Can the design of a gas chromatograph (GC) impact the productivity of your laboratory? The answer is yes, especially when it allows you to work more efficiently. In a previous blog post, I described <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/blog/analyteguru/how-modularity-delivers-innovation-in-the-gas-chromatography/">how modularity delivers innovation in the gas chromatography world</a>. It highlighted the benefits to laboratories of the modular concept of the Thermo Scientific TRACE 1300 Series GC.With the introduction of the new Thermo Scientific <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/483">TRACE 1600 Series GC</a>, the modular architecture continues to deliver <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UAvW8SQEQ0M&amp;pp=ygUKVFJBQ0UgMTYwMA%3D%3D">cost- and time-savings opportunities</a> to users, thanks to a comprehensive choice of self-installable iConnect injector and detector modules. Each module is identified by a serial number for easy tracking in the laboratory and can be qualified as a separate item, so it can be safely interchanged on a GC instrument maintaining compliance with internal quality protocols.An enlightening infographic is available for <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://go.labx.com/4-routes-to-gc-lab-efficiency">downloading</a>, illustrating the four ways to increase laboratory efficiency through the modular concept of the TRACE 1600 Series GC. Don’t miss it.<h3>1. Swap downtime for runtime</h3>High-throughput testing laboratories as well as QA/QC labs need to deliver quality results on time.&nbsp; In a situation where a laboratory needs to quickly solve a contamination issue, for example, or needs to quickly recover a correct instrument behavior, the module replacement allows you to <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://assets.thermofisher.com/TFS-Assets/CMD/brochures/sp-74147-gc-modularity-TRACE1600-sp74147-en.pdf">restore running conditions in less than 30 minutes</a>, including cooling and powering down the instrument, disconnecting the column from the original injector module, removing the module, and plugging in the new one, re-connecting the column, and powering up the GC again. The same operation on a conventional GC design would require a service call and a day of instrument downtime. In a situation where the laboratory has a spare module available, no troubleshooting actions are needed and no service call, reducing instrument downtime to half an hour —all with the limited investment of a spare module.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Scientific_4_Ways_to_Increase_Your_GC_Lab_s_Efficiency_2_ec40ea6c18.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific: 4 Ways to Increase Your GC Lab’s Efficiency" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Scientific_4_Ways_to_Increase_Your_GC_Lab_s_Efficiency_2_ec40ea6c18.jpg 234w," sizes="100vw" width="719" height="479"><h3>2. Optimize running costs</h3>A way to increase your laboratory’s efficiency is to make better use of the available resources and optimize running costs by reducing underutilized instrumentation in the lab. The modular concept of unlimited GC configurations and the ability to share modules on any Thermo Scientific TRACE 1300 and 1600 Series GC, multiplies the analytical possibilities. With the increased flexibility gained from modular capabilities, an instrument no longer needs to remain idle because it’s not configured to run particular sample types. More efficient use of your GC instruments optimizes costs and accelerates the return on investment.&nbsp;&nbsp;<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Scientific_4_Ways_to_Increase_Your_GC_Lab_s_Efficiency_3_9934c72df9.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific: 4 Ways to Increase Your GC Lab’s Efficiency." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Scientific_4_Ways_to_Increase_Your_GC_Lab_s_Efficiency_3_9934c72df9.jpg 156w," sizes="100vw" width="617" height="617"><h3>3. Maximize your investment</h3>Start-up, non-routine laboratories may initially face limited budgets, so investments need to be prioritized. Short-terms requirements are clear but future requirements remain uncertain; the same GC may be required for different applications. So which configuration should be considered to balance the initial investment with growing analytical requirements?With conventional GC, saving money today may mean higher costs in the future.&nbsp; Through modularity, you can invest based on current requirements and benefit from additional modules when they are necessary, with no additional fees. &nbsp;Modularity opens up to high flexibility to quickly adapt the GC system to current and future needs and easily address evolving priorities.<h3>4. Free up bench space</h3>With a width of only 44 cm (17.3 inch), the compact size of the TRACE 1600 series GC allows your lab to optimize valuable bench space, allowing you to position more instruments in a limited space. Additionally, having the capability to quickly install and uninstall injectors and detectors and having spare iConnect modules on hand for fast replacement, eliminates the need for maintaining a duplicate GC back-up instrument, removing associated cost of operation and further optimizing valuable bench space.The modular design of your next GC system will revolutionize the way you work in your laboratory.<blockquote><section>Dr. Daniela CavagninoDr. Daniela Cavagnino is global Product Marketing Manager for GC and Autosampler/front-end solutions at Thermo Fisher Scientific. She received her Master's Degree in Chemistry at the University of Milan, Italy. She started her career in gas chromatography spending several years in R&amp;D laboratories working on GC technology innovation. She then conveyed her technical background into product management and marketing management roles with more than 20 years' experience in promoting GC/GC-MS technology and applications in several different market segments. During her career, she has participated as author and co-author in technical publications and actively operated as lecturer at international conferences.</section></blockquote>

4 Ways to Increase Your GC Lab’s Efficiency

In recent years, the use of biofuels, such as biodiesel, has increased as a clean and renewable alternative to conventional fossil fuels, representing a sustainable way to lower greenhouse gas emissions. Biofuels are created from biomass, such as food crops, plants, and more recently from algae, or waste products. The usage of biofuels has been expanding quickly, as businesses and industries throughout the world invest in the technology to lower their carbon footprint and meet renewable energy targets.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Automating_Biodiesel_Quality_Testing_With_Gas_Chromatography_GC_9b30fbafa2.jpg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: Automating Biodiesel Quality Testing With Gas Chromatography (GC)." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Automating_Biodiesel_Quality_Testing_With_Gas_Chromatography_GC_9b30fbafa2.jpg 234w," sizes="100vw" width="768" height="512"><h3>Biodiesel production</h3>Widely used fuel-grade biodiesel is made from vegetable oils (e.g., rapeseed, soybean, palm oil) through the chemical process of transesterification with alcohol (typically methanol), whereby glycerin is separated from the resulted mixture of free fatty esters (biodiesel).Once separated from glycerin, biodiesel can be blended with petroleum diesel in various concentrations, labeled as BXX, where XX represents the percentage of biodiesel in the mineral diesel. Typically, it can be used at a concentration of 5 percent (B5) up to 20 percent (B20) in diesel engines with little or no modifications.Biodiesel (B100) quality is critical to ensure a safe and satisfactory engine operation, therefore, during the production process it is important that reaction conversion yield, removal of glycerol, absence of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), removal of alcohol and absence unreacted glycerides are monitored.