Analysis of Volatile Sulfur Compounds in Beer Using Nexis™ SCD-2030

Significance of the Topic

Volatile sulfur compounds in beer significantly influence aroma and flavor profile, impacting consumer acceptance and product quality.
Trace levels of these compounds require highly sensitive analytical methods for accurate monitoring and quality control in brewing processes.

Objectives and Study Overview

This study aimed to evaluate the performance of the Nexis SCD-2030 system, coupled with HS-20 headspace sampling, for the detection and quantification of volatile sulfur compounds in three commercial beer samples.
Standard addition was used to quantify dimethyl sulfide, S-methyl thioacetate, and dimethyl disulfide under real sample matrix conditions.

Used Instrumentation

• Headspace Sampler HS-20 in loop mode: oven 45 °C, sample/transfer lines at 95 °C, vial pressurization 150 kPa, heat-retention 40 min.
• Gas Chromatograph Nexis GC-2030: split injection (1:5), He carrier, SH-Rxi-1 MS column (30 m×0.32 mm, 4 μm), temperature program from 35 °C to 230 °C.
• Sulfur Chemiluminescence Detector SCD-2030: interface 200 °C, furnace 850 °C, detector gases H₂, N₂, O₂, O₃ at specified flows.

Main Results and Discussion

Chromatograms revealed seven sulfur compounds, including methanethiol, dimethyl sulfide, and dimethyl trisulfide.
Quantitative analysis by standard addition yielded:

• Dimethyl sulfide: 18.6–96.0 pL/g across samples.
• S-Methyl thioacetate: 3.97–11.6 pL/g.
• Dimethyl disulfide: 0.054–1.93 pL/g.

The method demonstrated linear calibration for dimethyl sulfide (R² > 0.99) and detected analytes at low ppb levels without pre-concentration.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• High sensitivity detection of volatile sulfur compounds in complex beer matrices.
• Minimal sample preparation using direct headspace sampling.
• Improved quality control and flavor profiling in brewing operations.

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Advancements may include automated high-throughput screening for flavor compounds, integration with data analytics for flavor optimization, and expanded application to other fermented beverages.

Conclusion

The Nexis SCD-2030 coupled with HS-20 headspace sampling provides a robust, sensitive, and rapid approach for monitoring key sulfur compounds in beer, supporting quality assurance and product development in the brewing industry.

References

No literature references were provided in the original document.