<p><strong>🎤Francis Femi Oloy</strong></p><p><strong>In this episode of Concentrating on Chromatography, David speaks with Francis Femi Oloy about using chromatography to uncover hidden pollutants in real-world water systems.</strong></p><p>Femi’s team analyzed polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in six major rivers in southwestern Nigeria — compounds that were banned decades ago but still persist in the environment. Using a workflow that many analytical labs will recognize — liquid–liquid extraction, cleanup, rotary evaporation, nitrogen blowdown, and GC-ECD detection — they quantified 25 PCB congeners at trace levels and linked the results to ecological and human health risk.</p><h4><strong>In this conversation, we cover:</strong></h4><ul><li>Why legacy pollutants like PCBs still show up today</li><li>Choosing GC-ECD vs LC-MS for halogenated compounds</li><li>Liquid–liquid extraction and matrix cleanup strategies</li><li>Why sample concentration is critical for dilute environmental samples</li><li>How rotovap + nitrogen blowdown work together without losing volatile analytes</li><li>Seasonal trends (why wet season levels were higher)</li><li>Translating concentration data into meaningful risk assessments</li></ul><h3><strong>Video Transcription</strong></h3><section><div><div><div><div><div><div><p><strong>Persistent organic pollutants</strong> such as polychlorinated biphenyls (<strong>PCBs</strong>) remain a significant environmental concern despite decades of regulatory restrictions. In this interview, Francais Femi Oloy discusses the environmental and analytical challenges associated with monitoring PCB contamination in rivers of southwestern Nigeria, a rapidly industrializing region where urban growth, industrial activity, agriculture, and dense populations intersect with extensive aquatic systems.</p><p>Oloy explains that his interest in environmental contaminant analysis emerged from observing unexplained health problems and environmental degradation while growing up in Nigeria. This motivated his transition into organic and environmental chemistry, with a focus on identifying pollutants present in drinking water, agricultural soils, and food systems. Southwestern Nigeria, particularly the Lagos region, represents a critical environmental monitoring area due to intense industrial development, shipping activity, and widespread human dependence on rivers for domestic use, agriculture, and fishing.</p><p>Although PCBs are considered “<strong>legacy pollutants</strong>” and are no longer intentionally produced, the interview highlights why they continue to persist in aquatic environments. Old electrical transformers and aging industrial equipment still contain PCB residues, while historical contamination stored in river sediments can become remobilized during flooding, dredging, or sediment disturbance. Because PCBs are hydrophobic and resistant to degradation, they preferentially accumulate in sediments and bioaccumulate through aquatic food chains, creating long-term environmental and human exposure risks.</p><p>A major focus of the discussion centers on the analytical workflow used for PCB determination in environmental water samples. Composite river water samples were collected in amber glass bottles to avoid contamination and photodegradation, preserved with sodium azide to minimize microbial activity, and stored under cooled conditions prior to extraction. The analytical protocol employed <strong>liquid–liquid extraction</strong> using dichloromethane (DCM) and hexane to recover both polar and nonpolar PCB congeners. Oloy emphasizes that liquid–liquid extraction was selected over solid-phase extraction (SPE) because of concerns about congener retention within sorbent materials and clogging issues associated with large-volume environmental samples.</p><p>Following extraction, concentration and cleanup represented critical analytical stages due to the trace-level occurrence and volatility of PCBs. Silica and alumina cleanup procedures were used to remove matrix interferences prior to instrumental analysis. The concentration workflow combined rotary evaporation for bulk solvent reduction with nitrogen blowdown for final volume reduction to less than 1 mL, while carefully avoiding excessive temperature or complete dryness to minimize analyte loss. Oloy repeatedly stresses that improper concentration procedures are among the most common causes of analytical failure in PCB analysis.</p><p>For instrumental determination, the study utilized <strong>gas chromatography coupled with electron capture detection (GC-ECD)</strong> rather than LC-MS or GC-MS. According to Oloy, GC was preferred because PCBs are sufficiently volatile for gas chromatographic separation, while ECD provided superior sensitivity and selectivity for chlorinated compounds at environmentally relevant concentrations. The interview also discusses analytical validation strategies, including the use of surrogate standards to assess <strong>recoveries,</strong> which ranged from approximately <strong>85% to 114%</strong>, and signal-to-noise-based determination of detection limits.