Forensic Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometry (FIRMS)

"Forensic Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometry proficiency testing - helping you get your IRMS analysis right"

Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometry (IRMS) is a specialised technique that precisely measures small differences in the abundances of isotopes such as 2H/1H, 13C/12C, 15N/14N, and 18O/16O. Subtle variations to the ‘natural’ abundance of these isotopes may be introduced during biological, chemical, and physical processes.

These changes enable the differentiation of materials that may not be separated by traditional analytical techniques - meaning that IRMS is used in many fields, including archaeology, medicine, geology, food authenticity, and forensics.

At LGC AXIO Proficiency Testing we recognise the importance of getting it right. Participation in FIRMS - our Forensic Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometry proficiency testing scheme - helps laboratories demonstrate competence in this analytical technique. The scheme is operated by LGC AXIO Proficiency Testing and is supported by the FIRMS Network, which provides input on the choice of test materials and scheme performance.