Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are a prominent class of organic compounds that have raised significant concerns due to their presence in various environmental and food matrices. These compounds are composed of multiple aromatic rings and are primarily formed during the incomplete combustion of organic matter. Sources of PAHs range from natural processes like forest fires to human activities such as vehicle emissions, tobacco combustion, and food preparation techniques like grilling or smoking.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Unveiling_the_Advanced_Workflow_for_PAH_Analysis_in_Smoke_Flavored_Foods_427c35f34b.jpg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: Unveiling the Advanced Workflow for PAH Analysis in Smoke Flavored Foods." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Unveiling_the_Advanced_Workflow_for_PAH_Analysis_in_Smoke_Flavored_Foods_427c35f34b.jpg 234w," sizes="100vw" width="1024" height="683">In the food industry, PAHs are particularly relevant in the context of smoke-flavored products. While smoke flavorings enhance the sensory properties of foods, they also pose potential risks due to the formation of PAHs during the smoking process. As such, stringent analytical methods are essential for detecting and quantifying PAHs to ensure consumer safety. In this blog, we explore a comprehensive GC-MS/MS workflow specifically designed for PAH analysis in smoke-flavored foods, with a focus on innovation in sample preparation, instrumental sensitivity, and regulatory compliance.<h3 id="h-understanding-smoke-flavors-and-pahs">Understanding smoke flavors and PAHs</h3>Smoke flavorings are derived from the controlled combustion of specific wood types, which are subsequently condensed, fractionated, and purified. These flavorings are used in foods such as fish, meat, sauces, and even snacks to replicate traditional smoking processes. The primary flavoring components include phenols and carbonyl compounds (aldehydes and ketones).However, PAHs can also be introduced during this process. Examples include naphthalene (two aromatic rings), anthracene, and phenanthrene (three aromatic rings), which are considered lower molecular weight PAHs, alongside heavier compounds such as benzo(a)pyrene and coronene. Regulatory frameworks in the European Union (e.g., Regulation (EC) No. 2065/2003) ensure that only authorized smoke flavoring products are used, with maximum allowable levels for PAHs.<h3 id="h-the-challenges-of-pah-analysis-in-food-matrices">The challenges of PAH analysis in food matrices</h3>Analyzing PAHs in food matrices, particularly those with high-fat content, presents unique challenges. These include:<ol><li>Complexity of matrices: Foods like smoked trout and tofu contain fats and proteins that can interfere with analytical detection.</li><li>Stringent detection requirements: Regulatory limits demand detection of PAHs at extremely low concentrations (picogram to femtogram levels).</li><li>Sample throughput: Laboratories need workflows that are both sensitive and efficient to handle routine analysis of multiple samples daily.</li></ol><h3 id="h-a-comprehensive-workflow-for-pah-analysis">A comprehensive workflow for PAH analysis</h3><h5>1. Sample preparation: The foundation of accurate results</h5>Sample preparation is a critical step in PAH analysis, especially for fat-containing matrices. A robust and systematic approach minimizes matrix interferences and enhances analyte recovery. The workflow includes:<ul><li>Homogenization: A 5-gram sample is weighed and homogenized in a glass tube. Internal standards are added, followed by equilibration for 10 minutes.</li><li>Liquid extraction: Samples are extracted using hexane in an ultrasonic bath. This process is repeated five times to ensure thorough extraction.</li><li>Evaporation and cleanup: Extracts are evaporated to 1 mL and subjected to Solid Phase Extraction (SPE). Two SPE steps are employed:<ul><li>Primary SPE (HyperSep Florisil): Removes major interferences.</li><li>Secondary SPE (HyperSep Phenyl): Further purifies the sample for precise GC-MS/MS analysis.</li></ul></li></ul><h5>2. Advanced instrumentation: The role of GC-MS/MS</h5>Instrumentation plays a pivotal role in achieving the sensitivity required for PAH detection. The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/485">Thermo Scientific TSQ 9610 GC-MS/MS</a> system incorporates cutting-edge technologies to address the demands of PAH analysis:<ul><li>Advanced electron ionization (AEI): This ion source provides superior sensitivity through highly efficient ionization and a tightly focused ion beam. This ensures robustness even with challenging matrices.</li><li>NeverVent technology: Unique design features allow vent-free column and ion source exchanges, maximizing instrument uptime.