Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezGCMS Library in the week of 29th September 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 and EST Analytical, poster by Shimadzu and smart note by Thermo Fisher Scientific!<h3>1. Agilent Technologies: Equimolar Response to ASTM D5623 Relevant Sulfur Compounds</h3>Using an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=1&amp;search=8890+GC">Agilent 8890 gas chromatograph</a> and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=1&amp;search=8355%C2%A0SCD">8355 sulfur chemiluminescence detector (GC/SCD)</a><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_equimolar_response_astm_d5623_sulfur_compounds_5994_8562en_agilent_62a37181e4.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>For many years, the use of a sulfur-specific detector in the petroleum industry has been invaluable for accurately identifying low levels of sulfur-containing compounds in petroleum at various stages of production.1 Many environmental and health requirements limit the amount of sulfur allowed in the final petroleum product. The presence of sulfur also has the potential to poison the catalytic processes that take place during petroleum refining.&nbsp;Along with the determination of low sulfur levels in a petroleum sample, a detector may also need to measure high sulfur levels and total sulfur content. A detector with a high linear range is essential in making both low-level and high‑level determinations of sulfur in a petroleum sample.&nbsp;In this application note, an Agilent 8355 SCD was used to measure 19 sulfur-containing compounds within a standard sample. The 8355 SCD is ideal for the widely used ASTM&nbsp;D5623 method2 because of its ability to obtain linear and equimolar responses to sulfur compounds with minimal hydrocarbon interference. When comparing the equimolar response of analytes containing different numbers of sulfur atoms, the response should be double for the analytes containing two sulfur atoms compared to those with one&nbsp;sulfur atom.&nbsp;Another advantage of the 8355 SCD is the ability to use it in tandem with an FID. This combination allows monitoring solvent elution through the GC system, assisting in the detection of the coelution of solvents with analyte peaks. These coelutions can cause peak distortion, which might be mistaken for activity issues within the GC system.<h4>Methods&nbsp;</h4><h5>Instrumentation&nbsp;</h5>Two <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=1&amp;search=8890+GC">Agilent 8890 GC systems</a> were equipped with an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=1&amp;search=8355%C2%A0SCD">8355&nbsp;SCD</a>. Both GC/SCD systems were run in the same manner to confirm equimolar results. A third GC system was also configured with a tandem flame ionization detector sulfur chemiluminescence detector (FID/SCD) to allow the determination of the solvent peak elution from the system. This third system also served as another confirmation of the equimolar results that were obtained from the other two GC/SCD systems. Sample introduction for all systems was completed with an Agilent <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=1&amp;search=7693A+automatic+liquid+sampler">7693A automatic liquid sampler</a> with a 5 µL syringe. The sample volume for each injection was 1.0 µL. All analyses were performed with a split/splitless inlet in split mode.&nbsp;The GC/SCD parameters are provided in Table 1. Note that an Agilent DB-Sulfur SCD GC column (part number G3903-63002) was used in this study because of the low column bleed and excellent inertness and performance for sulfur compound analysis. When using the SCD, be aware that stationary phase bleed from the GC column can lead to fouling of the ceramic tubes within the detector. This phenomenon can cause poor SCD performance, such as decreased sensitivity, and may require more frequent maintenance. Proper GC column selection (such as the DB-Sulfur column) is important to ensure lower column bleed into the detector and will reduce fouling of ceramic tubes, reducing instrument downtime.<h4>Results and discussion</h4><h5>Use of GC/FID for solvent elution determination&nbsp;</h5>Determination of the solvent peak elution can be a challenge when using a sulfur-selective detector such as the SCD. Many times, the large, fronting solvent peak may coelute with analytes of interest, causing distortion of the analyte peak shape (peak tailing, fronting, or broadening) and poor chromatographic separation. This poor peak shape, caused by column overloading, can be mistaken for activity issues in the system or hydrocarbon interferences, leading to unnecessary troubleshooting or inlet/column maintenance. Determination of the solvent peak elution time is recommended to ensure that coelution does not occur with any of the analytes of interest. To confirm the solvent elution time, a tandem GC/FID/SCD system was used. The GC/FID/SCD system puts the FID in-line before the SCD analysis, allowing the user to obtain both FID and SCD signals from a single injection, thus confirming the solvent retention time and determining any solvent/analyte coelutions.&nbsp;<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>The Agilent 8355 sulfur chemiluminescence detector, paired with an Agilent 8890 GC, was evaluated by analyzing 19&nbsp;sulfur‑containing compounds relevant to ASTM D5623. The SCD met the specifications of the test method, including an equimolar response to the analyzed sulfur compounds and a wide range of linearity to a sulfur-containing standard. The 8355 SCD shows excellent area reproducibility, and when used in tandem with a flame ionization detector, the system can aid in the determination of solvent peak elution through the GC system.<h3>2. EST Analytical: Reducing Carryover in Environmental Water Samples</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Purge_and_Trap_Reducing_Carryover_in_Environmental_Water_Samples_6e5ba0a008.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>In order to mitigate carryover, many environmental labs resort to running sample dilutions or adding blank samples after a highly contaminated sample. Both of these solutions are not ideal and can lead to a loss of analyte detection when diluting or a loss of profits when blank samples need to be run.Since, the primary source of carryover for water samples is the sparge vessel, purge and trap manufactures have incorporated a rinsing step in which the sparge vessel is “washed” with hot water in order to clean up the volatile compounds that may still reside in the sparge vessel. Expanding on the idea of limiting volatile compounds in the sparge vessel, EST Analytical developed a patented process of heating the sparge vessel during the bake step of the purge and trap process (Patent Number: US 8,075,842 B1) . This engineering innovation essentially performs two bakes; as a result both the trap and the sparge vessel are “cleaned” at the same time. No other concentrator is or can be engineered to do this.<h4>Experimental</h4>The sampling system used for this study was the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/2160">EST Analytical Evolution concentrator</a> and the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/2159">Centurion WS autosampler</a>. The concentrator was affixed with a Vocarb 3000 trap and connected to an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=1&amp;search=7890A">Agilent 7890A GC </a>and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=1&amp;search=5975C">5975C inert XL MS</a>. The GC was configured with a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=9&amp;search=Rxi-624+Sil+MS">Restek Rxi-624 Sil</a> MS 30m x 0.25mm x 1.4µm column. Refer to Table 1 for the sampling method parameters and Table 2 for GC/MS parameters.<h4>Conclusions</h4>The Evolution purge and trap concentrator with its patented technique of heating the sparge vessel during the bake process proved to reduce carryover by almost half when comparing with hot water rinses alone. The advantages of reduced carryover are many. Primary among them is the ability to run more samples during the twelve hour tune window. This increase in productivity translates to more laboratory profits and better use of instrument time.<h3>3. Shimadzu / AOAC: Analysis of PFAS in juice using Head-Space Solid Phase Microextraction-Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (HS-SPME GCMS)</h3><ul><li>Poster</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/aoac_2025_t010_9967ebebff.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>PFAS contaminate water and food through packaging that can leach volatile PFAS from plastics and inks or coatings. This work developed a headspace SPME GCMS method to analyze six volatile PFAS classes in juices. The United States Food and Drug Administration has tested for PFAS in a broad range of foods and beverages as part of its Total Diet Study. Juice matrices differ in flavor, sugar, as well as manufacturing practices, and packaging, with the latter two potentially introducing PFAS contamination. The former differences between products can impact PFAS detection.<h4>Materials and Methods</h4>The SPME method used in this study is based on a method published by Bach et.al. (2016). An HS-SPME method is used to improve method performance when analyzing complex aqueous samples over direct immersion. The optimized parameters of the instrument method for the targeted PFAS are listed in table 1.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=3&amp;search=GCMS-TQ8040+NX">Shimadzu GCMS-TQ8040 NX triple quadrupole instrument</a>, configured with an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=3&amp;search=AOC-6000+Plus+SPME">AOC-6000 Plus SPME</a> unit, was used to measure PFAS in different juice samples. Without isotope dilution, matrix effects caused recoveries to fall outside of acceptable criteria. Method blanks showed no detectable PFAS, and calibration demonstrated excellent linearity (R² ≥ 0.993). This HS-SPME GCMS-TQ8040 NX method demonstrated quantitative capability for analyzing nanogram-per-liter PFAS compounds in complex juice matrices. This application highlights a simple, fast, robust, precise, and accurate workflow for measuring volatile PFAS in challenging matrices.<h3>4. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Safe use of carrier hydrogen for air monitoring with Multi-Gas TD-GC-MS</h3><ul><li>Other document (smart note)</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/sn_003958_gc_single_quad_gc_ms_isq_7610_environmental_sn003958_na_en_8216fc7021.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Monitoring volatile organic air compounds, also known as hazardous air pollutants (HAPs), is crucial for maintaining air quality in urban and industrial environments due to their significant health risks. The growing concerns about these potentially dangerous volatile organic compounds in ambient air, particularly in urban areas and from industrial emissions, have led to the development of numerous national and international regulations. The use of Thermal Desorption (TD) coupled with GC-MS is the analytical technique of choice to enrich volatile organic compounds from air and quantify them at trace levels.1 In gas chromatography, the choice of carrier gas is pivotal for the separation and detection of VOCs. Helium has traditionally been the preferred carrier gas for analyzing volatile organic air toxics due to its inertness and performance benefits. However, hydrogen is becoming increasingly popular due to economic and supply considerations. Each carrier gas has unique advantages and challenges, and the choice should be guided by specific analytical requirements, cost constraints, and safety protocols. As the demand for sustainable and cost-effective solutions grows, hydrogen is expected to play a more significant role in monitoring hazardous air pollutants in urban and industrial settings.Thermal Desorption is an established way to analyze VOCs in a wide variety of sample types. This smart note highlights the use of the new Multi-Gas TD system (Markes International) that allows a safe use of carrier hydrogen for the analysis of VOCs in air, enhancing operational flexibility and supporting more sustainable laboratory practices.&nbsp;<h4>Experimental&nbsp;</h4>In this study, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=7&amp;search=TD100-xr">Markes TD100-xr™ Multi-Gas system</a>, coupled with the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/486">Thermo Scientific™ TRACE™ 1610 gas chromatograph</a> and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/484">Thermo Scientific™ ISQ™ 7610 single quadrupole mass spectrometer,</a> was employed to accurately detect and quantify compounds for effective air monitoring. This combination leverages several technological advancements to optimize analytical performance and operational efficiency.The comparison between helium and hydrogen carrier gas was carried out using the same analytical column. The method conditions for all analytes could be easily transferred. Flow rates were adjusted using the split ratio calculator available in the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/76">Thermo Scientific™ Chromeleon™ Chromatography Data System (CDS)</a> Instrument Method Wizard (Figure 1) to maintain the same split level and therefore the same amount of transferred sample. A further factor facilitating rapid adoption of hydrogen carrier gas in laboratories is that existing columns and consumables can be used without restrictions.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>The use of the Markes TD100-xr Multi-Gas system combined with the ISQ 7610 GC-MS for the analysis of VOC in air allows for a safe use of carrier hydrogen, making it a viable alternative to helium and offering an effective solution for laboratories facing the challenges of helium scarcity and rising costs, while maintaining the accuracy and reliability of VOC detection and quantification.&nbsp;<ul><li>The comparative analysis clearly confirmed that using hydrogen carrier gas in gas chromatography offers substantial benefits over helium. The significant reduction in retention time, as shown by the 60% decrease for 1,2,3-trichlorobenzene, leads to faster analysis without compromising the separation efficiency.&nbsp;</li><li>Enabling shorter analysis time, hydrogen enhances laboratory productivity, reduces costs, and contributes to more sustainable practices.&nbsp;</li><li>The results also indicate that both helium and hydrogen can be used effectively as carrier gases without impacting the response linearity for the VOC compounds under evaluation. Laboratories can confidently use hydrogen as an alternative to helium for quantitative analysis, ensuring accurate and reliable analytical results.</li><li>When using multiple carrier gases, the ISQ 7610 NeverVent technology is key to easily switching from helium to hydrogen and back to helium with no venting required, making this operation very quick and safe.&nbsp;</li></ul>In conclusion, coupling the Markes TD100-xr Multi-Gas system with the ISQ 7610 single quadrupole GC-MS offers a robust and flexible solution for air monitoring. This integration enhances operational efficiency, reduces costs, and maintains high data integrity, making it an invaluable tool for modern analytical laboratories.

