<p><strong>Interlaboratory comparisons (ILCs) have been used for more than a century and many important concepts are linked to them. This leaflet addresses the basic terminology of ILCs, why some colloquial terms can be misleading or misunderstood, and the importance of harmonisation.&nbsp;</strong></p><p>An ‘ILC’ is the <i>organisation, performance and evaluation of measurements or tests on the same or similar items by two or more laboratories in accordance with predetermined conditions</i> [1]. ILCs have a variety of overall – and detailed – objectives, the three most common [2] being:</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Eurachem_Let_s_call_a_PT_scheme_a_PT_scheme_3_9993b9fb0f.jpg" alt="Eurachem: Let’s call a PT scheme a PT scheme" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Eurachem_Let_s_call_a_PT_scheme_a_PT_scheme_3_9993b9fb0f.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1516" height="472"></p><h4><strong>Some comparisons have special names&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>The evaluation of participant (laboratory, organisation or individual) performance is typically referred to as ‘<strong>proficiency testing</strong>’ (PT) or ‘<strong>external quality assessment</strong>’ [1]. When the main objective is evaluating the performance of, for example, a candidate standard method, the ILC is often called a ‘<strong>method performance study</strong>’ or a ‘<strong>collaborative study</strong>’ [2, 3]. The former is quite clear whereas wording such as “<strong>collaborative</strong>” and “<strong>cooperative</strong>” just stresses joint effort. A project aimed at producing a new certified reference material may involve several laboratories conducting analyses on agreed properties [4]. Not surprisingly, this work is sometimes labelled as a ‘<strong>material certification study</strong>’. Special ILCs used to demonstrate measurement capabilities of National Metrology Institutes are called ‘<strong>key comparisons</strong>’, ‘<strong>supplementary comparisons</strong>’, and ‘<strong>pilot studies</strong>’ [5].&nbsp;</p><h4><strong>Some terms can be confusing&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>Other terms for ILCs, including ‘ring test’, ‘round robin’ and ‘circle analysis’, are common in the literature. They have, however, been used for different objectives and different designs and may be ambiguous or understood differently by laboratory staff. The use of these terms may, for example, imply a specific way of distributing the ILC sample. ISO/IEC 17043 uses ‘sequential scheme’, for a PT where a unique item is transferred between the participants and ‘simultaneous scheme’, in which similar items from a batch are distributed simultaneously to the participants [1].&nbsp;</p><p>Terms like ‘<strong>measurement audit</strong>’, ‘<strong>interlaboratory testing scheme</strong>’, ‘<strong>measurement comparison scheme</strong>’, ‘<strong>rapid performance evaluation scheme</strong>’ and ‘<strong>intercalibration</strong>’ may not correctly reflect the category of laboratory involved, or the type of work participants do during the ILC.&nbsp;</p><p>When in 1994 the IUPAC defined and described three major types of ‘interlaboratory studies’, the word ‘study’ was preferred to synonyms such as ‘trial’, ‘exercise’, ‘test’, ‘evaluation’ or ‘check’ [2].</p><h4><strong>Let’s try to harmonise&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>Many laboratory staff are unaware of official terms related to ILCs but recognise the acronym PT and words like ‘ring test’. Ideally, we would use a common scientific language, but harmonisation is time consuming. Terms appear and disappear and definitions change. The same term can be defined differently, even in different international standards. Lack of standards and guidelines in local languages can cause confusion and contribute to spreading of less appropriate terms.&nbsp;</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Eurachem_Let_s_call_a_PT_scheme_a_PT_scheme_2_820043ce8b.jpg" alt="Eurachem: Let’s call a PT scheme a PT scheme" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Eurachem_Let_s_call_a_PT_scheme_a_PT_scheme_2_820043ce8b.jpg 234w," sizes="100vw" width="1006" height="671"></p><p>Much confusion can be avoided by clear reference to relevant standards and sectoral guides. ISO/ IEC 17043 [1] and ISO 13528 [6] contain many important concepts related to PT schemes and other ILCs. Some of these are also incorporated into ISO/IEC 17025 [7]. Additional useful, and free, tools are the Eurachem PT Guide [8] and the ISO online browsing platform [9].&nbsp;</p><p>In writing guidance and instructions, remember that the term ‘interlaboratory comparison’ has a broad meaning and can be used for all cases described above. Sometimes this is clear enough for the reader. In other cases, use acknowledged terms that reflect the detailed objective of the ILC. Let’s call a PT scheme a PT scheme!</p>

Let’s call a PT scheme a PT scheme!

