<p><strong>The quality of drinking water is under closer scrutiny than ever before. Beyond microbiological safety and major chemical contaminants, trace-level organic compounds increasingly determine whether water is perceived as clean, safe, and acceptable by consumers. Among these substances, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) play a central role — both from a regulatory and a sensory perspective.</strong></p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_VOC_Analysis_in_Drinking_Water_Achieving_ppt_Level_Sensitivity_with_ITEX_Dynamic_Headspace_GC_MS_b4de2f994a.jpg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: VOC Analysis in Drinking Water: Achieving ppt-Level Sensitivity with ITEX Dynamic Headspace GC-MS" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_VOC_Analysis_in_Drinking_Water_Achieving_ppt_Level_Sensitivity_with_ITEX_Dynamic_Headspace_GC_MS_b4de2f994a.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1024" height="512"></p><p>Modern analytical laboratories face a dual challenge: complying with stringent legal requirements while simultaneously detecting compounds that are noticeable by humans at concentrations far below established health-based limits. This is particularly true for odor-active VOCs, where customer complaints may arise even when water is fully compliant.</p><h3><strong>What are VOCs — and why are they so challenging?</strong></h3><p>VOCs are a heterogeneous group of compounds defined primarily by their physical properties rather than their chemical structure. They typically exhibit:</p><ul><li>Low molecular weight</li><li>Relatively low boiling points (approximately 50–260 °C)</li><li>High vapor pressure</li><li>Low to moderate solubility in water</li></ul><p>This group includes substances such as <strong>light halogenated hydrocarbons (LHKW)</strong>, <strong>aromatic hydrocarbons (BTEX)</strong>, and <strong>trihalomethanes (THMs)</strong>, many of which are regulated in drinking water due to toxicological concerns or their role as disinfection by-products from an analytical standpoint, these same properties make VOCs difficult to quantify at ultra-trace levels. Losses during sample handling, insufficient enrichment, and water interference can all limit sensitivity — especially when target concentrations are in the low µg/L or ng/L range.</p><h3><strong>Regulatory pressure drives method sensitivity</strong></h3><p>European drinking water legislation defines not only maximum allowable concentrations but also strict performance criteria for analytical methods. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2009/90/oj/eng?utm_source=chatgpt.com"><strong>Directive 2009/90/EC</strong></a> requires limits of quantification to be no higher than <strong>30% of the applicable environmental quality standard</strong>. For many VOCs, this translates directly into <strong>ppt-level analytical requirements</strong>.</p><p>As a result, laboratories must rely on techniques that go beyond conventional workflows while still maintaining robustness, reproducibility, and ease of use.</p><h3><strong>Headspace GC-MS: established — but not always sufficient</strong></h3><p>Headspace GC-MS remains a cornerstone of VOC analysis in water. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/64"><strong>Static headspace</strong></a><strong> (SHS)</strong> methods are widely used due to their simplicity, cleanliness, and compatibility with routine laboratories. However, SHS relies on a single equilibrium extraction of the gas phase, which can limit sensitivity — particularly for very volatile compounds or analytes present at trace concentrations.</p><p>For these applications, additional enrichment steps are often required.</p><h3><strong>ITEX dynamic headspace: turning sampling into enrichment</strong></h3><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/order/catalog/product/1R77010-1125"><strong>ITEX (In-Tube Extraction) Dynamic Headspace</strong></a> bridges the gap between simplicity and sensitivity. Unlike static headspace, ITEX repeatedly draws defined volumes of headspace gas through an adsorbent trap, actively enriching analytes before injection into the GC system.</p><p><strong>This dynamic approach offers several decisive advantages:</strong></p><ul><li>True analyte enrichment directly from the headspace</li><li>Solvent-free sample preparation</li><li>Reduced risk of contamination and carryover due to a closed, syringe-based design</li><li>Straightforward maintenance with easy access to trap and syringe components</li></ul><p>By passing the headspace through the trap multiple times, ITEX effectively increases the sampled analyte mass without increasing sample volume — a key advantage for ppt-level analysis.</p><h3><strong>Tailored adsorbents for targeted performance</strong></h3><p><strong>ITEX performance can be optimized through the selection of appropriate adsorbent materials:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Tenax TA</strong> for volatile and semi-volatile compounds</li><li><strong>Carbopack</strong> for hydrophobic analytes with minimized water displacement</li><li><strong>Carboxen and Carbosieve materials</strong> for very volatile compounds such as vinyl chloride</li></ul><p>This flexibility allows laboratories to adapt ITEX methods to a wide range of drinking water applications, from regulatory VOC panels to specialized odor investigations.