New products
Newport Corporation has introduced three new additions to its series of thermopile detectors. The 818P-500-55 is a fan-cooled detector which can handle up to 500 W of continuous optical power. This device also features a 55 mm diameter active area and very flat responses in an extended wavelength range from 0.9 µm to 20 µm.
Version 4 of the Pirouette software from Infometrix has been enhanced to support process monitoring and control applications. An update of the installer was also required to handle Windows 7 32-bit and 64-bit operating systems.
The new xSORT hand-held XRF spectrometer from Spectro Analytical can achieve laboratory-quality analysis on soil and waste samples. It is convenient to use for on-site screening measurements and, complete with battery pack, weighs less than 4 pounds.
Edax Incorporated has launched its TEAM EDS system with Smart Features which provides expert knowledge into every system. The system offers a modern interface that allows for an open layout and maximises the display area for results.
The VUV spectrometer, Model 234/302, from McPherson now comes complete with cooled, scientific grade CCD detectors. The compact 200 mm focal length spectrometer has adjustable slits and operates at f/4.5 providing data collection from ultraviolet radiation and emission spectra in the 100 nm to 190 nm wavelength range simultaneously, in near real time, with sub-nm spectral resolution.
Thermo Fisher Scientific has unveiled an enhanced and easy-to-navigate version of its interactive UV-vis spectrophotometer web tool. The on-line platform has been upgraded to include the latest additions to the company’s UV-vis spectrophotometer products line and serves as a selector guide for all its UV-vis products and accessories.
To simplify quality assurance and UVA Protection Factor analysis for the development and testing of sunscreen and cosmetics using their UV-2000s transmittance analyser, Labsphere have introduced the UV2000S sample preparation starter kit, which brings together all the tools needed to prepare the correct in vitro sunscreen samples common to Boot Star, COLIPA, FDA and user-defined SPF measurement methods.
Ocean Optics has expanded the wavelength capabilities of several of its miniature fibre-optic spectrometers. The XR series, available for the USB2000+, JAZ-EL2000 and USB4000, covers all wavelengths from ~200 nm to 1050 nm.
The new test system for flash lamps from Instrument Systems is particularly suitable for the measurement of solar flashes, which are used in the development and quality control of solar cells. An optical probe has been developed specifically for this purpose with a fast shutter for short light pulses of 4.5 ms.
Newport Corporation has introduced a new coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering optimised supercontinuum generation fibre device, the SCG-800-CARS, which has been designed for use with 800 nm femtosecond lasers and contains 12 cm non-linear crystal fibre with zero dispersion points at ~775 nm and 945 nm.
New PSS spectrometers and accessories for in-field operation have been announced by Polytec. The new PSS 1721 and PSS 2121 spectrometers come in a 19″ half rack and have been designed for mobile vehicle applications.
The Opto Diode Corporation has announced the new OD-624L high output red LED. This second product to be introduced to the company's series of LEDs has a dominant emission wavelength at 624 nm and features a narrow beam angle that is suitable for fluorescence in medical, scientific testing instruments and forensic applications.
PerkinElmer has announced a suite of hyphenated solutions for evolved gas analysis, providing laboratories ranging from pharmaceutical and polymer to academia and chemical, with solutions for enhanced safety and quality. Hyphenated technologies for EGA enable scientists to determine how materials respond to heat.
Proteome Software has released a web-based mass spectrometry quality control tool, the MassQC.
PerkinElmer has added the Atomax line of 1.5″ hollow cathode lamps to its atomic spectroscopy portfolio. The lamps are competitively priced lighting sources in a 1.5″ format that can be used with any commercial AA spectrometer and have been designed to provide sensitivity, stable light output and long life.
Labsphere, in partnership with Photal Otsuka Electronics, has developed the QE-1000 to measure the quantum efficiency of luminescent materials.
Vixar has announced a new line of multi-wavelength lasers packaged in a small form factor housing, targeting industrial sensing, spectroscopy and medical sensing applications.
Energetiq Technology has introduced three new light sources to its Laser-Driven Light Source line of products.
MicrOptix Technologies has launched a new family of sample adaptors for the i-LAB hand held analysing spectrometer, which opens up a wide array of visible and NIR range measurement possibilities for i-LAB users.
Jeol has introduced two new enhancements to its AccuTOF-DART mass spectrometer. The new DART SVP ion source integrates sample automation with flexibility in set-up and positioning of the sample for rapid, repeatable performance.
Cal Sensors has announced the introduction of new lead selenide and lead sulphide detectors.
Andor Technology has announced improved performance for their interline CCD camera, the Andor Clara.