<p><span><strong>The countdown is on for one of the world’s leading conferences dedicated to food analysis. The 12th International Symposium on Recent Advances in Food Analysis (RAFA 2026), taking place in Prague from 3–6 November 2026, is approaching two important milestones: the Early Bird registration deadline and the deadline for oral abstract submissions, both ending on 30 June 2026. Researchers, analysts, industry professionals, regulators, and students are encouraged to secure their participation at a reduced registration rate and take advantage of the opportunity to present their latest scientific results to the international food analysis community.</strong></span></p><p><span>RAFA 2026 will once again bring together leading experts from academia, industry, and regulatory organizations to discuss the latest developments in food safety, authenticity, contaminants, non-target screening, PFAS, microplastics, food contact materials, artificial intelligence, and advanced analytical technologies. The preliminary program already features an outstanding lineup of internationally recognized speakers addressing some of the most pressing challenges in modern food analysis and food safety.</span></p><h3><strong>Registration</strong></h3><blockquote><p class="cke-user_style-important"><strong>👉</strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://rafa.easyevent.eu/tickets/"><strong>Register to attend RAFA 2026!</strong></a></p><p><strong>Early-bird registration until 30 June, 2026</strong></p></blockquote><p>After successful submission of your registration, you will receive by e-mail (i) an automatic confirmation of receipt indicating the total amount of payment due (either for bank transfer or for on-line payment by card), (ii) login to Member section where you can administrate your profile, submit your abstracts, and from <strong>September 2026</strong> register for satellite events, workshops and seminars. If it will not be delivered within a few minutes after submission of your registration please contact us at <strong>RAFA2026@vscht.cz</strong>.</p><p>As soon as payment of registration fee is processed, you will also receive by e-mail (iii) confirmation of payment.</p><h4><strong>Registration Fees</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Smart rate (Until 30 June, 2026): </strong>€ 655</li><li><strong>Regular registration (Until 30 September, 2026):</strong> € 855</li><li><strong>Late registration (From 1 October, 2026):</strong> € 955</li><li><strong>Student rate*&nbsp;</strong><ul><li><strong>Until 30 June, 2026: </strong>€ 465</li><li><strong>From 1 July, 2026:</strong> € 605</li></ul></li></ul><p><i>* The proof of student status (e.g. copy of a student identify card) is requested as an attachment of the registration form.</i></p><h5><strong>The regular registration fee will include:</strong></h5><ul><li>Attendance at all scientific sessions, workshops, seminars, vendor seminars and other satellite events</li><li>Access to the poster and exhibition area</li><li>Conference kit (name badge, conference bag, conference documents, certificate of participation, certificate of presentation on request)</li><li>Final programme</li><li>E-Book of Abstracts</li><li>Coffee breaks</li><li>Buffet luncheons</li><li>Welcome drink</li></ul><p>In the registration form you can r<strong>egister free of charge for the welcome drink</strong> and you can also order <strong>ticket(s) for the conference dinner (€ 85).</strong></p><p><i>Please note that your registration is firm when your payment has been received.</i></p><h3><strong>Abstract submission</strong></h3><blockquote><p class="cke-user_style-important"><strong>👉</strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://rafa.easyevent.eu/tickets/"><strong>Submit your ABSTRACT HERE!</strong></a></p><p>In order to submit an abstract, you must <strong>first register to attend RAFA 2026</strong>. <strong>After registration</strong> you will receive an <strong>access to the Member section </strong>where you can <strong>submit your abstract(s).</strong></p></blockquote><p>&nbsp;After successful submission of your abstract you will receive an automatic confirmation of receipt of submitted abstract via e-mail. If it will not be delivered within a few minutes after submission of your abstract please check at first your spam box-mail and then contact us at <strong>RAFA2026@vscht.cz</strong>.</p><p>Please ensure that your abstract does not contain spelling, grammatical or scientific errors. Even though modifications of your submitted abstract will be allowed in the Abstract section of the Member section until the deadline for the abstract submission, please be confident on the lack of errors in your final version prior to starting the submission process.</p><p>The abstract will be reproduced exactly as submitted. No proofreading will be done, although some corrections may be requested by the reviewers.</p><p>If you need to withdraw your abstract, a written statement reflecting the reasons for this decision must be sent to <strong>RAFA2026@vscht.cz</strong> no later than <strong>September 30, 2026</strong>.</p><h4><strong>Important notice:</strong></h4><blockquote><p><strong>1 registered participant can submit no more than 2 abstracts.</strong></p></blockquote><p>To apply for a young scientist’s oral presentation, as an indication please respect the rule that you should be born in 1991 or later.</p><p>The <strong>text of the abstract </strong>should be<strong> limited to 3000 characters including spaces</strong>. Tables and pictures are not allowed.</p><p><strong>Abstracts of oral presentations and posters</strong> will be included into the "<strong>e-Book of Abstracts</strong>" only after receipt of the conference registration fee. Any payment of the registration fee has to be received until <strong>September 30, 2026</strong>, otherwise contribution(s) will not be included into the e-Book of Abstracts and the Conference programme.</p><h3><strong>Program</strong></h3><h4><strong>Invited Speakers</strong></h4><h5><strong>Food allergen risk assessment: Past, present, future</strong></h5><ul><li>Ben Remington from Remington Consulting Group B.V., Utrecht, the Netherlands &amp; University of Nebraska, USA</li></ul><p>Food allergy and allergen management are global public health issues, and consumer protection depends on transparent and trustworthy labelling. While 30 years of scientific advances show that low level exposures, or reference doses, are unlikely to trigger reactions in most allergic individuals, harmonized and globally aligned regulations are still needed to promote consistent allergen risk assessment and labelling decisions. This presentation will discuss the landscape of allergen risk assessment, global policy developments, current research and future needs in the area.</p><h5><strong>Unmasking hidden adulteration in honey: Strategies for detecting and characterizing honeys produced from sugar-fed colonies</strong></h5><ul><li>Oscar Nuñez Burcio from University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain</li></ul><p>From hive to jar, not all honey tells the same story. This presentation addresses hidden adulteration associated with sugar-fed bee colonies, highlighting implications for authenticity, production practices, and the need for a more precise characterization of honey to ensure consumer trust.</p><h5><strong>Analytical and toxicological methods for safety of food contact materials</strong></h5><ul><li>Erich Leitner from Graz University of Technology, Institute of Analytical Chemistry and Food Chemistry, Graz, Austria</li></ul><p>Food packaging plays a critical role in protecting and preserving food throughout the supply chain. All packaging materials intended to come into contact with food must comply with strict EU safety rules. Due to increased complexity of packaging solutions, lowering legal limits and increasing numbers of target compounds, we also have to adapt the strategies used to verify and guarantee the safety of these materials.</p><h5><strong>Data-driven strategies to reduce complexity in non-target HRMS analysis of food samples</strong></h5><ul><li>Anneli Kruve from Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden</li></ul><p>LC/HRMS based non-target screening can detect hundreds to thousands of chemical features in complex food and environmental samples. Investigating all of these in detail is practically impossible, so which ones to focus on? Novel computational tools developed in computational mass spectrometry allow predicting the toxicity and concentration of the detected chemical features even if these have not yet been fully structurally elucidated. Combining these predictions enables us to focus on the chemical features possessing high risk.</p><h5><strong>Role of AI in the identification of emerging food systems risks</strong></h5><ul><li>Ákos Bernard Jóźwiak from Syreon Research Institute, Budapest, Hungary</li></ul><p>AI-assisted evidence synthesis – spanning curated scientific evidence, exposome data, and network analysis – is the backbone of next-generation emerging chemical food safety risk identification, enabling earlier signals and more resilient surveillance systems.</p><h5><strong>Challenges of microplastics analysis in the context of food safety</strong></h5><ul><li>Dorte Herzke from Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway</li></ul><p>Food and food packaging are major sources of micro- and nanoplastic exposure. Plastics used in processing, storage, and packaging can release particles through heat, abrasion, and degradation. Small particles below 2 µm may cross gut barriers and carry chemicals, highlighting the need for robust and sensitive measurement methods.</p><h5><strong>Never-ending analytical challenges in PFAS analysis of food</strong></h5><ul><li>Darina Dvořáková from University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Prague, Czechia</li></ul><p>Exploring and monitoring PFAS in food requires advanced strategies. Combining targeted, suspect, and non-target HRMS analysis, determination of total fluorine and sum parameters, and novel sensors provides new insights into PFAS occurrence and supports food safety monitoring.</p><h5><strong>An overview of the latest scientific knowledge on process contaminants in food for appropriate risk management measures</strong></h5><ul><li>Thierry Delatour from Nestlé Research, Lausanne, Switzerland.</li></ul><p>Recent scientific findings related to acrylamide and furans formation, occurrence and analytical methods in food provide important insights for risk management.</p>