</li><li>Dual filament design: Extends the operational lifespan and reduces maintenance frequency.</li></ul><h5>3. Importance of glass quality in analytical accuracy</h5>The quality of glass materials used in vials and liners significantly impacts analytical outcomes. Thermo Fisher Scientific’s LinerGold technology addresses the challenges posed by active glass surfaces that can adsorb PAHs, leading to signal loss or contamination. By providing highly inert glass materials, the workflow ensures consistent and accurate results.<h3 id="h-results-and-key-findings">Results and key findings</h3>The GC-MS/MS workflow for PAH analysis has been rigorously tested on various food matrices, demonstrating its robustness and reliability. Key findings include:<ul><li>Ultra-low detection limits: The system achieves femtogram-level detection, with examples such as chrysene (150 fg in smoked trout) and coronene (320 fg in smoked trout).</li><li>Precision and reproducibility: Calibration curves for compounds like pyrene and benzo(k)fluoranthene exhibit excellent linearity, ensuring reliable quantification.</li><li>Wide applicability: The workflow performs well across diverse matrices, from smoked trout to tofu, maintaining compliance with regulatory limits.</li></ul><h3 id="h-regulatory-compliance-and-consumer-safety">Regulatory compliance and consumer safety</h3>Ensuring compliance with EU regulations is a cornerstone of PAH analysis in smoke-flavored foods. The presented workflow not only meets these standards but also provides a scalable solution for routine laboratories. By integrating advanced sample preparation, state-of-the-art instrumentation, and high-quality consumables, laboratories can confidently deliver accurate and reliable results.<h3 id="h-conclusions-and-future-perspectives">Conclusions and future perspectives</h3>The detection and quantification of PAHs in smoke-flavored foods require a synergistic approach that combines meticulous sample preparation with innovative GC-MS/MS technology. The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/485">Thermo Scientific TSQ 9610</a> system, with its AEI source and NeverVent technology, sets a new benchmark in analytical sensitivity and robustness.This workflow underscores the importance of quality at every step—from sample preparation to vial selection—to achieve the necessary detection limits and regulatory compliance. As analytical demands evolve, these advancements pave the way for safer food production and enhanced consumer protection.<blockquote><h5>Additional information:</h5><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/485">TSQ 9610 Triple Quadrupole GC-MS</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/content/lifetech/global/en/home/products-and-services/promotions/industrial/chromatography-columns-consumables-available-online.html">Chromatography Columns and Consumables Now Available Online</a></li></ul></blockquote><div><div><blockquote><h5>Join our free webinars:</h5>20.3.2025 English, 11 am CET, 1 hour <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/webinar/4756">Advanced workflow for PAH analysis of smoke flavored foods</a>25.3.2025 German, 11 am CET, 1 hour <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://event.on24.com/wcc/r/4835418/2EEB616DFE5F57C6587BA5984198FE55">Innovativer Workflow für die PAK-Analyse in Lebensmitteln mit Raucharoma</a> After the actual dates they are available on demand using the same links.</blockquote></div></div><blockquote><h5>Visit us on <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/72003132/admin/dashboard/">LinkedIn:</a> #SmokeFlavors #Pah #GCMS #Consumables</h5></blockquote><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>

Unveiling the Advanced Workflow for PAH Analysis in Smoke Flavored Foods

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have transformed energy storage technology, driving innovations for products we use in everyday life such as smartphones and even electric vehicles. But what makes these batteries so efficient? A key component is the electrolyte solution, a complex mix that’s crucial for battery performance. GC-MS or gas chromatography-mass spectrometry is an essential tool in analyzing these electrolyte mixtures and the development of increased efficiency and longer-lasting batteries.<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:1024/551;" src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Electrifying_Insights_How_GC_MS_is_Powering_Lithium_Ion_Battery_Analysis_29d144ea28.jpg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: Electrifying Insights: How GC-MS is Powering Lithium-Ion Battery Analysis." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Electrifying_Insights_How_GC_MS_is_Powering_Lithium_Ion_Battery_Analysis_29d144ea28.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1024" height="551"></figure><h4>Why Analyze Electrolytes?