</p><p>The study further examined <strong>seasonal variations in PCB concentrations</strong>, revealing <strong>higher levels during the wet season</strong>. This observation was attributed to rainfall-driven runoff from contaminated infrastructure, sediment resuspension, and lower temperatures that reduce volatilization losses. To communicate toxicological relevance beyond simple concentration reporting, the researchers also calculated <strong>toxic equivalency values (TEQs)</strong>, converting mixtures of PCB congeners into biologically meaningful toxicity estimates comparable to dioxin toxicity metrics.</p><p>Beyond environmental monitoring, Oloy highlights broader research interests focused on <strong>pollutant remediation and sustainable environmental protection</strong>. His group is also involved in developing catalytic materials capable of degrading or removing persistent contaminants from environmental systems. Throughout the discussion, he emphasizes that analytical chemistry plays a central role not only in detecting pollutants, but also in enabling prevention, remediation, and long-term environmental management strategies.</p></div></div></div></div></div></div></section><blockquote><p><strong>This text has been automatically transcribed from a video presentation using AI technology. It may contain inaccuracies and is not guaranteed to be 100% correct.</strong></p></blockquote><blockquote><h4><strong>Concentrating on Chromatography Podcast</strong></h4><p>Dive into the frontiers of chromatography, mass spectrometry, and sample preparation with host David Oliva. Each episode features candid conversations with leading researchers, industry innovators, and passionate scientists who are shaping the future of analytical chemistry. From decoding PFAS detection challenges to exploring the latest in AI-assisted liquid chromatography, this show uncovers practical workflows, sustainability breakthroughs, and the real-world impact of separation science. Whether you’re a chromatographer, lab professional, or researcher you'll discover inspiring content!</p><p>You can find <strong>Concentrating on Chromatography Podcast </strong>in podcast apps:</p><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://open.spotify.com/show/1wZg67rCjoGju4yhqxI3tL"><strong>Spotify</strong></a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://podcasts.apple.com/tz/podcast/concentrating-on-chromatography/id1788429185"><strong>Apple podcast</strong></a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://podscan.fm/podcasts/concentrating-on-chromatography"><strong>podscan</strong></a></li></ul><p>and on <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.youtube.com/@ChromatographyTalk/videos"><strong>YouTube channel</strong></a></p></blockquote>

Tracking Toxic PCBs in River Water using Gas Chromatography–Electron Capture Detection

<p><strong>This study presents a high-temperature GC-APCI-MS/MS method for detecting large polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in pyroplastics and environmental samples. The approach enables sensitive analysis of PAHs with molecular weights from 314–424 Da without extensive cleanup or fractionation.</strong></p><p>Application to pyroplastics from the M/V X-Press Pearl fire revealed substantially elevated levels of large PAHs compared to unburnt plastics. Several compounds, including 1,3,5-triphenylbenzene, emerged as promising markers for identifying pyroplastic contamination, supporting future monitoring of plastic burning, fires, and microplastic pollution.</p><blockquote><h4><strong>The original article</strong></h4><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsomega.5c11703"><strong>Gas Chromatography-Atmospheric Pressure Chemical Ionization (GC-APCI) Expands the Analytical Window for Detection of Large PAHs (≥24 Ringed-Carbons) in Pyroplastics and Other Environmental Matrices</strong></a></h4><p>Cara Megill, Douglas M. Stevens*, Christopher M. Reddy, Bryan D. James*, Robert K. Nelson, and Frank L. Dorman</p><p>ACS Omega 2026, 11, 7, 12321–12329</p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://doi.org/10.1021/acsomega.5c11703">https://doi.org/10.1021/acsomega.5c11703</a></p><h6>licensed under <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"><strong>CC-BY 4.0</strong></a></h6></blockquote><p><strong>Selected sections from the article follow. Formats and hyperlinks were adapted from the original.</strong></p><div><p>The measurement and reporting of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are routine practices in environmental monitoring and risk assessment. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(1−3)</a> However, of the thousands of PAHs, only the 16 designated as Priority Pollutants by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA16) are typically reported. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(4,5)</a> These span two to six ringed parent PAHs, ranging in molecular weight from 128 to 278 Da. It is well recognized that this limited analyte list drastically simplifies and misses a significant fraction of PAHs. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(4)</a> For example, the concentration of C<sub>1</sub>–C<sub>4</sub> alkylated PAHs can be greater than or equal to the concentration of the EPA16 in crude oils and fuels. