SCION SQ GC Quadrupole Specification Sheet

Importance of Topic

Gas chromatography coupled with quadrupole mass spectrometry is a cornerstone technique in analytical chemistry for qualitative and quantitative analysis across environmental, pharmaceutical, food and security sectors. High sensitivity, robust performance and user friendly operation are essential for routine trace analysis and method development.

Study Objectives and Overview

This specification sheet presents the key design features and performance metrics of the SCION SQ GC-MS system. The main aim is to demonstrate its analytical capabilities, sensitivity, robustness and workflow efficiency for routine and specialized applications.

Methodology and Instrumentation

• Mass Spectrometer
• Scan modes: full scan, selected ion monitoring and combined modes
• Ionization: standard electron ionization and optional chemical ionization modes (PCI, NCI)
• Quadrupole mass filter: mass range m/z 10 to 1200 Da, scan rate up to 14000 Da/s, resolution adjustable from 0.7 Da to 4 Da
• Detector: electron multiplier with on-the-fly gain optimization for extended dynamic range
• Pumping system: dual-stage turbo pump (310/400 L/s) and dual-stage rotary vane foreline pump
• Gas Chromatograph
• Models: Scion 436 and 451
• Injector types: split/splitless, PTV, back-flush PTV, cold-on-column
• Oven temperature range: from subambient (−100 °C) to 450 °C with gas or cryogenic cooling options
• Autosamplers: CP-8400/8410 and PAL COMBI-xt series
• Electronic flow control for carrier gas precision
• Software
• SCION MS Workstation for acquisition, processing and reporting
• Support for spectral libraries (NIST, Wiley, PMW) and custom libraries
• Embedded autotune routines for all ionization modes

Key Results and Discussion

• EI full scan sensitivity: S/N ≥1500 at 1 pg OFN (m/z 272)
• PCI full scan sensitivity: S/N ≥600 at 100 pg benzophenone (m/z 183)
• NCI full scan sensitivity: S/N ≥1000 at 200 fg OFN (m/z 272)
• Mass axis stability below ±0.1 Da over 48 h ensures reliable mass assignments
• Fast scan rates and short dwell times (≥1 ms) support comprehensive time windows and high data density

Benefits and Practical Applications

• High sensitivity and extended dynamic range enable trace level detection in complex matrices
• Robust ion optics and inert source materials reduce maintenance downtime
• Flexible ionization options suit a wide array of analytes, including thermally labile and reactive compounds
• Programmable injectors and cryogenic cooling support advanced GC methods such as low temperature trapping
• Automated tuning and library searching accelerate routine workflows in QA/QC and environmental monitoring labs

Future Trends and Potential Applications

• Integration with artificial intelligence for predictive tuning and data interpretation
• Miniaturized and portable GC-MS platforms for field deployment
• Enhanced data connectivity and cloud-based analytics for real-time monitoring and remote diagnostics
• Advanced ionization techniques for ambient and direct analysis methods

Conclusion

The SCION SQ GC-MS system sets a new benchmark for routine analytical performance. Its combination of sensitivity, robustness and ease of use addresses the demands of modern laboratories, enabling reliable trace quantitation and streamlined method development.