</h4>Electrolyte solutions are the essence of lithium-ion batteries, impacting:<ul><li>Performance: The right mix ensures faster charging and longer battery life.</li><li>Safety: Accurate composition prevents overheating and potential hazards.</li><li>Lifespan: Understanding degradation helps design components that last longer.</li></ul>Getting the electrolyte mix right is vital for efficient, safe, and durable batteries.However, analyzing electrolytes is complex and comes with a number of challenges:<ol><li>Complex Mixture: Electrolytes consist of various organic solvents, additives, and degradation products. This complexity requires sophisticated technology to separate and identify components.</li><li>Heat Sensitivity: Components like LiPF6 can degrade at high temperatures, creating new compounds that complicate analysis.</li><li>Trace Additives: Some additives are present in low concentrations but play a critical role in battery performance. Detecting these components demands highly sensitive methods.</li><li>Degradation Products: Battery cycling produces byproducts that can interfere with the main components. It’s like trying to find a book in a disorganized library.</li></ol>This is where GC-MS becomes an essential analytical tool. This powerful technique provides a detailed look into the composition of LIB electrolytes. The analysis follows a number of steps:<ul><li>Sample Prep: LIB electrolyte samples are diluted in dichloromethane and centrifuged to remove interfering salts.</li><li>GC Separation: Samples are run through a gas chromatograph which uses a programmed temperature ramp ensures all components are separated within a 23-minute window.</li><li>MS detection: After separation, the mass spectrometer operating in full scan and selected ion monitoring (SIM) provides detailed qualitative and quantitative data.</li></ul>Figure 1 shows the difference in selectivity between full scan and SIM mode. Vinylene carbonate is not detected in full scan at a 1 to 500 dilution due to the lack of selectivity and interference in full scan acquisition. However, by using SIM the ions of interest are isolated in the quadrupole increasing selectivity and allowing vinylene carbonate to be quantified at a low level.<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:881/694;" src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Electrifying_Insights_How_GC_MS_is_Powering_Lithium_Ion_Battery_Analysis_Figure_1_Full_scan_and_SIM_acquisition_of_vinylene_carbonate_in_cycled_LIB_electrolyte_at_1_500_dilution_6803793369.jpg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: Figure 1. Full scan and SIM acquisition of vinylene carbonate in cycled LIB electrolyte at 1:500 dilution." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Electrifying_Insights_How_GC_MS_is_Powering_Lithium_Ion_Battery_Analysis_Figure_1_Full_scan_and_SIM_acquisition_of_vinylene_carbonate_in_cycled_LIB_electrolyte_at_1_500_dilution_6803793369.jpg 198w," sizes="100vw" width="881" height="694"></figure>GC-MS brings several advantages to electrolyte analysis:<ul><li>Precise Separation: Achieves excellent separation of multiple components, ensuring accurate readings without co-elution issues.</li><li>High Sensitivity: Detects even trace amounts of additives—down to 0.021 mg/L.</li><li>Broad Range: Handles a wide concentration range, analyzing both major and minor components in one go.</li><li>Degradation Insights: Reveals compositional shifts in cycled electrolytes, providing clues about the aging process of batteries.</li></ul><div><div><h4>Why this analysis is important?</h4>Understanding the detailed composition and changes in LIB electrolytes is crucial. It helps researchers and manufacturers fine-tune battery designs for enhanced performance, safety, and durability. While the analysis can be complex, the insights gained are invaluable.So next time you charge your device remember the sophisticated science behind that battery. Tools like GC-MS are enabling battery technological advances to be made, ensuring the future of battery technology.<blockquote>For full details on this analysis<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_001124_gc_ms_isq_7610_li_battery_electrolyte_an001124_na_en_4df8612386/an-001124-gc-ms-isq-7610-li-battery-electrolyte-an001124-na-en.pdf">&nbsp;</a><a target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="read the full application note. - open in a new tab" data-uw-rm-ext-link="" uw-rm-external-link-id="https://assets.thermofisher.com/tfs-assets/cmd/application-notes/an-001124-gc-ms-isq-7610-li-battery-electrolyte-an001124-na-en.pdf$readthefullapplicationnote."><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_001124_gc_ms_isq_7610_li_battery_electrolyte_an001124_na_en_4df8612386/an-001124-gc-ms-isq-7610-li-battery-electrolyte-an001124-na-en.pdf">read the full application note.