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Automating_Biodiesel_Quality_Testing_With_Gas_Chromatography_GC_2_d157db6977.jpg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: Automating Biodiesel Quality Testing With Gas Chromatography (GC): Transesterification reaction for biodiesel production." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Automating_Biodiesel_Quality_Testing_With_Gas_Chromatography_GC_2_d157db6977.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1178" height="423">The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) and the European Standards (EN) have published analytical methods that are widely adopted to characterize impurities in pure biodiesel (B100) by using gas chromatography (GC) coupled to flame ionization detection (FID):<h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.en-standard.eu/csn-en-14105-fat-and-oil-derivatives-fatty-acid-methyl-esters-fame-determination-of-free-and-total-glycerol-and-mono-di-triglyceride-contents/">EN 14105</a> /<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.astm.org/standards/d6584">ASTM D6584</a></h4><h5>Standard methods &nbsp;/&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Relevance</h5><ul><li>Determination of residual free and total glycerol and mono-, di-, triglyceride content: Unreacted glycerides and free glycerol are critical for engine injector clogging and fouling compounds formation</li></ul><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.en-standard.eu/une-en-14103-2020-fat-and-oil-derivatives-fatty-acid-methyl-esters-fame-determination-of-ester-and-linolenic-acid-methyl-ester-contents/">EN 14103</a></h4><h5>Standard methods &nbsp;/&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Relevance</h5>Determination of total FAMEs (Fatty Acid Methyl Esters) and linolenic acid methyl ester (C18:3) content: FAME content is a measure the reaction yield and allows accurate calculation of the cetane index of biodiesel<h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.en-standard.eu/din-en-14110-fat-and-oil-derivatives-fatty-acid-methyl-esters-determination-of-methanol-content/">EN 14110</a></h4><h5>Standard methods &nbsp;/&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Relevance</h5>Determination of residual methanol: Small amount of residual methanol can reduce the flash point of biodiesel, potentially affecting the safe operation of fuel pumps, lifetime of seals and elastomers, and resulting in poor combustion<h3>Biodiesel analyzer: comprehensive quality check with one automated system</h3>Each of the standard methods requires specific GC conditions, calibration set up and sample preparation procedures, typically approached with different GC systems and manual sample handling. Especially the analysis of glycerol and unreacted mono-, di-, triglycerides requires complex and time consuming sample derivatization and complex calibration set up.To face the high throughput demand of analytical laboratories, a multimethod approach for the analysis of biodiesel samples can be achieved by operating a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/422">Thermo Scientific™ TriPlus™ RSH SMART</a> robotic autosampler in Clone Mode configuration, allowing it to serve two <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/487">Thermo Scientific TRACE™ 1610 GC</a> systems. The TriPlus actss as two independent autosamplers, so that different samples can be automatically injected into two GCs — one dedicated to glycerol analysis due to the high oven temperature that has to be reached — and one dedicated to methanol and FAME determination.The automation capability and versatility of the TriPlus RSH SMART autosampler is used to execute derivatization protocol as well as calibration setup with internal standard addition, for all the standard methods, followed by injection into the GC systems.This comprehensive solution for biodiesel analysis is ideal for laboratories performing quality control and production process monitoring, and looking to improve productivity with confident results.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Automating_Biodiesel_Quality_Testing_With_Gas_Chromatography_GC_3_2312812b9d.jpg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: Automating Biodiesel Quality Testing With Gas Chromatography (GC): TriPlus RSH SMART autosampler configured for automated sample preparation and calibration setup, serving two TRACE 1610 GC systems, one dedicated for EN14105/ASTM D6584 and one dedicated to EN14103/EN14110." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Automating_Biodiesel_Quality_Testing_With_Gas_Chromatography_GC_3_2312812b9d.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="780" height="429">Automation for calibration standards, sample derivatization, and internal standard addition, reduces the risk of errors and cross-contaminations, delivering highly precise and reliable analytical results. Automation also allows for unattended operations, saving analysts valuable time as well as limiting analysts’ exposure to the toxic reagents typically used in biodiesel sample derivatization protocols.<section><blockquote>Dr. Daniela CavagninoDr. Daniela Cavagnino is global Product Marketing Manager for GC and Autosampler/front-end solutions at Thermo Fisher Scientific. She received her Master's Degree in Chemistry at the University of Milan, Italy. She started her career in gas chromatography spending several years in R&amp;D laboratories working on GC technology innovation. She then conveyed her technical background into product management and marketing management roles with more than 20 years' experience in promoting GC/GC-MS technology and applications in several different market segments. During her career, she has participated as author and co-author in technical publications and actively operated as lecturer at international conferences.&nbsp;</blockquote></section>

Automating Biodiesel Quality Testing With Gas Chromatography (GC)

Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezGCMS Library in the week of 19th May 2025? Check out new documents from the field of the gas phase, especially GC and GC/MS techniques!<blockquote>👉 <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library">SEARCH THE LARGEST REPOSITORY OF DOCUMENTS ABOUT GCMS AND RELATED TECHNIQUES</a></blockquote><blockquote>👉 Need info about different analytical techniques? Peek into <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/library">LabRulezLCMS</a> or <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library">LabRulezICPMS</a> libraries.</blockquote>This week we bring you application notes by Agilent Technologies, Shimadzu, poster by MDCW and technical note by Thermo Fisher Scientific!<h3>1. Agilent Technologies: Py-GC/MS/MS Microplastic Analysis of Samples Containing Interfering Substances</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_microplastic_analysis_pygcmsms_5994_7637en_agilent_1_6caa53726f.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Microplastics, defined as plastic fragments with a particle size of 5 mm or less, originate from various products, such as cosmetics, clothing, food packaging, and plastic waste. Microplastics have been detected in water, soil, and air environments,5 as well as in food and within living organisms.7 Consequently, numerous analytical techniques are being developed to investigate the extent of microplastic contamination and its impacts.