The new NeoFox Sport from Ocean Optics is a portable, hand-held optical oxygen sensor for measuring dissolved and gaseous oxygen pressure in a variety of media. Comprised of a probe- or patch-based oxygen sensor, plus a phase fluorometer, the fluorescence-based system includes an on-board microprocessor with low-power OLED display, a user interface and a battery pack.
ALMSCO International has announced that it is to release its BenchTOF-dx, mass spectrometer. Incorporating new ion optics and electronics, the instrument delivers full spectral information at sensitivity normally associated with quadrupoles in SIM mode.
Thermo Fisher Scientific has introduced the new National Scientific Mass Spec Certified Vials, which are cleaned and tested as standard. These low-particulate chromatography vials are cleaned in a GMP compliant, fully-validated clean room environment to minimise the occurrence of any contamination.
The new SimPlus software from Perten Instruments allows users to monitor and administrate multiple DA 7200 instruments (on-site or remote installations) from one location, access data and results, update calibrations and create reports.
With the addition of the new Sadtler HNMR Chemical Shifts database from Bio-Rad, HaveItAll NMR now includes chemical shift data of 20,391 more compounds, each being identified by chemical name, solvent used in the analysis, instrument name, chemical structure, molecular formula and molecular weight.
Shimadzu has introduced a new series of atomic absorption spectrophotometers. The AA-7000 system, with double beam optics covers fully automatic multi-element analysis in flame and graphite furnace mode.
The Sadtler ATR of Controlled and Prescription Drugs is a new database from Bio-Rad Laboratories containing 1161 ATR-IR spectra of controlled and prescription drugs and steroids.
Two new nitrogen generators, the ABN2ZA and the AB-3G, have been introduced by Peak Scientific. Both are specifically designed to operate LC-MS instruments manufactured by Applied Biosystems/MDS Sciex, producing nitrogen and dry air through three independent outputs at the required flow rates, purities and pressures.
Using deuterium light sources, the dominant alpha-peak at 625 nm disturbs a balanced emission spectra, which means the dynamic range of the used measuring instrument cannot be used efficiently.
Laser 2000 has presented a new line of "light engines" designed to replace traditional light sources in optical instrumentation and, in particular, for bio-analytical applications.
JPK Instruments has announced the latest of its nanotechnology characterisation systems, the ForceRobot 300, for single molecule force spectroscopy.
Newport Corporation's Oriel Instruments division has announced the Oriel IQE-200, which allows simultaneous measurements of both the external and internal quantum efficiency of solar cells, detectors or any photon-to-charge converting devices.
MKS Instruments has introduced Microvision 2 and e-Vision 2 web-enabled residual gas analysers for greater stability and reliability in e-diagnostic, process monitoring and general vacuum trouble-shooting applications.
The getProbe 3302 SET from getSpec is a new integrated sphere with an integrated halogen light source in the sphere.
The new Tandem II from Bruker Optics is a fully automatic tablet testing system for on-line pharmaceutical process monitoring solutions, combining FT-NIR spectroscopy for tablet content uniformity and physical tablet tests of weight, thickness, diameter and hardness.
A new 3/4 inch vis/NIR reflection probe from getspec, with internal standard and integrated redundant light sources, has been designed especially for rough process conditions, aiming to achieve high levels of long-term stability and reliability.
Spectro Analytical Instruments has introduced an improved version of their Spectro Genesis. The CCD-based ICP-OES instrument is available with either radial or axial plasma observation and is especially suited to routine, rigorous environmental and industrial elemental analysis applications.
id Quantique, represented in the UK and Ireland by Photonic Solutions, has announced a reduced noise level for its id201 single photon detection module at NIR wavelengths.
Thermo Fisher Scientific has announced a new addition to its range of automated OES and XRF spectrometers which integrates multiple stand-alone laboratory instruments, including sample preparation, in a fully automated cell to optimise the entire analytical workflow and improve process control efficiencies in the mining and metals industries.
The NMR Metabolites database from Bio-Rad, with its collection of 1H and 13C NMR spectra, now includes 532 compounds with 1055 spectra from BioMagResBank data, which doubles the number of spectra previously in this collection of proteins, peptides and nucleic acids.
Bruker has announced the launch of its N8 Neos Santerra micro analysis system that combines Raman spectroscopy and atomic force microscopy on a single optical microscope platform.
Supercritical Fluid Technologies has launched the SFT-100XW supercritical fluid extraction system. This new, mid-scale SFE was developed to investigate the feasibility of applying supercritical fluid techniques to various analyses, processing challenges and QC/QA applications.
Millipore Corporation has announced the introduction of their redesigned Millex 13 mm sample preparation syringe filter to provide improved filtration speed and recovery. The filter utilises a housing design that withstands higher operating pressures to allow faster filtration.
