<p><strong>Interlaboratory comparisons (ILCs) have been used for more than a century and many important concepts are linked to them. This leaflet addresses the basic terminology of ILCs, why some colloquial terms can be misleading or misunderstood, and the importance of harmonisation.&nbsp;</strong></p><p>An ‘ILC’ is the <i>organisation, performance and evaluation of measurements or tests on the same or similar items by two or more laboratories in accordance with predetermined conditions</i> [1]. ILCs have a variety of overall – and detailed – objectives, the three most common [2] being:</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Eurachem_Let_s_call_a_PT_scheme_a_PT_scheme_3_9993b9fb0f.jpg" alt="Eurachem: Let’s call a PT scheme a PT scheme" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Eurachem_Let_s_call_a_PT_scheme_a_PT_scheme_3_9993b9fb0f.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1516" height="472"></p><h4><strong>Some comparisons have special names&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>The evaluation of participant (laboratory, organisation or individual) performance is typically referred to as ‘<strong>proficiency testing</strong>’ (PT) or ‘<strong>external quality assessment</strong>’ [1]. When the main objective is evaluating the performance of, for example, a candidate standard method, the ILC is often called a ‘<strong>method performance study</strong>’ or a ‘<strong>collaborative study</strong>’ [2, 3]. The former is quite clear whereas wording such as “<strong>collaborative</strong>” and “<strong>cooperative</strong>” just stresses joint effort. A project aimed at producing a new certified reference material may involve several laboratories conducting analyses on agreed properties [4]. Not surprisingly, this work is sometimes labelled as a ‘<strong>material certification study</strong>’. Special ILCs used to demonstrate measurement capabilities of National Metrology Institutes are called ‘<strong>key comparisons</strong>’, ‘<strong>supplementary comparisons</strong>’, and ‘<strong>pilot studies</strong>’ [5].&nbsp;</p><h4><strong>Some terms can be confusing&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>Other terms for ILCs, including ‘ring test’, ‘round robin’ and ‘circle analysis’, are common in the literature. They have, however, been used for different objectives and different designs and may be ambiguous or understood differently by laboratory staff. The use of these terms may, for example, imply a specific way of distributing the ILC sample. ISO/IEC 17043 uses ‘sequential scheme’, for a PT where a unique item is transferred between the participants and ‘simultaneous scheme’, in which similar items from a batch are distributed simultaneously to the participants [1].&nbsp;</p><p>Terms like ‘<strong>measurement audit</strong>’, ‘<strong>interlaboratory testing scheme</strong>’, ‘<strong>measurement comparison scheme</strong>’, ‘<strong>rapid performance evaluation scheme</strong>’ and ‘<strong>intercalibration</strong>’ may not correctly reflect the category of laboratory involved, or the type of work participants do during the ILC.&nbsp;</p><p>When in 1994 the IUPAC defined and described three major types of ‘interlaboratory studies’, the word ‘study’ was preferred to synonyms such as ‘trial’, ‘exercise’, ‘test’, ‘evaluation’ or ‘check’ [2].</p><h4><strong>Let’s try to harmonise&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>Many laboratory staff are unaware of official terms related to ILCs but recognise the acronym PT and words like ‘ring test’. Ideally, we would use a common scientific language, but harmonisation is time consuming. Terms appear and disappear and definitions change. The same term can be defined differently, even in different international standards. Lack of standards and guidelines in local languages can cause confusion and contribute to spreading of less appropriate terms.&nbsp;</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Eurachem_Let_s_call_a_PT_scheme_a_PT_scheme_2_820043ce8b.jpg" alt="Eurachem: Let’s call a PT scheme a PT scheme" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Eurachem_Let_s_call_a_PT_scheme_a_PT_scheme_2_820043ce8b.jpg 234w," sizes="100vw" width="1006" height="671"></p><p>Much confusion can be avoided by clear reference to relevant standards and sectoral guides. ISO/ IEC 17043 [1] and ISO 13528 [6] contain many important concepts related to PT schemes and other ILCs. Some of these are also incorporated into ISO/IEC 17025 [7]. Additional useful, and free, tools are the Eurachem PT Guide [8] and the ISO online browsing platform [9].&nbsp;</p><p>In writing guidance and instructions, remember that the term ‘interlaboratory comparison’ has a broad meaning and can be used for all cases described above. Sometimes this is clear enough for the reader. In other cases, use acknowledged terms that reflect the detailed objective of the ILC. Let’s call a PT scheme a PT scheme!</p>

Let’s call a PT scheme a PT scheme!

