Czech researchers from Charles University, Prague, led by Pavla Eliášová, have developed an advanced photocathode that helps convert the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide into pure ethanol using sunlight. The new technology solves a long-standing problem of material degradation in water, achieves record conversion efficiency, and opens the way toward sustainable production of green fuels.Converting carbon dioxide (CO2) into useful fuels using solar energy represents the holy grail of modern green chemistry. The device enabling this conversion is called a solar reactor. Its key element is a photocathode: a material that absorbs light and enables the chemical reaction. Cuprous oxide long appeared to be an ideal material because it is inexpensive, readily available, and excels at capturing solar rays. In practice, however, it faced a fundamental obstacle: in an aqueous environment under light, it transforms and degrades extremely rapidly—much like iron undergoing swift corrosion—and loses its functionality within just tens of minutes.The team from the Chemistry Section of the Faculty of Science, CU, led by Pavla Eliášová, in collaboration with Tomáš Hrbek from the Faculty of Mathematics and Physics, CU, resolved this issue by creating a unique "nano-sandwich". The scientists combined cuprous oxide with advanced two-dimensional materials called MXenes and, through precisely controlled heating, created an ultrathin layer of titanium dioxide on their surface. MXene modified in this way can rapidly drain electric charge from the cuprous oxide, thereby slowing down its decomposition. At the same time, it uses the charge further to convert carbon dioxide into liquid fuel."Surface-engineered MXene combined with cuprous oxide allowed us to unite the best of both materials. The copper base enables maximum utilization of light energy, while the conductive MXene framework ensures that the material remains active even after many hours of operation," explains research team leader Pavla Eliášová from the Chemistry Section of the Faculty of Science, Charles University.In laboratory tests, the new photocathode achieved a record solar-energy-to-ethanol conversion efficiency of 2,74 %. A crucial improvement is the formation of only a single product. While other systems often produce a mixture of byproducts, the material designed by the research team produces pure ethanol as its sole liquid product, which significantly simplifies its potential industrial application."This is a major step forward for us. On our laboratory scale, the system works very well and produces ethanol over many hours. In the next step, we want to further reinforce the stability of the entire photocathode and begin testing on a larger scale and under real daylight conditions," adds physical chemist Pavla Eliášová.The research was conducted within the international European project DESIRED (Horizon Europe), with support from the Charles University Research Centre (UNCE) and the L'Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science program.<blockquote><h4>Article</h4><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://advanced.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/aenm.71469">Surface-Engineered Ti3C2Tx MXene/Cu2O Photocathodes for Highly Selective Photoelectrocatalytic CO2 Reduction to Ethanol</a></h4>Luis A. M. Carrascosa, Magdaléna Linková, Monika Remzová, Tomáš Hrbek, Pavla EliášováAdv. Energy Mater., 2026, 16, e71469<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://doi.org/10.1002/aenm.71469">https://doi.org/10.1002/aenm.71469</a><h6>licenced under <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/">CC-BY 4.0</a></h6></blockquote><h4>Abstract</h4>Cu2O is an inexpensive p-type semiconductor that promotes the photoelectrocatalytic CO2 reduction reaction (PEC CO2RR). While its low bandgap enables photoexcitation by visible light, long-term stability remains limited due to quick charge recombination and photocorrosion. Here, we enhanced charge separation and extraction by combining Cu2O with surface-engineered MXenes. In this novel architecture, TiO2 grows in situ on the surface of Ti3C2Tx and serves as a charge-transport layer, forming a junction with Cu2O. On the other side, the outer TiO2 surface exposed to the CO2-saturated electrolyte offers catalytically active sites for CO2 reduction. Acting as a central layer, the MXene conductive backbone provides an electronically continuous pathway for electron transport. In PEC CO2RR, the photocathode containing 50 wt.% of MXene and a balanced amount of TiO2 on the Ti3C2 surface outperformed the best Cu/CuxO-based systems operating in non-organic electrolytes reported in the literature. The FTO/Cu2O/ml-Ti3C2Tx-350-N2 photocathode reached 8.4&nbsp;µmol&nbsp;cm−2 h−1 ethanol production rate and 2.74% solar-to-ethanol efficiency after 2&nbsp;h. Moreover, pairing TiO2-MXene with Cu2O significantly stabilized the photocathode, which maintained 76% of the ethanol production rate after 6 h. Overall, our results establish surface-engineered Cu2O/TiO2-MXene heterostructures as a solid platform for highly selective, visible-light-driven ethanol production with significantly improved operational stability.