News from LabRulezGCMS Library - Week 40, 2025

Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezGCMS Library in the week of 13th October 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 poster by Agilent Technologies / AOAC and application notes by EST Analytical, Shimadzu and Thermo Fisher Scientific!<h3>1. Agilent Technologies / AOAC: Analysis of Pesticides in Spices with Hydrogen Carrier Gas</h3><ul><li>Poster</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/ps_pesticides_hydrogen_carrier_gas_aoac_2025_w007_en_agilent_280dd876d5.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Spices are considered as one of the most challenging matrices for analysis of pesticides. Usually, the sample analysis involves 5-10 fold dilution to reduce the matrix load. Thus, lower instrument detection limits need to be achieved. Use of hydrogen as carrier gas can further pose changes in terms of sensitivity. This work describes the suitability of the hydroinert and HES ion source to achieve the required sensitivity. Samples were extracted using QuEChERS based approach followed by dispersive cleanup. Linearity was evaluated against matrix matched standards within the range of 0.5-50 ng/mL. Correlation coefficient (r2) for calibration ranging between 0.5 -50 ng/mL was found above 0.95. Precision study was carried out by injecting 6 replicates of pre-spiked samples at 10 ng/g. The average relative standard deviation (%RSD) was &lt;20% with recoveries ranging from 72-125%. The advantages of the method include utilization of same retention time MRMs and collision energies. This allowed for easy transition from helium to hydrogen carrier gas.<h4>Experimental</h4>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 7000 (with HydroInert source) / <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=7010+Triple+Quadrupole+GC%2FMS">7010 Triple Quadrupole GC/MS</a> system equipped with High Efficiency Source (HES) was used. The GC system was equipped with a MultiMode Inlet (MMI) with air cooling and a back flushing system based on a Purged Ultimate Union controlled by a PSD module.<h4>Results and Discussion&nbsp;</h4>The oven temperature program used with H2 as the carrier gas was maintained identical to that used with He. The analytical method originally optimized for a 20- minute runtime using He was successfully adapted for H2. This ensured preservation of chromatographic resolution and retention time fidelity across carrier gas substitution, as evident from the elution order shown in Figure 3. The chromatograms indicate presence of high matrix load at initial 7 mins for all the spices. At RT 10-13 min, matrix load of and chilli was high. The matrix load from black pepper was very high throughout the runtime. Backflush of 7 min was used to remove the matrix.&nbsp;Transitioning from He to H2 can often lead to reactions at the ion source resulting in spectral changes when compared with He. Therefore, EI sources with reduced or eliminated source reactivity such as HydroInert and HES is essential to minimize or prevent the undesirable insource reactions when using hydrogen. The tested mixture of pesticides were compared against the NIST library to ensure spectral fidelity. As evident form Figure 5, the library match percentages were acceptable and this the existing MRM database could be used for acquisition in MRM mode, without the requirement of any additional MRM development.<h4>Conclusions</h4>Agilent GC/TQ systems with HydroInert and HES sources delivered consistent sensitivity and spectral fidelity using hydrogen carrier gas, without re-optimizing MRM transitions or collision energies. Retention times and elution order were preserved across complex spice matrices. The systems achieved LOQs of 2.5 to 5 ppb after five-fold dilution, even in heavily loaded matrices like black pepper, confirming reliable quantitation in high-background spice samples.<h3>2. EST Analytical: A Single Calibration Method for Water AND Soil Samples Performing EPA Method 8260</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Purge_and_Trap_A_Single_Calibration_Method_for_Water_AND_Soil_Samples_Performing_EPA_Method_8260_27f8b93aad.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>In order to run Method 8260 samples, a bromofluorobenzene (BFB) tune standard, matrix blank, calibration standard, and laboratory control standard all have to be run and pass method requirements every twelve hours. With the exception of the BFB standard, the other standards and blank matrices have to correspond to the samples to be analyzed. Due to this constraint, the analyst is required to run another three samples if the matrix is changed within the twelve hour time window. Moreover, the calibration must also match the sample matrix. These requirements are very time consuming and can limit laboratory profits. This application note will demonstrate a patented automated water sampling mode using the soil sampling station of the autosampler thus eliminating the need to have separate calibrations and standards for waters and soils.<h4>Experimental</h4>The sampling system used for this study was the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/2159">EST Analytical Centurion WS autosampler</a> and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/2160">Evolution concentrator</a>. The concentrator was affixed with a Vocarb 3000 trap and connected to an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=1&amp;search=7890A">Agilent 7890A GC</a> and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?search=5975">5975 inert XL MS</a>. The GC was configured with a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=9&amp;search=Rxi-624+Sil+MS">Restek Rxi-624 Sil MS </a>30m x 0.25mm x 1.4µm column. The experiments were run using the extraction mode of the Centurion WS. Refer to Table 1 for the sampling method parameters and Table 2 for GC/MS parameters.<h4>Conclusion</h4>The patented sampling process of the Centurion WS proved to be a reliable and accurate sampling method for running water samples in the soil mode. The curve linearity and method detection limits both met USEPA Method 8260 requirements, and the precision and accuracy results were excellent. The water extraction option offered with the Centurion WS will save laboratories time and money because only one set of standards, curves, etc. is required for both water and soil samples.<h3>3. Shimadzu: Measurement of Volatile Organic Compounds in Water by Headspace GC-MS with Nitrogen Carrier Gas</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_01_00907_en_077ab0a675.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Due to the health issues associated with volatile organic compounds (VOCs), standards and regulations are established for VOC levels in water. VOCs are preferably measured by methods that involve simple sample pretreatment, and headspace GC-MS is one of these methods commonly used to measure VOC levels. GC-MS is normally performed with helium carrier gas, but helium gas could require more cost and lead time to obtain for analytical use every year. There is a need for a GC-MS analysis method that can be performed using relatively inexpensive and readily available nitrogen carrier gas. While nitrogen carrier gas results in inferior analytical sensitivity compared with helium carrier gas, trap mode sampling can salvage the reduction of the sensitivity. This Application News presents an example measurement of VOCs in water using nitrogen carrier gas performed on the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=GCMS-QP2050">GCMS-QP2050</a> gas chromatograph mass spectrometer and the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=HS-20+NX">HS-20 NX headspace sampler</a> in trap mode.<h4>Samples and Analysis Conditions&nbsp;</h4>Standard solutions were prepared by diluting 25 standard VOC mixture in methanol to 1, 2.5, 5, 10, 25, 50, 100, and 250 mg/L. The standard solutions were combined with internal standards 1,4-dioxane-d8 at 100 mg/L, fluorobenzene at 12.5 mg/L, and pbromofluorobenzene at 12.5 mg/L.<ul><li>GC-MS: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=GCMS-QP2050">GCMS-QP2050</a></li><li>Head Space Sampler: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=HS-20+NX">HS-20 NX</a></li></ul><h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>VOC levels in water were measured using an HS-20 NX in trap mode and a GCMS-QP2050 with nitrogen carrier gas. Trap mode allowed VOCs to be measured in water with a high degree of sensitivity, even with nitrogen carrier gas.<h3>4. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Enhanced trace moisture analysis in organic solvents using GC with multi-channel VUV detection</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_003954_gc_luma_detector_trace_1610_industrial_pharma_an003954_na_en_c29f4875a6.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Monitoring water content in organic solvents is essential across various industries, notably in pharmaceutical manufacturing, where excess moisture can compromise active ingredient stability. Traditionally, Karl Fischer titration has been the benchmark technique, offering broad quantification capability. However, KF is limited by side reactions, reagent sensitivity, and incompatibility with high-throughput workflows. It also relies on hazardous solvents and extensive manual steps.&nbsp;Gas chromatography provides an alternative means of quantifying water when paired with an appropriate detector. While FID and TCD have been used, they lack the selectivity and sensitivity required for trace moisture detection. Ionization-based detectors like PDD improve detection but suffer from dynamic range limitations.The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=3&amp;search=LUMA%E2%84%A2+VUV+detector">LUMA™ VUV detector </a>(VUV Analytics, Inc.) overcomes these drawbacks by employing vacuum ultraviolet absorbance in the 118–240 nm range, where water exhibits strong and selective absorption. Unlike other GC detectors, LUMA combines universality, spectral selectivity, and ease of use in a single platform.&nbsp;This work illustrates a GC method using a LUMA Multi-Channel VUV Absorbance detector to analyze moisture in acetonitrile from 250 ppb up to percent levels. This approach has several advantages over traditional techniques like Karl Fischer titration, including superior sensitivity for the analysis of trace levels of water in acetonitrile as well as percent levels. The achievable limit of detection for water in acetonitrile is 250 ppb, with method linearity over 0.25–100 ppm producing R² ≥ 0.999.&nbsp;<h4>LUMA detector highlights&nbsp;</h4><ul><li>Detection range: 125–1,050 nm VUV-UV-VIS&nbsp;</li><li>Channel configuration: Up to 12 discrete absorbance bands simultaneously acquired&nbsp;</li><li>Sensitivity: Low-ppb to percent level in a single method&nbsp;</li><li>Installation: Compact, uses any carrier gas and no vacuum pumps&nbsp;</li><li>Software integration: Fully controlled via Thermo Scientific™ Chromeleon™ Chromatography Data System (CDS)&nbsp;</li></ul>These capabilities enable detection of water and organic solvents in a single injection—dramatically simplifying workflows in quality control laboratories.<h4>Experimental&nbsp;</h4>The LUMA detector can be easily installed on a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/483">Thermo Scientific™ TRACE™ 1600 Series GC</a> and controlled in <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/76">Chromeleon CDS</a>, providing method settings, data acquisition, and reporting in a single software platform.GC-VUV separation using the LUMA Multi-Channel Vacuum Ultraviolet Absorbance detector was based on a previously described method by VUV Analytics.¹ Method conditions for this experiment are described in Table 1.A commercially available 100 ppm KF standard (water in xylene) was used to determine sensitivity, linearity, and repeatability. To minimize the impact of environmental moisture in this experiment, the same solution has been used to simulate different water levels through varying split ratios and injection volumes.&nbsp;Seven concentration levels (0.25–100 ppm) were created using adjusted split ratios as summarized in Table 2. Five replicate injections were made at each level.<h4>Key application benefits&nbsp;</h4><ul><li>Replaces Karl Fischer titration for routine moisture analysis&nbsp;</li><li>Simultaneous quantification of water and organic solvents&nbsp;</li><li>Ideal for pharmaceutical QA/QC and regulatory environments&nbsp;</li><li>Fast, automated workflows with no vacuum or specialty gases&nbsp;</li></ul>This workflow is aligned with recent trends toward hybrid analytical techniques that reduce resource consumption and speed up decision-making in GMP labs.&nbsp;<h4>Conclusion</h4>The LUMA multi-channel VUV detector offers a transformative approach to moisture analysis in volatile organic solvents. It provides both trace-level sensitivity and wide dynamic range— enabling labs to consolidate workflows, eliminate time-consuming titrations, and enhance data reliability.&nbsp;By expanding GC capability to encompass water detection, LUMA bridges a long-standing gap in chromatographic technology, delivering measurable gains in efficiency and analytical scope.&nbsp;<ul><li>The detector operates in the 125 nm to 1,050 nm region of the spectrum, where nearly all compounds absorb, making it a universal GC detector.&nbsp;</li><li>The detector associates high sensitivity to high selectivity thanks to the simultaneous acquisition of 12 channels with different spectral range in the VUV spectrum.&nbsp;</li><li>Working with up to 12 channels, the detector allows the determination of multiple analytes in a single injection. For example, water, solvents, and a range of impurities including potential genotoxic impurities (PGIs).&nbsp;</li><li>In addition to having high sensitivity and selectivity, the LUMA detector is easy to use; it is controlled by Chromeleon CDS, fitting well into existing laboratory workflows, and does not require a vacuum pump or separate special carrier gases.</li></ul>