<p><span><strong>The countdown is on for one of the world’s leading conferences dedicated to food analysis. The 12th International Symposium on Recent Advances in Food Analysis (RAFA 2026), taking place in Prague from 3–6 November 2026, is approaching two important milestones: the Early Bird registration deadline and the deadline for oral abstract submissions, both ending on 30 June 2026. Researchers, analysts, industry professionals, regulators, and students are encouraged to secure their participation at a reduced registration rate and take advantage of the opportunity to present their latest scientific results to the international food analysis community.</strong></span></p><p><span>RAFA 2026 will once again bring together leading experts from academia, industry, and regulatory organizations to discuss the latest developments in food safety, authenticity, contaminants, non-target screening, PFAS, microplastics, food contact materials, artificial intelligence, and advanced analytical technologies. The preliminary program already features an outstanding lineup of internationally recognized speakers addressing some of the most pressing challenges in modern food analysis and food safety.</span></p><h3><strong>Registration</strong></h3><blockquote><p class="cke-user_style-important"><strong>👉</strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://rafa.easyevent.eu/tickets/"><strong>Register to attend RAFA 2026!</strong></a></p><p><strong>Early-bird registration until 30 June, 2026</strong></p></blockquote><p>After successful submission of your registration, you will receive by e-mail (i) an automatic confirmation of receipt indicating the total amount of payment due (either for bank transfer or for on-line payment by card), (ii) login to Member section where you can administrate your profile, submit your abstracts, and from <strong>September 2026</strong> register for satellite events, workshops and seminars. If it will not be delivered within a few minutes after submission of your registration please contact us at <strong>RAFA2026@vscht.cz</strong>.</p><p>As soon as payment of registration fee is processed, you will also receive by e-mail (iii) confirmation of payment.</p><h4><strong>Registration Fees</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Smart rate (Until 30 June, 2026): </strong>€ 655</li><li><strong>Regular registration (Until 30 September, 2026):</strong> € 855</li><li><strong>Late registration (From 1 October, 2026):</strong> € 955</li><li><strong>Student rate*&nbsp;</strong><ul><li><strong>Until 30 June, 2026: </strong>€ 465</li><li><strong>From 1 July, 2026:</strong> € 605</li></ul></li></ul><p><i>* The proof of student status (e.g. copy of a student identify card) is requested as an attachment of the registration form.</i></p><h5><strong>The regular registration fee will include:</strong></h5><ul><li>Attendance at all scientific sessions, workshops, seminars, vendor seminars and other satellite events</li><li>Access to the poster and exhibition area</li><li>Conference kit (name badge, conference bag, conference documents, certificate of participation, certificate of presentation on request)</li><li>Final programme</li><li>E-Book of Abstracts</li><li>Coffee breaks</li><li>Buffet luncheons</li><li>Welcome drink</li></ul><p>In the registration form you can r<strong>egister free of charge for the welcome drink</strong> and you can also order <strong>ticket(s) for the conference dinner (€ 85).</strong></p><p><i>Please note that your registration is firm when your payment has been received.</i></p><h3><strong>Abstract submission</strong></h3><blockquote><p class="cke-user_style-important"><strong>👉</strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://rafa.easyevent.eu/tickets/"><strong>Submit your ABSTRACT HERE!</strong></a></p><p>In order to submit an abstract, you must <strong>first register to attend RAFA 2026</strong>. <strong>After registration</strong> you will receive an <strong>access to the Member section </strong>where you can <strong>submit your abstract(s).</strong></p></blockquote><p>&nbsp;After successful submission of your abstract you will receive an automatic confirmation of receipt of submitted abstract via e-mail. If it will not be delivered within a few minutes after submission of your abstract please check at first your spam box-mail and then contact us at <strong>RAFA2026@vscht.cz</strong>.</p><p>Please ensure that your abstract does not contain spelling, grammatical or scientific errors. Even though modifications of your submitted abstract will be allowed in the Abstract section of the Member section until the deadline for the abstract submission, please be confident on the lack of errors in your final version prior to starting the submission process.</p><p>The abstract will be reproduced exactly as submitted. No proofreading will be done, although some corrections may be requested by the reviewers.</p><p>If you need to withdraw your abstract, a written statement reflecting the reasons for this decision must be sent to <strong>RAFA2026@vscht.cz</strong> no later than <strong>September 30, 2026</strong>.</p><h4><strong>Important notice:</strong></h4><blockquote><p><strong>1 registered participant can submit no more than 2 abstracts.