&nbsp;Microplastics can be seen with the naked eye or a microscope when the particle size is large, but observation is difficult when the size is small, and quantitative analysis by type of plastic is difficult. Techniques using spectroscopic instruments, such as IR or Raman, or thermal analysis instruments such as Py-GC/MS or thermal extraction desorption (TED)-GC/MS have been widely used.1, 2, 3, 4 IR and Raman spectroscopy can be used to identify the type, shape, size, and count of microplastics on filters after sample preparation and filtration. These techniques rely on spectroscopic analysis of the microplastics retained on the filter. For Py-GC/MS or TED-GC/MS, the microplastics collected on the filter are thermally decomposed, and the resulting compounds are analyzed with GC/MS, allowing for the quantification of each type of microplastic8 (by weight). In particular, Py-GC/MS has recently been recognized as an ASTM International method11 and is widely applied as an analytical method for analyzing microplastics in drinking water.12 In the case of environmental samples or food samples with complex matrices, additional matrix effects can negatively impact analytical performance or result in thermal decomposition products that cannot be separated from microplastic thermal decomposition product peaks, causing interference and overlapping with target ions.6&nbsp;In this application, we applied Py-GC/MS/MS (MRM mode) to microplastic analysis to determine whether accurate quantitative analysis of microplastics is possible even in samples containing complex matrices.<h5>Instrument and analysis conditions&nbsp;</h5>The instruments used were a Frontier Lab pyrolyzer (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=42&amp;search=Py-3030D">Py-3030D</a>) and an Agilent <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=8890+GC">8890 GC</a> coupled to a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=7000E+triple+quadrupole+gc%2Fms">7000E triple quadrupole GC/MS system</a>. The temperature of the pyrolyzer was set to 600 °C, as shown in Table 1, and the components produced by thermal decomposition were passed through the GC inlet (320 °C, split 50:1), cryo-focused by liquid nitrogen applied to the front end of deactivated metal capillary column (UA-5, 30 m x 0.25 mm x 0.25 µm) in the Microjet Cryo Trap, separated by the GC oven temperature program after about 3 minutes, and transferred to the mass spectrometer. The analysis conditions are shown in Tables 1, 2, 3, and 4.<h4>Results and discussion</h4><h5>Chromatogram</h5>Chromatograms resulting from the analysis of the microplastics calibration standard (MPCS) that includes 11 types of microplastics are shown in Figure 1 for both Scan and MRM modes. The Scan mode total ion chromatogram (TIC) can be processed into extracted ion chromatograms (EIC) to confirm the target ion (m/z) for each indicator peak, as seen on the left side of Figure 1. The MRM TIC and EIC are shown on the right side of Figure 1. As can be seen, MRM mode can reduce matrix interference and enhance selectivity. Calibration curves can be created using either Scan or MRM mode using concentration of the MPCS.<h4>Conclusion</h4>We have established a quantitative analysis method using Py-GC/MS/MS (MRM mode) for complex matrix samples and trace levels of microplastics.&nbsp;Under the established Py-GC/MS/MS (MRM mode) conditions, the linearity of the calibration curves generated for the 11 types of microplastics, ranging from several hundred ng to several µg, was excellent (R² &gt; 0.99). Compared to Scan (Target EIC) mode, noise is reduced by two to several times when analyzed in MRM mode, and accordingly, the S/N ratio is increased when analyzed in MRM mode, enabling the detection of microplastics with better selectivity. In addition, when there is matrix interference during sample analysis, more accurate quantitative results can be obtained by applying the MRM mode, and Py-GC/MS/MS (MRM mode) can be very useful for quantifying complex matrix samples and trace levels of microplastics.<h3>2. MDCW: Analysis of (micro-)plastic-associated chemicals released into marine environments by comprehensive multidimensional gas chromatography-mass spectrometry</h3><ul><li>Poster</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/MDC_2025_Poster_d31ebb1c76.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Plastic materials contain many different chemicals, which include functional additives as well as trace levels of non-intentionally added substances. Plastic released into the environment acts as a vector for these chemicals, which may cause harm to exposed organisms. The complex mixture of chemical classes and concentrations within plastics is a challenge for analysis, which can be addressed through the use of multidimensional analytical approaches.&nbsp;Here, the chemical composition of different polymer samples was analysed using comprehensive multidimensional gas chromatography coupled to time-of-flight mass spectrometry. Ultrasonication assisted extractions with solvent represents a ‘worse-case-scenario’ in relation to environmental leaching, and provides a starting point for non-target analysis of microplastic leaching in marine environments.<h4>Results</h4>All the virgin polymer samples released chemicals under organic extraction. As shown in Figure 1, the Hexane DCM:MeOH MeOH EtOAc number of compounds released by each polymer was influenced by the solvent used for the extraction. Additionally, the conventional polymers released a higher number of chemicals than the biopolymers, particularly LDPE and PP.&nbsp;The high number of compounds released by LDPE and PP is due to the release of polymer-derived alkanes. The use of GC ×GC enabled separation and identification of other plastic-associated compounds from the alkane series (see respective chromatograms). In contrast, the other polymers released a range of compound classes. Some of the compounds identified in the extracts, for example phthalates, are detrimental to both human and environmental health.&nbsp;<h4>Conclusion</h4>Chemical extracts from several polymer samples demonstrated that virgin polymer samples contain chemicals which are not chemically bonded to the bulk polymer material – and therefore have potential to be released into the environment. Future leaching studies can be informed by the chemical identifications made, and increase the confidence that those compounds identified in leachates did originate from the respective polymer.<h3>3. Shimadzu: Quantitative Analysis of Furan and Alkylfuran in Processed Food Using a Triple Quadrupole GC-MS System and an SPME Arrow</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_01_00876_en_96a8b1c14c.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>User Benefits:<ul><li>Using an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=SPME+Arrow+">SPME Arrow </a>allows for highly sensitive analysis of furan and alkylfuran in processed food.</li><li>The MRM mode enables highly reliable analysis even in complex matrices.</li><li>An <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=AOC-6000+Plus+autosampler">AOC-6000 Plus autosampler</a> helps increase productivity and repeatability through automated pretreatment.</li></ul>Furan and alkylfuran compounds are commonly found in many foods, including coffee. They are known as volatile organic compounds that contribute to aroma. However, recent studies in various countries have reported health concerns regarding these compounds and monitoring of furan and alkylfuran has been recommended in the EU1) .&nbsp;These compounds are frequently measured using the HSGC/MS method, which is convenient and effective when present at relatively high concentrations. However, for samples containing low concentrations, pretreatment for concentration is necessary. This Application News article describes a method using an SPME Arrow and GC-MS/MS system that enables more consistent analysis even at trace concentrations in complex matrix samples.