Researchers from Charles University, Prague, Have Developed a New Photocathode for Efficient Conversion of CO2 into Ethanol

<div><div>Protons play a central role in many chemical reactions in living organisms. In some cases, a proton may be shared between two nearby molecular groups rather than being localized on just one. This phenomenon can strongly influence the properties and reactivity of biomolecules and is important for enzyme function.</div></div><div>Researchers led by Hanns Christian Schewe (IOCB Prague and Heyrovský Institute of the CAS) together with Lukáš Tomaník (UCT Prague and Fritz Haber Institute of the Max Planck Society) have now investigated proton sharing in a range of biologically relevant polycarboxylic acids dissolved in water, including several molecules related to the citric acid cycle (Krebs cycle).Using liquid-jet X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (LJ-PES), a technique that reveals the chemical environment of atoms in molecules dissolved in water, the team was able to probe the position of protons on an ultrafast time scale. Unlike techniques such as NMR, which provide a time-averaged picture, photoelectron spectroscopy captures the instantaneous distribution of protons and can therefore distinguish more directly between localized and shared states.The results showed significant proton sharing only in maleic acid dissolved in water. In contrast, protons remained mostly localized at individual carboxylic groups in succinic acid, fumaric acid, malic acid, glutaric acid and citric acid. This suggests that proton sharing is not a common feature of these molecules when they are freely dissolved in water.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/IOCB_Prague_Cropped_part_of_the_cover_by_Schewe_et_al_with_the_use_of_Nano_Banana_2_0_2_2a408dbeb5.webp" alt="IOCB Prague: Cropped part of the cover by Schewe et al. with the use of Nano Banana 2.0: Full cover by Schewe et al. with the use of Nano Banana 2.0." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_IOCB_Prague_Cropped_part_of_the_cover_by_Schewe_et_al_with_the_use_of_Nano_Banana_2_0_2_2a408dbeb5.webp 117w," sizes="100vw" width="1620" height="2154">The difference appears to be largely controlled by molecular geometry. In maleic acid, the two carboxylic groups are held close together, creating favorable conditions for proton sharing. More flexible molecules can adopt conformations in which the groups are farther apart, while water molecules form strong hydrogen bonds with them and favor localized protons.However, the situation may be different inside proteins. When a carboxylic acid binds in the active site of an enzyme, its shape and position can be tightly constrained. Such an environment could bring the relevant groups close enough together to promote proton sharing and thereby influence enzymatic reactions.The study highlights an important distinction: proton sharing may be rare in freely hydrated molecules but could become important when biomolecules are held in the right geometry by enzymes. It also demonstrates that LJ-PES is a powerful tool for studying proton behavior in solutions. Its ultrafast and site-specific sensitivity could in future help researchers investigate proton sharing directly in more complex chemical and biological systems.<blockquote><h4>The original article</h4><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/jaaucr/article/6/6/3349/5084661/Proton-Sharing-in-Polycarboxylic-Acids-in-Aqueous">Proton Sharing in Polycarboxylic Acids in Aqueous Solution</a></h4>Lukáš Tomaník, Jiří Tůma, Gunnar Öhrwall, Ronny Golnak, Ngoc Lan Le Nguyen, Bruno Credidio, Harmanjot Kaur, Petr Slavíček, Bernd Winter, H. Christian Schewe<div>JACS Au, 2026, 6, 3349–3355</div><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://doi.org/10.1021/jacsau.6c00377">https://doi.org/10.1021/jacsau.6c00377</a><h6>licenced under <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/">CC-BY 4.0</a></h6></blockquote><h4>Abstract</h4>We investigate proton sharing in biologically relevant polycarboxylic acids in aqueous solutions using liquid-jet X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. In contrast to techniques that record time-averaged proton positions, like nuclear magnetic resonance, photoelectron spectroscopy captures instantaneous proton distribution due to its ultrafast probing time scale. The method is, therefore, uniquely sensitive to the occurrence of proton sharing in an aqueous environment, as demonstrated here. We only observe significant proton sharing dynamics in maleic acid, where its monoanionic form shows a single, delocalized peak in the carbon 1s spectrum. Conversely, succinic acid, fumaric acid, malic acid, glutaric acid, and citric acid exhibit distinct peaks corresponding to separate, localized COOH and COO– groups, instead of shared protons. Our results reveal that intramolecular proton sharing in water is rather an exception for most biologically relevant polycarboxylic acids. This highlights the importance of enzyme-driven structural changes of polycarboxylic acids associated with proton sharing during metabolic processes.</div>