News from LabRulezGCMS Library - Week 42, 2025

Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezGCMS Library in the week of 20th October 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 applicaton notes by Agilent Technologies, EST Analytical, Shimadzu and Thermo Fisher Scientific!<h3>1. Agilent Technologies: FAMEs Analysis of Oils by GC-FID Coupled with Fully Automated Sample Preparation using a PAL3 Series 2 RTC</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_fame_oil_gc_pal3_5994_8543en_agilent_418da94d17.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>The analysis of fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs) is a widely used technique for characterizing lipid profiles in various food products, including oils, meats, and seeds. Fats are composed of a complex mixture of saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fatty acids, each with varying carbon chain lengths.2 This type of analysis is routinely performed in governmental, quality control (QC), and contract research laboratories worldwide. The resulting data often informs product labeling. Among the analytical techniques available, gas chromatography (GC) with flame ionization detection (GC-FID) is one of the most common methods for determining fatty acid composition in&nbsp;foods.&nbsp;This application note describes the use of automated sample preparation and analysis of FAMEs using the PAL3 Series&nbsp;2 RTC Autosampler system coupled with Agilent 8890 GC system equipped with an FID. The results shown here focus on two different methods of derivatization for FAMEs extraction: (1) base catalyzed reactions using potassium hydroxide (KOH) (part&nbsp;number M5795-14000) and (2) base plus acid catalyzed reactions using boron trifluoride (BF3 ) 1 (part number M5795-14001). For ease of use, both processes have been transcribed into dedicated sample preparation methods. These methods are part of the Agilent automated sample preparation workflow suite of solutions. These workflows improve process safety, optimizes throughput, and minimizes&nbsp;errors.<h4>Experimental&nbsp;</h4>The 37 component FAME mix standard was purchased from Sigma-Aldrich (part number CRM47885), and three consumer oil products were purchased from a local grocery store. The samples were prepared and injected into the GC using the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=PAL3">PAL3 Series 2-RTC system</a>. The analysis was performed using an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=8890+GC">8890 GC</a> equipped with an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=DB%E2%80%91FastFAME">Agilent DB‑FastFAME GC column</a>, 30&nbsp;m × 250 µm, 0.25&nbsp;µm, (part number G3903‑63011) and configured with an FID using Agilent&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=OpenLab+CDS+v2.7">OpenLab CDS v2.7+</a>.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>In summary, the current study demonstrated excellent reproducibility and accuracy using automated sample preparation and analysis of FAMEs. Two different sample preparation methods were demonstrated, both delivering comparable and reliable results. The base-catalyzed method enables rapid analysis but is not suitable for samples containing free fatty acids. In contrast, the acid-catalyzed method, while more extensive, is compatible with a broader range of lipid classes, including free fatty acids, phosphoglycerides, and triglycerides. The Agilent automated sample preparation workflow suite of solutions deliver a comprehensive package by combining preconfigured hardware, optimized analytical methods, and the necessary consumables to ensure efficient and reliable results.<h3>2. EST Analytical: Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule 3 for USEPA Method 524.3 and 524.4</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Purge_and_Trap_Unregulated_Contaminant_Monitoring_Rule_3_for_USEPA_Method_524_3_and_524_4_b774e6ab4c.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>The third Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR 3) was finalized in April of 2012. UCMR 3 requires public water systems to monitor for a specific list of 30 contaminants under three separate lists: list one, assessment monitoring, list two, screening survey, and list three, pre-screen testing. This application note will address the volatile organic compounds found in list one, assessment monitoring contaminants. USEPA Method 524.3 and 524.4 will be the methods evaluated for sampling and analysis.<h4>Discussion&nbsp;</h4>The amendments to the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) require the EPA to list no more than 30 unregulated contaminants to be monitored by public water systems. Every five years, this list needs to be updated. List one contaminants include seven volatile organic compounds to be analyzed by USEPA Method 524.3. The detection limits for these compounds are much lower; therefore, Single Ion Monitoring (SIM) must be used for compound detection. USEPA Method 524.3 and 524.4 allow for modification of purge and trap parameters in order to take advantage of purge and trap improvements. Thus, method parameters can be modified in order to optimize purge and trap cycle times. Since the purge and trap parameters were established for these methods previously, refer to application note Drinking Water Analysis Conditions for USEPA Method 524.3 and the Newly Proposed Method 524.4, purge and trap method development was not required for this application. For this study, Helium and Nitrogen purge gases were compared utilizing the same purge volume then comparing experimental results for the linearity, precision, accuracy and overall compound response for the low level requirements set by UCMR 3.&nbsp;<h4>Experimental&nbsp;</h4>The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/2160">EST Analytical Encon Evolution purge and trap concentrator</a> and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/2159">Centurion WS autosampler </a>were interfaced to an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=7890%2F5975">Agilent 7890/5975 GC/MS</a>. The purge and trap concentrator was configured with a Vocarb 3000 (K) analytical trap. A chiller unit capable of keeping the sample vials cooled below 10°C was installed on the Centurion WS autosampler. The experimental parameters are listed in Tables 1 and 2.<h4>Conclusion</h4>The Encon Evolution and Centurion WS in conjunction with the Agilent 7890/5975 GC/MS performed very well using both the Helium and Nitrogen purge gases and employing SIM for compound detection. The Nitrogen and the Helium purge gases met USEPA Method 524.3 curve linearity criteria and produced comparable results for precision and accuracy at the low and mid-levels of the calibration curve. Overall, the principal difference between the two purge gases was exhibited in the compound response. When examining the overall compound response factors over the curve range, it is evident that the analytes’ responses are slightly lower with the Nitrogen purge gas as opposed to the Helium purge gas.<h3>3. Shimadzu: Comparison of Metabolites in Rice from Different Production Areas Using GC-MS/MS</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_01_01000_en_9c1d7cfe70.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Metabolomics is a research method for comprehensively analyzing metabolites contained in an organism. It is used for a wide variety of fields, such as medical science and food. Because food quality is affected by many components complexly, comprehensive analysis of metabolites can help improve food development and manufacturing processes. Rice contains metabolites, such as sugars, amino acids, and fatty acids. In recent years, development of more flavorful rice has been studied.&nbsp;This article describes simultaneous analysis of 502 metabolites and multivariate analysis of a variety of rice from different production areas. The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=GCMS-TQ8040+NX">GCMS-TQ8040 NX</a> with the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=Smart+Metabolites+Database+ver.+2">Smart Metabolites Database Ver. 2</a> was used for measurement. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=LabSolutions+Insight">LabSolutions Insight </a>was used for data processing, and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=eMSTAT+Solution">eMSTAT Solution</a> was used for multivariate analysis. The process flow, from pretreatment to data analysis, is shown in Fig. 1.<h4>eMSTAT Solution&nbsp;</h4>eMSTAT Solution is statistical analysis software that enables multivariate and discriminant analysis of chromatogram data. For multivariate analysis, it can discriminate between samples, and it can search for the marker peaks that contribute to those differences. For discriminant analysis, it can create a discriminant model based on training data and use the model for discriminant analysis. Users can easily switch both modes with just a single click. Workflow of the data analysis is shown in Fig. 2.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>Metabolites in same variety of rice from different production areas were analyzed, and the differences between samples were identified by multivariate analysis. Score plots were used to visualize differences between the samples, and loading plots were used to confirm the characteristic compounds. Smart Metabolites Database Ver. 2, LabSolutions Insight, and eMSTAT Solution make metabolites analysis, data processing, and multivariate analysis easy for beginner users.<h3>4. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Automated, multi-parameter gasoline characterization using GC-VUV and ASTM D8071</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_003957_gc_vuv_trace_1610_vga_industrial_an003957_na_en_3c0a64e3b2.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Gasoline is a complex hydrocarbon blend whose composition directly impacts combustion behavior, emissions, and regulatory compliance. Accurately quantifying components such as aromatics, olefins, ethanol, and benzene is critical, but traditional ASTM methods require multiple techniques (FIA, GC-FID, GC-MS, etc.) to measure all relevant parameters. Table 1 summarizes several test methods and their respective scopes.&nbsp;ASTM D8071 introduces a consolidated method using GC-VUV, offering improved precision, spectral resolution, and reduced operational burden. This approach is now recognized as an EPA- and CARB-approved alternative to several legacy test methods, including ASTM D1319, D5599, D5769, and D3606.<h4>Experimental&nbsp;</h4>Gasoline samples were analyzed on the VUV Analyzer Platform for Fuels with no sample preparation required. The VUV Analyzer consists of the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/486">Thermo Scientific™ TRACE™ 1610 gas chromatograph</a> coupled to the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=3&amp;search=VGA-100">VGA-100™ spectrometer detector </a>(VUV Analytics, Inc.).&nbsp;Data are acquired and processed with the VUVision™ Software and VUV Analyze™ Software (VUV Analytics, Inc), respectively, specifically configured to run ASTM D8071.&nbsp;<h5>Workflow overview&nbsp;</h5>The VUV Analyzer Platform for Fuels performs gasoline PIONA class analysis using a streamlined five-step workflow:&nbsp;<ol><li>System validation – Verifies instrument performance using standard hydrocarbons.&nbsp;</li><li>Sample prep – No preparation required.&nbsp;</li><li>Data acquisition – Performed using VUVision Software.&nbsp;</li><li>Spectral matching – Automated deconvolution with VUV Analyze Software.&nbsp;</li><li>Quantitation – Volume % and mass % calculated with high accuracy using built-in response factors and density data.</li></ol><h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>GC-VUV with ASTM D8071 enables complete hydrocarbon group and compound-level analysis of gasoline in a single method. Its ability to automate spectral deconvolution and report mass and volume percentages simplifies operations while meeting strict compliance standards. This solution not only enhances analytical accuracy and repeatability but also drastically reduces operating costs and lab complexity.&nbsp;<ul><li>Short analysis time with full gasoline class and compound profiling in 34 minutes&nbsp;</li><li>Faster throughput with full automation from injection to reporting&nbsp;</li><li>12× lower cost-per-analysis, due to reduced labor, no calibration standards, and consolidated workflow</li></ul>

News from LabRulezGCMS Library - Week 43, 2025

Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezGCMS Library in the week of 10th November 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 applicaton notes by Agilent Technologies, EST Analytical and Shimadzu!<h3>1. Agilent Technologies: Improved Thermal Stability Leads to Retention Time Stability and Data Accuracy for the Analysis of Pesticides</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_pesticide_gc_ms_5994_8447en_agilent_773f1f135b.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>The analysis of trace-level pesticides is required by many governmental regulatory authorities at varying concentrations and can include hundreds of target analytes. As many of the matrices tested are complex and the analytes active, a robust and inert gas chromatography method is required.1 Heavy matrices can be difficult for analytical gas chromatography columns, and higher temperatures may be required to elute the matrix off of the column. To avoid damage from high temperatures and heavy matrix, a thermally stable and ultra inert analytical column phase is needed to successfully perform this analysis. The Agilent J&amp;W 5Q series of gas chromatography columns provide the most thermally stable column available and offer inertness for difficult analytes.2 The increased thermal stability not only dramatically reduces column bleed but also allows for less spectral interference at higher temperatures, leading to less need for background subtraction when searching analyte spectra against commercially available libraries.&nbsp;While column bleed is a normal phenomenon, the increase of the baseline due to column bleed is an indication of the column phase breaking down and leading to retention time shifts. Retention time shifting can be especially difficult with the analysis of pesticides, since sensitive detectors such as mass spectrometers and triple quadrupole systems collected in selected ion mode (SIM) or multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode are required to achieve lower limits of detection. In both SIM and MRM collection methods, time segment windows are stated for analytes of interest, and if a retention time shifts earlier, it can move out of the collection window and require time to update the analytical collection method. By using a GC column with increased thermal stability, such as the Agilent J&amp;W DB-5Q or the Agilent J&amp;W HP-5Q, the column will be more robust to thermal and matrix damage. These columns will also maintain consistent retention times over long periods of analytical stress.&nbsp;Retention time locking is a useful tool in the analysis of pesticides, as it can adjust column flow or pressure to normalize retention times, so that the retention times of the analytes are the same from system to system or column to column.3,4 When columns with identical selectivity are interchanged, after a single injection of a test mix, the analysis can be relocked and the column flow adjusted, based on the initial calibration, to be identical as in the original method. This eliminates the need to constantly update retention times in analytical methods for SIM or MRM windows or data processing methods when replacing analytical columns.&nbsp;When analyzing pesticides in heavy matrix, a guard column can serve two additional benefits. The guard column can help protect the analytical column from heavy matrix damage and can improve solvent and sample focusing. It is recommended to use nonpolar solvents when working with nonpolar column phases, such as the DB-5Q and HP-5Q columns. Recently it has become more common to prepare heavy matrices for pesticide analysis using QuEChERs-type preparations, with a final solvent of acetonitrile. Solvent-column phase polarity mismatch can lead to improper solvent focusing and wettability leading to improper peak shape, especially when working with columns that have low free silanol content on the deactivated surface of the fused silica. Use of a guard column can help to refocus the solvent and analytes to maintain proper peak shape.5&nbsp;The Agilent 7010D GC/TQ uses the new Agilent High Efficiency Source (HES) 2.0 equipped with a novel dipolar RF lens that redirects carrier gas and low mass ions by &gt;&nbsp;95%, helping to reduce noise and extend instrument robustness while maintaining sensitivity.6 When using DB-5Q and HP‑5Q columns in conjunction with the HES 2.0, it is possible to increase the overall robustness of the workflow for the analysis of pesticides over a wide dynamic range of analyte&nbsp;concentrations.&nbsp;<h4>Experimental&nbsp;</h4>An <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=8890">Agilent 8890 GC</a> coupled with an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=5977B">Agilent 5977B GC/MSD</a> with an Inert Extractor Source was used for acquisition of data and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=MassHunter+10.0+Qualitative+Analysis">MassHunter 10.0 Qualitative Analysis software</a> was used for data analysis. NIST20 library was used to confirm peak identification. A retention gap of one meter was used as a guard column to help protect the analytical column from heavy matrix and to aid in solvent focusing.<h4>Results and discussion&nbsp;</h4>The analysis of pesticides requires retention time stability as well as consistency from analytical column to analytical column. To compare the analytical performance of an Agilent J&amp;W DB-5Q to an Agilent J&amp;W DB-5ms UI GC column for the analysis of pesticides, a standard was first analyzed on a DB-5ms UI and the retention time locked for chlorpyrifosmethyl. The DB-5ms UI column was then replaced with a DB-5Q, and once the column was conditioned, the representative pesticide mix was again analyzed and relocked to the appropriate retention time for chlorpyrifos-methyl and analyzed again. Figure 1 demonstrates the identical selectivity of the DB-5ms UI to the DB-5Q phases and the ability to relock an existing analytical method when upgrading columns and compatibility with existing retention time locking libraries.&nbsp;Additionally, when comparing the baseline of the DB-5Q to the DB-5ms UI column at the upper temperature limit of the chromatographic method, the increased thermal stability of the DB-5Q allows for a significant decrease in column bleed at upper temperature limits (Figure 1).<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>This application note demonstrated that the Agilent J&amp;W DB-5Q column has identical selectivity to the Agilent J&amp;W DB-5ms UI column, allowing for seamless adoption and use with existing retention time locking methods. The robust DB-5Q column phase maintained retention time stability even when analyzing heavy matrices and temperature cycling. The increased thermal stability not only decreased the baseline at higher temperatures but also allowed for less spectral interference and high library match factor scores. The analytical performance of the Agilent J&amp;W DB-5Q column coupled with the Agilent 7010D with the HES 2.0 ion source allows for optimal sensitivity and wide dynamic range of pesticide compounds.<h3>2. EST Analytical: Automated Sampling of Methanol Extractions</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Purge_and_Trap_Automated_Sampling_of_Methanol_Extractions_f521577cc4.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Environmental labs are required to perform methanol extractions on highly contaminated solid waste samples. Additionally, these extractions are used for difficult matrices, for example oily waste samples, that are also soluble in methanol. Due to the variety of matrices that can be extracted with methanol there are assorted hurdles to cross in order to automate the sampling process. One of these obstacles is how the matrix can absorb the extraction solvent. For example, many soil samples require more methanol; due to the soil expanding with the solvent addition. Adding more methanol aids in rectifying this issue however, when automating sampling, the added methanol coupled with the soil expansion needs to be accommodated. For this reason, EST Analytical created software for the Centurion WS that allows the user to program the needle depth to different distances. In doing this, laboratories are able to sample soils at higher depths in order to adjust for sample absorption and at lower depths for samples that do not require the added solvent. In order to test volatile compounds in methanol extractions, a portion of the extract needs to be sampled from the vial, diluted, and purged on a purge and trap concentrator. This examination will look at the automated sampling of three different soil matrices.&nbsp;<h4>Experimental:&nbsp;</h4>The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/2159">Centurion WS autosampler</a> with the syringe option and the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/2160">Evolution purge and trap concentrator</a> were set up to run methanol extractions. Since this is a volatile analysis, a Vocarb 3000 (K) trap was used for the analytical trap. The sampling system was configured to an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1-10&amp;search=7890A">Agilent 7890A Gas Chromatograph (GC)</a> and an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1-10&amp;search=5975C">Agilent 5975C inert XL Mass Spectrometer (MS)</a>. The column selected for this analysis was a Restek Rxi®-624 Sil MS, with dimensions of 30m x 0.25mm I.D. x 1.4µm film thickness. Experimental parameters used for this analysis are listed in Tables 1 and 2.<h4>Conclusions:&nbsp;</h4>The system produced excellent results. The curve and the compound response factors met all of the method requirements. The overall precision was less than 5% RSD while the system showed an average recovery of 94%. When examining the expected analyte concentration to the extracted sand results, it was found that the average recovery was approximately 102%. Thus, the automated extraction performed extremely well. When comparing the three different matrices it was found that they all displayed similar recoveries, however the sand matrix did perform the best of the three as expected since sand tends not to absorb analytes as readily as other matrices. Finally, the ability to control the needle depth on extraction samples was a great benefit for the different matrices as the system exhibited no issues with needle clogging due to the higher needle depth when performing the potting soil extractions. As demonstrated from this study, the Centurion WS automated extraction capability would be an asset to any lab performing extractions.<h3>3. Shimadzu: Fatty Acid Analysis of Edible Oils by GC</h3>Comparing Helium and Hydrogen as Carrier GasesComparing Analysis by GC with a Simple Screening Analysis by LC-MS<ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_01_00852_en_e928ab40ea.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>There are a variety of edible oils that are sold commercially for a range of uses. They are almost entirely composed of compounds called triacylglycerols (neutral lipids), which consist of three fatty acids bound to a glycerol molecule. Because fatty acids affect the functional characteristics of food, determining the fatty acid composition of food is an important area of analysis. In this Application News, the Brevis GC-2050 (GC-FID) is used to determine the fatty acid composition of commercially available edible oils, and the use of hydrogen as a carrier gas is examined and compared with helium. This Application News also analyzes the same edible oils analyzed by LC-MS in a previous Application News1) and comparesthe results.<h4>Equipment&nbsp;</h4>GC-FID analysis was performed using the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=Brevis+GC-2050">Brevis GC-2050</a> gas chromatograph (Fig.1) , which is designed to be highly compact, with an installation footprint 35 % smaller than the previous model. The Brevis GC-2050 is also equipped with a carrier gas saving mode that reduces carrier gas consumption. The carrier gas saving mode reduced the use of helium carrier gas by around 89 % and hydrogen carrier gas by around 79 % in the analyses described in this article. Hydrogen carrier gas also reduced analysis times by around 25 %.<h4>Results from Real-World Sample Analysis&nbsp;</h4>Edible oils were derivatized and analyzed using both helium and hydrogen carrier gases. Peaks that could not be identified with the calibration standard (37 FAME mixture) were analyzed by GC-MS to determine their carbon number and degree of unsaturation. (Labeled as isomer.) Fig. 4 shows the chromatograms (partial) obtained from analyzing linseed oil with helium and hydrogen carrier gases. Similar separation was achieved with both gases.<h4>Comparing GC-FID and FIA-MS&nbsp;</h4>Tables 5 and 6 compare the results of analyzing eight vegetable oils for fatty acids by FIA-MS (screening analysis) and GC-FID (a helium carrier). The results reveal characteristic features of the vegetable oils, such as the most abundant fatty acids, and that coconut oil contains fatty acids with relatively low carbon numbers. More information about the screening analysis performed with a single quadrupole mass spectrometer can be found in Shimadzu Application News 01-00674-EN. 1)<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>In this Application News, the Brevis GC-2050 was used to determine the fatty acid composition of edible oils. Fatty acid analysis is typically performed using helium as the carrier gas, but in this study, hydrogen was used. This reduced analysis times while producing results that compared favorably with helium. Given the current supply issues associated with helium, hydrogen should be considered as an alternative to helium.&nbsp;The results also show that fatty acid compositions determined by FIA-MS correlate well with results obtained by GC-FID. And because the sample pretreatment only requires sample dilution, analysis by FIA-MS is rapid, taking just 1 minute. Therefore, FIAMS seems particularly well-suited to the screening of large numbers of samples or when there is an urgent need to verify quality or safety