</strong></p></blockquote><p>To apply for a young scientist’s oral presentation, as an indication please respect the rule that you should be born in 1991 or later.</p><p>The <strong>text of the abstract </strong>should be<strong> limited to 3000 characters including spaces</strong>. Tables and pictures are not allowed.</p><p><strong>Abstracts of oral presentations and posters</strong> will be included into the "<strong>e-Book of Abstracts</strong>" only after receipt of the conference registration fee. Any payment of the registration fee has to be received until <strong>September 30, 2026</strong>, otherwise contribution(s) will not be included into the e-Book of Abstracts and the Conference programme.</p><h3><strong>Program</strong></h3><h4><strong>Invited Speakers</strong></h4><h5><strong>Food allergen risk assessment: Past, present, future</strong></h5><ul><li>Ben Remington from Remington Consulting Group B.V., Utrecht, the Netherlands &amp; University of Nebraska, USA</li></ul><p>Food allergy and allergen management are global public health issues, and consumer protection depends on transparent and trustworthy labelling. While 30 years of scientific advances show that low level exposures, or reference doses, are unlikely to trigger reactions in most allergic individuals, harmonized and globally aligned regulations are still needed to promote consistent allergen risk assessment and labelling decisions. This presentation will discuss the landscape of allergen risk assessment, global policy developments, current research and future needs in the area.</p><h5><strong>Unmasking hidden adulteration in honey: Strategies for detecting and characterizing honeys produced from sugar-fed colonies</strong></h5><ul><li>Oscar Nuñez Burcio from University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain</li></ul><p>From hive to jar, not all honey tells the same story. This presentation addresses hidden adulteration associated with sugar-fed bee colonies, highlighting implications for authenticity, production practices, and the need for a more precise characterization of honey to ensure consumer trust.</p><h5><strong>Analytical and toxicological methods for safety of food contact materials</strong></h5><ul><li>Erich Leitner from Graz University of Technology, Institute of Analytical Chemistry and Food Chemistry, Graz, Austria</li></ul><p>Food packaging plays a critical role in protecting and preserving food throughout the supply chain. All packaging materials intended to come into contact with food must comply with strict EU safety rules. Due to increased complexity of packaging solutions, lowering legal limits and increasing numbers of target compounds, we also have to adapt the strategies used to verify and guarantee the safety of these materials.</p><h5><strong>Data-driven strategies to reduce complexity in non-target HRMS analysis of food samples</strong></h5><ul><li>Anneli Kruve from Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden</li></ul><p>LC/HRMS based non-target screening can detect hundreds to thousands of chemical features in complex food and environmental samples. Investigating all of these in detail is practically impossible, so which ones to focus on? Novel computational tools developed in computational mass spectrometry allow predicting the toxicity and concentration of the detected chemical features even if these have not yet been fully structurally elucidated. Combining these predictions enables us to focus on the chemical features possessing high risk.</p><h5><strong>Role of AI in the identification of emerging food systems risks</strong></h5><ul><li>Ákos Bernard Jóźwiak from Syreon Research Institute, Budapest, Hungary</li></ul><p>AI-assisted evidence synthesis – spanning curated scientific evidence, exposome data, and network analysis – is the backbone of next-generation emerging chemical food safety risk identification, enabling earlier signals and more resilient surveillance systems.</p><h5><strong>Challenges of microplastics analysis in the context of food safety</strong></h5><ul><li>Dorte Herzke from Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway</li></ul><p>Food and food packaging are major sources of micro- and nanoplastic exposure. Plastics used in processing, storage, and packaging can release particles through heat, abrasion, and degradation. Small particles below 2 µm may cross gut barriers and carry chemicals, highlighting the need for robust and sensitive measurement methods.</p><h5><strong>Never-ending analytical challenges in PFAS analysis of food</strong></h5><ul><li>Darina Dvořáková from University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Prague, Czechia</li></ul><p>Exploring and monitoring PFAS in food requires advanced strategies. Combining targeted, suspect, and non-target HRMS analysis, determination of total fluorine and sum parameters, and novel sensors provides new insights into PFAS occurrence and supports food safety monitoring.</p><h5><strong>An overview of the latest scientific knowledge on process contaminants in food for appropriate risk management measures</strong></h5><ul><li>Thierry Delatour from Nestlé Research, Lausanne, Switzerland.</li></ul><p>Recent scientific findings related to acrylamide and furans formation, occurrence and analytical methods in food provide important insights for risk management.</p>

