The Thermo Scientific K-Alpha materials characterization instrument uses x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) to enable rapid, accurate, and cost-effective quantitative monitoring of the surface chemical composition of materials, according to the manufacturer. It analyzes the top few nanometers of inorganic, organic, biological, metallurgical, semi-conducting, and magnetic solids, and is designed for high-throughput sample analysis. Usually XPS requires large, expensive instrumentation and user monitoring and activity, but the K-Alpha does most routine operations with little or no user intervention. Its unique features were recognized with an R&D 100s award for 2007, presented by R&D Magazine to the 100 most technologically significant products introduced that year. www.thermo.com/elemental
Class II BSCs are user-friendly
The new Reliant series of Class II biological safety cabinets from ESCO combine ergonomic design with basic controls to provide a better solution for today’s laboratories. The Reliant series features ULPA filters, switch controls, a sloped front, one-piece coved corner interior, built-in removable arm rest, energy-efficient motor/rotor, and many more unique characteristics. The lowest height cabinet available allows the cabinet to be installed in any lab. Cabinets are NSF- and UL-listed. www.escoglobal.com
Glass piping: the sustainable solution
for corrosive waste
KIMAX borosilicate glass drainline systems, from SCHOTT North America Inc., are designed for transport and neutralization of acid waste. Glass drainline piping is sustainable and offers the lowest life-cycle cost in the industry, with adaptability and modularity as key features. According to the manufacturer, KIMAX also exhibits low emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), the highest corrosion resistance compared with competitive products, and will not burn or emit toxic fumes in the event of a fire. KIMAX glass drainline is designed as a sustainable, long-lasting system. www.us.schott.com
AirClean Systems’ PowderSafe Type C balance enclosures incorporate horizontal airflow characteristics and HEPASafe filtration technology while offering the chemical adsorption capabilities of the vendor’s ductless fume hoods. Thermally fused polypropylene makes the PowderSafe Type C enclosure well suited to weighing and manipulating powders and solvents. The Type C enclosure is fitted with the AirSafe automatic safety controller, which allows the operator to set the desired face velocity, minimizing airflow disturbance while maximizing operator protection.
PowderSafe Type C enclosures are designed to provide optimal containment of toxic chemicals and particulates during the manipulation or weighing process. A combination of HEPA and bonded carbon filtration allows the user to safely handle a wide range of substances without compromising operator safety. www.aircleansystems.com
Generators use compressed air
to produce UHP-grade nitrogen
The Chrysalis II ULTRA High Purity nitrogen generators are designed to produce UHP grade nitrogen from compressed air simply and cost effectively. Matheson offers six models for analytical and process applications: the BORA 500, 750, and 1250; and SIROCCO 3, 3A, and 5 with flow capability ranging from 0.5 L/min to 5 L/min. The generators incorporate “dual-step” pressure swing adsorption (DS-PSA) technology to transform ambient air into a continuous stream of nitrogen gas ideal for gas chromatography applications and purge/make-up gas requirements in the laboratory. The DS-PSA technology is a patented process specifically designed to reduce air consumption and power use, and increase purity. www.matheson-trigas.com
3-D laser confocal metrology’s next step
Olympus Microimaging has developed LEXT, a confocal laser scanning microscope for ultra-precise measurement and observation with high reliability. The new LEXT OLS3100 minimizes manual operation so even first-time users can operate the system like an expert. Both 3-D observation and high-precision 3-D measurement are possible in real time. With a horizontal resolution of 0.12 ìm and a magnification range from 1203 to 14,4003, LEXT is designed for researchers working between the limits of conventional optical microscopes and scanning electron microscopes (SEM). www.olympusmicroimaging.com
System provides high-security
monitoring features
Rees Scientific’s CentronSQL environmental monitoring system is designed to provide the ultimate in high-security monitoring. CentronSQL allows the use of either Oracle or Microsoft’s SQL Server as the database engine. Centron nodes are shipped with Microsoft’s MSDE 2000 data engine which is suitable for use as the main data engine for small systems. Critical GxP audit trails and system program data are kept in encrypted files. In addition to stability, industry standard data formats, superior multi-user operation and a dramatically improved system overview, CentronSQL provides a vast array of analysis reports that can be easily accessed from any workstation. Users can be notified of alarms via e-mails, which can be sent to up to 50 simultaneous users and include the input number, name, current reading, low limit, and high limit. www.reesscientific.com
Masonry units offer attractive finish