News from LabRulezGCMS Library - Week 46, 2025

Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezGCMS Library in the week of 17th November 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 applicaton notes by Agilent Technologies, EST Analytical and Shimadzu!<h3>1. Agilent Technologies: Accurate Identification and Quantification of Pesticide Residues in Ghee</h3>Analysis by QuEChERS with GC/MS/MS using the Agilent 8890 GC and Agilent 7010 GC/TQ<ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_pesticide_ghee_gc_5994_8399en_agilent_1cbd787002.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>India is one of the largest producers of milk, contributing about 23% of global milk production.1 The dairy processing sector includes a wide range of products, such as milk, butter, cheese, ghee, yogurt, flavored milk, lactose-free dairy products, and value-added products like ice creams and yogurts. Amongst these, ghee production is significant because of its popularity, low cost of production, and versatile use. According to the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), ghee is mentioned as a "product obtained exclusively from milk, cream or butter by a process that almost completely removes water and non-fat solids; it has a specially developed flavor and physical structure".2 Milk‑producing animals can be exposed to pesticides through their diet, such as feed and fodder containing pesticide residues, or through the direct application of pesticides for controlling ectoparasites on their bodies, in animal sheds, and in milk processing areas. Due to their persistent and lipophilic nature, pesticides tend to accumulate in the fat-rich tissues of animals. The FSSAI has specified maximum residue levels (MRLs) for 55 pesticides, and a tolerance limit of 0.01&nbsp;mg/kg for the remaining pesticides for which an MRL has not been&nbsp;fixed.&nbsp;Ghee consists of 98.9% fat, irrespective of the animal source. Among the short- and medium-chain saturated fatty acids, all samples contain butyric (C4:0), caproic (C6:0), caprylic (C8:0), and capric acid (C10:0).3 Since its introduction, the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=QuEChERS">QuEChERS method</a> has been widely used for the analysis of pesticides in several matrices. Some modifications to the original QuEChERS method have been introduced to ensure efficient extraction of pH-dependent compounds, to minimize degradation of susceptible compounds (such as base- and acid-labile pesticides), and to expand the spectrum of matrices covered. Ghee matrix has a very high lipid load, making it a difficult commodity for analysis pesticide residues. The primary challenge lies in obtaining an extract that contains the target analytes while minimizing the amount of fat. Co-extracted lipids in the extracts can be removed, to a high degree, by a freezing-out step or a C18 cleanup.&nbsp;During sample extraction, the sample is often diluted. To obtain a quantification limit of 0.01 mg/kg, the instrument should be able to detect the residues at a lower concentration. This application note addresses these requirements by combining a sample preparation technique covering multiclass pesticides, target-specific multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) data acquisition, and efficient software to simplify quantitative analysis. The Agilent 7010 triple quadrupole GC/MS system enabled trace-level detection and confident quantitation of 150 pesticides in ghee.<h4>Experimental&nbsp;</h4><h5>Equipment&nbsp;</h5>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=7010+GC%2FTQ">7010 GC/TQ</a> system equipped with high efficiency source was used for the analysis. The GC system was equipped with a multimode inlet with air cooling and midcolumn backflush based on an Agilent purged Ultimate union controlled by a pneumatic switching device. The method parameters are displayed in Table 1.<h4>Conclusion</h4>The limits of quantitation (LOQs) for the target list of over 150 compounds ranged from 2.5 to 5 mg/kg for the ghee matrix. To minimize interferences from the ghee matrix, numerous multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) transitions were employed. This approach helped to accurately identify and quantify the target compounds despite the complex sample matrix. The samples were diluted five-fold to ensure that the analytes were within the required detection range of the instrument. This dilution also helped in reducing the matrix effects, leading to more reliable results. The average analyte recoveries were between 70 and 130%, indicating that the method has good accuracy and precision. This range of recoveries demonstrates the method’s robustness and suitability for routine analysis of these compounds.<h3>2. EST Analytical: Analysis of Coffee Flavors by Purge and Trap Sampling</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Purge_and_Trap_Analysis_of_Coffee_Flavors_by_Purge_and_Trap_Sampling_ca25beef60.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Most of us who drink coffee know our preferences. We know which blend we like, what strength and definitely what we like in our coffee. However, most of us do not think about the flavors that go into our coffee that help us define our preferences. Coffee manufacturers, on the other hand are working diligently to create a new blend or a more satisfying flavor that would make us want to choose their coffee over another maker.&nbsp;This study will look at four different blends of coffee and some of the compounds that contribute to the flavor of the blend. Using purge and trap sampling, the flavor compounds were purged out of the coffee and trapped onto an adsorbent trap. The analytes were then transferred to a Gas Chromatograph/Mass Spectrometer (GC/MS) for analysis. The study focused on six flavor compounds. The spicy smoky aroma of 2-methylfuran, the spicy caramel, almond odor of 5-methylfurfural, the buttery scent provided by the addition of 2,3-butanedione and 2,3- pentanedione and the impact of the two and three methyl butanals giving the dark chocolate malty flavor to the coffee.<h4>Experimental:&nbsp;</h4>The EST Analytical <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/2160">Encon Evolution Purge and Trap Concentrator</a> and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/2159">Centurion WS Autosampler </a>were interfaced to a GC/MS. The Centurion WS was run in the soil mode and the purge and trap concentrator was configured with a Vocarb 3000 (K) analytical trap. The column selected for this study was an Rtx-1 60m x 0.25mm x 1µm. Listed in Tables 1 and 2 are the experimental parameters used for this study.<h4>Conclusion:&nbsp;</h4>The lightest roast had the most buttery and dark chocolate/malty flavors while the darkest roast had more of the smoky flavor. Surprisingly, the darkest roast and the medium roast had similar proportions of the flavor compounds with the exception of the smoky flavor. While the light roast had large amounts of the flavors tested for, the chromatography of the light roast was much simpler than that of the darker roasts. Overall, the Encon Evolution Purge and Trap Concentrator in conjunction with the Centurion WS Autosampler proved to be an excellent system for sampling coffee. The results were reproducible and provided a lot of information on the flavors of the respective coffees.<h3>3. Shimadzu: Analysis of Ethanol in E10 Gasoline Using Polyarc Microreactor for GC</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_01_01033_en_d4ee66bd4f.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>The flame ionization detector (FID) can detect almost all organic compounds, and the sensitivity of the obtained chromatograms displays a correlation with concentration and number of carbon atoms in the compound. However, as a weakness of FID, its sensitivity decreases when an organic compound contains oxygen atoms, asin the case of alcohols.&nbsp;The Polyarc microreactor improvessensitivity for alcohols and other compounds containing oxygen atoms (hereinafter, oxygenated compounds), allowing calibration using a single compound. Research and use of biofuels has accelerated in recent years, and more sensitive quantitative analysis of oxygenated compounds in multiple compoundsis now required.&nbsp;This Application News introduces an example of an analysis of a sample simulating E10 gasoline, in which 10 % ethanol by volume concentration was added to gasoline, demonstrating that enhanced sensitivity for oxygenated compounds can be achieved by adding Polyarc to the instrument configuration. The accuracy of the quantitative analysis was also verified using a general standard sample (alkane).<h4>Polyarc Microreactor</h4>Polyarc is a post-column type microreactor that is introduced between the column and the detector (FID). The organic compounds separated and eluted by the column are decomposed to methane by the Polyarc reactor in a two-stage oxidationreduction reaction (Fig. 1). Since the decomposed methane is detected by the FID, the uniform sensitivity for the carbon number can be obtained, regardless of the type of functional groups in a sample.<h4>Effective Carbon Number</h4>As mentioned above, the sensitivity of the FID detector varies depending on the types of functional groups in organic compounds. The detection sensitivity by the FID can be estimated based on the concept of the effective carbon number (ECN), which is an index showing how many carbon atoms in a compound function effectively. Depending on the type of functional groups contained in a compound, the carbon ratio in the molecule changes, and this causes changesin the sensitivity ofthe FID. For example, both ethane (C2H6) and ethanol (C2H5OH) contain the same number of carbon atoms of 2, but the sensitivity of the FID for ethanol is only 75 % of itssensitivity for ethane because the primary hydroxyl group (-OH) behaves as -0.5 carbon atoms in terms of its contribution to the ECN. This meansthe ECNof ethanol is 1.5. Table 1 shows several examples of other functional groups with ECNslowerthan the number of carbon atoms.<h4>Analysis Conditions</h4>In this Application News, sensitivity for ethanol when the Polyarc was added and when using only the FID was compared using an E10 sample, in which 10 v/v% ethanol was added to gasoline, simulating a biofuel which has attracted attention in recent years, and quantitativity for ethanol was confirmed. In the quantitative analysis, it was also carried out by the external standard method using a hydrocarbon (dodecane; C12) with a concentration of 1 w/v% as a standard sample. The analytical instrument was a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=GC-2030">GC-2030</a> (SPL/FID) model gas chromatograph with the Polyarc added (Fig. 2). Table 2 shows the analysis conditions.<h4>Conclusion</h4>E10 gasoline was analyzed using an FID detector and an added Polyarc microreactor, confirming that oxygenated compounds can be analyzed with high sensitivity. This study also confirmed that a uniform reaction of organic compounds can be obtained in the FID, and peak broadening can be suppressed by standardizing the response of sensitivity. Table 6 introduces several of the advantages that are possible by adding the Polyarc microreactor. The Polyarc converts all organic compounds to methane having the same number of carbon atoms (mol), enabling highsensitivity detection for compounds with low detection sensitivity by FID alone. In addition, since sensitivity is standardized, quantitation is possible using only one arbitrary calibration curve, regardless of the type of analysis compound. As a result, it is now possible to analyze compounds that were difficult to analyze by FID until now.

