When choosing a Lithium Borate Flux for your XRF or ICP application there are a number of factors to be considered:
The melting point of the flux should be sufficiently high so that the sample is fully dissolved but not too high that it causes volatilisation. This is particularly important for volatile compounds such as those containing Sodium (Na), Potassium (K) and Sulfur (S).
The purity of the flux is important in minimising sample contamination and background intensities. Where trace level accuracy is required (particularly for ICP), the purity of the flux is critical.
The level of moisture retention in the flux can have a significant impact on the weighing accuracy and fusion process. In general, pre-fused fluxes minimise water absorption over extended periods.
The choice of flux depends on the acidity/basicity of the sample and ideally the combination of flux and sample should be as close to neutral as possible.
Different flux manufacturing processes, although chemically identical, have different physical structures. Beaded, granular and powder are some of the more common types. The flux type has a large impact on the hygroscopy, weighing accuracy and melting rates. A pre-fused flux with a controlled particle size and low dust will provide the optimum conditions for fusion.
There are a number of additives that can be added to the flux to improve the overall outcome:
XRF Scientific provides flux products that can meet your requirements regardless of which of these factors is most important to you. The chart below provides a recommendation of which flux to use for a range of common samples. For more specialist applications we are always happy to provide support and can often devise a custom solution which is just right for you.
Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy is a very powerful and precise analytical tool used to determine the structure of compounds, as well as to detect and quantify protein-ligand interactions that provides insights into molecular structures and affinity. The technology’s exceptional sensitivity and robustness enables it to detect even weak intermolecular interactions in solution phase, making it an invaluable tool in drug discovery and development. The analytical process does not require extensive optimizations, as the only prerequisite for NMR experiment to proceed (for structure determination or binding strength measurement) is the solubility of the target protein and/or the small molecule (ligand) in a selected solvent, making it an easily accessible technique.
Indeed, Bruker provides the world’s most accessible and easy-to-operate suite of NMR systems. With its user-focused technology, NMR confidence can be seamlessly and affordably integrated into laboratory workflows without compromising performance. Through Bruker’s partnership with Molave Trading Inc. and the University of San Agustin (USA), natural drug discovery reaches new heights in the country upon the installation of the Bruker Ascend 600 MHz Cryoprobe NMR Spectrometer in USA’s Magnetic Resonance Facility in Iloilo City. This milestone set a new standard as the first and only of its kind in the Philippines, and the 4th country in the ASEAN region.
In fact, the Bruker cryoprobe NMR spectrometer was extremely instrumental when a team of scientists from the University of San Agustin made a significant scientific breakthrough last February 21, 2023. They published the discovery of a new bacterial species from the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sulu Sea, which produces natural compounds with antibiotic and anticancer properties. NMR was one of the primary tools utilized to profile and confirm the structure of rare chlorine-containing compounds from this novel bacterial strain. The study was published in the journal Microbiology Spectrum from the American Society for Microbiology. Truly, a highlight of Filipino research excellence!
A sign of a healthy community is its simultaneous ability to preserve and invent its culture – to look back in history while developing new expressions for the present time. Much of our history is contained in artworks, documents, artifacts and other cultural heritages. As these objects are of utmost significance, preserving them has become a science-based discipline that entails meticulous cleaning, repairing, re-assembling as well as toning to blend with the original object. Further research and analysis are also done to identify material composition, effects of aging, and extent of damage caused by environmental pollution.
The Agilent Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectrometer is used to analyze organic substances in valuable sculptures and artefacts without introducing significant destruction to the material. With innovative sampling technology, it can analyze objects that are too large, too valuable or too remote to measure with conventional spectrometers. Overcoming these challenges further preserves the integrity and authenticity of these historical objects; thus enriching the country’s heritage for future generations to come.
Everybody loves burgers. It is the harmonious relationship of two lightly toasted buns topped with roasted sesame seeds embracing a perfectly seared beef patty that’s rich brown on the outside and soft pink on the inside. Add to that a generous spread of mayonnaise, crisp lettuce and freshly sliced tomato. But the star of the show is the beef. It must be of top quality – with just the right amount of meat and fat to give it its juiciness, just the right amount of moisture and just the right amount of salt to give shape to its flavor.
The Foss FoodScan Meat Analyser helps your favorite burger joints produce the perfect beef patties for their burgers. Each patty is analyzed for its fat, moisture, protein, and salt content to make its shape, color, texture, and aroma consistent throughout wherever they may be served. So whether you’re eating a burger in Manila or in Davao, you can taste the same combination of textures and flavors that you gladly enjoy in your favorite burger.
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