</a></a> For further details on how GC-MS can power your analysis, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/content/lifetech/global/en/home/industrial/mass-spectrometry/gas-chromatography-mass-spectrometry-gc-ms/gc-ms-systems/single-quadrupole-gc-ms.html">visit our website.</a><h5>Visit us on <a target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="LinkedIn: - open in a new tab" data-uw-rm-ext-link="" uw-rm-external-link-id="https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/72003132/admin/dashboard/$linkedin:"><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/72003132/admin/dashboard/">LinkedIn:</a></a> #LithiumIonBatteries #GCMS #BatteryMaterialAnalysis</h5><section><h4 data-uw-rm-heading="level" role="heading" aria-level="2">Adam Ladak</h4><div itemprop="description">Adam Ladak is the global product marketing manager for GC quadrupole mass spectrometry at Thermo Fisher, based in the UK. He started his career working in a contracting testing lab analyzing sports supplements and horse feed for prohibited substances. He has over 20 years of experience in the analytical testing industry and has worked for leading instrument manufacturers in various roles from an application specialist to a global marketing role focused on food and environmental testing. Adam is passionate about utilizing our GCMS instrumentation to meet the customer needs and solve real world problems.</div></section></blockquote></div></div>

Electrifying Insights: How GC-MS is Powering Lithium-Ion Battery Analysis

As you embark on your festive celebrations, clinking glasses filled with delightful brews, have you ever considered the meticulous science behind that perfect sip? At Creature Comforts Brewing Co., ensuring each sip of your favorite drink, be it their seasonal festive IPA or my favorite the bold Flash Cat imperial IPA, tastes just right is a year-round commitment.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_The_Joy_of_Festive_Drinks_A_Cheerful_Tale_of_Consistency_2a360b32e9.jpeg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: The Joy of Festive Drinks: A Cheerful Tale of Consistency." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_The_Joy_of_Festive_Drinks_A_Cheerful_Tale_of_Consistency_2a360b32e9.jpeg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1024" height="512">Nestled in Athens, Georgia, Creature Comforts has become a beacon of quality in the craft beer community since its inception in 2014. Their success lies not just in innovative brewing, but in an unwavering focus on consistency. For this they use an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/484">advanced Gas chromatography mass spectrometry or GC-MS system</a>. This instrument is a crucial tool in the brewery’s lab that ensures every batch of beer is consistent and meets the highest standards.At Creature Comforts, an array of tests are performed which include checking for alcohol content, pH levels, density, and microbiological tests to ensure no beer-spoiling organisms are present. Among the most critical tests is the daily check of vicinal diketones (VDKs), compounds that can impart off-flavors if not properly controlled. The GC-MS system excels at performing these tests swiftly and accurately. The GC-MS system is also utilized for experimental trials, testing how variations in ingredients or processes might affect the final product.In-house testing using such advanced equipment allows for rapid issue resolution and ensures that production rates remain high without sacrificing quality. By keeping sample handling within a controlled environment, contamination is avoided, and testing accuracy is maintained. Adding another layer of quality assurance is their sensory panel, a group of trained tasters who subject each batch to rigorous tasting sessions. This panel functions like Santa’s little helpers, making sure only the best brews make it to your holiday celebrations. Any batch that doesn’t meet their expectations is promptly held back for further adjustments.So, this festive season, as you enjoy a glass of your favorite holiday beer, take a moment to appreciate the dedication and precision that goes into each sip. Behind every beer, lies a commitment to quality and consistency that makes your celebrations a bit more special. Here’s to the craft brewers who ensure our festive drinks are always delightful, maintaining the joy and cheer of the season, one sip at a time. Happy holidays and cheers to consistent quality!