News from LabRulezGCMS Library - Week 47, 2025

Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezGCMS Library in the week of 24th November 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 brochure by Agilent Technologies, poster by LECO /MDCW, and application notes by Shimadzu and Thermo Fisher Scientific!<h3>1. Agilent Technologies: GC workflows for hydrogen vehicles and natural gas blending - Hydrogen Fuel Testing Solutions</h3><ul><li>Brochure</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/ac_hydrogen_fuel_purity_matters_compendium_5994_8643en_agilent_8da57fb7a2.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Agilent’s Hydrogen Fuel Testing Solutions compendium highlights the growing importance of reliable impurity analysis as hydrogen becomes a key clean-energy fuel. Because contaminants such as moisture, sulfur compounds, ammonia, oxygen, or organics can compromise fuel-cell performance and safety, the brochure emphasizes that hydrogen purity must be monitored throughout the entire supply chain—from production to storage, transport, and final distribution. Hydrogen blended into natural gas introduces additional challenges, since existing pipeline infrastructure was not originally designed for hydrogen, making rigorous analytical control essential for preventing corrosion, equipment malfunction, and safety issues.To address these challenges, Agilent presents a comprehensive suite of GC-based hydrogen testing workflows. The compendium showcases key analytical instruments—such as the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=8890">Agilent 8890 GC</a>, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=8355+SCD">8355 SCD</a>, 8255 NCD, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=5977C">5977C GC/MSD</a>, and portable <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=990+Micro+GC">990 Micro GC</a>—each tailored for detecting critical impurities at trace levels in accordance with ISO 14687-2019, SAE J2719, and other global standards. Featured application notes demonstrate capabilities including ultratrace ammonia monitoring, analysis of sulfides and halides, sulfur speciation, and fast impurity screening for hydrogen and natural gas streams.Beyond instrumentation, the brochure outlines Agilent’s service ecosystem supporting method deployment, instrument verification, sustainability strategies, and lab operations management through CrossLab services and OpenLab software. These include preventive maintenance programs, financial solutions, certified pre-owned instruments, and consulting for analytical method development.Finally, the brochure connects hydrogen-fuel purity testing with broader sustainability goals. Agilent encourages laboratories to adopt circular-economy practices—reducing waste, extending instrument lifecycles, and improving energy efficiency—emphasizing that clean hydrogen starts with responsible, efficient, and reliable laboratory workflows.<h3>2. LECO / MDCW: BOOSTING NON-TARGETED ANALYSIS WITH COMPREHENSIVE TWO-DIMENSIONAL GAS CHROMATOGRAPHY AND HIGH-RESOLUTION MASS SPECTROMETRY</h3><ul><li>Poster</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/FL_18_Sebastiano_b4cf417f82.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>The presentation by Sebastiano Panto (LECO EATC Berlin) focuses on demonstrating how comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography coupled with high-resolution time-of-flight mass spectrometry (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?instrumentationItems=2-13-3&amp;mainauthorItems=24">GC×GC-HR-TOFMS</a>) significantly enhances non-targeted and targeted screening workflows, particularly in environmental analysis. Using liver extracts from Glaucous gulls (Larus hyperboreus) from the Svalbard region as a case study, the work aims to reveal contamination patterns and improve compound identification confidence.Sample preparation included homogenization, lipid removal, and multi-step cleanup involving GPC/SEC chromatography and Florisil fractionation, yielding separate non-polar and polar fractions for analysis (page 4). Analytical separations were performed on an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=8890+GC">Agilent 8890 GC</a> equipped with a dual-column GC×GC setup (Rxi-5SilMS and Rxi-17SilMS), cryogenic modulation, and Helium carrier gas. Detection used the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=24&amp;search=Pegasus+HRT%2B4D+HR-TOFMS">LECO Pegasus® HRT+4D HR-TOFMS</a> with multiple ionization modes—EI, PCI, and ECNI—enabling simultaneous acquisition of structural, isotopic, and exact-mass information (page 5).The results highlight the advantages of GC×GC-HR-TOFMS in non-target screening: improved separation patterns, higher library match scores, exact-mass confirmation, and enhanced structural elucidation. Electron ionization (EI) provided clean spectra with high match scores for classic pollutants (e.g., PCBs, DDE), while electron capture negative ionization (ECNI) greatly improved selectivity and sensitivity for halogenated contaminants such as toxaphenes and brominated flame retardants, enabling confident identification even when EI spectra were ambiguous (pages 6–13). The instrument’s high mass accuracy and isotopic fidelity are shown to be essential for distinguishing closely related halogenated compounds.The study concludes that combining GC×GC separation power with HR-TOFMS accurate-mass detection and complementary ionization modes offers a robust discovery platform for environmental exposomics. This analytical workflow supports more confident annotation of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and emerging contaminants in complex biological matrices, ultimately helping assess ecological risks in sensitive Arctic ecosystems where these avian species reside (page 15).<h3>3. Shimadzu: High-Sensitivity Gas Analysis Using the GCMS-QP2050 and GI-30 Auto Gas Injector</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_01_00953_en_7e1a865aae.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Gas analysis is conducted across a wide range of fields, including resources, energy, and the environment. Typical targets include inorganic gases such as H2, CO, and CO2, and light hydrocarbon gases starting with CH4, with analyses primarily performed using GC. In Application News No. 01- 00858, examples of gas sample analysis using TCD and BID installed on the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=Brevis+GC-2050">Brevis GC-2050</a> were presented.&nbsp;However, qualitative analysis by GC requires standard substances, making the identification of unknown impurities in gas samples difficult. Furthermore, in inorganic gas analysis, complete chromatographic separation of peaks can be challenging, and when GC fails to fully separate them, both qualitative and quantitative analysis become difficult.&nbsp;In contrast, gas analysis using GC-MS enables qualitative identification of unknown components without standard substances through mass spectral library searches. Quantitation in GC-MS is performed using mass chromatograms, allowing accurate measurements even when peaks overlap.&nbsp;In this Application News, high-sensitivity analysis of inorganic gases and light hydrocarbon gases was performed using the compact yet high-performance <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=GCMS-QP2050">GCMS-QP2050</a>. Gas samples were introduced using the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=GI-30">GI-30 Auto Gas Injector</a>, enabling automated, continuous analysis and delivering higher reproducibility than manual sample injection.<h4>Instrument Configuration and Analytical Conditions&nbsp;</h4>A 10 ppm standard mixed gas sample in a cylinder was analyzed using the GCMS-QP2050. Gas sample injection into the GC-MS was performed with the GI-30 Auto Gas Injector (P/N: S221- 89755-41). The instrument configuration is shown in Fig. 1. The analytical conditions used are summarized in Table 1. Under typical ionization settings (ionization voltage 70 V and emission current 60 µA), ionization of the helium carrier gas generates a significant signal at m/z 2, making detection of H2 (monitor ion: m/z 2) difficult. Therefore, for analysis in SIM mode, the ionization voltage was set to 20 V and the emission current to 20 µA to suppress He ionization.<h4>Automated Continuous Analysis Using the GI-30&nbsp;</h4>The GI-30 Auto Gas Injector is a sample pretreatment device that automatically introduces a fixed volume of gas into the GC. It is used by connecting either a gas cylinder or a sample bag. When the GI-30 is connected to a gas cylinder, automated, continuous analysis of gassamples becomes possible.&nbsp;The GI-30 is equipped with an optional valve purge mechanism. Purging the internal valve with gas reduces the ingress of ambient air. This is effective for analyzing components in ambient air, such as N2 and O2, as well as for measuring tracelevel components.&nbsp;Table 2 shows the peak-area repeatability (%RSD) obtained when a 10 ppm standard mixed gas was analyzed automatically and continuously in SIM mode. As an example, an overlay of the CH4 SIM chromatograms is shown in Fig. 3. Because the GI-30 meters a fixed volume of gas into the GC via a sample loop, excellent reproducibility was achieved for all compounds.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>Using the GCMS-QP2050, high-sensitivity analysis of inorganic gases, such as H2, and light hydrocarbons was achieved. Gas sample injection was performed with the GI-30 Auto Gas Injector, enabling automated, continuous analysis and delivering higher reproducibility compared with manual sample injection. The compact, high-performance GCMS-QP2050, together with the GI-30, enables automation and high-precision gas analysis, and supports greater efficiency in GC-MS-based gas analysis.<h3>4. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Trace analysis of epichlorohydrin in drinking water using GC-MS coupled with purge and trap</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_003894_gc_single_quad_isq_7610_environmental_an003894_na_en_70123385ae.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Epichlorohydrin (ECH) is a versatile starting material in the production of drugs and polymers and is also used as an insect fumigant and solvent for organic synthesis reactions. ECH-based polymer pipes are commonly used in the production of drinking water due to their durability and resistance to corrosion. However, ECH is known for its high reactivity and toxicity, which poses significant health risks if it contaminates drinking water. Exposure to ECH can cause respiratory issues, skin irritation, and has been classified as a probable human carcinogen.Due to these risks, many countries have imposed strict limits on the amount of ECH allowed in drinking water. Recently, Europe set a minimum detection limit (MDL) of 30 parts per trillion (ppt) for ECH in drinking water.2 Whereas typically required detection limits for most compounds mandated for analysis in Europe can be achieved using methods based on static headspace, the stringent MDL required for ECH requires preconcentration, for example using purge and trap (P&amp;T) technology.3,4 This technology involves purging the water sample with an inert gas to release volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are then trapped and concentrated for analysis, ensuring reliable detection at very low concentrations. In the United States, the analysis of VOCs in drinking water is mandated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA requires the use of P&amp;T technology for drinking water analysis to ensure that even trace amounts of harmful compounds like ECH are detected and managed appropriately.&nbsp;The following evaluation describes the use of the ISQ 7610 Single Quadrupole MS system coupled with the Thermo Scientific™ TRACE™ 1610 GC with the Thermo Scientific™ HeSaver-H2 Safer™ split/splitless injector and Teledyne LABS Tekmar Lumin P&amp;T concentrator combined with the AQUATek LVA autosampler for the analysis of ECH in drinking water.<h4>Experimental</h4><h5>GC-MS parameters&nbsp;</h5>A <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/486">TRACE 1610 GC</a> was coupled to the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/484">ISQ 7610 MS</a> equipped with the Thermo Scientific™ NeverVent ™ vacuum probe interlock (VPI) and an ExtractaBrite ion source. A <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/1773">Thermo Scientific™ TraceGOLD™ TG-VMS column</a>, 30 m × 0.25 mm, 1.4 µm film (P/N 26080-3320) was used for compound separation. The HeSaver-H2 Safer SSL injector was utilized to reduce the carrier gas consumption by decoupling the gas used for the chromatographic separation from the gas used to pressurize the inlet and maintain split and purge flows. The critical separations were maintained with a run time of under 15 minutes.For this analysis, the ISQ 7610 MS was operated in Selected Ion Monitoring (SIM) mode for increased selectivity, as required for this application. Extended method parameters for the ISQ 7610 MS are shown in Table 2.<h5>Instrument control and data processing&nbsp;</h5>Data was acquired, processed, and reported using the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/76">Thermo Scientific™ Chromeleon™ Chromatography Data System (CDS)</a>. This software can control both the GC-MS system and the Tekmar Lumin P&amp;T with the AQUATek LVA. This allows a single software to be utilized for the full workflow, simplifying the instrument operation. This application note is available for download via the Thermo Scientific™ AppsLab Library, which contains all the parameters needed to acquire, process, and report the analytical data for analysis of ECH.5<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>This study demonstrates the capability of the Tekmar Lumin P&amp;T with the AQUATek LVA system connected to the ISQ 7610 Single Quadrupole GC-MS to detect and quantify low-level ECH in drinking water samples, in compliance with EPA requirements.&nbsp;<ul><li>Utilizing the Tekmar Lumin P&amp;T’s ability to purge with nitrogen, along with using the HeSaver-H₂Safer SSL injector, nearly four times less helium was consumed during the analysis without sacrificing system performance.&nbsp;</li><li>The linearity of the calibration curve from 30 ppt to 5,000 ppt passed method requirements.</li><li>The application proved robust during an extended study with 20 samples of a 1,000 ppt ECH standard injected over a series of 124 injections, obtaining 4.4% precision and 118% accuracy of the recovery.</li></ul>