Deadline for RAFA 2026 Early Registration and Oral Abstract Submission is approaching

<p><strong>Traditional EI library searching works exceptionally well when the unknown compound is already present in the spectral library. However, analytical chemists frequently encounter compounds that are structurally related to library entries but are not exact matches. NIST's EI Hybrid Search addresses this challenge by combining conventional spectral matching with mass-shifted fragment alignment, allowing the identification of analogs, derivatives, and novel compounds that may not exist in the database.</strong></p><p>This guide summarizes the workflow presented by James Little and demonstrates how to use NIST 26 Hybrid Search in conjunction with the Chromatogram Window and MS Interpreter to obtain more meaningful structural information from unknown EI GC-MS spectra.</p><blockquote><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/paper/33370"><strong>You can download PDF Handout for this guide HERE</strong></a></p></blockquote><h4><strong>Why Hybrid Search Matters</strong></h4><p>Conventional EI library searching relies on direct matching between an unknown spectrum and spectra stored in a library. Hybrid Search expands this concept by allowing fragment ions to be matched even when they are shifted by a consistent mass difference (Δm). This enables the software to recognize compounds that differ by substituents or structural modifications.</p><p><strong>Key advantages include:</strong></p><ul><li>Identification of structurally related compounds not present in the library</li><li>Detection of analogs, derivatives, and emerging compounds</li><li>Integration of exact fragment matches and mass-shifted matches into a single score</li><li>Improved interpretation of unknowns through proposed structural modifications</li><li>Enhanced confidence when molecular weight information is available</li></ul><p>Although Hybrid Search does not require the molecular ion to be present, performance improves significantly when the molecular weight can be estimated or constrained. In these cases, the observed mass difference between the unknown and library compounds can often be translated directly into a plausible chemical modification.</p><h4><strong>Configuring Hybrid Search</strong></h4><p>Before performing a search, the Hybrid Search settings should be configured within the NIST Library Search window.</p><p>Recommended settings:</p><ul><li>Select the Similarity search mode</li><li>Enable Hybrid Search</li><li>Keep the In Spectrum option checked under normal circumstances</li><li>Allow the software to estimate the molecular weight automatically</li><li>If the estimated molecular weight appears incorrect, manually enter a nominal molecular weight</li><li>Select all relevant libraries (NIST, Wiley, user libraries, etc.)</li><li>Save the configuration for future use</li></ul><p>The selected molecular weight used to constrain the search is displayed in the lower-right corner after the search is completed.</p><h4><strong>Optimizing the Results Display</strong></h4><p>Hybrid Search produces several unique parameters that are not shown in the default results table.</p><p>Additional columns should be added by right-clicking within the results table and selecting Properties. Recommended columns include:</p><ul><li>DeltaMass</li><li>dForm</li><li>pctRelForm</li><li>o.Match (equivalent to the traditional EI Normal Match score)</li></ul><p>Without these parameters, much of the structural interpretation power of Hybrid Search is lost.</p><h4><strong>Working with Spectra from the Chromatogram Window</strong></h4><p>Currently, the Chromatogram Window performs standard EI library searching. When a potentially interesting unknown is encountered:</p><ul><li>Perform the normal EI search in the Chromatogram Window</li><li>Send the spectrum to the standalone Library Search module</li><li>Perform a Hybrid Search using the enhanced Hybrid Search functionality</li></ul><p>This workflow combines rapid screening with advanced structural interpretation.</p><h4><strong>Understanding Key Hybrid Search Parameters</strong></h4><h5><strong>DeltaMass (Δm)</strong></h5><p>DeltaMass represents the mass difference between the unknown compound and the matched library compound.</p><p>A consistent Δm across multiple high-scoring hits often indicates a specific structural modification.</p><h5><strong>dForm</strong></h5><p>dForm provides a proposed elemental composition that explains the observed mass difference.</p><p>Examples include:</p><ul><li>H–1F</li><li>CH₂</li><li>O–1</li><li>C₁H₃F</li></ul><p>These transformations can suggest likely chemical modifications between the library compound and the unknown.</p><h5><strong>pctRelForm</strong></h5><p>New in NIST 26, pctRelForm estimates how frequently a given elemental transformation occurs relative to the most common transformation (CH₂ = 100%).</p><p>Interpretation:</p><ul><li>High values indicate chemically plausible and commonly observed transformations</li><li>Very low values suggest the proposed transformation may be accidental or unlikely</li></ul><h5><strong>o.Match</strong></h5><p>Represents the traditional EI match score and allows comparison between standard searching and Hybrid Search results.</p><h4><strong>Case Study: Identifying a Fluorinated Unknown</strong></h4><p>The presentation demonstrates the identification of an unknown compound with a proposed molecular weight of 152 Da.</p><p>Hybrid Search returned several high-scoring hits with consistent evidence suggesting fluorine substitution:</p><p><strong>Hit #1</strong></p><ul><li>Library MW: 134</li><li>DeltaMass: +18</li><li>dForm: H–1F</li><li>Interpretation: Addition of fluorine</li></ul><p><strong>Hit #5</strong></p><ul><li>Library MW: 138</li><li>DeltaMass: +14</li><li>dForm: CH₂</li><li>Interpretation: Related fluorinated analog</li></ul><p><strong>Hit #6</strong></p><ul><li>Library MW: 168</li><li>DeltaMass: –16</li><li>dForm: O–1</li><li>Interpretation: Structurally consistent fluorinated compound</li></ul><p>Multiple independent hits converged on the same conclusion: the unknown was likely a fluorinated analog of known aromatic compounds.</p><p>This illustrates the major strength of Hybrid Search: identifying structural relationships even when the exact compound is absent from the library.</p><h4><strong>Moving from Hybrid Search to Structural Interpretation</strong></h4><p>Once a plausible structure is identified:</p><h5><strong>Step 1 – Export the Structure</strong></h5><p>From the Hybrid Search results:</p><ul><li>Right-click the best hit</li><li>Use Send To → Default Structure Editor</li><li>Open the structure in a drawing program such as ChemSketch</li><li>Copy the proposed structure to the clipboard</li></ul><h5><strong>Step 2 – Open MS Interpreter</strong></h5><p>Within MS Interpreter:</p><ul><li>Paste the proposed structure</li><li>Load the unknown spectrum</li><li>Compare predicted fragmentation with observed ions</li><li>Evaluate isotope patterns and fragment assignments</li></ul><h5><strong>Step 3 – Validate the Proposal</strong></h5><p>Indicators of a good structural proposal include:</p><ul><li>Consistent isotope ratios</li><li>Logical fragmentation pathways</li><li>Agreement between observed and predicted fragment ions</li><li>Multiple Hybrid Search hits supporting the same structural modification</li></ul><p>In the example presented, MS Interpreter showed excellent agreement between the proposed fluorinated structure and the observed EI spectrum, although the exact positions of the fluorine and methyl substituents on the aromatic ring could not be definitively assigned.</p><h4><strong>Best Practices</strong></h4><ul><li>Always review DeltaMass, dForm, and pctRelForm together</li><li>Do not rely solely on the highest match score</li><li>Give greater weight to transformations supported by multiple independent hits</li><li>Use molecular weight information whenever possible</li><li>Confirm structural hypotheses using MS Interpreter</li><li>Consider Hybrid Search as a structure-elucidation tool rather than simply a library search tool</li></ul><h4><strong>Conclusion</strong></h4><p>NIST 26 Hybrid Search significantly extends the capabilities of conventional EI library searching by identifying structural relationships between unknown compounds and library entries. Through the use of DeltaMass calculations, elemental transformation analysis (dForm), and statistical plausibility metrics (pctRelForm), Hybrid Search provides valuable clues for elucidating compounds that are absent from spectral libraries.</p><p>When combined with MS Interpreter, it becomes a powerful workflow for the characterization of unknowns, analogs, degradation products, metabolites, and emerging compounds in EI GC-MS analysis.</p>

Lib Search: Similarity EI Hybrid Search for Spectra Sent from Chromatogram Window

Article

Events

Academy

Video

Software

RAFA provides an overview of contemporary trends in ANALYTICAL & BIOANALYTICAL STRATEGIES IN FOOD QUALITY AND SAFETY CONTROL and discusses CHALLENGES / NOVEL APPROACHES IN FOOD AND NATURAL PRODUCTS ANALYSIS.