Bio-Rad offers specialised editions of its KnowItAll system specially customised for spectroscopy and other areas of research. The latest release, Version 8.1 of the system, features improvements to its spectral mixture analysis tool.
Thermo Fisher has launched its Escalab 250Xi X-ray photoelectron spectrometer which is a fully integrated surface characterisation tool designed to meet the demands of surface engineers whether working in research and development of new surface chemistries or dealing with routine characterisation of surfaces, thin films and coatings.
Biochrom has introduced its Asys UVM340 microplate reader. The monochromator-based plate reader selects any wavelength between 340 nm and 800 nm at 1 nm intervals to measure absorbance.
McPherson's new 248/130 grazing incidence wavelength dispersive optical spectrometer allows rapid analysis of spectral light in the ~1 nm to 300 nm wavelength region. This instrument is a useful tool for spectroscopy in the vacuum UV and the extreme soft X-ray wavelength region.
A new UV-visible spectrometer, designed with the flexibility to perform QA/QC, life science and general research methods, the Evolution 60S, is now available from Thermo Fisher Scientific. It features a 1.0 nm spectral bandwidth for improved clarity in an affordable, compact design, meets the stringent requirements of international pharmacopeias and offers validation tools and protocols for customers in the regulated marketplace.
The new Jenway 67 series of spectrophotometers feature sealed split beam optics, sensitive but durable touch screen and colour display and the sealed touch-sensitive Qwheel for cursor control. Both the 6705 and 6715 cover the wavelength range from 190 nm to 1100 nm using a pulsed xenon light source, with the 6715 providing an ultra narrow bandwidth of 1.5 nm.
The enhanced version of the HaveItAll UV-vis database from Bio-Rad now has an additional 4200 spectra included in its collection of UV-vis spectra, giving a current total of 13,930 spectra.
Thermo has introduced three new additions to its range of high-performance instruments, the Genesys 10S Vis, the Genesys 10S UV-vis and the Biomate 3S spectrophotometers. Designed for both research and routine analysis, these new models deliver high-quality data at an affordable price.
Foss NIRSystems has introduced Service Pack 3 for Vision 3.50 and, at the same time, released DSP 27, which replaces DSP 26 and all previous versions.
Shimadzu has introduced a new series of atomic absorption spectrophotometers. The AA-7000 system, with double beam optics covers fully automatic multi-element analysis in flame and graphite furnace mode.
A high-performance optical bench, low-noise electronics and various wavelength range options make the NIRQuest spectrometer from Ocean Optics suitable for NIR applications. This plug-and-play instrument is available in versions from 900–1700 nm, 900–2050 nm and 900–2500 nm coverage. The modular design and new grating options enable more customisation for a wider variety of applications including moisture analysis in grains and cereals, chemical analysis of blood and tissue, bacterial detection in food and beverage production, nitrogen content monitoring of plants and soils and chemical composition of pharmaceuticals. It uses SpectraSuite spectrometer operating software, a Java-based spectroscopy platform that operates in Windows, Mac OS and Linux operating systems and can be bundled with the Remora Network Adaptor to turn the system into a multi-user spectral data server.
Niagara Plus accessory for ICP-OES and ICP-MS equipment. It utilises flow injection technology to reduce the laboratory's environmental footprint, reduce operating costs and improve sample throughput. Benefits include reduced cost of argon and consumables, lower power consumption and less waste, reduced analysis time, automatic internal standard and low carryover with the sample not contacting any peristaltic pump tubing.
A2 Technologies has announced that its iPal FT-IR analyser is now available with sampling technology and pre-loading methods specifically designed for measurement of chemical species of significant importance to the nuclear power industry. The battery operated portable analysers can quickly and easily measure percentage biodiesel in diesel fuel to levels as low as 0.025%, the level of oil in cooling water, the level of water in lubrication fluids and degree of oxidation of lubricants or fuel. The Pal analyser, a benchtop version, is available for customers not requiring battery operation or portability.
Wilks Enterprise has introduced a portable infrared analyser that determines the presence of biodiesel in diesel fuel deliveries for standby generators in less than a minute. Weighing less than 5lb, the Infracal analyser can be operated from a battery pack or a cigarette lighter adapter cable, making it suitable for use in a field environment. The ASTM Method D 975 currently allows up to 5% of biodiesel in diesel without the need for content labelling. Therefore it is necessary for operators to determine whether fuel deliveries contain biodiesel. The analyser provides blend ratio measurements of diesel fuel and will detect down to 0.2% biodiesel. An internal calibration table allows the analyser to directly read out the percentage of biodiesel and provides the user with the capability to quickly measure the fuel on site to ensure its purity.
Foss has extended the availability of its software functionality that helps to spot adulterated raw milk. The software allows MilkoScan analysers, based on FT-IR technology, to be programmed to give a warning of possible abnormalities in raw milk samples. The analyser does not identify specific contaminants, but helps to identify a suspect raw milk sample quickly. The sample can then be analysed further to determine the contaminant.