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(6)</a> Expanding the analytical window of PAHs has proven valuable for forensic analysis of oil spills (e.g., alkylated and heterocycle-containing PAHs) and relevant for toxicological evaluation(e.g., oxygen-, nitrogen-, and sulfur-containing PAHs). <a href="javascript:void(0);">(3,7)</a> Moreover, the sources of PAHs have distinct compositions of PAHs, <a href="javascript:void(0);">(1,8)</a> which enables the use of PAHs for source apportionment. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(2,7)</a> Including alkylated and sulfur-containing PAHs (those beyond the EPA16) in the investigation of environmental samples and other matrices provides greater discriminating power between potential sources (using extracted ion chromatograms). <a href="javascript:void(0);">(3,7,9)</a> Additionally, monitoring the compositional changes of PAHs in the environment can inform about the fate and environmental processing of the matrix (e.g., oil weathering). <a href="javascript:void(0);">(2)</a> While these efforts have made strides in considering other PAHs, an environmentally relevant fraction of PAHs remains underutilized.</p><p>PAHs with more than six rings have been reported in diverse environmental matrices. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(10,11)</a> These large PAHs (≥24 ringed-carbons <a href="javascript:void(0);">(10)</a>) have been found in combustion-derived particulate matter, <a href="javascript:void(0);">(12−19)</a> urban dust, <a href="javascript:void(0);">(20−23)</a> refinery deposits, <a href="javascript:void(0);">(11)</a> coal tars and pitches, <a href="javascript:void(0);">(24−27)</a> cokes, <a href="javascript:void(0);">(28)</a> soils, <a href="javascript:void(0);">(20,22)</a> sediments, <a href="javascript:void(0);">(20−23)</a> and deep-sea hydrothermal vent bitumen. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(29)</a> Most reports of large PAHs in environmental matrices have been from analyses of U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) standard reference materials (SRMs); <a href="javascript:void(0);">(18,21−23,25,26,30)</a> a few 302 Da isomers have been certified in three SRM. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(31)</a> Nonetheless, isomers ranging from 326 to 374 Da have been reported in SRMs for urban dust (1649a/b), diesel particulate (1650b and 2975), coal tar (1597a), and marine sediment (1941b), displaying qualitative differences between the sources in their large PAH compositions; <a href="javascript:void(0);">(18,20,22,23,27)</a> thus, large PAHs should offer forensic utility.</p><p>Recent advances in soft ionization within an atmospheric pressure chemical ionization source for gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-APCI) are well-suited for the analysis of large PAHs. Two contributing factors for this are the tolerance for high carrier gas flow rates by GC-APCI and the sensitivity of charge exchange APCI for aromatic species. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(48)</a> Increasing the carrier gas flow rate reduces the elution temperature of analytes, making many higher mass analytes accessible using a conventional GC and column, although poor thermal stability may still pose challenges for some analytes. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(49)</a> Classic vacuum-source GC/MS systems using electron ionization (EI) restrict the upper carrier gas flow allowed from the GC, and therefore, cannot fully utilize high GC carrier gas flows. The sensitivity of GC-APCI for components of petroleum, such as PAHs, has been previously reported. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(48)</a> Furthermore, unlike LC-APCI, which commonly exhibits protonation of analytes in positive ion mode, <a href="javascript:void(0);">(50)</a> GC-APCI+ can operate with dry source conditions. These conditions result in nitrogen-mediated charge exchange ionization and ions of the form M+<strong><sup>•</sup></strong>, the same form of molecular ion created using EI. As a result, because the charge site location on an ion dictates which product ions will be stable, the same multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) transitions can be used for both GC-APCI MS/MS and EI MS/MS. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(51)</a></p><p>Herein, a GC-APCI method was developed for the detection of large PAHs. Due to the limited availability of pure standards, previously characterized NIST SRMs were used in method development as sources of large PAHs. The values of the method and detection of large PAHs were demonstrated by analyzing environmental plastic samples collected after the M/V <i>X-Press Pearl</i> ship fire and plastic spill.