Recent Advances in Food Analysis (RAFA)

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

My main interest is the identification of organic compounds by mass spectrometry in organic mixtures.

James Little/Mass Spec Interpretation Services

EST Analytical FLEX 2 Robotic Sampling Platform

The FLEX 2 autosampler streamlines GC/GC-MS workflows with liquid, headspace, and SPME capability, MTX tool change, and Prep Ahead for faster, more reliable VOC analysis.

<p><strong>The FLEX 2 is a versatile GC autosampler designed to handle both sample preparation and sample introduction for GC and GC/MS analysis. Supporting liquid injection, headspace, and SPME, it delivers exceptional accuracy and reproducibility. Its Prep Ahead function improves efficiency by allowing sample preparation during ongoing GC runs, maximizing system utilization and throughput.</strong></p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/EST_Analytical_FLEX_2_Robotic_Sampling_Platform_3_853e02f151.jpg" alt="EST Analytical: FLEX 2 Robotic Sampling Platform" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_EST_Analytical_FLEX_2_Robotic_Sampling_Platform_3_853e02f151.jpg 168w," sizes="100vw" width="628" height="584"></p><h4><strong>Key Features</strong></h4><h5><strong>Flexible Sample Preparation with Multi Tool Change (MTX)</strong></h5><ul><li>Automated <strong>Multi Tool Change (MTX)</strong> enables seamless switching between tools</li><li>Enhances laboratory productivity, accuracy, and safety by reducing manual prep errors</li><li>Supports dilution, reagent addition, and internal standard spiking with precision</li><li>Can operate as a benchtop preparation station for derivatization and extraction steps</li></ul><h5><strong>Liquid Injection Capabilities</strong></h5><ul><li>Injection range: <strong>0.5–10 μL</strong> (standard syringe) or <strong>50–500 μL</strong> (optional large-volume syringe)</li><li>Supports both standard and large-volume injections (up to 500 μL)</li><li>Programmable injection speed control, from ultra-fast to very slow</li><li>Optional cooled trays available for temperature-sensitive samples</li></ul><h5><strong>Headspace Sampling</strong></h5><ul><li>Injection range: <strong>100–2500 μL</strong> (2.5 mL syringe), <strong>100–1000 μL</strong> (1.0 mL syringe), or <strong>500–5000 μL</strong> (5.0 mL syringe)</li><li>Offers both <strong>orbital</strong> and <strong>oscillating</strong> agitation to improve sample consistency</li><li>Six heated vial positions for <strong>2, 10, or 20 mL vials</strong></li><li>Temperature range: <strong>ambient to 200 °C</strong></li><li>Shaking: orbital (120–750 rpm) or oscillation (190 Hz)</li></ul><h5><strong>Automated SPME</strong></h5><ul><li>Compatible with both traditional and direct immersion SPME methods</li><li>Heated conditioning station:<ul><li>Fiber: <strong>ambient to 350 °C</strong></li><li>Needle: <strong>ambient to 150 °C</strong></li><li>Sweep gas port for conditioning</li></ul></li><li>Heated mixing station: <strong>ambient to 150 °C</strong>, mixing speeds <strong>380–725 rpm</strong></li></ul><h5><strong>Efficiency &amp; Throughput</strong></h5><ul><li><strong>Prep Ahead function</strong> allows ongoing sample prep during GC runs</li><li>Fully automates switching between liquid injection, headspace, and SPME with MTX</li><li>Reduces manual workload and preparation errors while improving reproducibility</li></ul><h4><strong>Technical Specifications</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Compatible Systems</strong>: GC and GC/MS platforms</li><li><strong>Injection Modes</strong>: Liquid (0.5–500 μL), Headspace (100–5000 μL), SPME (traditional &amp; direct immersion)</li><li><strong>Temperature Ranges</strong>: Headspace up to 200 °C, SPME fiber up to 350 °C, SPME needle up to 150 °C</li><li><strong>Agitation</strong>: Orbital (120–750 rpm) and oscillating (190 Hz)</li><li><strong>Capacity</strong>: Six heated vial positions for 2, 10, or 20 mL vials</li><li><strong>Automation</strong>: Multi Tool Change (MTX), Prep Ahead function</li></ul>

EST Analytical LGX-50 for Methane in Water

The EST LGX-50 automates RSK-175 dissolved gas testing in water, boosting throughput, ensuring ASTM/EPA compliance, and reducing manual sample preparation errors.

<p><strong>The LGX-50 automates the preparation of water samples for headspace analysis of dissolved gases such as methane, ethane, and ethene. Traditionally, RSK-175 testing has been labor-intensive and time-consuming, requiring manual vial preparation. The LGX-50 eliminates this step, streamlining workflows and ensuring compliance with EPA Method 5035 and ASTM D8028. By automating dissolved gas extraction, laboratories can boost throughput, reduce errors, and deliver more consistent results for shale gas and environmental testing.</strong></p><h4><strong>Key Features</strong></h4><h5><strong>Maximized Productivity</strong></h5><ul><li>Fully automates <strong>RSK-175 sample processing</strong></li><li>ASTM D8028 compliant for dissolved gas testing</li><li>Holds up to <strong>50 samples</strong> for high-throughput operation</li><li>Optical sensors prevent vial misplacement and syringe/elevator errors</li><li>Robust XYZ design ensures reliability and consistent performance</li></ul><h5><strong>Simplified Operation</strong></h5><ul><li>Intuitive, user-friendly software designed for quick setup and operation</li><li>Remote access functionality allows labs to monitor sample progress via the server</li><li>Reduces manual preparation steps, increasing accuracy and reproducibility</li></ul><h4><strong>Technical Specifications</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Compliance</strong>: EPA Method 5035, ASTM D8028</li><li><strong>Capacity</strong>: Up to 50 samples per batch</li><li><strong>Target Compounds</strong>: Methane, ethane, ethene, and other dissolved gases in water</li><li><strong>Automation</strong>: XYZ robotic design with optical sensors for error prevention</li><li><strong>Software</strong>: Intuitive, remote-access capable interface</li></ul>