Deadline for RAFA 2026 Early Registration and Oral Abstract Submission is approaching

<p><strong>Traditional EI library searching works exceptionally well when the unknown compound is already present in the spectral library. However, analytical chemists frequently encounter compounds that are structurally related to library entries but are not exact matches. NIST's EI Hybrid Search addresses this challenge by combining conventional spectral matching with mass-shifted fragment alignment, allowing the identification of analogs, derivatives, and novel compounds that may not exist in the database.</strong></p><p>This guide summarizes the workflow presented by James Little and demonstrates how to use NIST 26 Hybrid Search in conjunction with the Chromatogram Window and MS Interpreter to obtain more meaningful structural information from unknown EI GC-MS spectra.</p><blockquote><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/paper/33370"><strong>You can download PDF Handout for this guide HERE</strong></a></p></blockquote><h4><strong>Why Hybrid Search Matters</strong></h4><p>Conventional EI library searching relies on direct matching between an unknown spectrum and spectra stored in a library. Hybrid Search expands this concept by allowing fragment ions to be matched even when they are shifted by a consistent mass difference (Δm). This enables the software to recognize compounds that differ by substituents or structural modifications.</p><p><strong>Key advantages include:</strong></p><ul><li>Identification of structurally related compounds not present in the library</li><li>Detection of analogs, derivatives, and emerging compounds</li><li>Integration of exact fragment matches and mass-shifted matches into a single score</li><li>Improved interpretation of unknowns through proposed structural modifications</li><li>Enhanced confidence when molecular weight information is available</li></ul><p>Although Hybrid Search does not require the molecular ion to be present, performance improves significantly when the molecular weight can be estimated or constrained. In these cases, the observed mass difference between the unknown and library compounds can often be translated directly into a plausible chemical modification.</p><h4><strong>Configuring Hybrid Search</strong></h4><p>Before performing a search, the Hybrid Search settings should be configured within the NIST Library Search window.</p><p>Recommended settings:</p><ul><li>Select the Similarity search mode</li><li>Enable Hybrid Search</li><li>Keep the In Spectrum option checked under normal circumstances</li><li>Allow the software to estimate the molecular weight automatically</li><li>If the estimated molecular weight appears incorrect, manually enter a nominal molecular weight</li><li>Select all relevant libraries (NIST, Wiley, user libraries, etc.)</li><li>Save the configuration for future use</li></ul><p>The selected molecular weight used to constrain the search is displayed in the lower-right corner after the search is completed.</p><h4><strong>Optimizing the Results Display</strong></h4><p>Hybrid Search produces several unique parameters that are not shown in the default results table.</p><p>Additional columns should be added by right-clicking within the results table and selecting Properties. Recommended columns include:</p><ul><li>DeltaMass</li><li>dForm</li><li>pctRelForm</li><li>o.Match (equivalent to the traditional EI Normal Match score)</li></ul><p>Without these parameters, much of the structural interpretation power of Hybrid Search is lost.</p><h4><strong>Working with Spectra from the Chromatogram Window</strong></h4><p>Currently, the Chromatogram Window performs standard EI library searching. When a potentially interesting unknown is encountered:</p><ul><li>Perform the normal EI search in the Chromatogram Window</li><li>Send the spectrum to the standalone Library Search module</li><li>Perform a Hybrid Search using the enhanced Hybrid Search functionality</li></ul><p>This workflow combines rapid screening with advanced structural interpretation.</p><h4><strong>Understanding Key Hybrid Search Parameters</strong></h4><h5><strong>DeltaMass (Δm)</strong></h5><p>DeltaMass represents the mass difference between the unknown compound and the matched library compound.</p><p>A consistent Δm across multiple high-scoring hits often indicates a specific structural modification.</p><h5><strong>dForm</strong></h5><p>dForm provides a proposed elemental composition that explains the observed mass difference.</p><p>Examples include:</p><ul><li>H–1F</li><li>CH₂</li><li>O–1</li><li>C₁H₃F</li></ul><p>These transformations can suggest likely chemical modifications between the library compound and the unknown.</p><h5><strong>pctRelForm</strong></h5><p>New in NIST 26, pctRelForm estimates how frequently a given elemental transformation occurs relative to the most common transformation (CH₂ = 100%).