<h4>Instrument Configuration and Analytical Conditions</h4>The analysis was performed using an AOC-6000 Plus multifunctional autosampler and a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=GCMS-TQ8040+NX">GCMS-TQ8040 NX </a>triple quadrupole gas chromatograph mass spectrometer system (Fig. 1). The AOC-6000 Plus is a multifunctional autosampler that can automatically switch between various sample injection methods, such as liquid injection, headspace injection, and solid-phase microextraction (SPME), depending on the sample and purpose (Fig. 2). In this analysis, an SPME Arrow, which offers improved durability compared to a traditional SPME fiber, was used forsample analysis. When using sampling methods involving concentration, such as the SPME method, matrix-derived impurities may also be concentrated, making it difficult to improve sensitivity due to interference from impurities. In this analysis, high sensitivity for analyzing furan in processed foods was achieved by using the SPME method in combination with the MRM mode of the triple quadrupole GC-MS system.<h4>Comparison of SIM and MRM</h4>To confirm the improvement in selectivity with MRM, analysis using the SIM mode was also conducted. Generally, the MRM mode of a triple quadrupole GC-MS system offers better selectivity compared to the SIM mode, leading to higher sensitivity and more consistent detection. Fig. 5 shows the SIM and MRM chromatograms of four components detected in baby food. While each component was detectable with both modes, the MRM mode provided higher selectivity, whereas the SIM mode was more susceptible to interference from impurities. Therefore, manual peak integration or changes to the quantitative ions may be required in the SIM mode depending on the sample.<h4>Conclusion</h4>Quantitative analysis of furan and alkylfuran in processed food was conducted using an SPME Arrow and a triple quadrupole GC-MS system. The AOC-6000 Plus multifunctional autosampler allows for highly sensitive and reproducible quantification of furan compounds using the SPME Arrow method. Additionally, by enhancing selectivity with the MRM mode of the triple quadrupole GC-MS system, more reliable analytical results were obtained.<h3>4. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Data-driven GC and GC-MS instrument monitoring with SmartStatus intelligent software&nbsp;</h3><ul><li>Technical note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/tn_001883_gc_ms_gc_ms_ms_smartstatus_tn001883_na_en_99ce72eef2/tn-001883-gc-ms-gc-ms-ms-smartstatus-tn001883-na-en.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Rising costs can significantly impact an analytical laboratory’s profit margin, and it is crucial to maintain productivity and ensure maximum asset utilization to stay competitive. To balance increased overhead costs, including analytical gases and staff pay, laboratories must ensure that analytical instrumentation consistently produces results, without interruption. Re-analyzing entire runs due to drops in sensitivity, unnecessary downtime, and underutilization of consumables is expensive and time consuming.&nbsp;Thermo Scientific™ <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=3&amp;search=SmartStatus">SmartStatus</a>™ instrument tracking can help laboratories realize additional cost savings. This is done by using data-driven insights to accurately determine when to perform maintenance and replace consumables and parts, so that the system consistently runs smoothly for all samples and meets specifications in the initial analysis. This ensures that consumables and parts are replaced on the correct schedule and avoids excess instrument downtime.&nbsp;SmartStatus instrument tracking is an intelligent instrument health software that allows users to track key aspects of their GC-MS system. It is available as standard on the Thermo Scientific™ <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/483">TRACE™ 1600 GC series</a>, Thermo Scientific™ <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=3&amp;search=AI%2FAS+1610+liquid+autosampler">AI/AS 1610 liquid autosampler</a>, Thermo Scientific™ <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/484">ISQ™ 7610 GC-MS series</a>, and the Thermo Scientific™ <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/485">TSQ™ 9610 GC-MS/MS series</a>. In this technical note, the new SmartStatus instrument tracking capabilities are highlighted with examples of how it can enable analytical laboratories to keep instruments producing consistent results.<h4>SmartStatus software overview&nbsp;</h4>SmartStatus intelligent software, available within Thermo Scientific™ <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/76">Chromeleon™ Chromatography Data System (CDS)</a>, allows monitoring of the entire analytical system including Thermo Scientific™ autosamplers, GC, GC detectors (FID and TCD), and mass spectrometers (MS). Hundreds of key instrument parameters are monitored by SmartStatus software, which provides real-time data and insights informing the user to potential problems before they arise to ensure maximum instrument uptime. This allows users to make informed decisions on which parts of the analytical system require attention and when. By performing preventative maintenance using data-driven guidance, optimal instrument performance is sustained day in and day out. Figure 1 shows the SmartStatus software overview page for a TSQ 9610 triple quadrupole MS coupled to a TRACE 1610 GC and AI/AS 1610 liquid autosampler. This overview page allows a user to quickly determine if the system is ready to run or requires attention.&nbsp;For more information on instrument status, there is a detailed view for each part of the system. This next level view shows how many injections have been performed for the various GC consumables, the lifetime of the MS detector and filament, and when the last tune was performed. Figure 2 shows an example of the GC and MS parameters and how they are monitored. Each parameter is represented as a counter gauge. As the usage increases, the gauge changes color to quickly notify the user of any maintenance that is required or will be needed soon. This allows users to plan maintenance in advance to fit it around their schedule and workload. SmartStatus instrument tracking can be monitored directly in Chromeleon CDS, and consumables usage can also be monitored directly on the TRACE 1610 GC touch screen through the dedicated instrument health icon, as shown in Figure 3.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>SmartStatus software is intelligent and data-driven, allowing users to make informed decisions on when to perform maintenance on their GC and GC-MS systems. Its features and advantages include:<ul><li>At-a-glance system ready status allowing the analyst to act only when needed, removing wastes&nbsp;</li><li>User customizability of monitored parameters, threshold, and time units, which gives users control to monitor the system in a way that fits their needs&nbsp;</li><li>Intelligent preventative maintenance alerts ensuring maintenance to be performed before issues arise, keeping the instrument up and running longer</li><li>Consumable tracking that enables sustainable operation and maximization of the use of each consumable&nbsp;</li><li>Smart Support for rapid remote diagnosis to ensure any instrument issues can be resolved without delay&nbsp;</li></ul>Utilizing SmartStatus software on the TRACE 1600 series GC, TSQ 9610 GC-MS/MS, and ISQ 7610 GC-MS gives the analyst data-driven insights to make informed decisions that allow laboratories to operate more sustainably by maintain productivity, maximizing consumable usage, and reducing laboratory costs.

