Agilent 7010 Triple Quadrupole GC/MS System - Data Sheet

Importance of the Topic

The development of highly sensitive and selective analytical platforms is essential in fields such as environmental monitoring, food safety, pharmaceuticals, and forensic science. Triple quadrupole gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS/MS) delivers unrivaled detection limits and quantitative accuracy, enabling laboratories to trace contaminants and complex mixtures at femtogram levels. This capability supports regulatory compliance and advances research by providing robust data on trace organics.

Objectives and Study Overview

This datasheet presents a comprehensive description of the Agilent 7890B Gas Chromatograph coupled to the Agilent 7010 Triple Quadrupole Mass Spectrometer. Key goals include demonstrating system sensitivity via instrument detection limits (IDLs), outlining performance specifications, and highlighting features that simplify maintenance and enhance throughput.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The system integrates a high-performance GC with a dedicated triple quadrupole MS/MS backend. Major components and operating parameters are:

• Ionization: Standard electron ionization (EI) source with optional chemical ionization (CI), dual filaments and electron energies adjustable between 10–300 eV.
• Mass Analyzers: Two gold-coated hyperbolic quadrupoles providing selectable resolution (0.7–2.5 Da default; custom tune 0.4–4.0 Da).
• Collision Cell: Linear hexapole cell using nitrogen collision gas with helium quench, selectable collision energy up to 60 eV.
• Detection: Triple-axis high-efficiency electron multiplier (HED-EM) with dynamic iris control, supporting up to 6,250 u/s scan speed and 800 MRM transitions per second.
• GC Module: 7890B platform with split/splitless, multimode and PTV inlets; programmable oven (ambient + 4 to 450 °C); up to 20 temperature ramps at maximum ramp rates of 120 °C/min.
• Autosampler Options: Agilent 7693 ALS, CombiPAL, and 7697A headspace sampler to automate liquid, solid, and gas sample introduction.
• Software: Agilent MassHunter for acquisition, quantitation, and qualitative reporting, featuring a pesticide and environmental pollutant MRM library of over 8,000 transitions.

Main Results and Discussion

Installation-verified IDL performance demonstrates detection limits as low as 0.5 fg of octafluoronaphthalene (OFN) in EI–MRM mode at 99% confidence over eight injections. In CI–MRM tests, the system achieved signal-to-noise ratios above 2,500:1 for benzophenone at 5 pg/µL. Reference measurements indicate S/N values exceeding 10,000:1 for 100 fg/µL OFN standards, confirming exceptional sensitivity. The robust mass stability (<±0.10 u over 24 h) and broad mass range (m/z 10–1,050) ensure reproducible quantitation and full-spectrum screening.

Benefits and Practical Applications

The Agilent 7010 GC/TQ system offers:

• Ultra-trace quantitation of pesticides, environmental pollutants, and biomolecules.
• High throughput via rapid MRM scheduling and fast scan speeds.
• Reduced downtime through integrated early maintenance feedback and quick venting.
• Flexible inlet and autosampler configurations to accommodate liquid, solid, and headspace analyses.
• Eco-friendly operation with programmable sleep-wake modes to minimize gas and power consumption.

Future Trends and Applications

Advancements in data processing algorithms and machine learning will further improve compound identification and deconvolution in complex matrices. Integration of enhanced ion sources, such as atmospheric pressure chemical ionization, could broaden analyte coverage. Miniaturized GC/MS platforms and ambient sampling techniques are expected to extend trace analysis to field applications and real-time monitoring.

Conclusion

The Agilent 7890B/7010 triple quadrupole GC–MS system delivers industry-leading sensitivity, stability, and versatility essential for modern trace analysis. Its combination of fast MRM capabilities, low detection limits, and robust maintenance features makes it a valuable asset for regulated laboratories and advanced research environments.

References

1. Agilent Technologies. Agilent 7890B GC and 7010 Triple Quadrupole GC/MS System Data Sheet. June 2014. 5991-4782EN.