</p><p>Interpretation:</p><ul><li>High values indicate chemically plausible and commonly observed transformations</li><li>Very low values suggest the proposed transformation may be accidental or unlikely</li></ul><h5><strong>o.Match</strong></h5><p>Represents the traditional EI match score and allows comparison between standard searching and Hybrid Search results.</p><h4><strong>Case Study: Identifying a Fluorinated Unknown</strong></h4><p>The presentation demonstrates the identification of an unknown compound with a proposed molecular weight of 152 Da.</p><p>Hybrid Search returned several high-scoring hits with consistent evidence suggesting fluorine substitution:</p><p><strong>Hit #1</strong></p><ul><li>Library MW: 134</li><li>DeltaMass: +18</li><li>dForm: H–1F</li><li>Interpretation: Addition of fluorine</li></ul><p><strong>Hit #5</strong></p><ul><li>Library MW: 138</li><li>DeltaMass: +14</li><li>dForm: CH₂</li><li>Interpretation: Related fluorinated analog</li></ul><p><strong>Hit #6</strong></p><ul><li>Library MW: 168</li><li>DeltaMass: –16</li><li>dForm: O–1</li><li>Interpretation: Structurally consistent fluorinated compound</li></ul><p>Multiple independent hits converged on the same conclusion: the unknown was likely a fluorinated analog of known aromatic compounds.</p><p>This illustrates the major strength of Hybrid Search: identifying structural relationships even when the exact compound is absent from the library.</p><h4><strong>Moving from Hybrid Search to Structural Interpretation</strong></h4><p>Once a plausible structure is identified:</p><h5><strong>Step 1 – Export the Structure</strong></h5><p>From the Hybrid Search results:</p><ul><li>Right-click the best hit</li><li>Use Send To → Default Structure Editor</li><li>Open the structure in a drawing program such as ChemSketch</li><li>Copy the proposed structure to the clipboard</li></ul><h5><strong>Step 2 – Open MS Interpreter</strong></h5><p>Within MS Interpreter:</p><ul><li>Paste the proposed structure</li><li>Load the unknown spectrum</li><li>Compare predicted fragmentation with observed ions</li><li>Evaluate isotope patterns and fragment assignments</li></ul><h5><strong>Step 3 – Validate the Proposal</strong></h5><p>Indicators of a good structural proposal include:</p><ul><li>Consistent isotope ratios</li><li>Logical fragmentation pathways</li><li>Agreement between observed and predicted fragment ions</li><li>Multiple Hybrid Search hits supporting the same structural modification</li></ul><p>In the example presented, MS Interpreter showed excellent agreement between the proposed fluorinated structure and the observed EI spectrum, although the exact positions of the fluorine and methyl substituents on the aromatic ring could not be definitively assigned.</p><h4><strong>Best Practices</strong></h4><ul><li>Always review DeltaMass, dForm, and pctRelForm together</li><li>Do not rely solely on the highest match score</li><li>Give greater weight to transformations supported by multiple independent hits</li><li>Use molecular weight information whenever possible</li><li>Confirm structural hypotheses using MS Interpreter</li><li>Consider Hybrid Search as a structure-elucidation tool rather than simply a library search tool</li></ul><h4><strong>Conclusion</strong></h4><p>NIST 26 Hybrid Search significantly extends the capabilities of conventional EI library searching by identifying structural relationships between unknown compounds and library entries. Through the use of DeltaMass calculations, elemental transformation analysis (dForm), and statistical plausibility metrics (pctRelForm), Hybrid Search provides valuable clues for elucidating compounds that are absent from spectral libraries.</p><p>When combined with MS Interpreter, it becomes a powerful workflow for the characterization of unknowns, analogs, degradation products, metabolites, and emerging compounds in EI GC-MS analysis.</p>

Lib Search: Similarity EI Hybrid Search for Spectra Sent from Chromatogram Window

Article

Events

Academy

Video

Software

RAFA provides an overview of contemporary trends in ANALYTICAL & BIOANALYTICAL STRATEGIES IN FOOD QUALITY AND SAFETY CONTROL and discusses CHALLENGES / NOVEL APPROACHES IN FOOD AND NATURAL PRODUCTS ANALYSIS.

Recent Advances in Food Analysis (RAFA)

Eurachem is a European network promoting international traceability of chemical measurements and good analytical practice. It provides expert guidance, supports method validation, uncertainty evaluation, proficiency testing, and facilitates discussion on technical and policy issues in analytical quality.

Eurachem

My main interest is the identification of organic compounds by mass spectrometry in organic mixtures.

James Little/Mass Spec Interpretation Services

Thermo Scientific QuEChERS Sample Preparation Kits

QuEChERS is a versatile sample preparation method for analyzing pesticides, veterinary drugs, and other residues in various sample types before GC-MS or LC-MS analysis.