News from LabRulezGCMS Library - Week 48, 2025

Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezGCMS Library in the week of 1st December 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 and Thermo Fisher Scientific and presentation by LECO /MDCW!<h3>1. Agilent Technologies: Analysis of 197 Pesticides in Durian by Agilent PAL 3 Autosampler and 7000E Triple Quadrupole GC/MSD</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_197_pesticides_durian_pal3_7000e_gc_msd_5994_8702en_agilent_e5a68eaf99.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Pesticide residue analysis in food products is critical to ensuring consumer safety and regulatory compliance. Durian (Durio zibethinus), known as the "king of fruits" and widely exported across Southeast Asia, China, and beyond, presents unique analytical challenges due to its sulfur-rich compounds, high fat content, and complex volatile matrix. Comprehensive pesticide analysis in such matrices demands highly sensitive, selective, and robust analytical solutions. The European Union Reference Laboratories (EURL) SANTE/11312/2021 guidelines set rigorous performance criteria for pesticide residue analysis, including strict requirements for method accuracy, precision, and sensitivity.1 Laboratories need to achieve recoveries between 70% to 120%, precision (RSD) below 20%, and quantification limits at or below regulatory maximum residue limits (MRLs), even in complex food matrices such as durian. This application note demonstrates a high-performance workflow for the analysis of 197 pesticides in durian using an Agilent PAL3 Autosampler combined with an Agilent 7000E Triple Quadrupole GC/MSD system. The PAL3 Autosampler provides high-throughput, precise sample handling, while the 7000E GC/MSD offers exceptional sensitivity and reproducibility for trace-level pesticide quantification. Optimized sample preparation and instrumental conditions ensure reliable performance, meeting and exceeding SANTE criteria for method validation.<h4>Experimental</h4><h5>PAL 3 RTC and 7000E GC/TQ parameters&nbsp;</h5>The analysis parameters are shown in Table 1. The target and ISTD compound MRM parameters are listed in Appendix&nbsp;1. Figure 1 shows a typical MRM chromatogram of targeted pesticides spiked in durian at a concentration of 100 ppb.<ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=PAL+3">Agilent PAL 3 (Liquid Tool)</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=8890">Agilent 8890 GC</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=7000E">Agilent 7000E</a></li></ul><h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>This study successfully demonstrated a robust and sensitive method for the quantitative analysis of 197&nbsp;pesticides in durian using an Agilent PAL3 Autosampler combined with an Agilent&nbsp;7000E Triple Quadrupole GC/MSD system. The optimized workflow, including sample extraction with an Agilent Bond Elut QuEChERS EN kit followed by cleanup with the Highly Pigmented dSPE kit, provided excellent recovery and precision. All target pesticides showed analysis accuracy between 80% and 120% and RSD values below 10% at a spiked level of 10 ppb. The results confirm the method's suitability for routine high-throughput pesticide quantification in complex matrices such as durian. The use of matrix-matched calibration and matrix‑optimized MRMs further ensured accurate and reproducible quantitation, reinforcing the method's applicability for regulatory and food safety testing.<h3>2. LECO / MDCW: Applying statistical data processing tools for GC×GC differentiation of alternative aviation fuels</h3><ul><li>Presentation</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/FL_18_Sebastiano_b4cf417f82.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>The presentation introduces LECO’s long-standing role in separation science and its evolution from elemental analyzers to advanced mass spectrometry platforms. A key emphasis is placed on LECO’s innovations in time-of-flight mass spectrometry (TOFMS), including the Pegasus series and the new <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=24&amp;search=Pegasus+BTX">Pegasus BTX</a>, a benchtop TOFMS offering high sensitivity, rugged detector technology, fast spectral acquisition (1–500 spectra/s), and broad mass range (10–1500 m/z). This technological foundation supports comprehensive GC×GC-MS workflows essential for analyzing chemically complex matrices such as aviation fuels.A major focus of the talk is on software tools for non-targeted data processing. LECO’s software ecosystem—<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=24&amp;search=ChromaTOF">ChromaTOF</a>, ChromaTOF Tile, and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=24&amp;search=ChromaTOF+Sync">ChromaTOF Sync</a>—enables detailed deconvolution, quantitation, high-resolution spectral analysis, and especially statistical comparison of GC×GC datasets. ChromaTOF Tile uses a chromatographic “tiling” strategy to link datasets and detect differences between sample groups using three statistical metrics: Fisher Ratio, Coefficient of Variation (CoV), and Fold-Change. Each metric serves a different experimental purpose, from comparing traditional vs. synthetic jet fuels (Fisher Ratio) to exploring variability among multiple alternative fuel processes (CoV), or identifying additive components in two-sample comparisons (Fold-Change).The presentation demonstrates how raw GC×GC-MS data are curated into feature tables, statistically evaluated, and visualized in PCA plots, bar charts, and chromatographic overlays. For example, Fisher Ratio comparison highlights statistically significant chemical differences between conventional Jet A and synthetic fuels, while CoV analysis reveals clustering patterns among diverse synthetic fuel production pathways such as LT-FT SPK, HT-FT SPK, HEFA, SIP, ATJ, and CHJ. These workflows enable analysts to rapidly identify biomarkers or distinguishing compositional features within highly complex hydrocarbon matrices.Ultimately, the talk demonstrates that choosing the correct statistical processing method can dramatically simplify interpretation of complex GC×GC-MS datasets. LECO’s integrated instrumentation—particularly the Pegasus BTX TOFMS—and software platforms together provide a powerful toolkit for fuel characterization, quality evaluation, and differentiation of emerging alternative aviation fuels. By combining comprehensive chromatography with robust statistical approaches, researchers can gain deeper insights into chemical variability, production signatures, and additive packages in modern aviation fuel technologies.<h3>3. Shimadzu: Analysis of Formic Acid in Acetone Using GC/MS System</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_01_00957_en_e8b083b86e.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>In research on artificial photosynthesis, the analysis of impurities in chemical products and raw materials has increased the demand for high-sensitivity analysis of formic acid. Previous examples of formic acid analysis using GC-BID and GC-FID (Jetanizer ) have been presented, but in this article high-sensitivity analysis of formic acid using the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=GCMS-QP2050">GCMS-QP2050</a> (see Fig. 1) isintroduced.<h4>Insert, Column Phosphoric Acid Treatment&nbsp;</h4>Formic acid is known to adsorb onto the injection port and column, making peak detection difficult. However, by performing phosphoric acid treatment on the glass insert and column before measurement, good peaks can be obtained. The procedure for phosphoric acid treatment of the glass insert is shown in Fig. 2, and the procedure for phosphoric acid treatment of the column isshown in Fig. 3.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>By performing phosphoric acid treatment on the insert and column, it became possible to analyze formic acid in SIM mode down to 0.2 ppm. Furthermore, good results could be obtained for both linearity and repeatability. Additionally, by analyzing in Scan mode, identification of unknown peaks other than formic acid was also achieved.<h3>4. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Uninterrupted analysis of VOCs according to U.S. EPA Method 8260C using purge and trap and single quadrupole GC-MS technology</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_001018_gc_voc_analysis_gc_ms_epa_8260c_an001018_na_en_269857401c/an-001018-gc-voc-analysis-gc-ms-epa-8260c-an001018-na-en.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, are human-made contaminants used and produced in the processing of, or as, paints, adhesives, petroleum products, pharmaceuticals, and refrigerants. Many of these compounds contaminate our environment and may cause negative health effects in humans and other living beings. Analytical laboratories must monitor a variety of sample types from the environment to ensure the public are not exposed to elevated levels of VOCs. The latest version of applicable method in the United States, U.S. EPA Method 8260C, is applicable when monitoring a variety of solid waste matrices for the presence of VOCs.To perform U.S. EPA Method 8260C, all method acceptance criteria must be achieved. These criteria include calculating the mean response factor and the relative standard deviation (RSD) of the response factors for target analytes. The RSD should be &lt;20%, with minimum response factors (RF) and MDLs for a wide range of target compounds. The analytical method must produce consistent results and be reproducible from day to day, with a continuing calibration verification (CCV) analyzed every 12 hours while samples are run. As the method covers varying matrices, it is important that the performance criteria are met in all samples of interest. The following evaluation describes the use of the ISQ 7610 GCMS coupled to the Atomx XYZ P&amp;T for U.S. EPA Method 8260C.<h4>Experimental</h4><h5>Instrument control and data processing&nbsp;</h5>Data were acquired, processed, and reported using <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/76">Chromeleon CDS software</a>, version 7.2. This software can control both the GC-MS system and the Tekmar Atomx XYZ P&amp;T. This enables a single software solution to support the full workflow, simplifying the instrument operation. The optimized method used within this application note is available for download via the Thermo Scientific™ AppsLab library. AppsLab contains all the parameters needed to acquire, process, and report the analytical data for U.S. EPA Method 8260C.2<h5>GC-MS parameters&nbsp;</h5>A <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/486">TRACE 1610 GC</a> was coupled to the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/484">ISQ 7610 MS </a>equipped with the Thermo Scientific™ NeverVent™ vacuum probe interlock (VPI) and an ExtractaBrite™ ion source. Expanded method parameters for the GC-MS system are displayed in Table 3<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>The combined analytical solution with the TRACE 1610 GC coupled with the ISQ 7610 system and the Atomx XYZ P&amp;T system provides clear advantages for analytical testing laboratories that analyze environmental samples following the U.S. EPA Method 8260C requirements. The modularity of the TRACE 1610 GC as well as the ISQ 7610 VPI and ExtractaBrite ion source allows users to easily service the injection ports and to exchange ionization sources and analytical columns without venting the mass spectrometer, significantly reducing instrument downtime and minimizing sample analysis interruptions. The Atomx XYZ concentrator’s efficient trap cooling design reduces sample cycle time and allows for increased sample throughput. The moisture control system improves water vapor removal thereby reducing peak interference and increasing GC column life span.&nbsp;The experiments performed clearly demonstrate the suitability of this analytical configuration for the analysis of VOCs in various environmental samples in accordance with U.S. EPA Method 8260C with the following performance parameters as evidence:&nbsp;<ul><li>The ISQ 7610 VPI coupled with the Tekmar Atomx XYZ P&amp;T exceeds all the requirements outlined in U.S. EPA Method 8260C for analysis of VOCs in wastewater and solid waste.</li><li>Linearity was achieved with &lt;20%,&nbsp;relative standard deviation for both water and soil calibration curves for the majority of compounds.&nbsp;</li><li>The MDL and precision were assessed using n=7 replicates of a 0.2 ppb water standard and n=7 replicates of a 0.5 ppb soil standard. Calculated MDLs were &lt;0.2ppb and RSDs of calculated results were &lt;10% for most compounds in both the soil and water matrices.</li><li>System robustness was tested by continuously acquiring 240 injections of environmental samples over three days with no user intervention at all. The average %RSD of the calculated concentration was 8.30% with an average compound recovery of 90%.</li></ul>