Proton sharing in polycarboxylic acids in aqueous solution

Autumn has already turned the leaves into vibrant shades, and with the end of the year approaching, we would like to thank you - before the first snowflakes arrive - for your trust, cooperation, and continued interest in our products and services.As a long-standing distributor of Thermo Scientific Finnpipette products, we know that the accuracy and reliability of laboratory results often begin with seemingly small details. Choosing the right pipette and tip is one of the first steps toward a successful analysis.That is why we have prepared an EXCLUSIVE offer to help you replenish your laboratory supplies at a more attractive price, while also thanking you for your continued cooperation and trust.<blockquote>EXCLUSIVE OFFER valid until the end of 2026<ul><li>10% off tips</li><li>10% off pipettes</li></ul>Enter the code “KAŠTANY” in your order or include it in your order e-mail.*For larger orders, an additional discount may be available.</blockquote><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/analytika_pipety_a_spicky_thermo_20c5943161.jpg" alt="analytika: Thermo Scientific Pipettes and Tips" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_analytika_pipety_a_spicky_thermo_20c5943161.jpg 146w," sizes="100vw" width="1500" height="1605"><h4>LIMITED OFFER WHILE STOCKS LAST</h4><h5>Everything ages. 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The main mission of the Faculty of Science is to create highly qualified experts in biology, chemistry, geography, geology and in other interdisciplinary fields. Its scientific and research effort aims to solve key problems concerned with the development of human society. Some of the priority long-term subjects are human health, the study of the function and prediction of the development of ecosystems and the biosphere, and the development of environmentally-friendly materials based on the utilization of renewable resources.

Přírodovědecká fakulta Univerzity Karlovy

The Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences (IOCB Prague) is a leading scientific institution in the Czech Republic, recognized internationally. Its primary mission is basic research in the fields of chemical biology and medicinal chemistry, organic and material oriented chemistry, chemistry of natural compounds, biochemistry and molecular biology, physical chemistry, theoretical chemistry, and analytical chemistry. 

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Analytika is a Czech company that offers and produces certified reference materials (CRM) and (ultra)pure chemicals for quality control and quality assurance in laboratories, including accredited laboratories.

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ANALYTIKA

Anton Paar

Agilent Technologies

AZoM

Milestone

Bruker

Thermo Fisher Scientific

SelectScience

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The analysis of microplastics (MP) becomes more difficult for smaller sizes, especially in complex matrices such as sediment of natural waters. In this work, we analyzed MPs in sediment using laser direct infrared (LDIR) imaging, a relatively new technique in environmental MP studies.&nbsp;Sediment samples were spiked with analytical surrogates (polyethylene spheres), and subjected to density separation, wet peroxide oxidation, calcite removal, and filtration. The extracted particles were coated on to a low-emissivity glass slide which was first examined on a stereomicroscope. Six slides (two sediment samples and four different blanks) were further analyzed using an Agilent LDIR system. Approximately 520 and 430 MP/g were found in the two samples, with diameter ranging 20-3,384 mm and 84% being smaller than 100 mm. The increase in particle count with decreasing particle sizes followed a power law curve, suggesting that a large portion of the smaller MPs was generated by the breakdown of larger plastic pieces. Major polymers found in this work included polyamide, polyester, polytetrafluoroethylene, and polyacetal. Most MPs were fragments, while beads and fiber were also found. In the two sediment samples, 14% and 46% of the total particles, respectively, were composed of non-plastic micro-sized particles, including natural polyamide, cellulose, chitin, rubber, and "unknown". Challenges, potential biases, and uncertainties are discussed. This work is the first application of LDIR imaging on MPs in natural sediment.<blockquote>Presenter: An Li (Professor Emerita, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Illinois Chicago)Dr. An Li is a Professor Emeritus in School of Public Health, University of Illinois Chicago. She is an environmental chemist, with her research focus on how human activities influence the natural environment and how the changes in turn affect human health. Her research particularly focuses on persistent and bioaccumulative organic chemicals which are potentially toxic. She has led a number of federally funded projects and programs, including the Great Lakes Sediment Surveillance Program (GLSSP) funded by the US EPA. Dr. Li has published two books Physical and Chemical Processes in the Aquatic Environment (2014) and Persistent Organic Pollutants in Asia (2007), &gt;100 journal articles, as well as numerous other publications.</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Characterization of Microplastics in Sediment Using LDIR Microscopy