</p><h3><strong>Managing water — without compromising sensitivity</strong></h3><p>Water is often the hidden enemy of trace VOC analysis. In ITEX, excess water can be efficiently removed by purging the trap with inert gas at low temperature before thermal desorption. The trap itself can then be heated to temperatures of up to <strong>350 °C</strong>, ensuring complete desorption of analytes while maintaining excellent repeatability.</p><p>Carryover testing demonstrated values of ≤0.027% for all analytes, even without blank subtraction — a critical requirement for trace analysis in regulated environments.</p><h3><strong>Chromatographic focusing for very volatile compounds</strong></h3><p>Highly volatile VOCs remain chromatographically challenging, even after enrichment. Combining ITEX with <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/content/lifetech/global/en/home/industrial/chromatography/gas-chromatography-gc/gc-systems/modules.html"><strong>PTV injection</strong></a><strong> and dedicated focusing liners</strong> significantly improves peak shape and signal-to-noise ratio. This double-focusing approach is especially effective for compounds such as vinyl chloride and other light halogenated hydrocarbons. When paired with <strong>SIM acquisition in </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/484"><strong>GC-MS</strong></a>, the result is robust, sensitive, and selective detection across a broad VOC range.</p><h3><strong>Taste and odor: why ppt really matters</strong></h3><p>One of the most demanding applications in drinking water analysis is the detection of odor-active compounds such as <strong>geosmin</strong>. Produced naturally by cyanobacteria and actinomycetes, geosmin causes an earthy, musty taste and odor that consumers can detect at concentrations as low as <strong>5–10 ng/L</strong>.</p><p>Although geosmin poses no health risk, even trace levels can trigger complaints and damage public trust. ITEX Dynamic Headspace GC-MS enables reliable detection well below the sensory threshold, supporting proactive water quality management rather than reactive troubleshooting.</p><h3><strong>Automation and flexibility for the modern laboratory</strong></h3><p>Drinking water laboratories often analyze a wide range of sample types and concentration levels. Automated platforms such as the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/422"><strong>TriPlus RSH SMART</strong></a><strong> autosampler</strong> support multiple injection and sampling techniques — including liquid injection, static headspace, SPME, and ITEX — with automatic tool change functionality.</p><p>Intelligent sequence control and consumable monitoring help laboratories maximize productivity while maintaining consistent analytical performance.</p><h3><strong>Conclusion: a future-proof approach to VOC analysis</strong></h3><p>ITEX Dynamic Headspace has proven to be a powerful and versatile alternative to purge-and-trap for the analysis of VOCs in drinking water. Its ability to deliver <strong>ppt-level sensitivity</strong>, combined with operational simplicity and excellent robustness, makes it ideally suited for both regulatory compliance and advanced odor analysis.</p><p>When integrated with PTV injection and SIM-based GC-MS detection, ITEX-DHS supports reliable quantification of even the most challenging VOCs — helping laboratories meet today’s requirements while preparing for tomorrow’s expectations</p><p><strong>Call to action</strong>:</p><p>To learn more about this interesting technology in a FREE webinar, register here:</p><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://event.on24.com/wcc/r/5250532/C85F8F6AC85928EE5DB65E38D3C9B23F"><strong>April 23-Trinkwasserübewachung mit der ITEX</strong></a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://event.on24.com/wcc/r/5250534/258DDD452DE6AAA5FDEB0E72CBF70889"><strong>June 11th VOC Analytik in Trinkwasser mittels Headspace GC-MS und ITEX</strong></a></li></ul><h3><strong>Acknowledgement</strong></h3><p>I would like to thank <strong>Dr. Klaus Schrickel</strong>, Thermo Fisher Scientific Dreieich, Germany, for the contribution to this blog.</p><ul><li><strong>Visit us on&nbsp;</strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/72003132/admin/dashboard/"><strong><u>LinkedIn:</u></strong></a>&nbsp;#GC #GC/MS # ITEX #Headspace</li></ul><blockquote><h5><strong>Petra Gerhards</strong></h5><p>Petra Gerhards, Dipl-Ing, is Regional Marketing Manager of GC and GC-MS for EMEA at Thermo Fisher Scientific. She has more than 29 years of experience in the fields of GC-MS, SPE and LC-MS. Since joining the regional team she has contributed to workflow solutions combining vials and closures with SPE solutions, GC-MS and LC-MS. She works with KOL's on data for regional specific marketing campaigns, organizes in-house seminars and works on customer specific solutions. Her main expertise is in the field of doping and drugs-of-abuse analysis.</p></blockquote>