<blockquote>For more insights into the dedication and science behind Creature Comforts’ brewing process, check out the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="full case study - open in a new tab" data-uw-rm-ext-link="" uw-rm-external-link-id="https://assets.thermofisher.com/tfs-assets/cmd/reference-materials/cs-000433-gc-ms-flavors-volatiles-beer-cs000433-en.pdf$fullcasestudy"><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://assets.thermofisher.com/TFS-Assets/CMD/Reference-Materials/cs-000433-gc-ms-flavors-volatiles-beer-cs000433-en.pdf">full case study</a></a>.Visit our&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="LinkedIn page - open in a new tab" data-uw-rm-ext-link="" uw-rm-external-link-id="https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/chromatography-&amp;-mass-spectrometry/posts/?feedview=all$linkedinpage"><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/chromatography-&amp;-mass-spectrometry/posts/?feedView=all">LinkedIn page</a></a>: #GCMS #QC</blockquote><section><blockquote><h4 data-uw-rm-heading="level" role="heading" aria-level="2">Adam Ladak</h4><div itemprop="description">Adam Ladak is the global product marketing manager for GC quadrupole mass spectrometry at Thermo Fisher, based in the UK. He started his career working in a contracting testing lab analyzing sports supplements and horse feed for prohibited substances. He has over 20 years of experience in the analytical testing industry and has worked for leading instrument manufacturers in various roles from an application specialist to a global marketing role focused on food and environmental testing. Adam is passionate about utilizing our GCMS instrumentation to meet the customer needs and solve real world problems.</div></blockquote></section>

The Joy of Festive Drinks: A Cheerful Tale of Consistency

Analytical chemistry, like many other scientific and industrial fields, is experiencing the challenge to be more sustainable by using renewable resources. For GC users, it means finding alternatives to the use of helium as a carrier gas, especially in light of the recent helium shortage and price increase.The choice of carrier gas in <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/us/en/home/industrial/mass-spectrometry/mass-spectrometry-learning-center/gas-chromatography-mass-spectrometry-gc-ms-information.html">gas chromatography</a> affects the efficiency, speed and cost of the analysis. The most commonly used carrier gases are helium, nitrogen and hydrogen. Each has advantages and disadvantages, but hydrogen has emerged as an attractive alternative to helium, due to its benefits for GC and GC–MS (mass spectrometry) applications: Hydrogen has a higher optimal linear velocity than helium, which means shorter analysis times and higher productivity without compromising efficiency.Additionally, it maintains high efficiency over a wider range of linear velocities, giving more flexibility in adjusting the flow rate and temperature conditions to optimize the separation.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Using_Hydrogen_as_a_Carrier_Gas_With_GC_and_GC_MS_Be_Safe_and_Efficient_4c2f55837f.jpg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: Using Hydrogen as a Carrier Gas With GC and GC-MS: Be Safe and Efficient." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Using_Hydrogen_as_a_Carrier_Gas_With_GC_and_GC_MS_Be_Safe_and_Efficient_4c2f55837f.jpg 156w," sizes="100vw" width="768" height="766">Hydrogen is also an attractive choice because it is less expensive than helium, is renewable and readily available since it can be generated on-site from water using a hydrogen generator. This reduces the dependence on external suppliers and eliminates the need for storing high-pressure cylinders.However, migrating to carrier hydrogen for GC and GC-MS applications also has some drawbacks, or at least it requires precautions and method optimization. The main concern is safety, as hydrogen is flammable and explosive. Therefore, proper actions must be taken to limit discharge in the ambient, to avoid leaks, sparks and ignition sources. Also, hydrogen is not inert and may react with some analytes — such as halogenated compounds — and alter their chromatographic behavior and response. Moreover, when hydrogen is used under vacuum with a GC-MS, a suitable pumping system and narrow bore columns are required to properly handle its low viscosity. A non-suitable vacuum in the ion source and high volumetric hydrogen flow through the column not only impacts on sensitivity, but may pose a risk of hydrogen accumulation in the MS system.