Characterization of Microplastics in Sediment Using LDIR Microscopy

Explore microplastics analysis in sediment using Agilent LDIR microscopy. Learn sample prep and polymer identification

LDIR Microscopy: Microplastics Characterization in Sediment

<div><div container-id="cq-colctrl-lt0" comp-id="A1"><div>Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometers (ICP-MS) are a long-established tool for the analysis of trace elements in a variety of sample types. Based on its unmatched sensitivity and flexibility, it became a technology benchmark right after its commercialization. Consequently, the analysis of trace elements became possible at lower levels and higher throughput, allowing researchers to drive new insights and regulators to protect society from harmful influences. Analytical testing labs can now confidently execute on an increasing number of samples, and industrial laboratories can deliver more reliable assessments of impurities in raw materials and final products, leading again to technology improvements. Specifically the last 10 years, like for almost everything in our daily lives, have brought significant step changes to make ICP-MS even more powerful and easy to use. This ranges from simplified user interaction, improved ability to run almost any type of sample matrix to ensuring data quality on the first run.More importantly, the developments in triple quadrupole ICP-MS platforms that provide advanced intereference removal, were once seen as complex and out of scope for some laboratories are more accesible due to simplification, smarter technology and enhanced software tools.This webinar will discuss innovations made in both ICP-MS hardware and software over the last decade and highlight opportunities to improve day-to-day efficiency, simplify operation, and increase laboratory productivity.<blockquote>Presenter: Daniel Kutscher (Application Manager, Thermo Fisher Scientific)Dr. Daniel Kutscher manages the Application Development for trace elemental analysis and GC/GC-MS products at the Thermo Fisher Scientific Center of Excellence in Mass Spectrometry in Bremen, Germany. After graduation in Chemistry in 2007, Daniel obtained his PhD from the University of Oviedo in 2011. In the same year, he joined Thermo Fisher Scientific and has had different roles in application development and marketing.Presenter:&nbsp;Paul Dewsbury (Marketing Manager, Thermo Fisher Scientific)Paul Dewsbury is a Product Marketing Manager at Thermo Fisher Scientific. Paul has over 30 years’ experience in analytical chemistry and now applies his experience and knowledge to marketing activities that help scientists and analysts find solutions to their needs and challenges. Paul received his Bachelor of Science degree in Applied Chemistry at Sheffield Hallam University in the UK.</blockquote></div></div></div>

Thermo Fisher Scientific: 5 Reasons why you should modernize your ICP-MS

5 Reasons why you should modernize your ICP-MS

Discover 5 key reasons to modernize your ICP-MS. Learn how triple quadrupole platforms and smart software streamline trace element analysis