</p><h4><strong>Materials and Methods</strong></h4><h5><strong>GC-APCI</strong></h5><p>The solvent extracts and dilutions were analyzed by GC-APCI on a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/554"><strong>Xevo TQ Absolute</strong></a> (Waters Corporation) tandem quadrupole mass spectrometer (TQ-MS/MS). The atmospheric pressure gas chromatography (APGC) ionization source was operated in charge transfer mode using dry N<sub>2</sub> as the reagent gas. Dry N<sub>2</sub> reagent gas creates molecular ions of the form M+<strong><sup>•</sup></strong> with no significant adduct formation for large PAHs. The high reagent gas flow rate of 350 mL/min into the ionization chamber, combined with low energies applied to the transfer optics from the atmospheric pressure region to the first quadrupole, leads to a high molecular ion survival rate. Furthermore, the use of MS/MS with quadrupoles operating at unit mass resolution prevents potential effects on response caused by adduct formation. Acquisitions were performed in positive ion, MRM mode. Two MRM transitions were used for each of the 16 precursor masses, ranging from 314 to 424 Da (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/suppl/10.1021/acsomega.5c11703/suppl_file/ao5c11703_si_001.pdf">Table S1</a>). No optimization of source conditions specific to the analysis of large PAHs was required. The list of 16 specific precursor masses targeted in this range was developed using multiple sources reporting large PAHs in NIST SRMs and samples from deep-sea hydrothermal vents. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(18,29,30)</a> The two transitions represented constant neutral losses of 2 and 4 Da at high collision energies of 60–100 eV, using N<sub>2</sub> as the collision gas.</p><p>For 1,3,5-TPB analysis, the APGC ionization source was operated in charge transfer mode using N<sub>2</sub> as the collision gas. Acquisitions were performed in positive ion, MRM mode, yielding six MRM transitions for analysis (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/suppl/10.1021/acsomega.5c11703/suppl_file/ao5c11703_si_001.pdf">Table S2</a>). Similar to the large PAHs, this analyte also shows neutral losses of 2 and 4 Da, reflecting behavior like that of the more condensed structures.</p><p>The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=8890+GC"><strong>8890 GC (Agilent Technologies)</strong></a> was configured with N<sub>2</sub> as the carrier gas and an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=7&amp;search=Rxi-5HT"><strong>Rxi-5HT column (Restek)</strong></a> of 15 m in length, 0.25 mm inner diameter, and 0.10 μm film thickness. The split/splitless (SSL) injection port was operated at a 10:1 split ratio with a temperature of 380 °C. A 1 μL injection volume was used for all analyses. The temperature program was 30.8 min; it started by holding at 40 °C for 0.5 min, then ramped to 160 °C at 14 °C/min, followed by a ramp to 395 °C at 22 °C/min and a hold at the temperature for 11 min. The flow rate of the N<sub>2</sub> carrier gas was initially 0.60 mL/min, then ramped at 0.015 mL/min<sup>2</sup> to 0.90 mL/min, followed by a ramp at 0.150 mL/min<sup>2</sup> to 3.0 mL/min. To adapt the system for high-temperature work, the SSL was configured with a high-temperature septum (400 °C maximum), a 100% graphite liner O-ring, and a straight 4 mm inner diameter, wool-packed liner (450 °C maximum). Additional instrument and method details are included in the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/suppl/10.1021/acsomega.5c11703/suppl_file/ao5c11703_si_001.pdf">Supporting Information</a>.</p><h4><strong>Results</strong></h4><h5><strong>Analysis of Large PAHs in Pyroplastic Samples by GC-APCI</strong></h5><p>Macroplastic and microplastic debris from the M/V <i>X-Press Pearl</i> ship fire and plastic spill were investigated for the presence and distribution of large PAHs. The field samples included white, unburnt polyethylene nurdles and two types of pyroplastic, termed burnt plastic and combustion remnant (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsomega.5c11703#fig1">Figure 1</a>), both of which were polyethylene. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(43)</a> The types of pyroplastics were previously operationally defined based on the size and shape of the pieces. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(43)</a></p><p>Investigation of the 302 Da isomers revealed profiles similar to those of the SRMs; however, unique differences were observed (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/suppl/10.1021/acsomega.5c11703/suppl_file/ao5c11703_si_001.pdf">Figure S2</a>). Eighteen to twenty-one peaks were detected across the plastic samples. Compared with the SRMs, the pyroplastics showed decreases in the relative abundance of dibenzo[<i>a</i>,<i>e</i>]fluoranthene and increases in dibenzo[<i>a</i>,<i>h</i>]pyrene (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/suppl/10.1021/acsomega.5c11703/suppl_file/ao5c11703_si_001.pdf">Figure S2</a>). This trend was not the case for the white nurdle sample. Starting at a retention time of 16.80 min, two peaks were unique to the pyroplastic samples (not present in the SRMs and especially minor in the white nurdles). These peaks followed that for dibenzo[<i>a</i>,<i>h</i>]pyrene, which had previously been reported as the last detected 302 Da isomer compound in the SRMs, <a href="javascript:void(0);">(21)</a> supporting their novelty as marker compounds of pyroplastics.