News from LabRulezGCMS Library - Week 21, 2025

Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) is a workhorse in analytical laboratories, prized for its sensitivity, selectivity, and versatility. Thermo Scientific <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/content/lifetech/global/en/home/industrial/mass-spectrometry/gas-chromatography-mass-spectrometry-gc-ms.html">GC-MS systems</a> are built to support demanding workflows with smart hardware innovations like NeverVent technology, and iConnect injectors and detectors.&nbsp;<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Chromeleon_CDS_Hints_and_Tips_to_Help_Optimize_your_GC_MS_Workflows_45f2350306.jpg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: Chromeleon CDS: Hints and Tips to Help Optimize your GC-MS Workflows" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Chromeleon_CDS_Hints_and_Tips_to_Help_Optimize_your_GC_MS_Workflows_45f2350306.jpg 236w," sizes="100vw" width="1024" height="678"><article><div>But even the smartest hardware can only take you so far. For many scientists and lab managers, the real bottleneck isn’t the instrument—it’s the manual, time-consuming steps required to keep workflows moving and data processing on track. That’s where Thermo Scientific Chromeleon software comes in.<h3>Why GC-MS workflows can be a headache</h3>Even with state-of-the-art hardware, GC-MS workflows demand attention. Routine maintenance—like column trimming, source cleaning, and inlet checks—must be tracked and managed. Meanwhile, retention time shifts can throw off compound detection, forcing analysts to manually correct and realign data.And when it comes to data review, it’s easy to lose hours scrolling through chromatograms to check integrations and flag anomalies. It slows down decision-making and is tedious and can be prone to error.<h3>Chromeleon software: Smarter software for GC-MS success</h3><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/76">Chromeleon software</a> enhances and brings effortless usability to your GC-MS system by bringing efficiency, automation, and visibility into your operations. Here’s how:<h4>✅ Retention time alignment</h4>Automatically correct retention times across compounds with built-in tools. Save time and ensure consistent compound detection.<h4>🛠 Integrated system suitability tests</h4>Proactively monitor instrument performance by building automated system suitability checks directly into your sequences, enabling you to catch issues before they impact data quality.<h4>🧠 SmartStatus intelligent software &nbsp;</h4>Built into Thermo Scientific Chromeleon CDS, SmartStatus gives you a full view of your GC-MS system’s health. Track consumable usage, get alerts when maintenance is due, and monitor performance trends. &nbsp;<h4>👁 Custom view settings</h4>Streamline data review with tailored layouts that highlight exactly what you care about—whether that’s retention times, quantitation accuracy, or quality checks.<h4>🚩 Automatic result flagging</h4>Build in rules to flag integration errors, missing peaks, or results that fall outside of defined criteria. Zone in on issues fast—without inspecting every injection.<h4>📄 Consistent, audit-ready reporting</h4>Generate standardized reports with just a click—complete with full traceability. No need to carry out calculations outside of the software.<h3>The bottom line</h3>Your Thermo Scientific GC-MS system is built for high performance. Chromeleon software helps you run it smarter—by catching issues early, simplifying data review, and reducing the manual work that slows you down.“Faster evaluation of data with Chromeleon on the TSQ 9610 generates a higher sample throughput with a time saving of 10% to 20% per sample run.” – Eurofins SOFIA GmbHFrom instrument control to streamlined data review and compliance-ready reporting, Chromeleon software helps you reclaim time, reduce errors, and drive consistency—every step of the way.<blockquote>Ready to see it in action?Watch our <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://event.on24.com/wcc/r/4940132/3DD01B56C4383C3BF8276C47E689D0F0?partnerref=E.25CMD.CH102.25762.01">GC-MS Masterclass webinar</a>, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/cs_000731_gc_GC_MS_MS_TSQ_9610_food_enviro_testing_cs000731_na_en_7e59895e62/cs-000731-gc-GC-MS-MS-TSQ9610-food-enviro-testing-cs000731-na-en.pdf">hear what our customers have to say</a> or visit the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/content/lifetech/global/en/home/industrial/chromatography/chromatography-learning-center/chromeleon-cds-information.html">Chromeleon University</a> to learn how smarter software can take your workflows to the next level.Visit us on&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/72003132/admin/dashboard/">LinkedIn:</a>&nbsp;#Chromeleon #GCMS</blockquote></div></article><section><blockquote><h4>Zoe Julian</h4>Zoe Julian is a Product Marketing Manager for Chromatography and Mass Spectrometry software at Thermo Fisher Scientific. With over 12 years' experience of working with chromatography and mass spectrometry techniques with a background in GC and GC-MS(/MS) organic environmental analysis, she has helped many laboratories and industries improve their workflows through a unique understanding of their challenges. Transitioning to a focus on Chromeleon CDS she has shown customers how software solutions can improve their productivity and support their day-to-day operations.</blockquote></section>

Chromeleon CDS: Hints and Tips to Help Optimize your GC-MS Workflows

Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezGCMS Library in the week of 14th July 2025? Check out new documents from the field of the gas phase, especially GC and GC/MS techniques!<blockquote>👉 <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library">SEARCH THE LARGEST REPOSITORY OF DOCUMENTS ABOUT GCMS AND RELATED TECHNIQUES</a></blockquote><blockquote>👉 Need info about different analytical techniques? Peek into <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/library">LabRulezLCMS</a> or <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library">LabRulezICPMS</a> libraries.</blockquote>This week we bring you posters by Agilent Technologies / ASMS, Shimadzu / ASMS, presentation by Liège University / MDCW and technical note by Thermo Fisher Scientific!<h3>1. Agilent Technologies / ASMS: Optimizing Hydrogen Carrier Gas on GC/MS Using the HydroInert EI Source and 5Q Columns&nbsp;</h3><ul><li>Poster</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/ps_gc_gc_5q_columns_ei_source_asms_2025_mp_358_en_agilent_c5cf1876f0.