5 Reasons to Modernize Your ICP-MS System

What happens on a catalyst surface during the fastest stages of a reaction? Conventional DRIFTS setups can struggle to capture transient changes under realistic operating conditions, limiting insight into catalytic mechanisms.Join Dr. Christian Reece from Rice University to explore how operando DRIFTS can resolve faster surface kinetics, preserve sample integrity across repeated experiments, and support emerging applications in electrocatalysis. Drawing on studies of CO adsorption and desorption on palladium catalysts, Dr. Reece will provide practical guidance for obtaining more reliable and informative data from catalytic surface analysis.Certificate of attendanceIf you attend the live webinar, you will automatically receive a certificate of attendance, including a learning outcomes summary, for continuing education purposes.If you view the on-demand webinar, you can request a certificate of attendance by emailing editor@selectscience.net.<h5>Webinar details</h5><ul><li>Cost: Free to attend</li><li>Location: Online</li><li>Duration: 60 minutes</li></ul>Registration is required to secure your place. If you register but can’t attend live, you will receive a link to the on‑demand recording once it becomes available.<h4>Who should attend?</h4>This event is perfect for:<ul><li>Catalysis researchers, surface scientists, and spectroscopists working in heterogeneous catalysis, electrocatalysis, and materials science, including academic research groups, industrial R&amp;D scientists, and existing Harrick Praying Mantis/DRIFTS users looking to expand their experimental capability.ent decisions.</li></ul><h4>What will this webinar cover?</h4><ul><li>The practical barriers that limit kinetic and transient resolution in conventional DRIFTS experiments</li><li>How sample handling choices (e.g. protecting the sample cup) can affect or preserve spectral integrity and reproducibility across studies</li><li>How researchers are adapting DRIFTS methodology to move beyond traditional heterogeneous catalysis into electrocatalysis and energy-related research</li><li>Practical takeaways for improving confidence in surface species identification and catalyst behavior under realistic reaction conditions</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Dr. Christian Reece (Assistant Professor, Rice University)Dr. Christian Reece earned his PhD from Cardiff University, where he focused on using DFT and kinetic analysis to understand and design heterogeneous catalysts. He then joined Harvard University as a postdoctoral fellow with Professor Robert J. Madix, developing transient pulse techniques and kinetic modeling to rationalize catalytic behavior, before joining the Rowland Fellows program in July 2019 to design transient experiments predicting catalytic behavior. In July 2026, he brought his Reece Lab to the Department of Chemistry at Rice University, where his group combines kinetic modeling, spectroscopy and DFT – including Pulse-Probe DRIFTS built on Harrick reaction chambers.</blockquote><blockquote>Moderator: Todd Beanlands (Science Editor, SelectScience)Leader of global spectroscopy application development and customer engagement efforts, supporting advanced research and industrial spectroscopy workflows.</blockquote>

SelectScience: Capturing faster catalyst kinetics with operando DRIFTS

Capturing faster catalyst kinetics with operando DRIFTS

Learn how Specac operando DRIFTS captures fast surface kinetics and transient reaction mechanisms on catalysts under real operating conditions

Fast Catalyst Kinetics with DRIFTS

<div><div id="inner_content_body_text" data-content-id="394785">Good differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) results don’t happen by accident. From the amount of sample in the crucible to the heating rate, atmosphere, and thermal history, seemingly small choices can have a major impact on the curve you measure – and the conclusions you draw from it.In this Heated Stories webinar, we move beyond individual applications and focus on the practical side of DSC: how to prepare samples, develop robust methods, recognize common pitfalls, and get reliable, reproducible DSC data.<h5>What you’ll learn:</h5><ul><li>Sample preparation: Choosing the right sample mass, geometry, and pan to ensure good thermal contact and representative results</li><li>Crucible selection and handling: When to use open, pierced, sealed, or hermetic crucibles – and why proper preparation matters</li><li>Method development: Selecting suitable temperature ranges, heating and cooling rates, atmospheres, and thermal programs</li><li>Thermal history: Understanding when and why to use heat-cool-heat experiments to distinguish sample history from intrinsic material properties</li><li>Getting the most from your DSC: Recognizing common measurement artifacts, improving reproducibility, and avoiding mistakes that can lead to misleading results</li></ul>Whether you are developing a new DSC method or simply wondering why two measurements of the same material don’t quite look the same, this webinar will show how thoughtful experimental choices turn a DSC curve into data you can trust.<blockquote>Presenter: Dr. Jiri Kislinger</blockquote></div></div>

Anton Paar: Heated Stories - The Art of Getting DSC Right

Heated Stories: The Art of Getting DSC Right

Learn best practices for differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Master sample prep, crucible selection, and thermal history for reliable data