FlexiMass DS are new, cost-effective disposable targets for MALDI analysis which have been developed by Shimadzu Biotech. The targets are plastic, single-use substrates manufactured from conductive polymeric material for consistent MALDI performance. Consisting of a high-quality reproducible metalised target surface which are manufactured to high tolerance levels, the targets are supplied in a 48-well microscope slide format, suitable for either manual or automated robotic sample spotting. They have been designed for use with the Precision adaptor which can be loaded with four targets enabling the analysis of up to 192 samples in a single session, are suitable for most types of MALDI samples and matrices and can be used with the following Axima systems—Assurance, Confidence, Performance, Resonance, ToF2, LNR, CFR, CFRplus and QIT.
Ionicon introduces the new PTR-TOFMS series, with the launch of the PTR-TOF 2000 and PTR-TOF 8000. Using a specially designed orthogonal acceleration reflectron time-of-flight (W-ToF) mass spectrometer combined with proton transfer reaction (PTR) technology, the PTR-TOF 8000 has a mass resolution of up to 8000 and a limit of detection <10 pptv. The ToF component gives the ability to analyse a whole mass spectrum in a fraction of a second and even isobaric species can be resolved and identified with virtually no instrumental mass range limitation and a linearity range over six orders of magnitude. The PTR-TOF 2000 has high sensitivity and a detection limit in the single-digit pptv-range. It provides results in real-time with a mass resolution of up to 2000. The PTR-TOF 2000 uses a new compact orthogonal acceleration reflectron ToF analyser. Up to 300 cps/ppb and less than 5 pptv detection limit together are achievable.
Shimadzu Scientific has introduced SeqLab de novo sequencing software for use with their Axima line of MALDI mass spectrometers. With the software, researchers can use MS/MS data to find high-quality de novo sequences and tags for peptides from low- to high- energy CID MS/MS data, including data from the Performance ToF/Tof spectrometer. Additionally, the software uses related MS3 data, which provides more information and completes sequences across the length of the peptide.
Starna Scientific is offering pharmaceutical quality assurance laboratories a safe-to-handle toluene/methanol CRM for validating instrument resolution with derivative spectrophotometry analysis methods. The easy-to-use CRM offers safety benefits for users because the methanol is permanently heat-fuse sealed, ensuring that laboratory users no longer need to handle the volatile, flammable, toxic solvent. The CRM is suitable for pharmaceutical QA laboratories using derivative spectrophotometry procedures to validate instrument resolution following the guidelines specified in section 2.2.25 of the European Pharmacopoeia.
Carl Zeiss has launched a new field emission scanning electron microscope. The Merlin combines the contradictory requirements of ultra-high resolution imaging and analytical capabilities and supports the user with a wide range of detailed solutions for tasks that could not be performed in the past. This has been achieved by the company's complete detection system which consists of an in-lens SE detector for surface imaging, an in-lens EsB detector for material contrast and an AsB detector for widely dispersed backscattered electrons which contains specific information on the crystal orientation of samples. The electronic system permits flexible instrument configuration. Additional detectors can be retrofitted quickly to adapt the system for growing requirements.
The K1 re-circulating chiller from Applied Thermal Control has been designed to meet the cooling needs of today's high-tech instrumentation. The new robust design improves ruggedness without compromising its appearance. The machine delivers 1.75 kW of cooling power with a temperature precision of ±0.1°C, in a compact 520 mm × 420 mm footprint. The unit has high/low temperature alarms, fluid level and flow and pressure indicators fitted as standard. The K1 is provided with a choice of pumps to meet all flow rate requirements and also comes with a two-year guarantee.
Applied Analytics has introduced the TDL-506, an industry-proven and cost-effective solution for oxygen monitoring needs. It is named for its core component—the tuneable diode laser. Rugged and power-efficient, the vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser which is housed in the TDL-506 is able to emit high-intensity light at specific wavelengths, which is critical for monitoring the sharp, isolated absorbance peaks that are characteristic of diatomic oxygen. The system is constructed specifically to monitor the R-branch of the oxygen A-band at 760 nm, minimising interference and optimising detection resolution.
Thermo Fisher Scientific has introduced the ARL 3460 Advantage metals analyser, an optical emission spectrometer which features four configurations specifically designed for the analysis of cast iron, steel and aluminium samples, addressing the analytical requirements of foundries and metal processing companies. Calibrated in the factory, the analyser provides an immediate turn-key solution which is ready to analyse samples from installation. It is powered by OXSAS analytical software which is designed to meet the specific needs of users in the metal industry and includes “Key to Metals”, a comprehensive steel and non-ferrous metals worldwide database which offers unlimited access to more than 3,400,000 records for chemical composition, properties and specifications for metals.
