Mass Spectrometry & Spectroscopy 13 Advanced SORS systems transform airport security screening


Agilent has introduced the Insight Series Alarm Resolution Systems – a new generation of spatially offset Raman spectroscopy (SORS)-based explosive detection instruments designed to strengthen airport security and improve passenger flow.


The range includes the Insight300M and InsightBLS models, which deliver rapid, non-invasive analysis of liquids, aerosols, and gels (LAGs) in accordance with global security regulations. Building on technology first developed by Cobalt Light Systems, the series combines exceptional sensitivity with the industry’s lowest false alarm rates, ensuring fast and reliable threat identification without opening containers or disrupting checkpoint operations.


Using spatially offset Raman spectroscopy (SORS), the systems can detect substances through opaque and multi-layered packaging, distinguishing hazardous materials from harmless items in seconds. Software-based upgrades allow operators to adapt to evolving regulations and emerging threats, extending the instrument’s lifespan without costly hardware replacement.


“The new Insight Series represents a significant step forward in alarm resolution and detection capability for airports,” said Geoff Winkett, Vice President of Agilent’s Spectroscopy & Vacuum Division. “These systems give operators a faster, more accurate, and future-proof way to safeguard passengers.”


Designed to complement CT X-ray scanners for cabin baggage screening, the Insight systems provide confirmatory identification of potential threats and can be expanded to cover a wider range of materials, including solids and powders.


Agilent’s latest launch marks an important milestone in its ongoing expansion into security applications for Raman spectroscopy, following the proven success of the Insight100 and Insight200M systems.


More information online: ilmt.co/PL/dV37 New system accelerates accurate XPS surface analysis


Thermo Fisher Scientific has introduced the Thermo Scientific™ Hypulse™ Surface Analysis System, designed to transform X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) depth profiling. The system enables researchers to capture more accurate surface data, faster, and across a wider range of materials.


From improving energy storage to enhancing medical implants and fire protection, advanced surface analysis plays a vital role in developing the next generation of materials. By revealing deeper, truer insights, the Hypulse system supports innovation that benefits society across multiple industries.


At the heart of the system is femtosecond laser technology, a novel material-removal method that preserves sample integrity, accelerates data collection, and extends analysis depth. This approach avoids chemical damage and enables researchers to uncover the original composition of materials more efficiently.


“Using a femtosecond laser changes the process entirely,” explained Professor Mark Baker, University of Surrey. “It protects sample chemistry, speeds up profiling, and lets us probe deeper than before.”


The Hypulse system combines this new capability with Thermo Fisher’s proven MAGCIS™ ion source, giving scientists the flexibility to analyse samples when traditional ion beam methods are not suitable.


More information online: ilmt.co/PL/XWnx 65841pr@reply-direct.com 65938pr@reply-direct.com


Accelerating polymer and chemical QC with FTIR technology


Anton Paar’s Lyza 7000 FTIR spectrometer is a compact, standalone instrument that delivers fast, reliable ATR FTIR analysis for quality control in polymer and chemical manufacturing.


FTIR spectroscopy with attenuated total reflectance (ATR) is a well-established method for polymer and chemical identification. Fast, non-destructive, and sample-preparation-free measurement allows reliable identification of polymers, additives, and fillers within 30 seconds.


FTIR spectroscopy can be used to confirm material identity, quantify additives, and detect blend deviations. With Lyza 7000, spectral acquisition, comparison, interpretation, and reporting is automated. This reduces QC cycle times to around one minute per sample – enabling fast decision-making on raw materials, blend accuracy, and final product integrity.


Operating the Lyza 7000 FTIR spectrometer is simple and straightforward. With no external PC or complex setup required, lab personnel simply place the sample on the ATR crystal and tap ‘Start’. The device acquires the spectrum in less than 30 seconds, compares it to a validated reference, computes a correlation, and delivers a definitive pass/fail report.


Modular cells support a variety of sample types, with module detection enabling rapid cell swaps with no downtime. Internal diagnostics and a status display help ensure stable operation and immediate issue identification, while the touchscreen interface with guided workflows enables consistent results with no specialised training.


From raw material verification to final product release, Lyza 7000 delivers fast, reliable results – bringing the capabilities of ATR FTIR into an efficient, compact system optimised for effective quality control.


More information online: ilmt.co/PL/ew3B 65420pr@reply-direct.com


Circular Dichroism beyond single-point checks: First accredited ISO 17025 CRMs deliver spectrum-wide confidence


Circular Dichroism (CD) spectroscopy is central to structural biology and chiral analysis. However, in 2025, many laboratories still rely on camphor-10-sulfonic acid (CSA) or ammonium camphorsulfonate (ACS) for instrument verification. These traditional methods require fresh preparation, are prone to hygroscopic error, and only validate a single peak near 290 nm. The result: The visible range goes untested, and compliance is left exposed.


Starna leads the industry with its Certified Reference Materials (CRMs) for CD. Each set contains permanently flame-sealed quartz cells – Blank, R,R, and S,S enantiomers – spanning both UV and visible regions (190–700 nm and 400–700 nm). Ready-to-use, these references eliminate weighing and waiting, removing preparation variability and ensuring reproducibility across instruments and locations.


Certification extends beyond static tables. Every set features a continuous Δε(λ) model and U95 uncertainty envelopes, so users can verify performance at any wavelength with confidence. For those who prefer a rapid check, certificates highlight key maxima and minima: anchor points at 210, 237, 274, and 545 nm for UV, and 446, 479, 545, and 605 nm for VIS. Spot-checking instrument performance becomes straightforward, with no need for complex calculations. Certificates are valid for two years, offering lasting assurance between renewals.


As the first and only producer with an accredited (UKAS) scope for CD CRMs, Starna combines ISO 17034 production and ISO/IEC 17025 calibration for unmatched traceability and compliance. This achievement ensures every set is certified with globally recognised traceability for audit-ready documentation and spectrum-wide reliability.


For regulated environments, the advantages are clear: objective acceptance criteria, reduced operational risk, and data integrity you can defend. Say goodbye to stresses that result from last-minute scrambling to prepare unstable CSA solutions, or worrying about gaps in instrument calibration. With Starna UKAS-accredited CD spectroscopy standards, you can demonstrate compliance and reproducibility across the full spectrum.


Ready to move beyond single-point checks? Request a certificate sample or technical briefing today to experience how Starna Certified Reference Materials can transform your laboratory’s approach to CD instrument qualification.


More information online: ilmt.co/PL/LwWd 65529pr@reply-direct.com


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