VOC Analysis in Drinking Water: Achieving ppt-Level Sensitivity with ITEX Dynamic Headspace GC-MS

<h4><strong>The problem&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>We live in a “global village” but we are all different and we use many different languages to communicate.&nbsp;</p><p>Even when people speak the same language, the same words may be used with different meanings. See, for example, some different uses of the word “standard” in English – a normative document, a solution of known concentration or even a type of flag.&nbsp;</p><p>Even in the same area of activity misunderstandings do occur which may result in a waste of time and money, or even worse consequences.&nbsp;</p><p>When talking about laboratory tests, lack of a full understanding of key terms and inappropriate translations leaves room for different interpretations of stated requirements. For example, there have historically been a number of different but related uses of the term ‘<strong>detection limit’</strong>. This may lead to inadequate fulfilment of those requirements, thus becoming an obstacle to the production of analytical data that is fit for its intended use. A shared interpretation of concepts related to quality in measurement between laboratories and accreditation bodies is also crucial for a fair and harmonised approach to laboratory assessment across the world.&nbsp;</p><h4><strong>A common language&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>We need a <strong>common language</strong>; clear and unambiguous. We need a common vocabulary to provide consistent definitions of concepts with their associated terms. To this end, several organisations participate in a joint effort to develop and maintain an <strong>international vocabulary of metrology</strong> (VIM) [1], which aims to achieve a unique understanding of concepts related to measurements across all sectors. The VIM is a normative reference in the standards <strong>ISO/IEC 17025, ISO 15189 and ISO/IEC 17043</strong>, and is therefore a key document for all organisations seeking accreditation.&nbsp;</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Eurachem_You_talk_we_understand_The_way_out_of_the_tower_of_Babel_Standards_8d947dbd5f.jpg" alt="Eurachem: You talk, we understand – The way out of the tower of Babel_A common language" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Eurachem_You_talk_we_understand_The_way_out_of_the_tower_of_Babel_Standards_8d947dbd5f.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1126" height="499"></p><h4><strong>Is this enough?&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>For laboratory staff some problems still stand and need to be addressed:&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Many people are confused about both concepts and terms.&nbsp;</li><li>It may be difficult to understand the “formal” VIM definitions – they are short statements intended to apply to many different measurement sectors.</li><li>Translations into local languages may add to the confusion, e.g. if different terms are used in different sectors for the same VIM concept and the translator overlooks this issue.</li><li>Some substantial changes to terminology have been made in an attempt to accommodate chemical and biological measurements. Some “old” concepts still stand but have new names, e.g. “within laboratory reproducibility” vs. “intermediate precision”.&nbsp;</li></ul><p>To address these issues Eurachem has produced a guide [2] which provides an accessible reference containing simple and in context explanations of terms most relevant to analysts, with additional examples relating those concepts to chemical and biological measurements.&nbsp;</p><h4><strong>Do you understand the meaning of these terms?&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>Are you interested in a <strong>quantity</strong> or a quality? Depending on the answer, will you use a <strong>measurement</strong> <strong>procedure</strong> or an examination? Is method <strong>verification</strong> the same or less demanding than method <strong>validation</strong>? Do you need a <strong>calibration</strong> or just performance verification? Do you have a <strong>measurement standard</strong> in your laboratory? Is <strong>metrological traceability</strong> something you worry about? These are examples of the terms supporting the reliability of any measurement result that need to be clearly understood.&nbsp;</p><h5><strong>Example – Accuracy, trueness, precision: are they synonyms?&nbsp;</strong></h5><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Eurachem_You_talk_we_understand_The_way_out_of_the_tower_of_Babel_accuracy_231e1e005e.jpg" alt="Eurachem: You talk, we understand – The way out of the tower of Babel_Example – Accuracy, trueness, precision" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Eurachem_You_talk_we_understand_The_way_out_of_the_tower_of_Babel_accuracy_231e1e005e.jpg 146w," sizes="100vw" width="754" height="807"></p><ul><li>Closeness between measurement results (relating to the concept of precision)</li><li>Closeness of the average of the measurement results to a reference value (relating to the concept of trueness)&nbsp;</li><li>Closeness of an individual measurement result to the true value (relating to the concept of accuracy)&nbsp;</li></ul><p>The different situations in the figure show the effect of:&nbsp;</p><ol style="list-style-type:lower-latin;"><li>poor precision and trueness (imprecise and biased)&nbsp;</li><li>good precision, poor trueness (precise but biased)&nbsp;</li><li>poor precision, good trueness (imprecise but unbiased)&nbsp;</li><li>good precision and trueness (precise and unbiased)&nbsp;</li></ol><p>Improving both precision and trueness is expected to improve accuracy.&nbsp;</p><h4><strong>Is all this relevant to you?&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>Do you work in a laboratory, either as an analyst, quality manager or director? Are you involved in other activities related to analytical work, such as providing proficiency tests, producing reference materials or accrediting any such activity? Do you teach or study subjects related to measurements? Do you use measurement results or prescribe how to use them? <i><strong>If the answer is yes to any of these questions, the following reference documents are also for you</strong></i>.</p>