Thermo Scientific ITEX Dynamic Headspace Tool 

Thermo Scientific ITEX Dynamic Headspace Tool enables automated VOC enrichment with ppt sensitivity using dynamic headspace for GC workflows.

<p><strong>The Thermo Scientific™ ITEX Dynamic Headspace Tool is an autosampler accessory for the</strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/63"><strong> TriPlus™ RSH </strong></a><strong>and </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/422"><strong>TriPlus RSH SMART</strong></a><strong> Autosamplers designed for the enrichment of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) using dynamic headspace technology. It enables ppt-level sensitivity and allows sample enrichment to be easily integrated into an automated gas chromatography (GC) workflow.</strong></p><ul><li>The ITEX-DHS technique uses a gas-tight syringe to collect the headspace and a microtrap inside the syringe needle to efficiently trap and concentrate VOCs through repeated syringe strokes.&nbsp;</li><li>Sensitivity can be scaled according to the number of strokes, making the method suitable for both low- and high-concentration samples.&nbsp;</li><li>The system is designed for easy method set-up with only a few parameters, simple access to the trap, and excellent robustness for long-term operation.&nbsp;</li><li>A closed system removes any risk of breakthrough.&nbsp;</li><li>Independent trap desorption temperature and flow control maximize desorption efficiency without affecting GC inlet settings.&nbsp;</li><li>When used with the TriPlus RSH SMART autosampler, the SMART gas-tight syringe enables automatic usage traceability.&nbsp;</li><li>The entire automated workflow can be fully controlled through <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/76"><strong>Thermo Scientific™ Chromeleon™ CDS</strong></a>.</li></ul><p>For VOC analysis in many liquid and solid samples, ITEX offers a valuable alternative to classical enrichment techniques by combining ease of use with robust performance.</p><h3><strong>Key features</strong></h3><ul><li>Dynamic headspace VOC enrichment with<strong> ppt-level sensitivity</strong></li><li><strong>Easy integration</strong> into automated GC workflows</li><li><strong>Gas-tight syringe and microtrap</strong> in the needle for efficient analyte concentration</li><li><strong>Scalable sensitivity</strong> based on the number of syringe strokes</li><li><strong>Easy method set-up</strong> with few parameters</li><li><strong>Robust design </strong>for long-term operation</li><li><strong>Closed system</strong> minimizing the risk of breakthrough</li><li><strong>Independent desorption</strong> temperature and flow control</li><li><strong>Automatic usage</strong> traceability with SMART gas-tight syringe</li><li>Full control through <strong>Chromeleon CDS</strong></li></ul><h3><strong>Technical specifications</strong></h3><ul><li><strong>Description: </strong>includes SMART gas-tight syringe, focusing trap, built-in trap heating, cooling fan, and trap cleaning capability</li><li><strong>Application: </strong>enrichment of volatile organic compounds (VOCs)</li><li><strong>Compatible equipment: </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/63"><strong>TriPlus RSH</strong></a> and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/422"><strong>TriPlus RSH SMART </strong></a>Autosamplers</li><li><strong>Type:</strong> autosampler accessory</li><li><strong>Unit size: </strong>each</li></ul>

Thermo Scientific TriPlus™ RSH SMART Autosampler

Extend automation, performance, and versatility for GC and GC/MS applications, while ensuring easier and safer operations through SMART consumables ID recognition and usage tracking.