The Ortec business unit of Ametek has introduced the DigiDart-LF, a portable multi-channel analyser for sodium iodide, lanthanum bromide and other scintillation detectors. The rugged, lightweight analyser is completely operable without a PC and can perform a variety of measurements directly in the field or on site, storing a large amount of spectra in an internal memory. Its built-in backlit LCD display and control keypad create a live display as data is acquired and its advanced low-power design provides digital stability, high data throughput and up to 12 hours of operational life from a single battery.
Shimadzu has introduced the BioSpec nano spectrophotometer which quantifies simple and labelled nucleic acids and is dedicated to research in genomics, molecular biology, agriculture, medical science and control of food quality. In particular, life science researchers can conserve samples and obtain accurate and reproducible results with sample volumes of only 1–2 µL. Special cuvettes are unnecessary whilst an optional rectangular cell is available for larger volumes. An automated precision drive mechanism for cleaning the sample position and a large analysis range enable simple RNA/DNA quantification. A “drop-and-click” functionality enables simple sample analysis. The sample is dropped on the target and by clicking the button analysis begins. Measurement and cleaning are conducted automatically. Dedicated software allows simple and quick operation.
Isotopically-labelled non-radioactive peptides function as critical internal standards for protein quantitation experiments in MS and NMR experiments. Thermo Fisher Scientific now offers multiple grates of heavy peptides, enabling researchers to match the precision and cost of the internal standard according the assay development stage. The new HeavyPeptide Aqua Ultimate kit is designed for absolute quantification and the Aqua Quant Pro kit is a more affordable alternative when ultimate precision is not necessary.
Agilent Technologies has announced their new Complex Proteomics Standard, created to help researchers with protein biomarker discovery by validating mass spectrometry-based workflows for protein identification. It is applicable to a wide range of LC/MS- based applications and can be used with the Agilent 1200 series LC and 6000 series MS systems as well as MS instruments from other suppliers. The standard contains more than 1500 proteins covering a wide range of protein sizes/molecular weights, pI and hydrophobicity. Genetic distance between Pyrococcus furiosus and human—or other organisms typically subjected to proteomic studies—helps avoid erroneous protein identification.
The updated Thermo Scientific Proteome Discoverer 1.1 software complements their new mass spectrometers, providing a comprehensive platform for the analysis of qualitative and quantitative proteomics data. The software includes enhanced capabilities for relative quantitation via isobaric labelling such as tandem mass tags, batch searching, automated processing via a daemon, improved handling of large datasets, support for MUDPIT experiments and the ability to merge data from multiple experiments.
Renishaw has enhanced the capabilities of its inVia microscope which now offers remote system diagnosis and control of key system functions such as laser wavelength change, rapid switching between viewing modes, automated system optimisation and validation, the ability to queue multiple measurements and measurement templates that enable non-expert users to apply identical experimental conditions continuously. The microscopes now offer complete automation, remote control, large area imaging and faster operation.
The new DSC-Raman system from PerkinElmer combines thermal analysis with Raman spectroscopy to provide greater insight into material changes at a molecular level. It combines the double furnace DSC 8500 with the RamanStation 400 spectrometer, enabling simultaneous analysis of chemical and structural information from the spectrometer and correlating it with the calorimetric data of the DSC. Tests using the hyphenated techniques have given greater insight into polymer crystallisation, drug–carrier interactions, curing and polymorphic changes.
Ahura Scientific has announced an upgrade to the language capabilities of its TruScan hand-held Raman spectrometer, designed for the pharmaceutical and consumer health industries. With the introduction of TruScan 1.3.0, the graphical user interface is accessible in German as are the user manuals and instrument administration tools.
ST Japan have added 2100 new Raman spectra to their existing collection and now offer more than 10,000 spectra, including polymers and additives, solvents, pharmaceuticals, packaging materials, forensics and minerals. All spectra have been taken from samples of high purity, contain extensive sample information and have been reviewed by trained spectroscopists. The databases are available in the common spectra format and can be used directly with the search software of the users instrument, enabling them to continue working in their usual software environment and improve search results.
The Uvette fully UV-transparent disposable cuvette from Eppendorf now has a new and improved shape. The larger optical window enhances compatibility with instruments from other suppliers, reduces stray light effect, while the open side wall design gives greater sample visibility. A single 90° rotation provides two optical path lengths and the easy-to-read path length indication enables users to quickly identify the correct orientation (2 mm and 10 mm) for their application. The cuvettes are manufactured from crystal clear plastic which is UV and vis transparent between 220 nm and 1600 nm. Pipetting can be monitored clearly, volume markings show 500 mL and 100 mL and the design prevents the capillary effect so that liquids remain in the centre of the measuring area, even minimum volumes of 50 mL. The frosted grip is convenient for labelling and the inward facing optical windows provide protection against scratches.