<div><div><div><h3><strong>QuEChERS sample preparation—now easier, more convenient, and affordable</strong></h3><p><strong>QuEChERS</strong> (<strong><u>Q</u></strong><u>u</u>ick, <strong><u>E</u></strong>asy, <strong><u>C</u></strong>heap, <strong><u>E</u></strong>ffective, <strong><u>R</u></strong>ugged, and <strong><u>S</u></strong>afe)is a <strong>sample preparation method</strong> that was initially developed in 2003 for <strong>analyzing veterinary drugs in food</strong>. The method was also tested for <strong>pesticide residue analysis in plant material</strong> with great success. In 2003, the <strong>detailed method was published</strong> in the journal AOAC International. Since then, the QuEChERS method has evolved into a <strong>sample preparation technique used on a variety of analytes</strong> in an <strong>expanding number of sample types</strong> before analysis by <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/cz/en/home/industrial/mass-spectrometry/gas-chromatography-mass-spectrometry-gc-ms.html"><strong>GC-MS</strong></a><strong> or </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/cz/en/home/industrial/mass-spectrometry/liquid-chromatography-mass-spectrometry-lc-ms.html"><strong>LC-MS</strong></a>.</p><p><strong>Thermo Scientific QuEChERS kits</strong> contain <strong>pre-packaged, ready-weighed salts, sorbents, and buffers</strong> to <strong>streamline your workflow</strong> and <strong>minimize the potential for error</strong>. The kits are grouped according to your <strong>analytes of interest</strong>, <strong>sample matrix</strong>, and <strong>preferred QuEChERS method</strong>:</p><ul><li><strong>Original 2003 Method</strong></li><li><strong>AOAC 2007.01 Method</strong></li><li><strong>EN 15662 Method</strong></li><li><strong>NY/T 1380-2007 Method</strong></li></ul><p><strong>Complete packages</strong>—including both <strong>extraction and clean-up kits</strong>—are available. <strong>Extraction-only and cleanup-only kits</strong> are also offered to suit your laboratory’s sample preparation needs. These <strong>pre-packaged kits save time and money</strong>, make QuEChERS procedures <strong>easier and more convenient</strong>, and ensure <strong>quality to yield reproducible results</strong> and <strong>excellent recoveries</strong> for a wide variety of analytes.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Scientific_Qu_E_Ch_ERS_Sample_Preparation_Kits_2_1e99f0c81b.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific QuEChERS Sample Preparation Kits" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Scientific_Qu_E_Ch_ERS_Sample_Preparation_Kits_2_1e99f0c81b.jpg 217w," sizes="100vw" width="891" height="640"></p><h3><strong>Typical QuEChERS workflow</strong></h3><div><div><div><div><div><p>As shown in the workflow diagram below, the <strong>QuEChERS method has four basic steps</strong>:</p><ol><li><strong>Homogenize sample</strong> (fruit or vegetable)</li><li><strong>Extract analytes of interest</strong> from a sample using <strong>extraction salts</strong> (pesticide residues, veterinary drugs, and/or mycotoxins)</li><li><strong>Clean-up the resulting supernatant</strong> using <strong>dispersive solid phase extraction (dSPE)</strong></li><li><strong>Analyze by GC-MS or LC-MS</strong></li></ol><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Scientific_Qu_E_Ch_ERS_Sample_Preparation_Kits_496491ceff.jpeg" alt="Thermo Scientific QuEChERS Sample Preparation Kits" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Scientific_Qu_E_Ch_ERS_Sample_Preparation_Kits_496491ceff.jpeg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1170" height="706"></p><div><h3><strong>QuEChERS products</strong></h3></div><div><h4><strong>QuEChERS extraction kits for original 2003 method</strong></h4></div><div><p>The <strong>original QuEChERS method</strong> (Anastassiades et al, 2003) was developed by <strong>Steven J. Lehotay and Michelangelo Anastassiades</strong> in 2003 for the <strong>determination of pesticide residues in fruits and vegetables</strong>. The original method was created to <strong>analyze non-base-sensitive compounds</strong> and uses a <strong>sodium chloride buffer</strong> to <strong>reduce polar interferences</strong> and <strong>enhance extraction</strong>. <strong>Buffering</strong> is an important part of the QuEChERS procedure because it <strong>allows for analysis of pesticides and other residues</strong> that display <strong>pH dependence in their recoveries</strong>, depending on the <strong>sample matrix</strong>. <strong>Three different extraction kits</strong> are available to support the <strong>original 2003 QuEChERS method</strong>.