Premier Block Corp.’s Ultra Burnished Masonry Units are manufactured by grinding the front surface of a CMU block to reveal the texture of aggregates within. A factory sealer offers moisture resistance and accents the beauty of the aggregates. The look is akin to polished stone or granite but at a fraction of the cost, according to the manufacturer. The Ultra units are available in many colors, multiple shapes, and a variety of sizes, and are suggested for both interior and exterior walls, or as decorative accents. www.premierblock.com
Fabric-faced diffuser suits
needs of critical environments
DuctSox has introduced the D-Fuser, the HVAC industry’s first
fabric-faced diffuser for research labs, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and other critical environments. The D-Fuser consists of an environmentally friendly, 50%-recycled polyester fabric face with an antimicrobial treatment; an aluminum face frame; and a 2- 3 4-ft or 2- 3 2-ft, 22-gauge steel, powder-coated backpan that fits standard suspended ceiling T-bar grids. A trim kit is available for finished ceiling retrofits. The product is available in three models: Lami-Flow (vertical dispersion through fabric porosity); Radial Flow (radial dispersion, fabric porosity, and venting); and Select Flow (fabric porosity and custom venting). The three-piece sewn construction of the fabric face allows for four-, three-, two-, or one-way throws. The highly permeable fabric, custom venting, and flexible assembly shape are designed to offer better airflow and versatility than standard metal ceiling diffusers. www.ductsox.com
Digester meets needs of smaller labs
SCP Science has released a new, more compact high-
temperature digestion system. Previously only available in 20-
and 40-position models, the new 10-position DigiPREP HT offers a high-quality digestion system in a more compact and affordable package, according to the manufacturer. Offering the same level of versatility and quality as its larger counterparts, the new 10-
position DigiPREP HT has Teflon-coated two-tier racks, offering corrosion resistance to acid attack; 33% more depth in each graphite well, providing increased contact for faster digestion; a silicon carbide-coated graphite block, preventing the warping that occurs with aluminum blocks; and an integrated dual-glass window, making it easier to view samples when running a method. www.scpscience.com
Enclosures protect users
during powder transfer
The new XPert Bulk Powder Enclosures, from Labconco, provide user protection from hazardous airborne particulates and fumes generated during powder transfer operations. Exclusive features include an ergonomic air foil with aerodynamic Clean-Sweep airflow openings that create a constant, protective barrier from contaminants and an upper dilution air supply with by-pass air that bathes the back of the sash with clean air.
The enclosures include a base stand and transfer caddy. A push-button operates an electric hydraulic lift mechanism that raises the container to the proper ergonomic height. The stainless steel work surface has a spill trough and offers a right-side, center, or left-side mounted access opening for the source container. The interior depth is 30-in. and the enclosures are available in 5-, 6- and 8-ft widths. Units may be ducted to the outside via a filtered house exhaust system or connected to the FilterMate Portable Exhauster outfitted with HEPA and/or carbon filter(s). www.labconco.com
Hand-held sterilizer provides convenience
Flameboy from Integra Bioscience is a handy and practical instrument that provides intrinsically safe flame sterilization. The compact Flameboy comes supplied with three nozzles providing optimal operation with propane/butane, natural gas, or town gas. The size of the smooth flame is adjustable, and when used with a gas cartridge safety adapter the DVGW safety-certified Flameboy is at hand wherever you need it, be in a production plant, fermenter, laboratory, or outdoors. With no interfering cables or tubes the “hands-free” Flameboy is extremely easy-to-use. Operation using a piezoelectric activator ensures that gas ignition is both rapid and safe. If required, the Flameboy may also be connected to gas tubing and used as a fixed installation in a fume hood or lab. www.integra-biosciences.com
Monitor/alarm system upgraded for
remote control, Ethernet access
Sensaphone has introduced an updated version of its eight-channel, data-logging Sensaphone 2000 remote monitor and alarm notification system. The system now offers a programmable relay output that allows users to turn local, programmed devices on and off or adjust settings remotely using automatic or manual controls. The unit also features an optional Ethernet port to make data accessible from any computer within an organization’s network. The upgraded Sensaphone 2000 includes a rechargeable battery backup using a sealed lead-acid battery. With no monthly fees, the Sensaphone 2000 alerts facility managers to changes in critical environmental and operating conditions, such as temperature, power supply, pressure, excess humidity, water on the floor, intrusion, and more via custom voice phone calls, text messages, fax, or optional email. The system is capable of ultra-low temperature monitoring (down to -85°C) and is well-suited for medical and R&D applications, according to the manufacturer. www.sensaphone.com