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Hydrogen is widely recognized for its benefits in gas chromatography (GC), including cost-effective generation in the lab, rapid chromatography, and higher sample throughput. However, its reactivity can lead to hydrogenation and dechlorination reactions in the mass spectrometer electron ionization (EI) source, complicating its application in many scenarios. To address these issues, Agilent has developed a specially designed extractor source for the Inert Plus GC/MSD and triple quadrupole GC/MS systems, enhancing performance with hydrogen carrier gas. The Agilent HydroInert source maintains mass spectral fidelity and allows users to utilize existing helium-based mass spectral libraries.This study investigates how the 5Q series of columns impact the performance and durability of the HydroInert source tune. The study involved cycling through 10,000 oven temperature ramps without any injections to assess the effects of column bleed from the 5Q phase. Furthermore, the study examined how the combination of sample matrix and column bleed from the 5Q phase affects source longevity.<h4>Experimental</h4><h5>HydroInert Functionality with 5Q Columns (no Injection)&nbsp;</h5>An experiment was designed to investigate the effects of ultra low bleed columns (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?instrumentationItems=19&amp;manufacturerItems=1&amp;search=HP-5Q">HP-5Q</a>) on the functionality of the HydroInert source over time. A method simulating a large oven temperature ramp cycle (Table 1) over 12 minutes was created. The syringe was removed from the ALS tower to simulate injections, but to isolate the source of siloxanes to column bleed from the HP-5Q only. 10,000 injections were executed, and a system tune was performed every 100 injection to monitor source parameter shifts.The Agilent <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=1&amp;search=7000E">7000E</a> was run in SCAN mode, scanning from 50-450 m/z during each run. Air leaks were detected and immediately remedied when found to ensure the experiment was free from oxides. Liner and septum were not changed during this experiment.<h4>Results and Discussion</h4><h5>HydroInert Functionality with 5Q Columns (no Injection)&nbsp;</h5>Results of the effects of 10,000 oven temperature cycles on the HydroInert source tune parameters are shown in Figure 2. Repeller and ion body voltages are set automatically by the tune algorithm to maximize the transference of ion on the 7000E. Throughout the 10,000 injections the ion body voltage remained stable. The EM voltage gain across 10,000 injections was as expected. The source was in use for 120,000 minutes during this study and data was being collected throughout the duration of the study in SCAN mode. During this study, three leaks were detected at the MS transfer line and were corrected as soon as they were detected. The leaks are reflected in the spike in O2 percentage. A new ion body will typically have a voltage of 16-22 V on a HydroInert source. When an ion body begins to lose functionality the ion body voltage will begin to rise to compensate for the loss. Eventually the ion body voltage tops out at 29-30 V and the tune begins to show lower abundance of tune ions, until the source fails to tune. In the current study the ion body voltage was set by the tune algorithm between 19-24 V. This is a stable and normal operating range for the ion body. It is important to remember that a single elevated ion body tune is not cause for concern, there needs to be a trend of elevation over time. The overall purpose of this first study was to examine what baseline changes would occur to the HydroInert tune parameters when using a 5Q column in leak free conditions. Water and oxygen are known to speed the liberation of column bleed, which in turn reduces the functionality of the HydroInert source. This study shows that under leak free conditions, with a 5Q column, the HydroInert source can function optimally for an extended period. This study adds to a growing body of evidence that has demonstrated one of the main factors in HydroInert longevity is leak state of the system.<h4>Conclusions</h4>Agilent HydroInert source longevity is dependent on application and method conditions. However, by using the best practices highlighted above, the longevity of HydroInert parts can be prolonged. The HydroInert source cannot be mechanically or chemically cleaned, thus when source parts show reduced functionality, replacement of the recommended parts is required to restore functionality. Replacement intervals will be method and application dependent.<h3>2. Liège University / MDCW: MOSH&amp;MOAH in food ingredients and additives and the advantages of using LC/GC×GC(-FID/TOFMS) for their analysis&nbsp;</h3><ul><li>Presentation</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/FL_02_2025_MDCW_AG_MOSH_MOAH_additives_a05df36b39.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>This presentation by Aleksandra Gorska and colleagues (Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech) addresses the analysis of MOSH (mineral oil saturated hydrocarbons) and MOAH (mineral oil aromatic hydrocarbons) in food ingredients and additives, particularly those derived from oils and fats. These contaminants are widespread in the food chain due to packaging, lubricants, or storage conditions. While MOSH can accumulate in human tissues, MOAH—especially those with three or more aromatic rings—pose genotoxic risks. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has recently emphasized a lack of data on such impurities in food additives.To fill this gap, the researchers developed and applied an advanced analytical workflow based on HPLC-GC×GC-FID/TOFMS, replacing the traditional HPLC-GC-FID approach. This multidimensional technique combines high-resolution separation with both flame ionization detection (FID) and time-of-flight mass spectrometry (TOFMS), allowing detailed structural characterization, efficient removal of interfering compounds, and the ability to separate MOAH by the number of aromatic rings.Key benefits of the HPLC-GC×GC-FID/TOFMS system include clearer chromatograms with structured elution patterns, improved purification and separation of complex MOAH profiles, and identification of contamination markers such as DIPN (indicating migration from recycled packaging). Additionally, the system enables simultaneous quantification of MOAH and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which have distinct analytical requirements and toxicological profiles.The study concludes that, despite its complexity, the HPLC-GC×GC-FID/TOFMS technique provides substantial analytical advantages and aligns with EFSA’s recommendations. It offers a powerful tool for ensuring food safety in products containing oil- or fat-derived additives, enabling more accurate risk assessments and source tracking of contamination.<h3>3. Shimadzu / ASMS: Highly sensitive and efficient analysis of aroma components using trapped Headspace GC-MS&nbsp;</h3><ul><li>Poster</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/ASMS_2025_MP_352_97902375e7.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>The aroma composition of foods has been the subject of considerable research in recent years. It is well known that the presence of volatile compounds and their composition determine the specific aroma of foods and the flavor of the resulting products. Static headspace technique enables high sensitivity analysis of volatile compounds, normally extracting 1 mL of headspace. But in situations where it is necessary to evaluate the total chemical profile, it is known that components in small quantities also affect the overall aroma. Thus, the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=3&amp;search=HS-20+NX">HS-20 NX</a> was used running in "Trap mode", where by using trapped headspace sampling, it is possible to extract much more volume and analyze, not only the majority components, but all the compounds with high sensitivity.