You talk, we understand – The way out of the tower of Babel

<p><strong>Visit the LabRulez booth at </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/events/871"><strong>analytica 2026</strong></a><strong> in Munich, 24. - 27. March 2026! You can find us in Hall A1, Booth A1.506. At the booth, you will be able to explore live demonstrations of how the LabRulez portals work and see selected analytical instruments from our pre-owned marketplace section.</strong></p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Lab_Rulez_at_Analytica_2026_Floor_plan_55e1057e03.jpg" alt="LabRulez at Analytica 2026: Hall A1 Floor Plan and Booth Location" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Lab_Rulez_at_Analytica_2026_Floor_plan_55e1057e03.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1516" height="881"></p><h3><strong>Would you like to learn how the LabRulez portals work?</strong></h3><p>➡︎ <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/"><strong>LabRulezLCMS</strong></a><br>➡︎ <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/"><strong>LabRulezGCMS</strong></a><br>➡︎ <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/"><strong>LabRulezICPMS</strong></a></p><ul><li>A <strong>unique online solution</strong> for <strong>your marketing</strong></li><li>A <strong>targeted audience</strong> from the <strong>analytical chemistry community</strong></li><li><strong>Modern technologies</strong> and a unique concept</li><li><strong>Design optimized for most smart devices</strong> – PC, mobile, and tablet</li><li><strong>Advanced statistical tools</strong> fully available to users</li></ul><h3><strong>Services Offered</strong></h3><h4><strong>News + Company Updates</strong></h4><ul><li>Publish <strong>news related to your instrumentation, applications, services, events, job openings</strong>, and more</li><li><strong>News is shared</strong> both on our <strong>portals</strong> and across our <strong>social media channels</strong></li></ul><h4><strong>Library – All Documents in One Place</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Applications, posters, presentations, technical articles, brochures, specifications</strong></li><li><strong>Fas</strong>t and <strong>advanced search</strong> capabilities</li><li>Over <strong>32,000 documents</strong> currently available in our database</li></ul><h4><strong>Webinars</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Upcoming and on-demand webinars</strong> from the field of analytical chemistry</li><li>More than <strong>5,500 webinars</strong> covering chromatography, mass spectrometry, and spectroscopy</li></ul><h4><strong>Careers</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Targeted job</strong> listings in <strong>analytical chemistry</strong></li><li>Clear filtering by specialization or location</li><li><strong>Increased visibility for job postings</strong></li></ul><h4><strong>Companies</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Company profile</strong> with key information and contacts</li><li><strong>Integration of all your activities on our portal:</strong> News, Library documents, Webinars, Upcoming Events, Careers, and mentions by partners or customers</li><li><strong>Connection to your Products </strong>listed on LabRulez portals</li></ul><h4><strong>Products and Services</strong></h4><ul><li>Comprehensive <strong>overview of instrumental techniques and services</strong></li><li>Targeting the analytical chemistry community and customers in the growing online environment</li></ul><h4><strong>Marketplace</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Buying and selling pre-owned analytical equipment</strong></li><li>We purchase analytical instrumentation of all brands and ages</li><li><strong>Sell your equipment through LabRulez</strong></li><li>Request and purchase <strong>complete systems, modules</strong>, or <strong>spare parts</strong> with warranty and service</li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Lab_Rulez_at_analytica_2026_bazar_7edf4a0872.jpg" alt="LabRulez at analytica 2026" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Lab_Rulez_at_analytica_2026_bazar_7edf4a0872.jpg 88w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="2844"></p><h3><strong>What Will Be on Display at Our Booth?</strong></h3><p>Come and explore selected spare parts and modules from our marketplace section. These include both new, tested, and pre-owned items.</p><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/bazaar"><strong>LabRulezLCMS Marketplace</strong></a></h4><p><strong>Spare parts for LC/MS:</strong></p><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/bazaar?category=378"><strong>Vacuum turbo pumps for LC/MS</strong></a></li></ul><p><strong>Spare parts for HPLC:</strong></p><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/bazaar?category=397"><strong>Degassers for HPLC/UHPLC</strong></a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/bazaar?category=368&amp;search=valve"><strong>Automatic valves for HPLC</strong></a></li><li>HPLC components for Agilent 1100, 1200, and 1260 Infinity II series</li></ul><p><strong>Consumables:</strong></p><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/bazaar?category=377"><strong>HPLC lamps</strong></a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/bazaar?category=48"><strong>HPLC columns</strong></a></li></ul><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/bazaar"><strong>LabRulezGCMS Marketplace</strong></a></h4><p><strong>Spare parts for GC/MS:</strong></p><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/bazaar?category=367&amp;search=turbo"><strong>Turbo pumps for GC/MS</strong></a></li></ul><p><strong>Spare parts for GC:</strong></p><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/bazaar?category=366&amp;search=EPC"><strong>EPC modules</strong></a></li></ul><p><strong>Sample injection</strong></p><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/bazaar/432"><strong>Autosampler 7693A for GC</strong></a></li></ul><p><strong>Consumables:</strong></p><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/bazaar?category=7"><strong>GC columns </strong></a>and selected accessories</li></ul>