The Art of Getting DSC Measurements Right

<h4>Meet XFlash® 7200 FIRE, The New Hero of Elemental Analysis on SEM</h4>XFlash® 7200 FIRE, Bruker's pioneering new EDS detector, introduces a fundamentally new approach to high-performance X-ray analysis in SEM. Built on Bruker’s four-segment integrated detector technology,&nbsp;XFlash® 7200 FIRE delivers at the same time exceptional throughput, outstanding energy resolution, and unmatched sensitivity without the compromises traditionally associated with large-area detectors.&nbsp;In this webinar, learn how QUANTX EDS with XFlash® 7200 FIRE enables faster access to critical analytical insights, improves the determination of any sample composition, and enhances productivity across a wide range of applications. Discover how this next-generation technology empowers researchers and engineers to tackle increasingly complex materials challenges in semiconductor inspection, battery analysis, advanced manufacturing, life sciences, and beyond.&nbsp;Register now to secure your spot and discover the new generation inclined Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) detector engineered for ultra-fast, high-resolution elemental analysis on the SEM.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Bruker_Ultra_low_k_V_SEM_EDS_analysis_of_the_diatom_Stephanopyxis_turrisusing_the_X_Flash_7200_FIRE_2973a62c3b.jpg" alt="Bruker: Ultra-low-kV SEM-EDS analysis of the diatom Stephanopyxis turrisusing the XFlash® 7200 FIRE. High collection efficiency and exceptional sensitivity to ultra-low-energy X-rays enabled elemental mapping at 1.7 kV and 1.6 nA probe current, giving an output count rate of 19,200 cps at only 1% dead time. At 1.7 kV, Si Kα is not excited, allowing chemical mapping of the nanostructured silica frustule exclusively through the Si L emission line (91 eV). The combination of low-kV excitation, high count statistics, and low electron dose enhances spatial resolution while minimizing specimen drift and beam-induced damage in this beam-sensitive biological sample." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Bruker_Ultra_low_k_V_SEM_EDS_analysis_of_the_diatom_Stephanopyxis_turrisusing_the_X_Flash_7200_FIRE_2973a62c3b.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="860" height="307"><blockquote>Speaker: Dr. Purvesh Soni (Sr. Applications Scientist EDS, Bruker Electron Microscope Analyzers)</blockquote><blockquote>Speaker: Dr. Sebastian Schmidt (Product Manager EDS, Bruker Electron Microscope Analyzers)</blockquote>

Bruker: The Future of EDS Starts Here - Introducing inclined 4-Channel Detection

The Future of EDS Starts Here - Introducing inclined 4-Channel Detection

Discover Bruker XFlash 7200 FIRE, an inclined 4-channel EDS detector for SEM. Achieve high-throughput, ultra-low-kV elemental mapping with QUANTX EDS.

Meet XFlash® 7200 FIRE 4-Channel Detection

Visual microscopy can reveal where a particle, defect, contaminant, or layer is located - but understanding what it is often requires chemical information.Join us for an educational webinar exploring how FTIR microscopy can help bridge the gap between visual observations and chemical analysis. We’ll examine approaches for investigating microscopic features and challenging samples, including particles, defects, contaminants, and layered materials, and discuss considerations for selecting sampling modes and analytical configurations for different applications.You’ll also get an introduction to the new Thermo Scientific™ Nicolet™ RaptIR™ X FTIR Microscope and see how its flexible configurations, intuitive workflows, spatial resolution, and versatile sampling capabilities support a range of FTIR microscopy applications.Register to explore how FTIR microscopy can help you move from seeing a microscopic feature to understanding its chemical composition.Join the free webinar with certification of attendance now.&nbsp;<h4>Attend the Webinar to Learn:&nbsp;</h4><ul><li>How FTIR microscopy complements visual microscopy with chemical information</li><li>How different sampling approaches can address particles, defects, contaminants, layers, and other microscopic features</li><li>How instrument configuration and workflow choices can help address different analytical needs</li><li>How the Nicolet RaptIR X FTIR Microscope brings these capabilities together in a flexible platform</li></ul><h4>This Webinar is Ideal For:</h4><ul><li>Scientists and Engineers investigating unknown materials and defects</li><li>Microscopists and Spectroscopists</li><li>Failure Analysis Specialists</li><li>QA/QC Professionals</li><li>Laboratory Researchers working with contaminants or layered samples</li></ul><blockquote>Speaker: Dr. Suja Sukumaran (Product Manager, Thermo Fisher Scientific)Dr. Suja Sukumaran is a Product Manager at Thermo Fisher Scientific. She earned her PhD in Biophysics from Johann Wolfgang Goethe University in Germany through the International Max Planck Research School. She brings extensive expertise in molecular spectroscopy, fluorescence and visible imaging, as well as protein and lipid biochemistry to her role.</blockquote>

Azom: Beyond the image: Turning microscopic observations into chemical insight with FTIR microscopy

Beyond the image: Turning microscopic observations into chemical insight with FTIR microscopy

Learn how the Thermo Scientific Nicolet RaptIR X FTIR Microscope provides chemical insights for particles, defects, contaminants, and multilayer materials.