News from LabRulezGCMS Library - Week 49, 2025

Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezGCMS Library in the week of 8th December 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 and Thermo Fisher Scientific and other document by Shimadzu!<h3>1. Agilent Technologies: High-Precision Determination of Four Greenhouse Gases in the Atmosphere Using the Agilent 8890 GC</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_monitoring_greenhouse_gas_8890_gc_5994_8744en_agilent_0e08f0909f.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Currently, China is actively implementing dual-control measures on total energy consumption and intensity. The Ministry of Ecology and Environment issued "The 14th Five-Year Plan for Ecological and Environmental Monitoring", which specifically highlights the advancement of technologies for direct measurement of carbon emissions. It calls for organizing pilot projects in multiple key industries and enterprises to monitor greenhouse gas emissions such as carbon dioxide and methane, establishing greenhouse gas monitoring networks in key cities, and upgrading the greenhouse gas monitoring capabilities of national atmospheric background stations. As a result, conducting greenhouse gas monitoring within the environmental protection stations of provinces and cities has become a critical task.The use of GC for detecting greenhouse gases has a long history. The conventional methods used gas sampling valve for injection, TCD and FID for sequential detection of CO2 and CH4 , or combining a methanizer with an FID to detect CO2 and CH4 in one analytical channel and detecting N2O on ECD in another analytical channel.2 The analytical precision for CO2, CH4, and N2 O achieved with such configurations typically ranges from 0.2% to 0.5%, but it is difficult to obtain precision better than 0.1%, which does not meet the current requirements for greenhouse gas monitoring accuracy and precision. Moreover, the traditional methods rarely report analytical precision for SF6 at ppt concentration levels. To monitor trace levels of CO2 , CH4, N2O, and ultratrace levels of SF6 on the same GC system with high-precision results, it is necessary to optimize multiple factors included in sample injection, separation, and detection. Furthermore, the system configuration must be flexible enough to allow expansion for future analytical needs, such as incorporating trace CO analysis in air. This work demonstrates how the 8890&nbsp;GC achieves high-precision analysis of four key greenhouse gases by optimizing the injection volume, controlling injection reproducibility, and utilizing multichannel separation and high-sensitivity detectors to ensure the system runs stably in long‑term operation.<h4>Experimental</h4><h5>Instrumental&nbsp;</h5>The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=1&amp;search=8890+GC">8890 GC</a> is configured as a three-channel/multivalve/multicolumn system, enabling independent analysis of four greenhouse gases—CH4 , CO2 , N2O, and SF6 —within 8 minutes using a single injection. The target compounds are analyzed in separate channels, reducing chromatographic peak broadening and thereby improving sensitivity and&nbsp;repeatability.&nbsp;<ul><li>For CO2 analysis, a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=1&amp;search=methanizer">methanizer</a> is used to convert CO2 to CH4 , which is then detected by FID. The system eliminates the need for dehydration through backflushing and venting operation via switching valves, preventing interference from moisture and oxygen in the air and extending the lifespan of the methanizer.&nbsp;</li><li>For N2O and SF6 analysis, the ECD with hidden anode design is used for high‑sensitivity detection and strong anti‑contaminant capability.&nbsp;</li><li>The CH4 analysis is conducted on a single column with a dedicated large injection loop, significantly enhancing detection sensitivity and repeatability, achieving a detection limit for methane as low as single-digit ppb levels.</li></ul><h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>Based on its exceptional pneumatic control and valve-based flow path design, the multivalve/multicolumn Agilent 8890 GC system achieves high-sensitivity and high-precision measurements of four key greenhouse gases. This is accomplished through optimized and precise control of sample flow rate/volume, selection of premium analytical columns, and the use of highly stable and robust FID and ECD. Standard gas samples of CO2 , CH4 , N2 O, and SF6 , with concentrations equivalent to atmospheric levels, were measured continuously 10 times. The measurement precision for these gases was better than 0.05%, 0.1%, 0.1%, and 0.5%, respectively, fully meeting the high-precision monitoring requirements of environmental monitoring stations at various levels for target greenhouse gases. Compared to other monitoring solutions, this approach is based on a stable and reliable gas chromatography platform that is technically easier to master and deploy. It represents a trusted solution developed by Agilent to assist in establishing a greenhouse gas monitoring network in China.<h3>2. Shimadzu: GC/MS Mass Spectra Library - Polymer Additives Library Ver.2</h3><ul><li>Other document</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/c146_e506_d4c93c4d60.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul><h4>Contains Approximately 5,800 Mass Spectra&nbsp;</h4>This library consists of a library*, which contains 5,775 mass spectra for 590 types of polymer additives and GC/MS pyrolysates from the pyrolysis GC/MS analysis of additives, and a library containing the mass spectra for 65 compounds often targeted for analysis, selected based on their usage in the commercial market, and chemical substance regulatory information. In total, this product contains 5,840 mass spectra, which provides strong support for the analysis of polymer additives. In Ver.2, the compound registration has been newly enhanced, for example vulcanizing accelerators utilized in the rubber filed. Approximately 1,000 spectra have been added.&nbsp;*ADD-MS22B F-Search Additives Library from Frontier Laboratories<h4>Can Be Used with a Variety of GC/MS Systems&nbsp;</h4>The library can be used for a variety of GC/MS applications, including pyrolysis GC/MS, which is widely used for the analysis of additives in polymer materials, and liquid sample injection GC/MS. It supports a wide range of additive analysis for customers.<h4>Library Specifications</h4><ul><li>Registered compounds: 5,775+65&nbsp;</li><li>Registered information: Mass spectrum, retention index for each analytical condition, compound name, molecular weight, compositional formula, structural formula, classification of additives</li><li>Applicable models: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=3&amp;search=GCMS-QP2050">GCMS-QP™ serie</a>s, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=3&amp;search=GCMS-TQ8050">GCMS-TQ™ series</a> (This library does not include MS/MS spectra.)&nbsp;</li><li>Pyrolyzer (Pyrolysis analysis system): <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=43&amp;search=PY-2020D">PY-2020D</a>, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=43&amp;search=PY-2020iD">PY-2020iD</a>, and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=43&amp;search=EGA%2FPY-3030D">EGA/PY-3030D</a></li><li>Workstations: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=3&amp;search=GCMSsolution">GCMSsolution</a>™ Ver. 4.6 and later, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=3&amp;search=LabSolutions+GCMS">LabSolutions™ GCMS</a>™ Ver. 5.131 and later, LabSolutions DB/CS GCMS Ver. 6.131 and later</li></ul><h3>3. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Trace analysis of epichlorohydrin in drinking water using GC-MS coupled with purge and trap</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_003894_gc_single_quad_isq_7610_environmental_an003894_na_en_70123385ae.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Epichlorohydrin (ECH) is a versatile starting material in the production of drugs and polymers and is also used as an insect fumigant and solvent for organic synthesis reactions. ECH-based polymer pipes are commonly used in the production of drinking water due to their durability and resistance to corrosion. However, ECH is known for its high reactivity and toxicity, which poses significant health risks if it contaminates drinking water. Exposure to ECH can cause respiratory issues, skin irritation, and has been classified as a probable human carcinogen.1Due to these risks, many countries have imposed strict limits on the amount of ECH allowed in drinking water. Recently, Europe set a minimum detection limit (MDL) of 30 parts per trillion (ppt) for ECH in drinking water.2 Whereas typically required detection limits for most compounds mandated for analysis in Europe can be achieved using methods based on static headspace, the stringent MDL required for ECH requires preconcentration, for example using purge and trap (P&amp;T) technology.3,4 This technology involves purging the water sample with an inert gas to release volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are then trapped and concentrated for analysis, ensuring reliable detection at very low concentrations. In the United States, the analysis of VOCs in drinking water is mandated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA requires the use of P&amp;T technology for drinking water analysis to ensure that even trace amounts of harmful compounds like ECH are detected and managed appropriately.&nbsp;The following evaluation describes the use of the ISQ 7610 Single Quadrupole MS system coupled with the Thermo Scientific™ TRACE™ 1610 GC with the Thermo Scientific™ HeSaver-H2 Safer™ split/splitless injector and Teledyne LABS Tekmar Lumin P&amp;T concentrator combined with the AQUATek LVA autosampler for the analysis of ECH in drinking water.<h4>Experimental</h4><h5>GC-MS parameters&nbsp;</h5>A <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/486">TRACE 1610 GC</a> was coupled to the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/484">ISQ 7610 MS</a> equipped with the Thermo Scientific™ NeverVent ™ vacuum probe interlock (VPI) and an ExtractaBrite ion source. A <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/1773">Thermo Scientific™ TraceGOLD™ TG-VMS column</a>, 30 m × 0.25 mm, 1.4 µm film (P/N 26080-3320) was used for compound separation. The HeSaver-H2 Safer SSL injector was utilized to reduce the carrier gas consumption by decoupling the gas used for the chromatographic separation from the gas used to pressurize the inlet and maintain split and purge flows. The critical separations were maintained with a run time of under 15 minutes.For this analysis, the ISQ 7610 MS was operated in Selected Ion Monitoring (SIM) mode for increased selectivity, as required for this application. Extended method parameters for the ISQ 7610 MS are shown in Table 2.<h5>Instrument control and data processing&nbsp;</h5>Data was acquired, processed, and reported using the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/76">Thermo Scientific™ Chromeleon™ Chromatography Data System (CDS)</a>. This software can control both the GC-MS system and the Tekmar Lumin P&amp;T with the AQUATek LVA. This allows a single software to be utilized for the full workflow, simplifying the instrument operation. This application note is available for download via the Thermo Scientific™ AppsLab Library, which contains all the parameters needed to acquire, process, and report the analytical data for analysis of ECH.5<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>This study demonstrates the capability of the Tekmar Lumin P&amp;T with the AQUATek LVA system connected to the ISQ 7610 Single Quadrupole GC-MS to detect and quantify low-level ECH in drinking water samples, in compliance with EPA requirements.&nbsp;<ul><li>Utilizing the Tekmar Lumin P&amp;T’s ability to purge with nitrogen, along with using the HeSaver-H₂Safer SSL injector, nearly four times less helium was consumed during the analysis without sacrificing system performance.&nbsp;</li><li>The linearity of the calibration curve from 30 ppt to 5,000 ppt passed method requirements.</li><li>The application proved robust during an extended study with 20 samples of a 1,000 ppt ECH standard injected over a series of 124 injections, obtaining 4.4% precision and 118% accuracy of the recovery.</li></ul>

News from LabRulezGCMS Library - Week 50, 2025

Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezGCMS Library in the week of 15th December 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 and brochure by Thermo Fisher Scientific!<h3>1. Agilent Technologies: Increased Thermal Stability of the DB‑5Q GC Column</h3>Increased signal-to-noise for trace level concentrations of controlled substances<ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_stability_gc_column_5994_8658en_agilent_4c52ae52cf.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>The analysis of controlled substances by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) requires a high level of confidence and thus requires a method that provides optimal data quality. Identification of controlled substances relies heavily on comparison of mass spectra to commercially available spectral libraries, and increased column bleed can cause spectral interference at high temperatures. These interferences can lead to poor library matching probabilities.1-3 The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=J%26W+5Q">Agilent J&amp;W 5Q series</a> of gas chromatography columns provide the most thermally stable columns available, which helps to decrease spectral interference due to column bleed and improves data accuracy.&nbsp;Poor thermal stability will cause an increase in the slope of the baseline as the oven temperature is increased, leading to difficult peak integrations and inaccurate quantitation. Additionally, sloped or elevated baselines can lead to a decreased response and a loss of sensitivity for analytes eluting during the oven ramp or at the method’s upper temperature limits. Several commercially available 5ms type columns were compared to the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=J%26W+DB-5Q">Agilent J&amp;W DB-5Q GC column</a> to examine the impact thermal stability has on response at upper temperature limits.&nbsp;<h4>Experimental&nbsp;</h4>An <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=8890+GC">Agilent 8890 GC system</a> coupled with an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=5977B">Agilent 5977B mass selective detector (GC/MSD)</a> with an inert extractor ion source was used for acquisition of data and MassHunter 10.0 Quantitative and Qualitative Analysis software was used for data analysis.&nbsp;A representative toxicology mixture, the Agilent GC/MS forensic toxicology checkout mixture (part number 5190-0471) was used to monitor analytical performance. Calibration standards were prepared in methanol (MeOH) at concentrations ranging from 0.1 to 3.0&nbsp;μg/mL. An internal standard mix was prepared at 10&nbsp;μg/mL from individual stocks of methamphetamine-d3, diazepam-d5, and hydrocodone-d6 all purchased from Millipore Sigma (St.&nbsp;Louis, MO).<h4>Results and discussion&nbsp;</h4>The testing evaluated the Agilent J&amp;W DB-5Q GC column for the analysis of controlled substances by GC/MS. The increased thermal stability of the DB-5Q is seen in the decreased baseline at higher temperatures, as seen in Figure&nbsp;1, and also provides a decrease in the slope during the oven ramping program.&nbsp;An increase in the slope of the baseline will also decrease the signal-to-noise ratio (S/N) of an analyte but will also make integration more difficult and lead to less accurate quantitative results. Figure 2 demonstrates the comparison of the DB-5Q and the commercially available 5ms type G column, and the impact to chromatography during the oven ramp. The S/N for the analytes on the oven ramp slope are a factor of ten or greater for the DB-5Q in comparison to the 5ms type G column.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>The increased thermal stability of the Agilent J&amp;W DB-5Q GC column demonstrated in this application note provides a decreased baseline at higher temperatures, which allows for an increased response for later eluting compounds at trace level concentrations. The baseline of the DB-5Q remains more consistent as the temperature is increased. This consistency allows for more accurate integration and quantitation for analytes eluting during oven ramping, in comparison to other commercially available 5ms-type columns. The robust DB-5Q column phase maintained peak shape for trace level basic compounds even when stressed with a heavy matrix and is an excellent choice for the analysis of controlled substance&nbsp;analysis.<h3>2. Shimadzu: Quantitative Analysis of Anti-Degradant Additive (6PPD) in Tire Rubber Using Pyrolysis-GC-MS</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_01_00952_en_b95b2348e5.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul><h5>User Benefits</h5><ul><li>The simple analysis procedure required just cutting off a sample fragment and placing it in a sample cup without pretreatment.</li><li>Utilizing a calibration standard that includes a resin solution allows for analysis under conditions that closely resemble those of samples, which improves the reliability of quantitative measurements.</li><li>With Shimadzu’s Polymer Additive Library, it is possible to acquire information on the additives of identified compounds.</li></ul>6PPD (N-(1,3-dimethylbutyl)-N'-phenyl-p-phenylenediamine) is an anti-degradant (anti-oxidant) additive that is used in many rubber products. Its chemical structure is shown in Fig. 1. It plays an important role in tires by preventing degradation and extending its lifespan. However, when 6PPD reacts with ozone in the atmosphere, it forms a highly toxic substance called 6PPD-quinone (6PPD-Q).&nbsp;As an automotive tire wears, microscopic particles are released from the tire into the environment. These particles, tire road wear particles (TRWP), contain 6PPD-Q along with many other chemical substances. On rainy days, these particles are washed into rivers and other bodies of water, where they accumulate in the environment as microplastics.&nbsp;There are serious concerns about the negative effects these microplastics have on ecosystems and the environment. 6PPDQ has been shown to induce acute mortality in Salmonidae fish, specifically coho salmon. 1)&nbsp;Currently, there is no commercial alternative that can maintain tire stability and performance with minimal impact on the environment. Research into alternatives requires accurately assessing 6PPD levels in rubber products and objectively determining whether alternative compounds offer equivalent stability and performance while having a reduced impact on the environment.&nbsp;This article describes using a pyrolysis gas chromatograph mass spectrometer (Py-GC-MS) system to measure 6PPD levels in tire rubber.<h4>Analysis Process&nbsp;</h4>ISO/TS 21396describes a method for determining the mass concentration of TRWP in soil and sediment that uses Py-GC-MS. Similar to this method, Py-GC-MS was used for the analysis; however, this article employs optimized analytical conditions. A schematic diagram of the analysis processisshown in Fig. 2. For more information on the analysis conditions and results from the evolved gas analysis (EGA-MS, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=42&amp;search=EGA%2FPY-3030D">EGA/PY-3030D Multi-Shot Pyrolyzer AS-1020E Auto-Shot Sampler</a>, Frontier Laboratories Ltd.) method described in Fig. 2, please see Application News No. 01-00901. The analysis conditions for the thermal desorption (TD)-GC/MS (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=GCMS-QP2020+NX">GCMS-QP2020 NX</a>) method used in this article are shown in Table 1. The thermal desorption temperature was chosen based on results obtained by the EGA-MS method.<h4>Qualitative Analysis of Additive&nbsp;</h4>The total ion current (TIC) chromatogram obtained from analyzing the tire rubber is shown in Fig. 4. A spectral library search was also performed using NIST-23 and Shimadzu’s Polymer Additives Library. The library search results for the peak that eluted at around 10.43 minutes are shown in Fig. 5. Based on the results from Shimadzu’s Polymer Additives Library, the peak was estimated to be the anti-degradant Nocrac 6C (a trade name for the chemical 6PPD).<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>This article presents an analysis of the additive 6PPD in tire rubber utilizing Py-GC-MS. Good results were obtained for calibration curve linearity, calibration standard repeatability, limit of quantification, and limit of detection. Shimadzu’s Polymer Additives Library was used to identify the additive.<h3>3. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Gas chromatography analyzers for the oil &amp; gas industry: upstream to downstream</h3><ul><li>Brochure</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/br_003966_gc_analyzers_trace_1610_industrial_br003966_na_en_44ad1327c6.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Gas chromatography (GC) plays a central role in the oil and gas industry, providing high-accuracy, high-speed analysis of complex hydrocarbon mixtures from upstream exploration through midstream transport to downstream refining and distribution. Across this value chain, GC supports regulatory compliance, product quality control, custody transfer, and process optimization. As the industry adapts to decarbonization goals and stricter environmental regulations, robust and automated analytical solutions have become essential for monitoring hydrocarbons, impurities, and trace components under demanding 24/7 operational conditions.Thermo Scientific™ GC analyzers are engineered to meet these challenges, with the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/486">TRACE™ 1610 GC</a> platform forming the backbone of a comprehensive portfolio of preconfigured and customizable systems. Its modular “Instant Connect” design enables rapid configuration of injectors, detectors, and valves, reducing downtime and simplifying maintenance. The platform supports multi-detector configurations—including FID, TCD, FPD, PDD, MS, and VUV—allowing a single analyzer to address a broad range of applications, from natural gas composition and BTU determination to sulfur species, fixed gases, and detailed hydrocarbon analysis .Dedicated GC analyzer configurations are available for specific industry needs, including natural gas and natural gas liquids (NGA/NGL), refinery gas analysis (RGA), light hydrocarbons (LPG), oxygenates, aromatics (BTEX), permanent gases, and high-purity gas streams. Advanced techniques such as GC-VUV further simplify complex analyses like PIONA group-type characterization of gasoline, delivering comprehensive compositional data in a single run while reducing calibration effort and cost per sample. These systems are designed to comply with major ASTM, ISO, GPA, DIN, EN, and UOP standards, ensuring global regulatory alignment .Complementing the hardware, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/76">Thermo Scientific™ Chromeleon™ Chromatography Data System (CDS)</a> provides an integrated informatics backbone for method control, data processing, reporting, and connectivity to LIMS platforms. This unified approach enhances data integrity, improves workflow efficiency, and enables real-time decision-making across refinery and gas processing operations. Together, Thermo Scientific GC analyzers and integrated software solutions deliver reliable, scalable, and future-ready analytics for the evolving oil and gas industry.