</p><h5><strong>Chemicals used in the original 2003 method</strong></h5></div><ul><li><strong>Acetonitrile:</strong> Used to perform single-phase extraction (SPE) on a sample</li><li><strong>Anhydrous MgSO₄:</strong> Induces phase separation between water content in sample and acetonitrile layer during liquid-liquid partitioning step; removes remaining water from sample during dispersive solid phase extraction (dSPE) step</li><li><strong>NaCl:</strong> Induces phase separation between water content in sample and acetonitrile layer during liquid-liquid partitioning step; removes residual water from sample; reduces polar interference and enhances extraction</li><li><strong>PSA:</strong> Primary secondary amine, used to remove polar matrix components, citric co-extractives, and free fatty acids, from sample during dispersive solid phase extraction (dSPE) step</li></ul><div><h4><strong>QuEChERS extraction and clean-up kits for AOAC 2007.01 method</strong></h4><p>The <strong>AOAC 2007.01 QuEChERS Method</strong> was developed by <strong>Steven J. Lehotay and his co-workers</strong>, who <strong>modified the original 2003 method</strong> to accommodate the use of <strong>acetate buffering at higher concentration</strong> for <strong>greater buffering strength</strong>. <strong>Buffering</strong> is an important part of the QuEChERS procedure because it <strong>allows for analysis of pesticides and other residues</strong> that display <strong>pH dependence in their recoveries</strong>, depending on the <strong>sample matrix</strong>. These <strong>extraction and clean-up products</strong> here support the <strong>AOAC 2007.01 method</strong>.</p><div><h5><strong>Chemicals used in the AOAC 2007.01 method</strong></h5><ul><li><strong>Acetonitrile:</strong> Used to perform single-phase extraction on a sample</li><li><strong>Anhydrous MgSO₄:</strong> Induces phase separation between water content in sample and acetonitrile layer during liquid-liquid partitioning step; removes remaining water from sample during dispersive solid phase extraction (dSPE) step</li><li><strong>NaOAc:</strong> Buffers the sample to stabilize pH</li><li><strong>PSA:</strong> Primary secondary amine, used to remove polar matrix components, citric co-extractives, and free fatty acids, from sample during dispersive solid phase extraction (dSPE) step</li><li><strong>C18:</strong> Removes fats, sterols, and other non-polar interferences from sample</li><li><strong>GCB:</strong> Graphitized carbon black, removes pigment (<i>not recommended for use with planar pesticides</i>)</li></ul><div><h4><strong>QuEChERS extraction and clean-up kits for EN 15662 method</strong></h4><p>The <strong>extraction and clean-up products</strong> here support the <strong>EN 15662 method</strong>. <strong>Widely used in Europe</strong>, the EN 15662 method was developed by <strong>Michelangelo Anastassiades and co-workers</strong>, who <strong>modified the original 2003 method</strong> to accommodate the use of <strong>citrate buffering at a relatively low buffering capacity</strong>. This variation uses a <strong>sodium chloride buffer</strong> to <strong>minimize polar interferences</strong> in addition to <strong>sodium citrate dihydrate</strong> and <strong>disodium citrate sesquihydrate buffers</strong>. <strong>Buffering</strong> is an important part of the QuEChERS procedure because it <strong>allows for analysis of pesticides and other residues</strong> that display <strong>pH dependence in their recoveries</strong>, depending on the <strong>sample matrix</strong>.</p><h5><strong>Chemicals used in the EN 15662 method</strong></h5><ul><li><strong>Acetonitrile:</strong> Used to perform single-phase extraction on a sample</li><li><strong>Anhydrous MgSO₄:</strong> Induces phase separation between water content in sample and acetonitrile layer during liquid-liquid partitioning step; removes remaining water from sample during dispersive solid phase extraction (dSPE) step</li><li><strong>NaCl:</strong> Induces phase separation between water content in sample and acetonitrile layer during liquid-liquid partitioning step; removes residual water from sample</li><li><strong>Trisodium Citrate:</strong> Buffers the sample to stabilize pH</li><li><strong>Disodium Citrate Sesquihydrate:</strong> Buffers the sample to stabilize pH</li><li><strong>PSA:</strong> Primary secondary amine, used to remove polar matrix components, citric co-extractives, and free fatty acids, from sample during dispersive solid phase extraction (dSPE) step</li><li><strong>C18:</strong> Removes fats, sterols, and other non-polar interferences from sample</li><li><strong>GCB:</strong> Graphitized carbon black, removes pigment (<i>not recommended for use with planar pesticides</i>)</li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Scientific_Qu_E_Ch_ERS_Sample_Preparation_Kits_3_721562526f.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific QuEChERS Sample Preparation Kits" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Scientific_Qu_E_Ch_ERS_Sample_Preparation_Kits_3_721562526f.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1471" height="488"></p><div><h4><strong>QuEChERS clean-up kit for NY/T 1380-2007 method</strong></h4></div><div><p>The <strong>NY/T 1380-2007 method</strong> is <strong>recommended by China Ministry of Agriculture</strong> for the <strong>QuEChERS Method sample preparation</strong> of <strong>51 specific pesticide residues</strong> in <strong>fruits and vegetables</strong> with <strong>analysis by GC-MS</strong>.</p><h5><strong>Chemicals used in the NY/T 1380-2007 method</strong></h5><ul><li><strong>Anhydrous MgSO₄:</strong> Induces phase separation between water content in sample and acetonitrile layer during liquid-liquid partitioning step; removes remaining water from sample during dispersive solid phase extraction (dSPE) step</li><li><strong>PSA:</strong> Primary secondary amine, used to remove polar matrix components, citric co-extractives, and free fatty acids, from sample during dSPE step</li><li><strong>C18:</strong> Removes fats, sterols, and other non-polar interferences from sample</li></ul></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>