Nicolet RaptIR X FTIR Microscopy Analysis

Ultraviolet–visible-near infrared (UV–Vis-NIR) spectroscopy is a powerful, rapid, and non-destructive technique for investigating the optical properties of nanomaterials. Because nanoscale structures interact strongly with light, their UV–Vis-NIR spectra provide valuable information about electronic transitions, band-gap energies, particle size, aggregation, and surface plasmon resonance.This presentation introduces the fundamental principles of UV–Vis-NIR spectroscopy and highlights its applications in the synthesis and characterization of metallic and composite nanomaterials. Particular attention is given to monitoring nanoparticle formation, evaluating colloidal stability, estimating optical band gaps, and examining changes caused by surface modification or interactions with chemical species.<h4>Key Learning Objectives:</h4><ul><li style="line-height:24px;">Learn how UV-Vis-NIR spectroscopy enables rapid, non-destructive characterization of nanomaterials.</li><li style="line-height:24px;">Apply UV-Vis-NIR spectroscopic techniques to monitor nanoparticle synthesis, evaluate colloidal stability, and characterize key nanomaterial properties such as particle size, aggregation, and surface plasmon resonance.</li><li style="line-height:24px;">Interpret UV-Vis-NIR spectral data to estimate optical band gaps and assess the effects of surface modifications and chemical interactions on metallic and composite nanomaterials.</li></ul><h4>Who Should Attend:</h4><ul><li style="line-height:24px;">Nanomaterials researchers and scientists working on metallic nanoparticles, quantum dots, nanocomposites, and advanced functional materials.</li><li style="line-height:24px;">Materials scientists and engineers involved in the synthesis, characterization, and optimization of novel materials.</li><li style="line-height:24px;">Academic researchers and postdoctoral fellows studying optical, electronic, or photonic properties of nanostructured materials.</li><li style="line-height:24px;">Graduate and postgraduate students in materials science, chemistry, nanotechnology, physics, and chemical engineering.</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Xingchen Ye (Associate Professor of Chemistry, Indiana University)</blockquote><blockquote>Presenter: Hanyi Duan (Postdoctoral Researcher,, Indiana University)</blockquote>

C&EN: Application of UV-Vis-NIR Spectroscopy in Nanomaterials Research

Application of UV-Vis-NIR Spectroscopy in Nanomaterials Research

Learn how UV-Vis-NIR spectroscopy characterizes nanomaterials. Monitor nanoparticle synthesis, evaluate colloidal stability, and calculate optical band gaps

UV-Vis-NIR Spectroscopy for Nanomaterials

<h4>Combining Reflectometry and Ellipsometry for High-Accuracy Optical Metrology</h4>This webinar will introduce the principles behind Bruker’s Filmtek spectroscopic reflectometer/ellipsometers and explore how modern optical metrology approaches can overcome many of the limitations associated with conventional single-technique measurements.<h5>Attendees will discover:</h5><ul><li>How Filmtek systems independently determine thickness, refractive index (n), and extinction coefficient (k) across a wide range of materials and structures</li><li>How patented DPSD and MADP technologies and complementary optical data help overcome the limits of conventional single-technique measurements</li><li>Why independent determination of thickness and refractive index is essential for complex multilayer stacks and other challenging applications</li></ul><h4>Webinar Summary</h4>Accurate characterization of thin films and complex multilayer stacks is increasingly critical in semiconductor manufacturing, specifically: photonics, MEMS, advanced packaging, optical coatings, and emerging materials research. This webinar provides an introduction to the unique principles of the Bruker Filmtek spectroscopic reflectometer/ellipsometers, while exploring how modern optical metrology approaches can overcome many of the limitations associated with conventional single-technique measurements.Attendees will learn how the Filmtek systems combine multi-angle reflectometry and spectroscopic ellipsometry to independently determine film thickness, refractive index (n), and extinction coefficient (k) across a wide range of materials and structures. The presentation will cover the underlying measurement physics, patented Multi-Angle Differential Power Spectral Density (DPSD) and Multi-Angle Differential Polarimetry (MADP) technologies, and the advantages of collecting complementary optical data from the same measurement location.Real-world application examples will illustrate measurement performance on semiconductor, dielectric, photonic, and multilayer structures ranging from ultra-thin films to complex stacks. Participants will gain practical insight into obtaining accurate thickness and optical constant measurements, improving process control, and addressing challenging applications where independent determination of thickness and refractive index is essential.&nbsp;<blockquote>Speaker: Lawrence Rooney (Senior Application Scientist, Bruker)</blockquote>