LabRulez at analytica 2026

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A unique company dedicated to serving science helping our customers drive productivity and accelerate results. Through our premier brands – Thermo Scientific, Applied Biosystems, Invitrogen, Fisher Scientific and Unity Lab Services.

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Eurachem is a European network promoting international traceability of chemical measurements and good analytical practice. It provides expert guidance, supports method validation, uncertainty evaluation, proficiency testing, and facilitates discussion on technical and policy issues in analytical quality.

Eurachem

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LabRulez

Thermo Scientific™ TRACE™ 1310 Gas Chromatograph

Modular GC with touch screen control, instant-connect injectors, helium-saving capability, and fast oven cycles—ideal for method development and routine analysis.

<h4><strong>Premium modular GC system with full local control for method development and routine analysis</strong></h4><p><strong>The TRACE 1310 GC combines the modular, tool-free architecture of the TRACE 1300 Series with a powerful built-in user interface for complete instrument control. Designed for analysts who demand flexibility, speed, and intuitive access to GC parameters, the system supports all injection and detection configurations and delivers exceptional performance for both routine QA/QC and advanced method development.</strong></p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/application::product.product/Thermo-Trace-1310-GC-System-1.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific™ TRACE™ 1310 Gas Chromatograph" width="null" height="null"></p><h3><strong>Key Features and Benefits</strong></h3><h4>🖥️ <strong>Full Local Control</strong></h4><ul><li>Integrated <strong>touch screen interface</strong> for real-time method setup and control</li><li>Intuitive navigation for injector, detector, oven, and flow parameters</li><li>Ideal for <strong>method development</strong> and <strong>standalone operation</strong> without PC</li></ul><h4>⚙️ <strong>Modular Instant Connect Design</strong></h4><ul><li>Exchange injectors and detectors in under 2 minutes</li><li>Tool-free reconfiguration without downtime</li><li>Compatible with all TRACE 1300 modules and autosamplers</li></ul><h4>💨 <strong>Fast and Stable Thermal Performance</strong></h4><ul><li>Oven ramp rate up to <strong>125 °C/min</strong>, cool-down in under 4 minutes</li><li>Excellent retention time and area reproducibility</li><li>Cryogenic cooling available down to –100 °C</li></ul><h4>♻️ <strong>Helium Saver Ready</strong></h4><ul><li>Use helium, hydrogen, or nitrogen as carrier gases</li><li>Reduce helium consumption by over 90%</li><li>Maintain method integrity while switching gases</li></ul><h4>🧪 <strong>Broad Application Coverage</strong></h4><ul><li>Supports SSL, PTV, On-Column, Large Volume Injection, Backflush</li><li>Detector options: FID, TCD, ECD, NPD, FPD, MS interface</li><li>Compatible with manual or automated workflows (AI/AS 1310, TriPlus RSH)</li></ul><h3><strong>Software and Integration</strong></h3><ul><li>Fully controllable via <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/76"><strong>Chromeleon™</strong></a><strong>, </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/1758"><strong>Xcalibur™</strong></a><strong>, or Chrom-Card™</strong></li><li>eWorkflows for simplified operation and data processing</li><li>Built-in QC, audit trail, and LIMS compatibility</li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/application::product.product/Thermo-TriPlus-500-GC-Headspace-Autosampler-3.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific™ TRACE™ 1310 Gas Chromatograph" width="null" height="null"></p>