</p><p>The plastic samples displayed similarities and differences in the presence and distribution of large PAHs (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsomega.5c11703#fig3">Figure 3</a>). The white nurdles, burnt plastic, and combustion remnant all contained high-intensity peaks at 20.50 min for 398 Da and 19.55 min for 374 Da. Peaks between 20.00 and 20.25 min of 398 Da and the 19.35 min peak of 374 Da were reduced in intensity for the pyroplastics compared to the white nurdles (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/suppl/10.1021/acsomega.5c11703/suppl_file/ao5c11703_si_001.pdf">Figure S3</a>). Conversely, the peaks between 18.50 and 18.75 min of 350 Da were more intense in the pyroplastics compared to the white nurdles.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/ACS_Omega_2026_11_7_12321_12329_Figure_3_Comparison_of_the_resolved_isomers_for_398_374_and_350_Da_of_the_white_nurdles_burnt_plastic_and_combustion_remnant_pieces_ec390ebae3.jpg" alt="ACS Omega 2026, 11, 7, 12321–12329: Figure 3. Comparison of the resolved isomers for 398, 374, and 350 Da of the white nurdles, burnt plastic, and combustion remnant pieces collected from Pamunugama Beach, Sri Lanka, following the 2021 M/V X-Press Pearl ship fire and plastic spill." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_ACS_Omega_2026_11_7_12321_12329_Figure_3_Comparison_of_the_resolved_isomers_for_398_374_and_350_Da_of_the_white_nurdles_burnt_plastic_and_combustion_remnant_pieces_ec390ebae3.jpg 232w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="1077"></p><p>The levels of all the targeted large PAHs were at least 2 orders of magnitude higher in the pyroplastics than in the white nurdles. These levels included the individual PAHs that were common to the pyroplastics. This trend mirrored that observed for smaller PAHs and the solvent-extractable content of the sample types. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(39,43,46)</a> There were also slight differences in the signatures of the large PAHs found in the pyroplastics. The 398 Da peak at 20.24 min, along with the 374 Da peak at 19.31 min and the 350 Da peak at 18.61 min, were more prominent in the combustion remnant compared to the burnt plastic (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/suppl/10.1021/acsomega.5c11703/suppl_file/ao5c11703_si_001.pdf">Figure S3</a>).</p><p>Similar to the differences in large PAH signatures between the SRMs, the plastic samples had different signatures. Such qualitative interpretation of extracted ion chromatograms is forensically accepted for distinguishing sources. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(3)</a> This feature can potentially be utilized to differentiate between plastic types (e.g., virgin, weathered, and partially combusted) as well as to identify sources of the large PAHs and the combustion temperature.</p><h4><strong>Conclusions</strong></h4><p>GC-APCI-MS/MS proved a useful technique for detecting large PAHs in diverse environmental matrices, including extracts from pyroplastic field samples. Despite a lack of widely available analytical standards for large PAHs, NIST SRMs provided ample material for method development for their detection. Nonetheless, with the increasing research on microplastics in the environment and their relevance to human health, an environmental SRM with certified values for large PAHs is needed, and pyroplastics may provide such a source of material. Large PAHs and 1,3,5-TPB were detected in pyroplastic field samples and hold promise as chemical markers for pyroplastics, complementing other means for their detection in environmental samples (e.g., appearance and physical properties). Due to the accessibility of GC-APCI, the detection of large PAHs can be integrated into workflows for evaluating environmental samples, including those for microplastics.</p></div>

Gas Chromatography-Atmospheric Pressure Chemical Ionization (GC-APCI) Expands the Analytical Window for Detection of Large PAHs (≥24 Ringed-Carbons) in Pyroplastics and Other Environmental Matrices

<p><strong>In the week of May 11, the following webinars await you in the field of gas / solid phase and especially Raman, FTIR, GC and GC/MS.</strong></p><blockquote><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/webinars"><strong>👉 DETAILS AND REGISTRATION IN THE WEBINARS SECTION</strong></a></h4><p><strong>👉 Search and filter in the largest global database</strong> with over <strong>5 500 GC, LC, MS and spectroscopy webinars</strong>.</p></blockquote><h5><strong>1. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Uncovering Microplastics: Identification, Quantification, and Exposure Assessment</strong></h5><ul><li>Tu, 12.5.2026 08:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/webinar/6136">Registration</a></li></ul><p>In this webinar, we will explore complementary analytical solutions for comprehensive microplastics characterization.</p><h5><strong>2. AZoM: From Lab to Line: Leveraging GC and Process MS for Petrochemical Gas Analysis</strong></h5><ul><li>We, 13.5.2026 16:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/webinar/6171">Registration</a></li></ul><p>Explore how GC and process MS work together in petrochemical workflows, combining detailed lab analysis with real-time gas monitoring for faster decisions.