Analysis of Ethanol in Blood : A Cost-Effective Approach [HSS 86.50 Plus & Master GC]

Importance of the Topic

The accurate determination of ethanol in blood is essential in forensic investigations, clinical toxicology and quality control laboratories. Reliable and rapid methods support legal decisions, patient management and compliance with regulatory standards.

Objectives and Study Overview

This application note evaluates a cost-effective analytical workflow for blood alcohol content (BAC) determination. The study pairs a DANI HSS 86.50 Plus static headspace sampler with a DANI Master GC system to achieve reliable, high-throughput ethanol analysis in complex biological matrices.

Methodology

The approach exploits static headspace extraction to minimize sample preparation and maximize reproducibility. Key procedural steps include:

• Sample volume: 0.5 mL of blood
• Equilibration: 15 minutes at controlled temperature with rapid agitation
• Headspace transfer: heated transfer line ensuring consistent vapor introduction

Instrumentation

This configuration combines:

• DANI HSS 86.50 Plus static headspace sampler (44-position tray; oven 70°C; manifold and transfer line 90°C)
• DANI Master GC gas chromatograph with split/splitless injector (150°C) and dual FID detectors (300°C)
• Dual capillary columns DN-ALC1 (30 m × 0.32 mm × 1.8 μm) and DN-ALC2 (30 m × 0.32 mm × 1.2 μm)

Main Results and Discussion

Calibration performed over 50–3000 ppm yielded excellent linearity for ethanol and methanol on both columns (R2 > 0.9995). Repeatability assessed via ten consecutive injections showed relative standard deviations below 1.5% for ethanol and below 0.7% for methanol. Overlay chromatograms confirmed clear peak resolution and robust performance of dual-column configuration with n-propanol as internal standard.

Benefits and Practical Applications

The fully automated headspace-GC method offers:

• High throughput with minimal operator intervention
• Cost efficiency through reduced consumables and rapid cycle times
• Robustness in complex matrices, ideal for forensic and clinical laboratories

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Emerging directions include integration with mass spectrometric detectors for broader analyte screening, micro-GC formats for on-site testing, and advanced data analytics powered by AI for enhanced method optimization and real-time decision support.

Conclusion

The DANI HSS 86.50 Plus coupled to the Master GC provides a reliable, economical solution for blood ethanol analysis. Its automation, precision and dual-column setup deliver consistent quantitative results, making it well suited for forensic, clinical and industrial laboratories.