Biochrom has launched the Anthos instant microplate solution (AIMS), a new package which contains all microplate instrumentation needed to run ELISA and other microplate-based applications. It is suitable for laboratories that handle a large number of absorbance-based assays which also need flexibility for future techniques. The package includes the Zenyth 200 microplate reader with cuvette UV-vis spectrophotometer, which is a monochromator-based instrument that reads 6–384 well plates at any wavelength between 190 nm and 100 nm, with temperature control. The built-in spectrophotometer saves bench space and there are pre-programmed cuvette methods for nucleic acid and protein measurements. The Fluido 2 four-channel microplate washer, which handles up to four different wash buffers, up to 50 different programs and 20 different plate types—including strip plates and round bottom wells. In addition, the package contains ADAP Prisma PC analysis software and a laser printer free of charge.
McPherson is releasing the Vacuum Ultraviolet Analytical Spectrophotometer (VUVAS) for wavelength dispersive spectral measurements from 120 nm to 350 nm. The VUVAS provides results as percent transmission or reflection. It works with solid samples and can be equipped with gas or liquid sample cells. Cryogenic or heated sample mounts and raster-mapping attachments are optionally available. In reflectance mode, it is easy to adjust the angle of incidence to the sample surface and can maintain theta/2-theta geometry for specular reflectance, or deviate from this to measure scatter or dispersive events. Applications include analysis, characterisation and testing of ultraviolet materials, optics, non-linear, doped and other crystals and well as for fundamental research in the sensitive, selective UV wavelength region.
Thermo Fisher Scientific has introduced four new analytical packages designed to improve industry-specific routine X-ray analysis. The packages are based on their ARL Optim'x WDXRF spectrometer, offering a range of sequential and simultaneous spectrometers with pre-configured analytical packages which are specifically tailored to meet the analytical testing requirements of metallurgy, petrochemical, cement and central laboratories. The first of the four packages is ARL Optim'x Sulphur Analyser for ultra-low analysis in heavy and light fuels and oils, which is a compact, reliable WDXRF platform configured with dedicated multichromators. The ARL Optim'x Cement Analyser delivers reliable analysis of major and minor oxides present in the raw materials and products found in the cement industry. For routine analysis of samples in the metal industry, the ARL Optim'x Slag Analyser provides analysis of major and minor oxides in slags. Finally, the ARL Optim'x Optiquantometer allows the analysis of 73 elements, from fluorine to uranium, in a range of conductive or non-conductive materials. Specifically targetted at central laboratories, this package enables the replacement of wet chemical analysis or as a complement to AA and ICP analysers.
Princeton Instruments has introduced an intensified CCD camera, the PI-Max 3. It is a fully integrated camera that provides a combination of frame rate, gating and low-noise capabilities for improved performance in applications such as fluorescence lifetime imaging measurements, laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy, pulsed Raman spectroscopy, nanotechnology studies and plasma diagnostics. Features include a built-in timing generator, the SuperSynchro, which makes setting up complex time-resolved imaging experiments easy, SyncMaster technology helps reduce lab clutter by eliminating the need for an external timing generator, it can be configured with either a 1024 × 1024-pixel interline transfer CCD or a 1024 × 246-pixel full-frame CCD and it also features photocathode cooling for ultra-low light or single-photon imaging as well as special readout modes for single-shot measurements and particle imaging velocimetry applications.
The development of the Raman imaging spectrograph came from the need for combining high light throughput, distortion-free performance and polarisation-free optical design. These requirements, together with the small footprint of the device, good image quality and high spectral resolution were achieved with the fully transmissive design used in the Specim ImSpector series of imaging spectrographs, which are available for several standard wavelength ranges from 500 nm up to 1000 nm for use with different types of excitation lasers.
Malvern Instruments has launched a 64-bit edition of the ISYs chemical imaging data analysis software which has applications across many technologies. It provides a single platform that supports the import of MIR, NIR and Raman imaging and mapping data files from a variety of vendors. It includes all the tools needed to understand chemical imaging data in spectral and spatial dimensions simultaneously.