Thermo Scientific Dionex AutoTrace 280 Solid-Phase Extraction Instrument

Extract analytes of interest from large volume aqueous samples easily and efficiently with the Thermo Scientific™ Dionex™ AutoTrace™ 280 Solid-Phase Extraction (SPE) Instrument.

<p><strong>Extract analytes of interest from large volume aqueous samples easily and efficiently with the Thermo Scientific™ Dionex™ AutoTrace™ 280 Solid-Phase Extraction (SPE) Instrument.&nbsp;</strong></p><p>The AutoTrace 280 automates all four steps of SPE (conditioning, loading, rinsing, and eluting), reducing solvent consumption and improving recovery and reproducibility. Boost productivity and reduce cost of analysis by simultaneously processing up to six samples in 2-3 hours with only 15 minutes of operator involvement. The AutoTrace 280 meets requirements in US EPA methods including the 500 and 600 series.</p><h5><strong>Improved reliability and recovery</strong></h5><ul><li>Automated SPE minimizes operator intervention</li><li>Positive pressure loading and elution of samples and solvents provide constant flow for improved analytical precision</li></ul><h5><strong>Flexibility in operation</strong></h5><ul><li>Loads sample volumes from 20 mL to 4 L</li><li>Compatible with 1, 3, and 6 mL cartridges and with 47 mm SPE disks</li><li>Automatically conditions, rinses, and elutes SPE cartridges with a choice of five solvents</li><li>Offers a choice of six different collection vial racks</li></ul><h5><strong>Improved laboratory safety</strong></h5><ul><li>Minimal sample handling reduces operator exposure to hazardous chemicals</li><li>No hood required</li></ul><h5><strong>Enhanced laboratory productivity and reduced costs</strong></h5><ul><li>Unattended operation</li><li>Batch processing of up to 6 samples</li><li>Reduced solvent usage</li><li>Segregates aqueous and solvent waste using separate waste lines for efficient, cost-effective waste handling</li></ul><h5><strong>Supports a range of matrices and applications</strong></h5><ul><li>Ability to process samples containing suspended solids</li><li>Meets requirements for solid-phase extraction for U.S. EPA methods including 500 and 600 series</li></ul><h5><strong>Recommended use</strong></h5><ul><li>Analyze prepared samples with Thermo Scientific LC or GC systems for a fully integrated workflow</li></ul><h4><strong>Specifications</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Instrument Type:</strong> Automated Solid Phase Extraction (SPE) System</li><li><strong>Application:</strong> For use with 47 mm SPE disks</li><li><strong>Model Description:</strong> AutoTrace 280 SPE System</li></ul><h5><strong>Performance &amp; Operating Details</strong></h5><ul><li><strong>Disk Compatibility:</strong> Designed for 47 mm SPE disks</li><li><strong>Pressure Range:</strong><ul><li>Output: 0 to 30 psi (0 to 1.4 bar)</li><li>Input: Up to 100 psi (6.9 bar) maximum</li></ul></li><li><strong>Voltage:</strong> 100–240 V ±10%</li><li><strong>Frequency:</strong> 47–63 Hz</li></ul><h5><strong>Physical Specifications</strong></h5><ul><li><strong>Dimensions (D × W × H):</strong> 57 × 63.5 × 69 cm</li><li><strong>Unit Size:</strong> Each</li></ul>

Thermo Scientific EXTREVA ASE Accelerated Solvent Extractor

Achieve true walkaway sample-to-vial sample preparation with the Thermo Scientific™ EXTREVA™ ASE™ Accelerated Solvent Extractor. 

<p><strong>Achieve true walkaway sample-to-vial sample preparation with the Thermo Scientific™ EXTREVA™ ASE™ Accelerated Solvent Extractor. Without any intervention, perform sample extraction, in-cell cleanup and evaporation—all in one seamless operation—reducing manual labor from hours to minutes and enabling you to focus on other lab priorities while using up to 50% less solvent than other sample preparation techniques.</strong></p><p><strong>Accelerate your journey from sample to vial</strong></p><h5><strong>The EXTREVA ASE Accelerated Solvent Extractor offers:</strong></h5><ul><li><strong>All-in-one sample preparation.</strong> The EXTREVA ASE system automatically extracts and concentrates samples, eliminating the need to manually move sample extracts to another device for solvent evaporation.</li><li><strong>A walk-away solution. </strong>The system minimizes hands-on sample preparation tasks, enabling staff to accomplish other tasks.</li><li><strong>Parallel extraction. </strong>One EXTREVA ASE system can perform four parallel sample extractions, substantially increasing throughput.</li><li><strong>Gas-assisted extraction. </strong>The dynamic gas-assisted extraction mode reduces solvent consumption to between 5 and 100 milliliters per sample in most cases.</li><li><strong>Automation. </strong>Full automation improves recoveries and reproducibility while reducing training needs. Unlike humans, automated systems are ideal for performing the same tedious task repeatedly, and they don’t make mistakes.</li><li><strong>Method flexibility and optimization</strong>. Up to six different solvents can be used, including wash solvents for cleaning between methods. Precise flow control optimizes methods.</li><li><strong>Barcode-reading.</strong> The system tracks sample information and preparation parameters using a 2-D bar code reader to facilitate tracking and integrity. Data is recorded on the instrument or Thermo Scientific™ <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/76"><strong>Chromeleon™ Chromatography Data System (CDS) software</strong></a>.</li></ul><h4><strong>Specifications</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Instrument Type:</strong> Automated Sample Preparation System</li><li><strong>Application:</strong> Simultaneous sample extraction and concentration</li><li><strong>Model Description:</strong> EXTREVA ASE Extraction and Evaporation System</li></ul><h5><strong>Performance &amp; Capabilities</strong></h5><ul><li><strong>Extraction Temperature Range:</strong> 40–200 °C</li><li><strong>Evaporation Temperature Range:</strong> 40–100 °C</li><li><strong>Compatible Solvents:</strong> Wide range of organic and aqueous solvents</li><li><strong>Pressure Capability:</strong> Up to 200 psi</li><li><strong>Power Consumption:</strong> 2000 W</li><li><strong>Frequency:</strong> 50/60 Hz</li></ul><h5><strong>Sample &amp; Solvent Handling</strong></h5><ul><li><strong>Extraction Cells (stainless steel):</strong> 1, 5, 10, 22, 34, 66, 100 mL</li><li><strong>Extraction Cell Tray:</strong> 16-position with 1 rinse</li><li><strong>Collection Vials:</strong><ul><li>60 mL and 100 mL evaporation vials</li><li>250 mL evaporation bottles</li><li>Direct concentrate to 2 mL sample vials with rinse capability</li></ul></li><li><strong>Collection Vial Tray:</strong> 16-position tray insert for 60 mL vials and 250 mL bottles; includes 4 rinse positions</li></ul><h5><strong>Utilities &amp; Requirements</strong></h5><ul><li><strong>Pneumatic Requirements:</strong><ul><li>Air: 130–140 psi</li><li>Nitrogen: 350–450 psi</li></ul></li></ul><h5><strong>Physical Specifications</strong></h5><ul><li><strong>Dimensions (D × W × H):</strong> 65.2 × 100 × 88.6 cm (25.6 × 39.4 × 34.8 in.)</li><li><strong>Weight:</strong> 160 kg (353 lb)</li><li><strong>Unit Size:</strong> Each</li></ul>