Bruker: Beyond Traditional Ellipsometry: High-Accuracy Thin Film and Multilayer Metrology

Beyond Traditional Ellipsometry: High-Accuracy Thin Film and Multilayer Metrology

Learn how Bruker Filmtek systems combine reflectometry and spectroscopic ellipsometry for high-accuracy thin film and multilayer stack metrology

Thin Film Metrology with Bruker Filmtek

<h4>Raw Material ID with Handheld Raman</h4>Join our webinar for a dive into pharmaceutical raw material identification (RMID) with handheld Raman spectroscopy. Discover how Raman spectroscopy enables fast, non-destructive verification of incoming raw materials directly at the point of receipt, including measurements through packaging and more reliable verification of fluorescent materials. See live how BRAVO combines intuitive operation with fluorescence mitigation, reliable verification workflows, automated data handling, and comprehensive support for regulated pharmaceutical environments. Meet our RMID experts and ask questions.<h5>What You'll Learn About</h5><ul><li>Fast RMID with handheld Raman spectroscopy</li><li>Through-package verification of incoming raw materials</li><li>Fluorescence mitigation with SSE™ technology</li><li>Fast PASS/FAIL verification workflows</li><li>Compliance topics including data integrity, 21 CFR Part 11&nbsp;</li><li>SyncService™ for automated data synchronization to LIMS</li></ul><h5>Who Should Attend</h5><ul><li>QA/QC professionals in Pharma</li><li>Raw material ID and warehouse quality teams</li><li>Laboratory managers and validation specialists</li><li>Anyone interested in handheld Raman spectroscopy</li></ul><h5>Webinar Details</h5><ul><li>Date: October 27th, 2026</li><li>Time: 8:30 AM CET or 4:30 PM CET</li><li>Duration: ~30 minutes</li><li>Language: English</li><li>Format: Live presentation, product demo + Q&amp;A</li></ul><blockquote>Speaker: Dr. Felix Fromm (Senior Application Manager Raman, Bruker)Felix Fromm is Bruker’s global expert for Raman spescroscopy and Pharma validation topics.</blockquote>

Bruker: Raw Material ID with Handheld Raman

Raw Material ID with Handheld Raman

Learn how the Bruker BRAVO handheld Raman spectrometer enables fast pharmaceutical raw material ID through packaging with SSE™ fluorescence mitigation

Pharma Raw Material ID with Handheld Raman

Mercury control in industrial processes goes beyond final emissions. Raw materials, fuels, intermediate streams, and byproducts can all introduce mercury into the process, making monitoring relevant at multiple stages. Traditional analysis often requires sample digestion, reagents, and significant laboratory time, limiting routine monitoring.In this practical webinar, we will show how Direct Mercury Analysis rapidly measures total mercury directly in solid and liquid samples, simplifying routine testing and expanding monitoring across the process. Through real industrial applications, you will learn how it supports raw-material screening, process control, quality assurance, by-product characterization, and environmental monitoring.<h4>Key Learnings:</h4><ul><li>How Direct Mercury Analysis compares with traditional mercury testing workflows</li><li>How to simplify routine testing with direct analysis of solid and liquid samples</li><li>How rapid mercury measurements can support process and quality-control decisions</li><li>How to expand mercury monitoring beyond final emissions</li></ul><blockquote>Speaker: Valentina Carrara (Application Specialist at Milestone)</blockquote>

Milestone: Industry Mercury Control: Supporting Process Efficiency and Environmental monitoring

Industry Mercury Control: Supporting Process Efficiency and Environmental monitoring

How Direct Mercury Analysis simplifies mercury testing across industrial processes, from raw materials and fuels to byproducts and environmental samples.