&nbsp;The system used to achieve the highest sensitivity is the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=3&amp;search=HS-20+NX">HS-20 NX</a> coupled to the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=3&amp;search=GCMS-QP2020+NX">GCMS-QP2020 NX</a> single quadrupole mass spectrometer.<h4>Results and Discussion</h4>After the incubation time, the acquisitions were done by loop mode and trap mode with 3- and 5-times sample concentration. In this way, it is possible to analyze, via trap, the presence of compounds at trace levels, which cannot be observed when analyzed in loop mode. 18 compounds could be identified in the sample when analyzed in loop mode, whereas in trap mode, 35 were identified.Some components such as benzene acetaldehyde, gammacaprolactone, methyl butyrate, o-guaiacol, that have a decisive influence on the overall aroma and flavor were detected only in the trap mode, due to their low concentrations in the sample. Even concentrating the sample 5-times in the trap, it was possible to detect these compounds that require greater sensitivity along with compounds present in high concentrations in the sample, such as butanoic acid, acetic acid, and others, without losing analysis efficiency.<h4>Conclusion</h4>The improvement in analysis sensitivity when using trap mode can be observed when comparing the area for some components with a major impact on the overall aroma but present in small quantities. When concentrating the sample 3-times in the trap, the peak intensities increased from 351.17 to 1401.08%. And it was still possible to have a significant increase of another 168%, on average, by concentrating the sample 5-times. The peak intensities increased from 521.48 to 2517.86% compared to loop mode analysis.&nbsp; These analyses demonstrate that trapped headspace can be used to determine an overall aroma profile in a single analysis and with a single trapping material. The trapped headspace sampler enables ultra sensitivity analysis, identifying compounds at low concentrations which were undetectable with conventional headspace samplers.<h3>4. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Data-driven GC and GC-MS instrument monitoring with SmartStatus intelligent software</h3><ul><li>Technical note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/tn_001883_gc_ms_gc_ms_ms_smartstatus_tn001883_na_en_99ce72eef2/tn-001883-gc-ms-gc-ms-ms-smartstatus-tn001883-na-en.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Rising costs can significantly impact an analytical laboratory’s profit margin, and it is crucial to maintain productivity and ensure maximum asset utilization to stay competitive. To balance increased overhead costs, including analytical gases and staff pay, laboratories must ensure that analytical instrumentation consistently produces results, without interruption. Re-analyzing entire runs due to drops in sensitivity, unnecessary downtime, and underutilization of consumables is expensive and time consuming.&nbsp;Thermo Scientific™ SmartStatus™ instrument tracking can help laboratories realize additional cost savings. This is done by using data-driven insights to accurately determine when to perform maintenance and replace consumables and parts, so that the system consistently runs smoothly for all samples and meets specifications in the initial analysis. This ensures that consumables and parts are replaced on the correct schedule and avoids excess instrument downtime.&nbsp;SmartStatus instrument tracking is an intelligent instrument health software that allows users to track key aspects of their GC-MS system. It is available as standard on the Thermo Scientific™ <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/483">TRACE™ 1600 GC series,</a> Thermo Scientific™ <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/487">AI/AS 1610 liquid autosampler</a>, Thermo Scientific™ <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/484">ISQ™ 7610 GC-MS series</a>, and the Thermo Scientific™ <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/485">TSQ™ 9610 GC-MS/MS series</a>. In this technical note, the new SmartStatus instrument tracking capabilities are highlighted with examples of how it can enable analytical laboratories to keep instruments producing consistent results.<h4>SmartStatus software overview&nbsp;</h4>SmartStatus intelligent software, available within Thermo Scientific™ <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/76">Chromeleon™ Chromatography Data System (CDS)</a>, allows monitoring of the entire analytical system including Thermo Scientific™ autosamplers, GC, GC detectors (FID and TCD), and mass spectrometers (MS). Hundreds of key instrument parameters are monitored by SmartStatus software, which provides real-time data and insights informing the user to potential problems before they arise to ensure maximum instrument uptime. This allows users to make informed decisions on which parts of the analytical system require attention and when. By performing preventative maintenance using data-driven guidance, optimal instrument performance is sustained day in and day out. Figure 1 shows the SmartStatus software overview page for a TSQ 9610 triple quadrupole MS coupled to a TRACE 1610 GC and AI/AS 1610 liquid autosampler. This overview page allows a user to quickly determine if the system is ready to run or requires attention.&nbsp;For more information on instrument status, there is a detailed view for each part of the system. This next level view shows how many injections have been performed for the various GC consumables, the lifetime of the MS detector and filament, and when the last tune was performed. Figure 2 shows an example of the GC and MS parameters and how they are monitored. Each parameter is represented as a counter gauge. As the usage increases, the gauge changes color to quickly notify the user of any maintenance that is required or will be needed soon. This allows users to plan maintenance in advance to fit it around their schedule and workload. SmartStatus instrument tracking can be monitored directly in Chromeleon CDS, and consumables usage can also be monitored directly on the TRACE 1610 GC touch screen through the dedicated instrument health icon, as shown in Figure 3.The ISQ 7610 GC-MS and the TSQ 9610 GC-MS/MS detector lifetime is monitored using a predictive algorithm. This assesses the voltages on the detector and predicts the lifetime remaining on the system so that preventative maintenance can be planned. As the ISQ 7610 GC-MS and TSQ 9610 GC-MS/MS are equipped with the XLXR™ electron multiplier detector as standard, the lifetime of the detector is several years.1 By monitoring the detector intelligently, users can avoid unnecessary downtime. Figure 4 shows monitoring of the detector within SmartStatus software.

