15th Multidimensional Chromatography Workshop Guidebook

Importance of Multidimensional Chromatography

Comprehensive two-dimensional chromatography techniques have become essential for complex sample analysis across pharmaceuticals, environmental monitoring, forensic science, food and beverage quality control, and metabolomics. By combining orthogonal separation dimensions (e.g., GC×GC, LC×LC, LC×SFC) these methods dramatically increase peak capacity, enable non-target screening, and improve detection of trace analytes in challenging matrices.

Objectives and Overview of the Workshop

The 16th Multidimensional Chromatography Workshop, held at California State University Los Angeles (January 10–12, 2024), aimed to:

• Showcase recent advances in instrumentation, data processing and modulation schemes
• Facilitate knowledge exchange between academic, industrial, and regulatory laboratories
• Promote best practices for routine and non-target analysis using 2D chromatography
• Provide hands-on exposure via lab tours and software demonstrations

Methodology and Instrumentation

Participants presented work employing a range of multidimensional setups and detectors:

• Gas chromatography×gas chromatography time-of-flight mass spectrometry (GC×GC–TOFMS) with flow and thermal modulation
• GC×GC with flame ionization detection (FID) and high-resolution MS for hydrocarbon group-type analysis
• Liquid chromatography×supercritical fluid chromatography–high-resolution MS/MS (LC×SFC-HRMS/MS)
• Online multidimensional LC/MS for antibody quality attribute monitoring
• Computer-vision-assisted alignment and template-based processing

Main Topics and Discussion

Keynotes covered regulatory applications in routine quantitation, small-molecule and biopharmaceutical analysis, and forensic and environmental case studies. Oral presentations highlighted:

• Non-target screening in river water, house dust, renewable fuels, and plastics
• Workflow democratization and data-handling strategies for large 2D datasets
• Modulation technologies, column hardware innovations, and multi-omics integration for breath and serum analysis

Benefits and Practical Applications

Multidimensional chromatography offers:

• Enhanced resolution and peak deconvolution for complex mixtures
• Rapid method development through automated, multicolumn screening
• Improved sensitivity for trace-level biomarkers and contaminants
• Streamlined QC workflows using software-assisted alignment and simulation tools

Laboratory Tours and Networking

Lab visits included the LECO Complex Chemical Composition Analysis Laboratory and Dr. Petr Vozka’s research group. Social events provided further opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration.

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Emerging directions discussed at the workshop encompass:

• Integration of AI-driven data mining to accelerate non-target discovery
• Advances in miniaturized modulation devices and portable 2D systems
• Expansion of multidimensional workflows into clinical, petrochemical, and agrochemical sectors
• Development of standardized reference materials and open-source software platforms

Conclusion

The workshop highlighted the transformative impact of multidimensional chromatography on analytical science. Continued innovation in instrumentation, data processing, and community-driven standards will further broaden its accessibility and application scope.

Reference

Guidebook for the 16th Multidimensional Chromatography Workshop, January 10–12, 2024, California State University Los Angeles