News from LabRulezGCMS Library - Week 51, 2025

Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezGCMS Library in the week of 5th January 2026? 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, EST Analytical and Shimadzu!<h3>1. Agilent Technologies: Ultrasensitive and Powerful GC/MS/MS for Analyzing Multipesticides in Black Pepper and Dried Tea</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_gcms_ms_black_pepper_5994_8783en_agilent_4b1cc85920.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Pesticides play a vital role in safeguarding crops and are indispensable in most farming settings to secure high yields.1 Regulatory authorities, including the Codex Alimentarius and the European Commission mandate the monitoring and reporting of pesticide residues found in or on food product.2 The analysis of pesticides in food faces several major challenges, such as the variety of pesticide classes, the complexity of different food matrices, the effects of these matrices, and the detection of target analytes at low&nbsp;concentrations.3&nbsp;According to the EU's SANTE/11312/2021 guidelines, black pepper and dried tea are considered among the difficult or unique commodity matrices for multiresidue pesticide analysis.4 The matrix interferences are complex and diverse, including carbohydrates, fats, piperine, terpenoids (for black pepper)5 , and caffeine (in dried tea). "For dried tea, matrix interferences include polyphenols, pigments, polysaccharides, alkaloids, free amino acids, high caffeine levels, and&nbsp;catechins".6&nbsp;In addition to affecting the analyte signals, matrix interferences can cause the system to become contaminated more quickly. This leads to a rapid decline in the sensitivity of the analytical instrument, and necessitates frequent maintenance, significantly reducing laboratory productivity. These are the current challenges faced by laboratories when analyzing pesticides in difficult and complex matrices.&nbsp;To overcome these challenges, Agilent offers a robust solution with its backflush and JetClean self-cleaning ion source technologies integrated into the high-sensitivity 7010B GC/TQ system. Backflush technology prevents high‑boiling contaminants from reaching the detector, reducing the need for frequent maintenance and extending column life.7 This ensures consistent performance and minimizes downtime, thereby enhancing laboratory productivity.&nbsp;With JetClean technology, your lab can significantly increase instrument uptime, as fewer manual cleanings are needed, maximizing productivity. This technology helps maintain data quality by ensuring a clean ion source, which guarantees run-to-run reproducibility. Additionally, JetClean enhances operator convenience through automated cleaning, requiring virtually no user intervention.8 Combined with the ultrasensitivity of the 7010B GC/TQ system, these technologies provide precise and reliable analysis of pesticides in complex matrices such as black pepper and dried tea. Agilent’s comprehensive approach effectively mitigates matrix interferences, preserves instrument sensitivity, and significantly boosts overall efficiency in pesticide analysis.This application note describes a detailed approach for the simultaneous quantification of 284 pesticides in black pepper and dried tea samples. Agilent's solution for complex matrices demonstrates the sensitivity of the 8890 GC/7010B GC/TQ and confirms its robustness when using backflush and JetClean techniques.&nbsp;<h4>Experimental and chemicals</h4><h5>GC/TQ parameters&nbsp;</h5>The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=8890">8890 GC</a>/<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=7010B">7010B GC/TQ systems</a> (Figure 1) were optimized for wide calibration range performance. Equipped with an Agilent <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=7693A">7693A automatic liquid sampler </a>and a 150-position tray, the GC operated in temperature‑programmed splitless injection mode with a multimode inlet. Detailed instrument parameters can be found in Table 1. Data acquisition was in dynamic MRM (dMRM) mode, enabling analysis of 284 pesticides with 1233 MRM transitions and up to 74 concurrent MRMs (see Figure 2). Retention time was synchronized with the Agilent Pesticides and Environmental Pollutants (P&amp;EP) 4.0 MRM Database, streamlining method&nbsp;setup.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>This application note describes an approach for the analysis of multipesticides in complex and distinctive matrices, including black pepper and dried tea using the Agilent 8890 GC/7010B GC/TQ. The comprehensive solution successfully addresses the challenges encountered when analyzing multipesticides in difficult matrices such as black pepper and dried tea. The high sensitivity of the 7010B GC/TQ enables the application of deep dilution methods. Additionally, the use of backflush technology combined with the Agilent JetClean self-cleaning ion source ensures system stability and robustness, enhancing the operational efficiency of testing laboratories and reducing equipment downtime during&nbsp;maintenance.<h3>2. EST Analytical: Static Headspace Sampling of Volatile Organic Compounds</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Flex_8260_by_Static_Headspace_7ddf2e4157.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul><h4>Discussion</h4>Purge and trap sampling involves purging the VOCs out of the matrix and trapping the analytes onto an analytical trap, the trap is then desorbed to the GC/MS. This process has a number of pros and cons. On the positive side, purge and trap is more sensitive. It is also the recommended sampling technique for USEPA Methods. Furthermore, the advent of autosampling systems has simplified sample preparation. However, purge and trap does have some negatives, including active sites, worries about foaming samples, and trap degradation.Static headspace sampling, on the other hand, is much simpler than purge and trap sampling. For this sampling technique, the sample is brought to equilibrium and a portion of the headspace is transferred to the GC/MS for separation and analysis. The simplicity of this technique is a definite pro. Moreover, this sampling process does not develop active sites, has no need for an analytical trap and the linear calibration range can be much higher than that of purge and trap sampling. Conversely, samples need to be manually prepped thus, losing their sample integrity. Additionally, the detection limits are higher for a number of compounds. Finally, some of the analytes do not partition into the headspace well enough and need method optimization.&nbsp;In recent years, GC/MS systems have become much more sensitive. The advent of SIM/Scan acquisition techniques has made low level detection a much simpler proposition. This analysis will focus on the headspace sampling and analysis of over 50 volatile organic compounds.&nbsp;<h4>Experimental</h4>The sampling system used for this analysis was the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/2162">EST Analytical FLEX autosampler</a> fitted with a 2.5ml headspace syringe. An <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=7890+GC">Agilent 7890 GC</a> and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=5975">5975 MS</a> were used for separation and analysis. The GC was configured with a Restek Rxi 624 Sil MS 30m x 250mm x 1.4µm column and a SKY 2mm x 6.5 x 78.5 splitless inlet liner. The MS was run in SIM/Scan mode. Refer to Tables 1 and 2 for the analysis and sampling parameters.<h4>Conclusions</h4>Static headspace sampling in conjunction with SIM/Scan acquisition proved to be a good alternative to purge and trap sampling for a number of USEPA Method 8260 compounds. The curve %RSD results showed the linearity of the curve to meet the USEPA Method 8260 requirement of 15% or better. The method detection limits of all the compounds tested also passed method requirements. Lastly, the precision and accuracy of the autosampling and analysis system was excellent, with the average precision at less than 6% RSD and the average %recovery at just over 101%.<h3>3. Shimadzu: Aromatic Component Analysis of Gasoline According to ASTM D5580 Using the Brevis GC- 2050 Gas Chromatograph</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_01_01024_en_039b304288.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Aromatics, such as toluene and xylene, are sometimes added to gasoline to improve the octane number. Measuring the levels of these aromatics is essential for quality control in gasoline production. It is also important for environmental protection, in particular, for reducing emissions of benzene, a hazardous substance, as well as for sustainable energy use that reduces the environmental impact of gasoline while maintaining its performance.ASTM D55801) is a standard test method that uses gas chromatography to measure aromatics in gasoline. Gasoline aromatics can be separated more effectively by switching between two gas chromatography columns of different polarities and venting non-aromatic components from the system. This Application News describes using the Brevis GC2050 gas chromatograph to determine aromatics in gasoline by applying ASTM D5580.<h4>Equipment Configuration and Analytical Conditions&nbsp;</h4>The system comprises a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=Brevis+GC-2050">Brevis GC-2050 gas chromatograph</a>, an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=AOC-30">AOC-30</a> for sample injection, and a VB-30-S heated valve box. Aromatics were determined using two sets of Analysis Conditions that were tailored to measure different components (Table 1). Note that the timing of the flow path switching and other conditions needs to be adjusted according to the columns being used and the operating environment.<h4>Determining Aromatics in Gasoline&nbsp;</h4>A gasoline sample was prepared by adding 2 to 10 wt% aromatics and 10 wt% of an internal standard (2-hexanone) and then analyzed under Analysis Conditions A and Analysis Conditions B. Fig. 2 shows the chromatograms obtained under each set of Analysis Conditions. Despite gasoline containing large amounts of hydrocarbons, oxygenates, and other impurities, these impurities did not appear as peaks in the chromatograms, and only the aromatics added to the gasoline were detected. These results verify the utility of using flow path switching to effectively utilize the characteristics of two different columns.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>A flow path switching valve was installed on a Brevis GC-2050 gas chromatograph to enable the determination of gasoline aromatics (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, p/m-xylene, oxylene, and C9+ aromatics) according to ASTM D5580.&nbsp;This system can switch between different columns during analysis to determine specific aromatics from among the many compounds present in gasoline. Analysis was performed under two sets of conditions, each using different flow path switching times. This method met the requirements for linearity and reproducibility described in ASTM D5580. The timing of flow path switching can also be adjusted to allow the targeted determination of oxygenates in gasoline. The ability to perform multiple analyses on a single system means the Brevis GC-2050 offers even greater functionality as a compact gas chromatograph.

News from LabRulezGCMS Library - Week 02, 2026

Article

Product

Events

Webinars

Application

Academy

Video

Poster

Scientists

Plastics

Environment

Food

Water

Health

Presentation

Scientific article

Interview

Toxicology

Popularization

Science and research

Software

Covid-19

Career

Laboratories

Various

Zaměření

Type of News

Focus

Everything from the world of analytical chemistry in one place. We connect people in solving their problems. At Labrulez you will find all the necessary information easily, quickly and clearly. Stop searching and start finding.

LabRulez

18th Mass Spectrometry School in Biotechnology and Medicine

LECO Training Course Pegasus BTX/BTX4D

28th International Symposium on Advances in Extraction Technologies (ExTech 2026)

Boost Environmental GC/MS Uptime, Productivity and Data Quality

Microplastics Analysis You Can Defend: From Method to Results

Helium, PFAS & Recycled Plastics: Addressing Key Challenges in Industrial Laboratories