Thermo Scientific™ Dionex™ ASE™ 350 Accelerated Solvent Extractor

Save time, reduce solvent consumption, and boost productivity with Thermo Scientific™ Dionex™ ASE™ 350 Accelerated Solvent Extractor.

<div><p><strong>Automate extraction, filtration and clean up of compounds from solid and semisolid samples in minutes using the automated Thermo Scientific™ Dionex™ ASE™ 350 Accelerated Solvent Extractor. This system accommodates sample sizes of 1-100g, allows unattended extraction of up to 24 samples and uses 50 to 90% less solvent compared to other methods.&nbsp;</strong></p><p>The chemically inert pathway supports acid and alkaline sample matrices and solvents. Flexible, easy-to-operate and cost-effective, the Dionex ASE 350 is ideally suited for high-throughput laboratories and for a wide variety of applications.</p><div><h4><strong>Rapid and efficient extractions</strong></h4><ul><li>Elevated temperature (up to 200°C) and pressure (1500psi) reduce extraction times and solvent consumption</li><li>Fast pump (70mL/min.) enables fast extractions (typically 12-20 minutes)</li><li>Specialized oven design ensures precise temperature control for excellent reproducibility</li><li>Integrated solvent controller allows mixing and delivery of up to three solvents</li><li>The <strong>Thermo Scientific™ SmartRun™ System</strong> ensures cell size and collection vessel size are matched for an optimal extraction</li></ul><h4><strong>Enhanced flexibility to support multiple applications</strong></h4><ul><li>System accommodates <strong>1, 5, 10, 22, 34, 66 </strong>and <strong>100mL cell sizes</strong></li><li>pH-hardened pathway with <strong>Thermo Scientific™ Dionium™ components and cell</strong> enables compatibility with acid or alkaline pretreated matrices</li></ul><h4><strong>Dramatically reduced solvent consumption</strong></h4><ul><li>Requires less than 50mL solvent for a 20g sample</li><li>Includes solvent saver mode for further solvent savings</li></ul><h4><strong>Enhanced laboratory productivity</strong></h4><ul><li>System holds up to 24 samples for unattended operation</li><li>Flow-through technology allows in-line filtration and in-cell cleanup</li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Scientific_Dionex_ASE_350_system_2_9426ff3f9a/Thermo-Scientific-Dionex-ASE-350-system_2.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific™ Dionex™ ASE™ 350 Accelerated Solvent Extractor" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Scientific_Dionex_ASE_350_system_2_9426ff3f9a/thumbnail_Thermo-Scientific-Dionex-ASE-350-system_2.jpg 114w," sizes="100vw" width="579" height="792"></p><h3><strong>🛠️ Specifications</strong></h3><ul><li><strong>Collection Vial Tray</strong>: 26-position tray insert for 60 mL vials; 19-position tray insert for 250 mL bottles</li><li><strong>Depth (English)</strong>: 27.3 in.</li><li><strong>Depth (Metric)</strong>: 69.3 cm</li><li><strong>Description</strong>: Extractor Only</li><li><strong>Extraction Fluids</strong>: Compatible with a wide range of organic and aqueous solvents</li><li><strong>Fluid Sensors</strong>: IR</li><li><strong>Frequency</strong>: 50/60 Hz</li><li><strong>Height (English)</strong>: 24.3 in.</li><li><strong>Height (Metric)</strong>: 61.7 cm</li><li><strong>Pneumatic Requirements</strong>: Air at 400–827 kPa (60–120 psi); N2 (at 1034 ×–1340 kPa (150–200 psi))</li><li><strong>Power Consumption</strong>: 500 Max VA</li><li><strong>Pressure</strong>: 10 MPa (1500 psi)</li><li><strong>Pump Flow</strong>: 70 mL/min</li><li><strong>Temperature Control</strong>: Up to 200 °C</li><li><strong>Weight (English)</strong>: 140 lb.</li><li><strong>Weight (Metric)</strong>: 65 kg</li><li><strong>Width (English)</strong>: 26.5 in.</li><li><strong>Width (Metric)</strong>: 67.3 cm</li><li><strong>Collection Vials</strong>: 60, 250 mL</li><li><strong>Dimensions (D x W x H)</strong>: 69.3 x 67.3 x 61.7 cm</li><li><strong>Extraction Cell Tray</strong>: 24 Cell, 2 Rinse</li><li><strong>Extraction Cells</strong>: 1, 5, 10, 22, 34, 66, 100 mL</li><li><strong>For Use With (Equipment)</strong>: Dionex ASE 350</li><li><strong>Type</strong>: Dionex ASE 350 System</li><li><strong>Unit Size</strong>: Each</li></ul></div></div>

Products focused on Sample Preparation distributed by Thermo Fisher Scientific (EMEA) - page 1

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