass Report (Standalone Test)

CHNS elemental analysis determines C, H, N, and S content and provides an independent assessment of net peptide content.

<p><strong>The CHNS Mass Report is a standalone elemental analysis designed to determine carbon (C), hydrogen (H), nitrogen (N), and sulfur (S) content in a sample. For peptide samples, CHNS analysis can be used as an independent approach to assess net peptide content.</strong></p><p>Unlike HPLC-based amount determination, CHNS analysis is based on combustion of the sample rather than dissolution. This can help avoid solubility-related limitations that may affect some chromatographic measurements.</p><h4><strong>About CHNS Analysis</strong></h4><p>CHNS elemental analysis determines the proportions of carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, and sulfur present in a sample. During analysis, the sample is combusted and the resulting elemental composition is measured.</p><p>For peptides with a known elemental composition, these data can be used to evaluate the actual peptide content of the sample independently of chromatographic purity measurements.</p><h4><strong>Key Features</strong></h4><ul><li>Standalone CHNS elemental analysis</li><li>Determination of carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, and sulfur</li><li>Combustion-based analytical method</li><li>Independent assessment of net peptide content</li><li>Avoids sample-solubility limitations associated with some HPLC measurements</li><li>Suitable for tablets, capsules, liquid solutions, raw materials, and vials</li><li>Minimum sample amount of 1 tablet/capsule, 1 ml solution, 200 mg raw material, or 1 vial</li><li>Average turnaround time of 7 business days</li></ul><h4><strong>Analysis Parameters</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Testing method: </strong>CHNS elemental analysis</li><li><strong>Amount of sample required: </strong>1 tablet/capsule, 1 ml solution, 200 mg raw material, or 1 vial</li><li><strong>Average turnaround time: </strong>7 business days</li></ul><blockquote><p><strong>Important Notice</strong></p><ul><li>CHNS analysis determines elemental composition and is fundamentally different from chromatographic purity analysis.</li></ul></blockquote><h4><strong>Optional Additional Analyses</strong></h4><p>The following optional laboratory services are available:</p><ul><li>Additional Laboratory Report</li></ul>

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

Webinars LabRulezICPMS Week 45/2026

Nutrient imbalances caused by industrial pollution were not affected by extreme climate events