Thermo Scientific TRACE™ 1600 Series Gas Chromatograph

The TRACE 1600 GC is designed for minimum interaction with the instrument, limiting the local operations to the essentials and enabling full instrument control through the chromatography data system.

<div><div id="product-description"><p><strong>Maximize the operational efficiency and profitability of your lab with the Thermo Scientific™ TRACE™ 1600 Series Gas Chromatograph and its unique modular concept for optimized instrumental usage. The TRACE 1600 GC is designed for minimum interaction with the instrument, limiting the local operations to the essentials and enabling full instrument control through the chromatography data system.</strong></p><figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:992/1088;" src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Pragolab_Porovnani_vlastnosti_plynovych_chromatografu_Thermo_Scientific_TRACE_1600_vs_TRACE_1610_4f943d7033/Pragolab-Porovnani-vlastnosti-plynovych-chromatografu-Thermo-Scientific-TRACE-1600-vs-TRACE-1610.jpg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: TRACE 1600 vs TRACE 1610" width="992" height="1088"></figure><h3><strong>The TRACE 1600 Series Gas Chromatograph offers:</strong></h3><h4><strong>Maximized instrument productive time</strong></h4><ul><li>Keep your GC system up and running even when deeper cleaning is required, thanks to the offline maintenance capabilities of the iConnect injector and detector modules</li><li>Optimize the use of GC instruments in the lab and avoid having idle systems with interchangeable iConnect injector and detector modules</li><li>Avoid unplanned downtime through alerts on consumables usage</li><li>Reduce run time and system contamination through integrated backflush capabilities</li><li>Extend unattended operations through a full portfolio of sampling automation products</li></ul><h4><strong>Monitor key aspects of your GC systems</strong></h4><ul><li>With Thermo Scientific™ SmartStatus™ instrument tracking within Chromeleon CDS, quickly see whether instruments are ready to run samples, if maintenance is required or if consumables should be replaced. The fully customizable software enables you to make data-driven decisions on when to perform maintenance and avoid unnecessary downtime.</li></ul><h4><strong>Simplified operations for quick adoption</strong></h4><ul><li>Facilitate operations through how-to videos directly available on the local touch-screen interface</li><li>Easily adapt the GC system configuration to your needs in minutes without special tools or training requirements with iConnect injector and detector modules, also available for online purchasing and one day delivery</li><li>Simplify troubleshooting operations through quick replacement of iConnect injector and detector modules, without the need for service calls</li><li>Make capillary column installation quick and safe through tool-free Thermo Scientific™ iConnect Column Lock connectors</li></ul><h4><strong>Lower cost of ownership</strong></h4><ul><li>Reduce operational costs with a GC system that allows the use of standard consumables</li><li>Save energy with low thermal mass and a quick start-up</li><li>Reduce helium carrier gas consumption while operating with a SSL injector</li></ul><h3><strong>Specifications:</strong></h3><ul><li><strong>Cool-Down Time:</strong> 450°C to 50°C in less than 4 minutes</li><li><strong>Heat Up Time:</strong> Max. of 125°C/min</li><li><strong>Temperature Range:</strong> Ambient +3°C to 450°C (cryogenic option for sub-ambient operation)</li><li><strong>Voltage:</strong> 230 V</li><li><strong>Certifications/Compliance:</strong> Conforms to safety standards according to Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and Low Voltage Directive 2006/95/EC. Conforms to the regulations on Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) and Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) according to directive 2004/108/EC.</li><li><strong>Description:</strong> TRACE™ 1600 Gas Chromatograph</li><li><strong>Inlet Type:</strong> Up to 2: SSL, PTV, SSL-BKF, PTV-BKF, COC, GSV</li><li><strong>Detector Type:</strong> Up to 2: FID, TCD, ECD, NPD, FPD, PDD</li><li><strong>Dimensions (L x W x H):</strong> 45 × 44 × 67 cm (17.7 x 17.3 x 26.4 in) (H × W × D)</li></ul></div></div>

