Forensic Analysis of Brand and Imitation Perfume Samples with GC, GC×GC, and HR-TOFMS

Importance of the Topic

Perfume formulations are complex blends of volatile organic compounds. A detailed chemical profile supports product quality control, helps detect imitations or adulterations, guides process optimization and underpins competitive brand analysis.

Objectives and Study Overview

• Compare a commercial brand perfume against two drugstore imitation samples.
• Evaluate the complementarity of one-dimensional GC-TOFMS, two-dimensional GC×GC-TOFMS and GC×GC coupled with high-resolution TOFMS.
• Assess improvements in chromatographic separation, analyte coverage and identification confidence.

Methodology

Each perfume sample was diluted in ethanol and injected in triplicate using standardized temperature and flow programs. Non-targeted mass spectral acquisition enabled detection of both labeled fragrance ingredients and unexpected components.

Instrumentation

• LECO Pegasus HT: GC-TOFMS
• LECO Pegasus 4D: GC×GC-TOFMS
• LECO Pegasus HRT 4D: GC×GC-HR-TOFMS

Main Results and Discussion

Two-dimensional GC separation significantly reduced coelutions observed in one-dimensional runs, unveiling additional analytes with key odor characteristics. High-resolution TOFMS provided accurate mass data for reliable formula assignments. Representative cases include resolution of farnesol and coeluting species and unambiguous identification of cinnamyl alcohol. Comparative profiling revealed distinct patterns of esters, terpenes, phthalates and musk odorants between brand and imitation products.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Comprehensive quality assurance via expanded analyte coverage and robust identification.
• Effective screening for counterfeit or imitation fragrances.
• Data to inform formulation development and support competitive market analysis.

Future Trends and Applications

Advances will focus on coupling multidimensional separations with real-time high-resolution MS, integrating chemometric and machine learning tools for automated pattern recognition, and enriching spectral libraries for broader non-targeted fragrance authentication and safety screening.

Conclusion

The synergy of GC×GC and HR-TOFMS delivers an advanced analytical platform for perfume profiling. Enhanced chromatographic resolution combined with accurate mass measurements enables confident identification of both targeted fragrance ingredients and unforeseen analytes, strengthening quality control and brand protection in the fragrance industry.