The Series 2000 NIR Transmission Analyser from NIR Technology Systems is a spectrophotometer which has been designed for use in the pharmaceutical, petrochemical, plastics, polymers, textiles, chemical and bio-fuels industries. It is a diode array spectrometer which uses a selection of sample cells to collect NIR transmission spectra through liquid, suspensions and emulsions, such as lotions and creams. It scans the wavelength range from 720 nm to 1100 nm in transmission and transflectance modes and is available as a base spectrometer and two application-specific analysers. The Tablet Analyser has been configured to analyse tablets for uniformity, coating thickness, active incipient and authentication and the Creams and Lotions Analyser is configured to analyse creams, ointments and lotions for moisture, lanolin, petroleum jelly, active components, alcohol, stabilisers and emulsifiers. The analysers can be operated using a PC or as a free-standing instrument and a comprehensive software package, NTAS, provides a means of developing PLS calibrations to be used for quantitative methods of analysis and also provides qualitative analysis for use in identifying raw materials.
Thermo Fisher Scientific has combined the Antaris family of FT-NIR analysers with Siemens SiPATT software platform to provide a solution for advanced process understanding and continuous control and improvement in drug development and manufacture. The integration is designed to allow pharmaceutical companies to extend the capabilities of FT-NIR analysers to achieve better process insight and real- time product release, improve manufacturing performance and enhance quality while maintaining regulatory compliance.
Bruker Daltonics has introduced its ultrafleXtreme MALDI ToF/ToF mass spectrometer which combines 1 kHz speed in both ToF and ToF/ToF modes. The system incorporates smartbeam-II laser technology and the latest ion optics enabling high-throughput biomarker discovery and quantitation as well as fast tissue molecular imaging with a laser spot size close to single cell spatial resolution. LC-MALDI can be performed with improved mass resolution, mass accuracy and data acquisition speed. Bruker's Edmass protein sequencing capabilities allow rapid and sensitive intact protein characterisation and sequencing with read lengths up to and beyond 80 residues and with direct analysis of N- and C- terminal modifications.
The new MM-16 NIR spectroscopic ellipsometer from Horiba Jobin Yvon is dedicated to thin film characterisation, determining thickness, optical constants and optical bandgap of materials in the wavelength range 515–1000 nm. It features a CCD detection system for rapid and accurate measurement down to 1 s /determination and a 200 µm microspot allows characterisation of patterned samples. When fully automated, the system provides fast uniformity mapping of film thickness and optical constants and it is designed to be configured in different ways for different applications. It is controlled by DeltaPsi2 software which provides a display of mapping results on semi-conductor wafer and glass panels, statistical analysis of data, import/export package function and data reprocessing capabilities.
A new capillary filling station, which is the first X-ray accessory out of the co-operation between AJK Analytical Services and Huber, is now available. The Capillary Boy, with its Huber design, has been developed to fill glass capillary tubes more rapidly and conveniently making it possible to fill a capillary tube in less than one minute, depending on the powder.
Horiba Scientific has developed the GD Profiler HTP, a turnkey product for evaluating the quality of heat treament processes, providing rapid depth profiles of carbon, nitrogen, oxygen and other elements for better monitoring of heat treatment processes. The chemical composition complements the mechanical tests usually made in the metallurgy industry. The targeted applications are notably automotive, gears and windmills.
Hamamatsu has introduced the improved S10420 series, with reduced etaloning effect, the latest addition to their high-performance, cost-effective back-thinned CCD image sensors. The S10420 comes in two formats, with either 1024 or 2048 pixel length and 64 pixel height. With quantum efficiencies >50% in the UV region and improved response in the NIR, the device provides uniformity and long term stability, reducing costs associated with recalibration of some field instrumentation. Applications include Raman spectrophotometry, UV-vis and emission spectrophotometry, high-speed colour measurement, blood analysis, protein analysis, portable spectrometers and water pollution analysis.
The EZ-Pick II from S.T. Japan is a hand-held micromanipulator which has been designed to easily prepare samples at any location. It is shaped like a pen with a mounting device to attach sampling probes such as needles or knives at the front end. Inside the pen there is an ultra-mini high performance CCD and a specially designed optical lens. While manipulating samples or extracting small particles, the operation can be seen magnified on an attached 7″ LCD monitor. Applications include removing surface accretions in fine art conservation, on-site forensic analysis, small particle analysis, surface analysis and precision hand assembly.
Bruker BioSpin has launched the 1 GHz ultra-high field Avance 1000 NMR spectrometer. After many years of development, the company has successfully energised and brought to its full magnetic field of 23.5 Tesla a standard-bore, high homogeneity 1 GHz NMR persistent magnet. The high field strength and high field stability, in combination with a 5 mm triple-resonance CryoProbe, enables 1 GHz NMR applications. The 1 GHz NMR spectra demonstrate the capabilities of this new high-end instrument, which can be beneficial for all UHF high- resolution and solid-state NMR experiments.
Aabspec has released a new cell for the spectroscopy of catalysts and other demanding applications. The new #CXX extends the upper temperature range for the #CX and provides researchers with an advanced facility for the study of catalyst performance using FT- IR. The ultra-low volume cell has optimised flow paths for the gas stream which ensures that the first contact between the gas stream and the catalyst is directly observed in the experiment.