Thermo Scientific™ TRACE™ 1610 Series Gas Chromatograph

The TRACE 1610 GC is designed to enhance the workflow experience for both new and expert users through its advanced multi-functional touch screen with instrument health monitoring and how-to videos.

<p><strong>The TRACE 1610 GC is designed to enhance the workflow experience for both new and expert users through its advanced multi-functional touch screen with instrument health monitoring and how-to videos. The TRACE 1600 GC is designed for minimum interaction with the instrument, limiting the local operations to the essentials and enabling full instrument control through the chromatography data system.</strong></p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Pragolab_Porovnani_vlastnosti_plynovych_chromatografu_Thermo_Scientific_TRACE_1600_vs_TRACE_1610_4f943d7033/Pragolab-Porovnani-vlastnosti-plynovych-chromatografu-Thermo-Scientific-TRACE-1600-vs-TRACE-1610.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific™ TRACE™ 1610 Series Gas Chromatograph:  TRACE 1600 vs TRACE 1610." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Pragolab_Porovnani_vlastnosti_plynovych_chromatografu_Thermo_Scientific_TRACE_1600_vs_TRACE_1610_4f943d7033/thumbnail_Pragolab-Porovnani-vlastnosti-plynovych-chromatografu-Thermo-Scientific-TRACE-1600-vs-TRACE-1610.jpg 142w," sizes="100vw" width="992" height="1088"></p><h3><strong>Maximized instrument productive time</strong></h3><ul><li><strong>Keep your GC system up and running</strong> even when deeper cleaning is required, thanks to the <strong>offline maintenance capabilities</strong> of the <strong>iConnect injector and detector modules</strong></li><li><strong>Optimize the use of GC instruments</strong> in the lab and avoid having idle systems with <strong>interchangeable iConnect injector and detector modules</strong></li><li><strong>Avoid unplanned downtime</strong> through <strong>alerts on consumables usage</strong></li><li><strong>Reduce run time and system contamination</strong> through <strong>integrated backflush capabilities</strong></li><li><strong>Extend unattended operations</strong> through a <strong>full portfolio of sampling automation products</strong></li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Pragolab_Moduly_injektoru_a_detektoru_i_Connect_2_ba43f76c80/Pragolab-Moduly-injektoru-a-detektoru-iConnect-2_l.webp" alt="Thermo Scientific™ TRACE™ 1610 Series Gas Chromatograph: Interchangeable injector and detector modules allow for flexible configuration." width="1202" height="417"></p><h3><strong>Monitor key aspects of your GC systems</strong></h3><p>With <strong>Thermo Scientific™ SmartStatus™ instrument tracking</strong> within <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/76"><strong>Chromeleon CDS</strong></a>, quickly see whether <strong>instruments are ready to run samples</strong>, if <strong>maintenance is required</strong> or if <strong>consumables should be replaced</strong>. The <strong>fully customizable software</strong> enables you to make <strong>data-driven decisions</strong> on when to perform maintenance and <strong>avoid unnecessary downtime</strong>.</p><h3><strong>Simplified operations for quick adoption</strong></h3><ul><li><strong>Facilitate operations</strong> through <strong>how-to videos</strong> directly available on the <strong>local touch-screen interface</strong></li><li><strong>Easily adapt the GC system configuration</strong> to your needs in minutes <strong>without special tools or training requirements</strong> with <strong>iConnect injector and detector modules</strong>, also available for <strong>online purchasing and one day delivery</strong></li><li><strong>Simplify troubleshooting operations</strong> through <strong>quick replacement</strong> of iConnect injector and detector modules, <strong>without the need for service calls</strong></li><li><strong>Make capillary column installation quick and safe</strong> through <strong>tool-free Thermo Scientific™ iConnect Column Lock connectors</strong></li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Scientific_TRACE_1610_Series_Gas_Chromatograph_4e84dd71ff.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific™ TRACE™ 1610 Series Gas Chromatograph:   Finger-tight connections with a simple click, allowing capillary column length adjustments to be made before installation." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Scientific_TRACE_1610_Series_Gas_Chromatograph_4e84dd71ff.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1529" height="413"></p><h3><strong>Lower cost of ownership</strong></h3><ul><li><strong>Reduce operational costs</strong> with a GC system that allows the use of <strong>standard consumables</strong></li><li><strong>Save energy</strong> with <strong>low thermal mass</strong> and a <strong>quick start-up</strong></li><li><strong>Reduce helium carrier gas consumption</strong> while operating with a <strong>SSL injector</strong></li></ul>