</p><h5><strong>3. Milestone: Modern Sample Prep for Organic Contaminants: PAHs, PFAS, MOSH/MOAH in Food</strong></h5><ul><li>We, 13.5.2026 16:00 CET</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/webinar/5822">Registration</a></li></ul><p>Learn how microwave-assisted extraction streamlines food analysis of PAHs, PFAS, and MOSH/MOAH, improving recoveries, reducing solvents, and meeting regulatory demands.</p><h5><strong>4. Thermo Fisher Scientific: End-to-end automation in GC/GC-MS: Trends, tools, and practical implementation</strong></h5><ul><li>We, 13.5.2026 18:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/webinar/6186">Registration</a></li></ul><p>In this GC/GC-MS power hour session, we’ll explore how automation is transforming laboratories by helping teams do more with less time, fewer resources, and greater confidence.</p><h5><strong>5. GERSTEL: Automating Food Safety Workflows for the Analysis of Edible Oils and Fats</strong></h5><ul><li>We, 13.5.2026 20:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/webinar/6168">Registration</a></li></ul><p>Learn how automated workflows improve data quality in edible oil testing, including FAMEs, MOSH/MOAH, and 3-MCPD analysis with real-world insights.</p>

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<h3><strong>All your elemental analysis on one platform</strong></h3><p><strong>The EA IsoLink IRMS Platform leverages the existing technological platform of the EA IsoLink IRMS System and FlashSmart EA.</strong></p><h4><strong>More freedom. More flexibility.</strong></h4><p>With the<strong> Thermo Scientific™ EA IsoLink™ IRMS Platform</strong>, you can leverage familiar technology and your staff’s existing know-how for <strong>expanded CNSOH isotope analysis</strong>, enabling you to perform all your elemental analysis on one technological platform. With <strong>different configurations</strong> to choose from, your lab can get the capabilities it needs today, with flexibility for the future. Featuring software- driven automation and scalability to grow as you do.</p><h4><strong>Choose the configuration that’s right for you.</strong></h4><p>The<strong> EA IsoLink IRMS</strong> System is an automated, easy-to-use solution for <strong>isotopic analysis of carbon, nitrogen, sulfur, oxygen and hydrogen</strong> - using bulk samples powered by chromatography-driven technology with high sensitivity on small samples. Available in basic configurations with upgradeability options, this platform offers high throughput and unattended operation, so your lab can get more done in less time.</p><h4><strong>The EA IsoLink IRMS System features:</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Thermo Scientific™ Flash™ IRMS EA</strong> for sample preparation for IRMS analysis</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/2231"><strong>Thermo Scientific™ ConFlo IV</strong></a> Universal Interface</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/2232"><strong>Thermo Scientific™ DELTA™ Q IRMS</strong></a></li></ul><h4><strong>The FlashSmart EA features:</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Thermo Scientific™ FlashSmart™ EA</strong> for weight percentage characterization of CNSHO</li></ul><h3><strong>EA IsoLink CN and CN/OH</strong></h3><ul><li>A powerful solution for <strong>C and N, O and H analysis</strong> - upgradeable for <strong>S analysis</strong></li></ul><h3><strong>EA IsoLink OH</strong></h3><ul><li>Offering dedicated<strong> oxygen and hydrogen analysis </strong>- with scalability to expand your capabilities to <strong>C, N and S</strong></li></ul><h3><strong>EA IsoLink CNSOH</strong></h3><ul><li>A fully automated single system for <strong>C, N and S analysis </strong>by flash combustion, and <strong>O and H analysis</strong> by high temperature conversion</li></ul><h4><strong>Connectivity with Thermo Scientific™ IRMS Portfolio</strong></h4><p>The <strong>Flash EA Series</strong> connected to the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/2232"><strong>DELTA Q IRMS</strong></a><strong> </strong>provides precise and sensitive measurement of the isotope fingerprints - <strong>C, N, S, O and H isotopes </strong>- a unique chemical signature of samples. This helps you gain unique insights into food history and origin, as well as environmental pollutants, forensics and geosciences.</p><figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:650/552;" src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Scientific_EA_Iso_Link_IRMS_System_2_01d3ed421c.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific™ EA IsoLink™ IRMS System" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Scientific_EA_Iso_Link_IRMS_System_2_01d3ed421c.jpg 184w," sizes="100vw" width="650" height="552"></figure><h3><strong>More automation. More scalability. All in a single platform.</strong></h3><p><strong>Delivering proven performance with unprecedented robustness and ease of use, the EA IsoLink IRMS Platform can help your lab drive efficiency, improve cost-effectiveness, and minimize training for new operators.