Thermo Scientific Exactive GC mass spectrometer with TriPlus RSH autosampler - PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

Importance of the Topic

High-resolution accurate-mass (HRAM) gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) has traditionally been confined to research environments. The Thermo Scientific Exactive GC Orbitrap GC–MS system integrates award-winning Orbitrap technology into routine analytical workflows across food safety, environmental monitoring, industrial QC, forensics, and anti-doping laboratories. By delivering exceptional resolving power and mass accuracy, this platform supports both targeted and non-targeted analyses, enabling deeper insights and more reliable quantitation.

Objectives and Study Overview

This document presents the design, performance specifications, and application potential of the Exactive GC Orbitrap GC–MS system combined with the TriPlus RSH autosampler and TRACE 1310 GC. It aims to demonstrate how the system enhances routine GC–MS performance metrics—such as sensitivity, dynamic range, and data acquisition speed—while simplifying operation and maintenance.

Methodology and Instrumentation

• Ionization: Integrated ExtractaBrite EI source (50–350 °C), interchangeable PCI/NCI sources with under-vacuum interlock; variable electron voltage (12–150 eV).
• Mass Analyzer: Orbitrap with nitrogen-filled C-Trap, advanced pre-filter and bent flatapole, low-noise preamplifier, 16-bit digitization.
• Vacuum: Differential pumping (<1×10⁻⁹ mbar), dual turbomolecular pumps.
• Chromatography: TRACE 1310 GC with split/splitless and multi-mode PTV injectors (up to 250 μL), integrated backflush, cryogenic cooling options to −100 °C.
• Autosampler: TriPlus RSH for rapid, programmable sample introduction.
• Data System: Xcalibur software with TraceFinder for method editing, HRAM deconvolution, accurate mass library search; optional Orbitrap GC–MS Metabolomics and Contaminants libraries.
• Performance Calibration: Automated tune, variable AGC, real-time data acquisition up to 18 Hz.

Key Results and Discussion

• Resolving Power: 50 000 FWHM at m/z 272 (upgradeable to 100 000).
• Mass Accuracy: <1 ppm (internal), <3 ppm (external).
• Sensitivity: OFN detection limit ≤6 fg (IDL) with S/N >10 000:1; benzophenone PCI S/N >150:1 at 10 pg/μL.
• Dynamic Range: Quantitative >10⁶, In-spectrum >5000:1.
• Chromatographic Precision: Retention time repeatability <0.0008 min; peak area RSD <0.5 %.
• Scan Rate: Up to 18 Hz at 12 500 FWHM.

Discussion highlights the system’s ability to combine high sensitivity with rapid scan rates for comprehensive screening and quantitation, reducing analysis times while maintaining data quality.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Simplified maintenance with vent-free column exchange and rapid source swaps.
• Enhanced workflow flexibility for both targeted quantitation and non-targeted profiling.
• High confidence in trace-level detection for food contaminants, environmental pollutants, and forensic compounds.
• Scalable performance through software-driven method optimization and library-based screening.

Future Trends and Applications

• Field upgrades to 100 000 resolving power and HCD cell for MS/MS and parallel reaction monitoring.
• Expanded spectral libraries and AI-driven data processing to support metabolomics and emerging contaminants.
• Integration with automated sample introduction and online LC–GC–MS workflows for higher throughput.
• Development of miniaturized GC–MS platforms leveraging Orbitrap technology for in-field analysis.

Conclusion

The Exactive GC Orbitrap GC–MS system delivers a transformative advance in routine GC–MS analysis by coupling industry-leading HRAM performance with user-friendly operation. Its robust design and extensive software ecosystem enable laboratories to achieve sensitive, accurate, and high-throughput analyses across diverse applications.

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