Thermo Scientific™ TRACE™ 1300 Series Gas Chromatograph

Modular GC system with instant-connect injectors and detectors for fast setup, low maintenance, and high-throughput routine analysis with helium-saving capability.

<h4><strong>Modular, fast, and robust GC system for modern analytical labs</strong></h4><p><strong>The TRACE 1300 Series GC platform offers a uniquely modular design that combines productivity, simplicity, and operational flexibility. With instant-connect user-exchangeable injectors and detectors, the system enables tool-free configuration changes in under 2 minutes. Designed for high-throughput QA/QC and routine labs, it reduces downtime and cost of ownership while delivering industry-leading performance.</strong></p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/application::product.product/Trace-1300-GC.jpg-650.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific™ TRACE™ 1300 Series Gas Chromatograph" width="null" height="null"></p><h3><strong>Key Features and Benefits</strong></h3><h4>⚙️ <strong>Modular Design with Instant Connect Technology</strong></h4><ul><li>Plug-in injector and detector modules install in minutes without tools</li><li>No need for service engineers or downtime during reconfiguration</li><li>Dual-channel and multi-detector setups supported</li><li>Ideal for evolving lab needs and future upgrades</li></ul><h4>💨 <strong>Exceptional Speed and Thermal Performance</strong></h4><ul><li>Ultra-fast oven with heating rates up to <strong>125 °C/min</strong></li><li>Oven cooldown from 450 °C to 50 °C in under 4 minutes</li><li>Retention time RSD &lt; <strong>0.0008 min</strong>, peak area RSD &lt; <strong>0.5%</strong></li><li>IEC (Integrated Electronic Control) for precise pressure and flow control</li></ul><h4>♻️ <strong>Helium Saver and Alternative Gas Compatibility</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Instant Connect Helium Saver Injector</strong> reduces helium use by 90%+</li><li>Supports nitrogen or hydrogen as alternative carrier gases</li><li>Extend helium cylinder life up to <strong>14 years</strong> without method changes</li></ul><h4>🔁 <strong>Injection Versatility</strong></h4><ul><li>Split/splitless (SSL), PTV, Gas Sampling Valve, and On-column injection</li><li>Large volume injections and backflush options available</li><li>Cryogenic cooling options down to <strong>–100 °C</strong></li></ul><h4>🔬 <strong>Flexible Detector Options</strong></h4><ul><li>Instant Connect detectors: <strong>FID, TCD, ECD, NPD, FPD</strong></li><li>Miniaturized cells with fast acquisition rates up to <strong>300 Hz</strong></li><li>Connects seamlessly with Thermo Scientific GC-MS systems or FT-IR</li><li>Optional methanizer for CO/CO₂ detection</li></ul><h4>🧠 <strong>Smart Software Integration</strong></h4><ul><li>Full control via <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/76"><strong>Chromeleon™</strong></a><strong>, </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/1758"><strong>Xcalibur™</strong></a><strong>, Chrom-Card™</strong></li><li>eWorkflows and intelligent automation for efficient operation</li><li>Dynamic data processing, QA/QC checks, and LIMS integration</li></ul><h3><strong>Additional Benefits</strong></h3><ul><li><strong>TRACE 1300 model:</strong> budget-friendly, simple interface for routine use</li><li><strong>TRACE 1310 model: </strong>touch screen interface for method development</li><li>Small footprint, low energy consumption, and fast startup</li><li>GLP-compliant modules, multilingual UI, and remote operability</li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/application::product.product/Thermo-TriPlustm-100-LS-Liquid-Autosampler-5.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific™ TRACE™ 1300 Series Gas Chromatograph" width="null" height="null"></p>

Products from category Gas chromatographs - page 1

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