</strong></p><h4><strong>Low cost per sample for reduced operational costs</strong></h4><p><strong>Less helium consumption:</strong> Helium consumption is reduced by more than 60% for NCS and NC sample analysis, and reduced by more than 30% for OH sample analysis (compared with previous systems).</p><p><strong>Less replication:</strong> Because the EA IsoLink IRMS System measures high and low concentrations in the same sample (wide dynamic range), it reduces the need for replicate analysis (e.g., high carbon and low sulfur, such as in food authenticity or ecology applications).</p><p><strong>High throughput:</strong> Fast analysis provides high sample throughput, resulting in lower cost per sample.</p><h4><strong>High sensitivity driven by chromatography - even for the smallest sample size</strong></h4><p><strong>Temperature-ramped GC:</strong> Equipped with a temperature-ramped GC feature, the EA IsoLink System gives your lab the highest performance on small sample sizes through optimal baseline separation of analyte gases and sharp peak shapes.</p><p><strong>Performance synergies:</strong> The combination of in-line flash combustion technology and temperature-ramped GC separation significantly improves the performance for all your EA-IRMS applications.</p><h4><strong>System modularity for future-proof investment</strong></h4><p>The <strong>EA IsoLink IRMS</strong> System’s modular design provides the highest flexibility for all applications - enabling you to <strong>adapt and scale</strong> to new analyses in the future. Through smart upgrade paths, you can easily modify the system to increase performance and productivity as your needs grow over time. Boost your CN system with an S upgrade or add CNS to your OH isotope fingerprints.</p><p><strong>Thermo Scientific™ MAS Plus Autosampler</strong> provides a 125-position helium-purged sample chamber, low blank autosampler for CNS and OH analysis.</p><p><strong>Thermo Scientific™ AS 1610 Liquid Autosampler</strong> offers a versatile solution for injecting liquid samples.</p><p>Macro reactors enable CNS Analysis of large sample sizes (greater than 60 mg) and higher throughput on standard sample sizes to mg range.</p><h4><strong>Added flexibility with flash EA series</strong></h4><p>The flexibility of the Flash EA Series helps you meet growing analytical needs in<strong> IRMS and Organic Elemental Analysis</strong> (OEA).</p><p>The <strong>FlashSmart Elemental Analyzer</strong> for OEA delivers accuracy and precision with internationally recognized certifications. Its straightforward modular design offers a variety of optimized application configurations, including <strong>CHN, CHNS, S, N/Protein, CN, CNS, CHNS/O and more</strong>. High throughput with <strong>24/7</strong> operation, low cost per sample and optimized helium consumption are all driven by our fully automated dedicated OEA software, Thermo Scientific™ EagerSmart™ Data Handling Software, which can grow with your analytical needs without need for an upgrade.</p><h4><strong>Smart automation for ease of use</strong></h4><p>Because of its <strong>intelligent software</strong> and intuitive design, the EA IsoLink Platform allows operators to leverage familiar technology for higher productivity.</p><p><strong>Software Platform: </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1489"><strong>The Thermo Scientific™ Qtegra™ Intelligent Scientific Data Solution</strong> </a>(ISDS) Software provides seamless control and automation for unattended operation and improved productivity. Regardless of operator skills or the final application, the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1489"><strong>Qtegra ISDS Software</strong></a> offers logical, streamlined interface allowing straight forward measurement set-up through analytical Workflows. The software includes auto-stop, standby modes, and other features to minimize intervention. It also allows for integrated data evaluation strategies, customized reports and method development. All of the auto-diagnostics ensure important aspects of the instrument are monitored, maximizing uptime.</p><p><strong>Thermo Scientific™ smartEA option:</strong> This option allows you to focus on your research by combining ease-of-use and unattended analysis to deliver high-precision results. The smartEA option uses the analyzer’s <strong>Thermal Conductivity Detector </strong>(TCD) trace to define the required sample dilutions in the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/2231"><strong>ConFlo IV Universal Interface</strong></a>. The straightforward automated workflow allows you to analyze very small amounts, such as nitrogen and sulfur, along with highly abundant elements, such as carbon - all from the same sample.</p><h3><strong>Addressing a world of applications</strong></h3><p><strong>For origin and authenticity questions, the EA IsoLink IRMS Platform provides precise and sensitive measurement of the isotope fingerprints - C, N, S, O and H isotopes - a unique chemical signature of samples, helping you gain unique insights into their history and origin.</strong></p><h4><strong>Food authenticity and origin</strong></h4><p><strong>Is the label declaration on my food correct?</strong></p><p>From fruits and vegetables, to wine, honey and coffee, the EA IsoLink IRMS Platform provides isotopic fingerprints ideally suited to determining food integrity.