News from LabRulezGCMS Library - Week 29, 2025

<h3>Introduction</h3>PFAS, also known as “eternity chemicals”, can be present in wine. TFA (trifluoroacetic acid), a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2025/apr/23/alarming-increase-forever-chemical-tfa-european-wines">PFAS compound</a>, has been detected in European wines, with concentrations increasing significantly since 2010. These chemicals are persistent, i.e. they hardly degrade in the environment and can enter the wine via various routes.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_New_European_Wine_Scandal_on_PFAS_in_Wine_3_f7a42ce0f7.jpg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: New European Wine Scandal on PFAS in Wine." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_New_European_Wine_Scandal_on_PFAS_in_Wine_3_f7a42ce0f7.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1200" height="600">Trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) is a PFAS compound that is formed as a degradation product of other PFAS in the environment and can also occur as a contaminant in wine. The contamination of wine with TFA has <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.pan-europe.info/sites/pan-europe.info/files/public/resources/reports/Message%20from%20the%20bottle_TFA%20in%20wine%20_23042025.pdf">increased in recent years</a>, which indicates an increasing spread of PFAS in the environment.The health effects of PFAS in wine are not yet fully understood, but the substances are considered potentially harmful and are suspected of causing health problems.Intensive research is being carried out to identify the sources of PFAS contamination in wine and to develop strategies to minimize it. In summary, PFAS, particularly TFA, have been found in wine and concentrations have increased in recent years. It is important to understand the sources of these chemicals and take action to reduce their spread and minimize <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.bfr.bund.de/assets/01_Ver%C3%B6ffentlichungen/Mitteilungen_deutsch/trifluoressigsaeure-tfa-in-wein.pdf">the potential health risks</a>. This blog will emphasize a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/484">GC/MS</a> method for the detection of TFA in wine that goes into the lower µg/l range.<h3>Sample Preparation</h3>Materials:<ul><li>Wine sample (red or white)</li><li>Trifluoroacetic acid standard</li><li>Derivatizing agent (diazomethane)</li><li>Sodium chloride (NaCl)</li><li>Sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO₃)</li><li>Ethyl acetate or hexane</li><li>Drying agent (e.g., anhydrous Na₂SO₄)</li><li>Centrifuge tubes or separatory funnels</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/fl_73751_cc_chromacol_vial_reference_chart_fl73751_en_1b34517225.pdf">GC vials</a></li></ul>Procedure:<ol><li>Aliquot &amp; acidify:<ul><li>Take 10 mL of wine.</li><li>Acidify with HCl to pH ~1–2 to convert TFA to its protonated form.</li></ul></li><li>Salt out:<ul><li>Add a saturated NaCl solution to enhance extraction efficiency.</li></ul></li><li>Liquid-Liquid extraction:<ul><li>Extract with 2 × 5 mL ethyl acetate.</li><li>Collect the organic phase.</li></ul></li><li>Drying:<ul><li>Pass the organic extract through anhydrous sodium sulfate.</li></ul></li><li>Derivatization:<ul><li>Mix with <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/order/catalog/product/429211000">diazomethane</a></li><li>React at 60°C for 30 min.</li></ul></li><li>Concentration:<ul><li>Evaporate solvent under nitrogen to ~0.5 mL.</li><li>Reconstitute in hexane or ethyl acetate as a GC-compatible solvent.</li></ul></li><li>Transfer to GC vial:<ul><li>Filter if necessary and load into an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/order/catalog/product/de/de/6AK95W">autosampler vial</a>.</li></ul></li></ol><h3>GC-MS method for TFA analysis</h3><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/483">GC</a> Conditions:<ul><li>Column: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/1741">DB-5MS</a>, 30 m × 0.25 mm ID × 0.25 μm film</li><li>Carrier gas: Helium, 1.0 mL/min</li><li>Injection volume: 1 μL</li><li>Injector temperature: 200 °C</li><li>Injection mode: Splitless</li><li>Oven program:<ul><li>35°C (hold 2 min)</li><li>Ramp at 10°C/min to 200°C</li><li>Hold 5 min</li></ul></li></ul><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/484">MS</a> Conditions:<ul><li>Ionization: Electron impact (EI)</li><li>Scan mode: SIM or Full scan (m/z 50–300)</li><li>Selected ions for TFA (derivatized):<ul><li>TFA Methylester derivative: monitor ions like m/z 69, 113, 195</li></ul></li><li>Use of internal standards (e.g., TFA-d1 or TFA-d3) is recommended for quantification.</li></ul><h3>Results</h3>Fig.1: Shows a result for TFA Methylester in a wine sample on a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/order/catalog/product/ISQ7610-AEI">single quadrupole</a> in Full scan mode.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_New_European_Wine_Scandal_on_PFAS_in_Wine_2_d24c443996.jpg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: New European Wine Scandal on PFAS in Wine: Fig. 1: FS of TFA on a single quadrupole." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_New_European_Wine_Scandal_on_PFAS_in_Wine_2_d24c443996.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="756" height="360">The chromatogram shows a strong signal for 0.63 µg/l TFA. If required, it would be possible to go down with the detection limit. Another way to increase sensitivity would be the use of Selected-Ion-Monitoring (SIM). However, sensitivity is not an issue on a GC/MS.Modern wine samples (since 2010 or 2021-2024) contain <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.pan-europe.info/press-releases/2025/04/study-reveals-alarming-surge-forever-chemical-tfa-european-wine">conspicuous TFA values</a> in the range of around 110-320 µg/L.These are far above possible detection limits. As no TFA was detected before 1988, the TFA content at that time was below the (unspecified) detection limit, i.e. very probably below a few ng- to a few µg/L. Today, there is no limit from the EU for TFA in wine; however, research shows that even small concentrations (lower µg/l range) can be harmful to humans with certain diseases or a fetus.Fig. 2 shows a calibration curve for TFA Methylester. In the real sample, 11.77 µg/l were found. Each calibration point equals 10 injections of the standard. The RSDs for the method were around 5 %.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_New_European_Wine_Scandal_on_PFAS_in_Wine_a8485e7634.jpg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: New European Wine Scandal on PFAS in Wine: Fig. 2: Calibration curve." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_New_European_Wine_Scandal_on_PFAS_in_Wine_a8485e7634.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="756" height="476"><article><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><ol><li>High sensitivity GC/MS can detect TFA at very low concentrations, which is crucial since TFA may be present in trace amounts in wine.</li><li>High selectivity and specificity The mass spectrometer allows for specific identification of TFA based on its unique mass fragmentation pattern, reducing false positives.</li><li>Quantitative accuracy With proper calibration, GC/MS provides highly accurate quantitative data, making it ideal for regulatory or quality control purposes.</li><li>Excellent resolution GC can effectively separate TFA from other volatile or semi-volatile compounds in the complex wine matrix.</li><li>Matrix compatibility Wine contains complex organic acids and alcohols; GC/MS can effectively separate and identify TFA despite the complex background.</li><li>Verification of contamination or <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/472">origin</a> Detection of TFA could indicate contamination, industrial origin, or specific enological practices—information useful for quality assurance or authentication.</li><li>Automated &amp; reproducible GC/MS systems are <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/422">highly automated</a> and provide reproducible results, which is key for routine or high-throughput testing.</li><li>Dual functionality (Qualitative + Quantitative) GC/MS offers both identification and quantification in a single analysis.</li><li>Regulatory acceptance GC/MS is widely accepted in regulatory environments and scientific literature, making it suitable for official wine testing and export compliance.</li></ol><blockquote>Visit us on&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/72003132/admin/dashboard/">LinkedIn:</a>&nbsp;#wine, #TFA #GCMS</blockquote></div></article><section><blockquote><h4>Petra Gerhards</h4>Petra Gerhards, Dipl-Ing, is Regional Marketing Manager of GC and GC-MS for EMEA at Thermo Fisher Scientific. She has more than 29 years of experience in the fields of GC-MS, SPE and LC-MS. Since joining the regional team she has contributed to workflow solutions combining vials and closures with SPE solutions, GC-MS and LC-MS. She works with KOL's on data for regional specific marketing campaigns, organizes in-house seminars and works on customer specific solutions. Her main expertise is in the field of doping and drugs-of-abuse analysis.</blockquote></section>

New European Wine Scandal on PFAS in Wine

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New European Wine Scandal on PFAS in Wine

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