Cryo Trap System - CTS 2 - Specifications

Significance of the Topic

Cryogenic trapping is a pivotal technique in gas chromatography that enhances sensitivity by concentrating volatile and semi-volatile compounds. By immobilizing analytes at low temperatures, trace-level detection becomes feasible, improving the reliability of environmental monitoring, food safety testing, and complex sample analysis.

Objectives and Study Overview

This document presents the CTS 2 Cryo Trap System, designed for single- and multidimensional GC setups. The primary goal is to detail how the CTS 2 integrates with existing GC platforms, its operational capabilities, and its impact on analytical performance.

Instrumentation Used

• CTS 2 Cryo Trap System for cryogenic pre-column trapping
• Controller C506 for precise temperature programming
• GERSTEL MAESTRO software or Agilent Technologies/Thermo Scientific CDS for method control and data acquisition
• Optional LN₂ dewar (1.0–2.0 bar) for subambient cooling

Methodology

The CTS 2 traps analytes either before a single GC column or between pre- and analytical columns in a GC oven for heart-cutting applications. Following accumulation, a controlled temperature ramp releases analytes onto the analytical column. Key parameters include:

• Temperature programming with two ramps and independent hold levels
• Heating rates up to 20 °C/s
• Initial and hold temperatures from –150 to 400 °C
• Maximum hold time of 650 minutes per temperature

Main Results and Discussion

Performance specifications demonstrate rapid heating and precise temperature control, ensuring sharp peak shapes and minimal band broadening. The system supports capillary columns up to 1 mm OD and is compatible with Agilent 6890/7890 GC instruments. Integration with multidimensional column switching enhances analyte separation and detection limits.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Enhanced detection limits through analyte enrichment
• Improved chromatographic resolution in complex matrices
• Single-method control for GC and GC/MS analyses
• Compatibility with automated software workflows

Future Trends and Opportunities

Advances may include automated LN₂-free cooling modules, tighter integration with software for real-time method adjustments, and expansion to high-throughput multidimensional GC workflows. Emerging applications in metabolomics and trace organic analysis will benefit from these developments.

Conclusion

The CTS 2 Cryo Trap System offers robust cryogenic trapping with precise temperature control, seamless software integration, and enhanced analytical performance. It is a versatile solution for laboratories seeking improved sensitivity and resolution in GC and GC/MS analyses.