<h3>How HeSaver-H2Safer option can help</h3>To make hydrogen carrier gas usage safer and more efficient for GC and GC-MS applications, the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/order/catalog/product/MI-190000-0022">Thermo Scientific™ HeSaver-H2Safer™</a> technology is very helpful. It works on an adapted split/splitless injector (SSL) by using an inert gas such as nitrogen to pressurize the injector and maintain the split and purge flows. Hydrogen is supplied to the analytical column with only a limited maximum flow rate. The limited gas consumption of hydrogen is beneficial for operational safety. The amount of hydrogen present in the system is so small that there is no risk to reach hazardous concentrations even in case of column breakage, and therefore a hydrogen sensor in the GC oven is not necessary.Additionally, no hydrogen is discharged in the ambient through the split and purge lines, thanks to the inert pressurizing gas. The pressurizing gas also offers the benefit of eliminating the contact between the analytes and hydrogen carrier in the hot injector and consequently decreases the possibility of unwanted reactions.Another benefit of using nitrogen as the pressurizing gas is to improve sample transfer into the column. Especially when working with a GC-MS, the low viscosity of hydrogen, combined with the vacuum column outlet, will generate a much lower head pressure with a consequently slower sample transfer into the column and risk of liner backflush during solvent evaporation, especially with splitless injection. Injecting and transferring the sample with nitrogen mitigates those effects thanks to its higher viscosity.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Using_Hydrogen_as_a_Carrier_Gas_With_GC_and_GC_MS_Be_Safe_and_Efficient_2_bb07738233.jpg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: Using Hydrogen as a Carrier Gas With GC and GC-MS: Be Safe and Efficient: HeSaver-H2Safer SSL injector working with carrier hydrogen and nitrogen as pressurizing gas." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Using_Hydrogen_as_a_Carrier_Gas_With_GC_and_GC_MS_Be_Safe_and_Efficient_2_bb07738233.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="780" height="332"><h3>Pesticides analysis with carrier hydrogen</h3>A very common and critical GC-MS application is the analysis of pesticide residues in food. The complexity and variability of food matrices and the regulatory maximum required limit (MRL) impose the use of very selective and sensitive instrumentation. The Thermo Scientific™ <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/485">TSQ™ 9610 Triple Quadrupole GC-MS/MS</a> equipped with the Never Vent Advance EI ionization source meets and exceeds the required analytical performance, combining compliance to official regulations with extended robustness and instrument uptime.Helium carrier gas ensures optimum analytical performance. When combined with the HeSaver-H2Safer technology, it offers the opportunity to significantly reduce helium gas consumption, significantly <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/blog/analyteguru/helium-shortage-and-price-spikes-which-is-more-concerning/">extending helium cylinder lifetime and mitigating helium shortage issues.</a>However, for a growing number of laboratories hydrogen is the only option, with the need to re-optimize conditions and re-validate their methods. To support laboratories in this conversion, the operative conditions of TSQ 9610 AEI GC-MS/MS have been optimized for the analysis of pesticides using hydrogen as carrier gas. More than 180 pesticides have been tested and the transitions optimized with Thermo Scientific AutoSRM software to obtain the highest possible sensitivity. Additionally, the use of hydrogen improved the chromatography and allowed to set narrower retention time windows, which contributed to a shorter dwell time, thus helping to increase sensitivity and compensate losses typically occurring with the use of hydrogen as carrier gas.For some of the analytes, the presence of hydrogen affected the ionization process. In other words, the spectrum obtained with hydrogen was different than the spectrum acquired with helium. However, this difference should not be considered a critical issue, as targeted methods used for pesticide residue analysis rely on compound identification based on retention time and ion ratios between compound-specific transitions, and not on the fidelity to spectral libraries. The sensitivity of the final method was good enough to quantify the pesticides at 0.005 mg/kg, in full compliance to SANTE criteria. In conclusion, hydrogen is a viable carrier gas for GC and GC–MS offering several advantages over helium in terms of speed, efficiency, cost and sustainability. Its use in combination with the HeSaver-H2Safer technology eliminates some of the drawbacks. However, it still implies careful attention to compatibility issues. Therefore, before switching to hydrogen as a carrier gas, you are advised to perform validation tests to ensure optimal performance and quality.<section><blockquote><h5>Dr. Daniela Cavagnino</h5>Dr. 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.</blockquote></section>

Using Hydrogen as a Carrier Gas With GC and GC-MS: Be Safe and Efficient

News from LabRulezGCMS Library - Week 19, 2025

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

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