Science With Purpose

Wastewater testing is a core function of environmental laboratories, supporting regulatory compliance, public health, and industrial process control. While the analytical techniques are well established, the practical challenges associated with wastewater samples remain significant. For laboratory managers and chemists, the difficulty is not in running the analysis itself, but in maintaining data quality, instrument reliability, …

Halogen-containing microplastics such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) are analytically relevant targets, yet their selective characterization by ICP-MS remains challenging, particularly for fluoropolymers due to the limited formation of F+ in conventional positive-ion mode. Here we introduce negative-ion single-event ICP-MS as a direct strategy for particle-resolved characterization of halogen-containing microplastics by monitoring F− …

In today’s food supply chains, climate is the wild card. A few days of unexpected rain during harvest can trigger sprout damage in wheat. A hotter-than-usual summer can alter grain protein levels. Each shift leaves its mark on the food system, rippling through storage, milling, processing, and ultimately, the consumer experience. For farmers, grain traders …

The Materials Advancing Car Design & How to Test Them Advanced materials are enabling key improvements to automotive vehicles that benefit both manufacturers and end-users, but what are the options for reliable testing? Development and integration of advanced materials are enhancing vehicle design and manufacturing capabilities. These materials are pivotal in boosting vehicle performance, safety, …

Semiconductors are everywhere: in computers, phones, public transport, TVs, and cars – the list is only growing longer. But to manufacture semiconductors, there must be stringent controls to avoid materials becoming contaminated and losing performance. We take a closer look at the sources of contaminants and the necessary testing requirements and systems. Semiconductors are an …

In the fast-paced world of analytical laboratories, where precision and accuracy are paramount, sometimes myths can cloud best practices. One such myth is that robust analytical lab equipment, built to withstand rigorous use, does not require preventive maintenance nor service contracts. While it’s easy to assume that high-quality technology can run smoothly on its own, …

Around the world governmental bodies, research organizations and recycling business are collaborating ever closer to work out more efficient ways to conduct and regulate e-waste recycling. Central to these efforts are employing the best methods of extracting TCE (technology critical elements) from everyday electronic devices including smartphones, batteries and Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs). Both the …

As the world becomes increasingly aware of environmental contamination risks, substances like PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) continue to command attention due to their persistence and potential health hazards. Among industries with high water usage, semiconductor manufacturing stands out as one where water recycling is not only vital for operational efficiency but also essential for …

In the fast-paced world of scientific research, time is an invaluable resource. Every minute spent on routine tasks is a minute taken away from groundbreaking drug discoveries and innovative R&D. For laboratories striving to push the boundaries of science, maximizing time for innovation is a necessity. Yet, many scientists find their days consumed by non-core …

Introduction: Unveiling the Complexities of Compliance and Lab IT Lab IT management is vital for maintaining the integrity of laboratory operations. For scientists and pharmaceutical professionals navigating these systems and regulations can be hard work. Ensuring your lab is protected against cyber threats can be a daunting task but a necessary one. Laboratories can be …