<div><div id="product-description"><p><strong>Expand automated sampling capabilities beyond liquid, headspace, and solid phase microextraction (SPME) injections. The advanced, built-in robotics of the Thermo Scientific™ TriPlus™ RSH SMART Autosampler deliver exceptional precision, sample handling flexibility, and reliable unattended operation. Enabling SMART consumables tracking, it offers easier, safer and traceable operations. Accurate and repeatable sample preparation and injection are essential to achieving the highest quality GC/GC-MS results. Enhance data quality and laboratory efficiency by automating your entire sample handling workflow.</strong></p></div><div><p>The TriPlus RSH SMART Autosampler brings together technological innovations that further expand automation, performance and versatility for GC and GC-MS applications, while ensuring easier and safer operations through SMART consumables ID recognition and usage tracking. Automated high-precision sample handling eliminates the manual labor and downtime typically required for tasks as standard/sample dilutions, internal standard addition and derivatization.</p><h3><strong>SMART Consumables</strong></h3><p>Validated SMART consumables are equipped with unique SMART chip storing parameters, ranges and usage history; enabling full traceability of sample preparation down to the syringe.</p><h3><strong>Automatic Syringe Changeout</strong></h3><p>Automatic Tool Change (ATC) capability automates the use of different syringes for sample preparation steps or different injection techniques within the sequence.</p><h3><strong>Vial Bottom Sensing Expands Application Range</strong></h3><p>Precise detection of vial bottoms enables the autosampler to accurately withdraw from sample amounts as little as 5 μL, enhancing data quality of sample-limited applications.</p><h3><strong>Flexible liquid sample handling</strong></h3><p>Optimized liquid injection modes and customizable syringe filling techniques, support a wide range of sample types and full GC inlet compatibility.</p><h3><strong>Automated headspace injection for volatile analysis</strong></h3><p>High temperature gas-tight syringe allows direct headspace injection into the GC inlet for increased injection volume flexibility. Sample vial capacity of up to 300x 10 mL/20 mL vials and sample incubation overlapping, facilitate long unattended operation.</p><h3><strong>Automated, solvent-free SPME</strong></h3><p>Precise control of all steps—fiber preconditioning, adsorption and desorption, as well as fiber washes—delivers maximum performance for SPME applications. Boost productivity with the optimized SPME Arrow design. It offers optimized fiber geometry to achieve 10x superior sensitivity compared to classical SPME, 2x faster extraction time and superior robustness.</p><h3><strong>Automated Sample Preparation</strong></h3><p>The Triplus RSH SMART Autosampler combines highly versatile sample injection capability with automated sample preparation procedures, eliminating typical GC-MS workflow bottlenecks. Daily operations ranging from sample/standard dilution to more complex derivatization protocols, can be fully automated and easily programmed with the Sampling Workflow Editor Software.</p><h3><strong>Extend productivity with the optional 1D barcode reader</strong></h3><p>The optional 1D barcode reader eliminates the need to log and track sample information manually; enabling you to streamline internal operations, save time, increase efficiency, and reduce errors.</p><h3><strong>Specifications</strong></h3><ul><li><strong>Type: </strong>TriPlus RSH SMART Standard Liquid, Regular Rail</li><li><strong>Sample Capacity:</strong> 4608 Well Plates, 840 x 0.5 mL or 0.7 mL Vials, 648 x 2 mL Sample Vials, 240 x 10 mL or 20 mL Vials</li><li><strong>Injection Mode: </strong>8 Fully Customizable Method-Specific Injection Mode Presets</li><li><strong>Injection Speed:</strong> Selectable from 0.1 μL/s to 2000 μL/s</li><li><strong>Injection Volume: </strong>0.1 to 10,000 μL</li><li><strong>Description: </strong>TriPlus RSH SMART configured for liquid injection on regular X-axis length. Only for manual tool change. Complete with liquid syringe tool, 2 x 10 μL SMART syringes, standard washing station and a single tray holder with 3 trays for 2 mL vials. Expandible to other sampling techniques (Headspace, SPME, SPME Arrow, ITEX-DHS) and with sample preparation tools.</li><li><strong>Tool Exchange:</strong> Only for manual tool exchange. No tool park station.</li><li><strong>For Use With (Equipment):</strong> Compatible with Smart syringes/fibers only.</li></ul></div></div>

Thermo Scientific™ TriPlus™ RSH Autosampler

Robotic GC autosampler with multimode injection, tool exchange, and full sample prep automation. Enables 24/7 workflows for food, environmental, and forensic labs.

<h4><strong>Flexible, high-capacity autosampler for GC and GC-MS with advanced sample prep automation</strong></h4><p><strong>The TriPlus RSH Autosampler is a versatile robotic sampling platform designed to maximize automation, precision, and productivity in gas chromatography workflows. Fully compatible with Thermo Scientific™ GC and GC-MS systems, it supports liquid, headspace (HS), and SPME/SPME Arrow injections, with optional modules for µSPE, ITEX-DHS, and automated sample preparation. The unique Automatic Tool Change (ATC) system allows the autosampler to switch between up to six syringes in a single sequence, enabling unattended workflows for complex multistep protocols.</strong></p><h3><strong>Key Features and Benefits</strong></h3><h4>🧪 <strong>Multimode Injection and Sample Handling</strong></h4><ul><li>Supports liquid, headspace, SPME, SPME Arrow, and ITEX-DHS techniques</li><li>Switch between injection modes in a single sequence using ATC</li><li>Bottom vial sensing enables precise injections from as little as <strong>5 μL</strong> of sample</li></ul><h4>🔁 <strong>Automated Sample Preparation</strong></h4><ul><li>Perform dilution, standard addition, derivatization, and internal standard workflows</li><li>Tools: Vortexer, Incubator, Heatex-Stirrer, Dilutor, µSPE module</li><li>Visual drag-and-drop <strong>Sampling Workflow Editor</strong> for custom prep protocols</li></ul><h4>📦 <strong>High Throughput and Capacity</strong></h4><ul><li>Unattended operation with up to <strong>972 × 2 mL vials</strong> or <strong>840 × 0.7 mL vials</strong></li><li>Extended X-arm option for larger trays and accessory support</li><li>Dual-GC configurations with Clone Mode or DoublePro setups</li></ul><h4>⚙️ <strong>Precision and Flexibility</strong></h4><ul><li>Automated Tool Change (ATC): Up to <strong>6 tools</strong> in one sequence</li><li>Injection volume range: <strong>0.1 μL to 10 mL</strong></li><li>Compatible with all major GC injector types (SSL, PTV, OC, PKD, PPKD)</li></ul><h4>🧠 <strong>Smart Software and Control</strong></h4><ul><li>Fully integrated with <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/76"><strong>Chromeleon™</strong></a>,<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/1758"><strong> Xcalibur™</strong></a>, and <strong>Chrom-Card™ CDS</strong></li><li>Local controller or virtual terminal control interface</li><li>Barcode readers for full sample tracking</li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/application::product.product/Thermo-TriPlus-RSH-Autosampler-1.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific™ TriPlus™ RSH Autosampler" width="null" height="null"></p><h3><strong>Applications</strong></h3><ul><li><strong>Food safety</strong>: Trace analytes, contaminants, derivatization (e.g. FAMEs, dioxins)</li><li><strong>Environmental</strong>: VOCs, SVOCs, POPs, air toxics</li><li><strong>Forensics &amp; clinical</strong>: Biological matrices, explosive residues, drugs</li><li><strong>Chemical industry</strong>: Routine QC, trace impurities, residual solvents</li><li><strong>High-throughput labs</strong>: 24/7 unattended workflows with complex prep steps</li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/application::product.product/QExactive-GCMSMS-Orbitrap-with-Autosampler-sideangle-1856x1391.jpg-650.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific™ TriPlus™ RSH Autosampler" width="null" height="null"></p>