The innoRAM high-resolution Raman spectrometer, manufactured by B&WTek, is now available from Pacer. It is a portable, laboratory-grade system which includes a back-thinned 2-D-summed CCD linear array of 2048 pixels, TE-cooled to an operating temperature of –20°C and features 785 nm Cleanlaze technology. A choice of 532 nm or 785 nm narrow line width wavelength stabilised lasers is available, with 40 mW and 300 mW, respectively, exiting via the fibre port. The package includes laser safety goggles and user- controlled laser power via software. A wide range of probes and accessories is available.
The TSQ Quantum Access Max triple-stage quadrupole mass spectrometry system and TraceFinder software are a complete workflow solution for food and environmental safety testing from Thermo Fisher Scientific, which helps laboratories to meeting increasingly stringent monitoring requirements, simplify analysis and help productivity.
Starna Scientific has extended the absorbance scale range of its potassium dichromate linearity set of Certified Reference Materials to enable laboratories to make multi-point linearity checks across the UV absorbance range. Full documentation on measurement, handling and storage is provided with each set of CRMs. Each reference is traceable to NIST primary SRM 935a because solutions are prepared from the SRM, in accordance with NIST Special Publication SP260-54, and the reference spectrophotometer is qualified against primary physical constants and other NIST primary SRMs
Users of Biochrom's WPA life science spectrophotometers can now use the SD card accessory to store data and to export it to a PC using standard SD or SDHC memory cards. It can easily be fitted to the Biowave DNA, Lightwave II and Biowave II instruments and comes complete with user-friendly software. Storing methods on a memory card allows users to save and back up their methods and will be particularly useful to those running multiple instruments, allowing them to transfer settings and “clone” methods between instruments.
Spectronics Corporation has introduced the AccuMAX series of digital radiometer/photometers which provide accurate readouts for UV irradiance, visible illuminance and luminance light readings. The readout units are specially calibrated for use with a full line of interchangeable sensor detectors. Single wavelength sensor detectors are available in both standard range, which provides UV readings from µW to mW, and extended range, which provides measurements from mW to W. The readout unit has user-customised settings to work with a variety of interchangeable detectors, all of which can be conveniently connected directly to the readout or by a standard USB cable. The readout unit is lightweight and portable with a large, easy-to-read screen.
Bruker Daltonics has launched the solariX, their new hybrid Qq-FT-MS platform. Its improved broad band, ultra-high resolving power and sub-ppm mass accuracy make it suitable for the analysis of extremely complex mixtures, particularly those that are not amenable to high-resolution chromatography separation techniques. Applications include hydrocarbon related analysis, environmental soil/sediment analysis, small-molecule biological tissue MALDI imaging, metabolomics and complex peak patterns resulting from top-down proteomics.
IonSense has introduced its lower cost compact DART mass spectrometry platform. The DART SVP utilises an Apple iPod Touch to control all aspects of analysis with menu driven apps for even the most complex experiments with minimal user interaction. It also has a built-in automated sampling system to provide routine analysis of compounds in pharmaceutical, forensic and chemical applications.
Waters has introduced eight new workflow enhancements for their MassLynx software. These are the Posi±ive system for high throughput screening of complex food safety, water quality and environmental samples; the BiopharmaLynx 1.2, to increase confidence in peptide characterisation; Quanpedia, QCMonitor and TrendPlot which are critical components of the Xevo TQ MS quantitative workflow solution software are now available for a broader range of the company's mass spectrometers; the latest version of OpenLynx Open Access for reducing analysis time and increasing productivity; clinical pathology laboratories will benefit from automated workflows for UPLC/MS/MS which include seamless HL7 LIMS integration; MetaboLynx XS and MarkerLynx XS are now available on all Waters MS systems; Protein Global Server 2.4 is available for nanoAcquity 2D UPLC/MSE while data are now also interchangeable with Pride, Scaffold and mzML; DriftScope 2.1, which features ion mobility spectrometry, peak detection, visualisation and comparison with collision cross-section determination for their Synapt High Definition MS system and the new Synapt G2 HDMS system.
Waters has announced its new quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometer, the Synapt G2 System, featuring new QuanTof and enhanced high definition MS technologies. The new system provides researchers with intuitive operation, application flexibility and improved performance for biopharmaceutical, metabolite identification, metabonomics, proteomics, biomarker studies and food and environmental applications.
Two new products designed to increase the productivity of quantitative proteomics research have been introduced by Thermo Fisher Scientific. These are Intelligent Selective Reaction Monitoring for improved throughput of SRM assays and Pinpoint software for automated method development and quantitative analysis of SRM-based targeted peptide assays
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