LECO L-PAL3 GC Autosampler

LECO L-PAL3 GC Autosampler delivers flexible, discrimination-free GC injections with automated liquid, headspace, SPME, and ITEX sampling, high vial capacity, and minimal carryover.

<p><strong>Available exclusively from LECO, the L-PAL3 GC Autosampler is a highly robust, fully integrated autosampling platform designed for high flexibility and reliability in gas chromatography workflows. Based on proven CTC PAL3 technology, it supports discrimination-free ultrafast GC injections and minimizes carryover while ensuring precise and reproducible sample handling.</strong></p><p>Key innovations include <strong>automatic tool exchange (ATX)</strong> for seamless switching between liquid, headspace, SPME, and ITEX sampling modes, <strong>vial bottom sensing</strong> to prevent mis-injections, and high vial capacity for unattended operation. These features allow analysts to focus on compound identification without downtime or uncertainty.</p><h3><strong>Key Features</strong></h3><ul><li>Allows for automation of up to 162 two mL samples, or 45 ten/twenty mL samples.</li><li>Discrimination-free injection speeds with complete injection cycle time down to 100 milliseconds.</li><li>Bottom-sensing technology ensures that even very small volumes can be sampled.</li><li>Four separate models available so you may configure your package based on your autosampler needs.</li><li>Automatic Tool Exchange (ATX) allows users to switch between liquid, SPME, and headspace seamlessly.</li><li>96 to 384 well plate sampling supported; requires foil cutter.</li><li>Now available with Peltier cooled racks.</li></ul><h3><strong>Available Configurations</strong></h3><h4><strong>L-PAL3 GC Autosampler – Liquid Injections</strong></h4><ul><li>3-axis CTC-based autosampler/injector</li><li>Standard liquid injections</li><li>5-position solvent wash station</li><li>Liquid syringe tool</li><li>GC mounting kit</li><li>Single tray holder with <strong>3 trays × 54 positions (2 mL vials)</strong></li><li><strong>Non-upgradable configuration</strong></li></ul><h4><strong>L-PAL3 GC Autosampler – Liquid &amp; Headspace Injections</strong></h4><ul><li>Liquid and static headspace injections</li><li>Heated agitator</li><li>5-position solvent wash station</li><li>Liquid syringe tool + heated headspace syringe tool</li><li>GC mounting kit</li><li>Two tray holders:<ul><li><strong>3 × 54 positions (2 mL vials)</strong></li><li><strong>3 × 15 positions (10/20 mL vials)</strong></li></ul></li><li><strong>Manual tool exchange</strong> between liquid and headspace modes</li></ul><h4><strong>ITEX Dynamic Headspace Tool</strong></h4><ul><li>Rapid, sensitive enrichment of volatile and semi-volatile compounds</li><li>Suitable for solid, liquid, and gaseous samples</li><li>Choice of adsorbents for optimal sensitivity</li><li>No sample loops, transfer lines, or valves → minimal contamination risk</li><li>ATX enables <strong>Headspace, SPME, and ITEX</strong> within a single sequence</li></ul><h4><strong>L-PAL3 GC Autosampler – Liquid &amp; SPME Injections</strong></h4><ul><li>Liquid injections and all SPME modes (immersion, headspace)</li><li>Heated agitator</li><li>5-position solvent wash station</li><li>Liquid syringe tool + SPME fiber tools</li><li>SPME fiber conditioning station</li><li>GC mounting kit</li><li>Two tray holders:<ul><li><strong>3 × 54 positions (2 mL vials)</strong></li><li><strong>3 × 15 positions (10/20 mL vials)</strong></li></ul></li><li><strong>Manual tool exchange</strong> between liquid and SPME modes</li></ul><h3><strong>L-PAL3 GC Autosampler – Liquid, Headspace &amp; SPME</strong></h3><ul><li>Fully automated switching between liquid, headspace, and SPME</li><li>Heated agitator</li><li>5-position solvent wash station</li><li>Tools for liquid syringe, headspace syringe, and SPME fibers</li><li>SPME fiber conditioning station</li><li>GC mounting kit</li><li>Two tray holders:<ul><li><strong>3 × 54 positions (2 mL vials)</strong></li><li><strong>3 × 15 positions (10/20 mL vials)</strong></li></ul></li></ul>

Products from category HeadSpace and SPME injection focused on GC - page 1

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