</p><ul><li>Food adulteration</li><li>Food and beverage origin</li><li>Agronomy</li></ul><h4><strong>Environmental</strong></h4><p><strong>What is the source of pollution in the soil, water or air?</strong></p><p>An assessment of individual organic pollutants particles in air contamination (e.g. PM2.5) will be traced with C, N, and S isotope fingerprints.</p><ul><li>Marine science</li><li>Ecology and biology</li><li>Petroleum and exploration</li></ul><h4><strong>Geosciences</strong></h4><p><strong>What was the weather like thousands of years ago?</strong></p><p>By analyzing materials such as sediments, ice cores and speleothems, researchers can understand epochal changes in vegetation, rainfall patterns and temperature.</p><ul><li>Soil science</li><li>Palaeoclimatology research</li></ul><h4><strong>Forensics</strong></h4><p><strong>How can we investigate provenance and dietary preferences?</strong></p><p>From tracing explosives, illegal drugs, counterfeit currency, animal tissues such as ivory, dietary preferences and crime scene evidence, forensic investigations based on isotope fingerprints examine samples’ origin.</p><ul><li>Archaeology</li><li>Provenance</li></ul><h3><strong>Connectivity for origin and authenticity</strong></h3><p>Your lab can focus on isotopic investigations by taking advantage of having one partner and one platform for your elemental and isotope analysis. Thanks to the connectivity of the<strong> </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/2232"><strong>DELTA Q IRMS</strong></a> and the connecting peripherals that are fully controlled by the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1489"><strong>Qtegra ISDS Software</strong></a>, you can also leverage the high throughput, unattended operation and flexibility for demanding analysis, regardless of the applications.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Scientific_EA_Iso_Link_IRMS_System_2_dcb8a3d338.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific™ EA IsoLink™ IRMS System " srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Scientific_EA_Iso_Link_IRMS_System_2_dcb8a3d338.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1464" height="933"></p>

Thermo Scientific Triton Series Multicollector Thermal Ionization Mass Spectrometer (TIMS)

High-precision multicollector TIMS for demanding isotope ratio analysis, delivering exceptional sensitivity, stability, and accuracy for ultra-small and low-abundance samples.

<p><strong>The Thermo Scientific™ Triton™ Series Multicollector Thermal Ionization Mass Spectrometer (TIMS) is a high-precision platform designed for the most demanding isotope ratio measurements. Built on more than two decades of continuous development, the Triton Series combines field-proven TIMS performance with state-of-the-art detection and ion-optical technologies to deliver exceptional accuracy, stability, and sensitivity—especially for small samples and low-abundance isotopes.</strong></p><p>At the heart of the Triton Series is a <strong>high-stability thermal ionization source</strong>, optimized for maximum ion transmission and minimal kinetic energy spread. This ensures highly reproducible ion beams for both single- and double-filament techniques, enabling precise isotope ratio analysis across a wide range of elements and applications.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Scientific_Triton_Series_Multicollector_Thermal_Ionization_Mass_Spectrometer_TIMS_2_e9fa5e958e.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific Triton Series Multicollector Thermal Ionization Mass Spectrometer (TIMS)" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Scientific_Triton_Series_Multicollector_Thermal_Ionization_Mass_Spectrometer_TIMS_2_e9fa5e958e.jpg 182w," sizes="100vw" width="650" height="558"></p><h3><strong>Advanced detection and ion optics</strong></h3><p>The Triton Series integrates multiple complementary detector technologies to address diverse analytical challenges:</p><ul><li><strong>10¹³ Ω Amplifier Technology</strong> extends the lower detection limits, delivering faster response times, extremely low noise, and significantly improved internal precision for small ion beams.</li><li><strong>Retarding Potential Quadrupole (RPQ) lenses</strong> provide exceptional abundance sensitivity by suppressing scattered ions and mass tailing, enabling accurate quantification of minor isotopes even next to intense ion beams.</li><li><strong>Multi Ion Counting (MIC) packages</strong> allow simultaneous detection of the lowest-intensity ion beams using SEM and CDD ion counters, with flexible configurations tailored to nuclear, geochronological, and geochemical applications.</li><li><strong>Stable, linear SEM and CDD ion counters</strong> ensure reliable measurements for ultra-low sample amounts and rare isotopes.</li><li><strong>High-performance Faraday cups</strong> guarantee uniform response, long operational lifetime, and excellent linearity for high-precision static and dynamic measurements.</li><li><strong>Movable multicollector array</strong> supports up to nine Faraday cups with precise alignment over a wide mass range, extendable to static Ca and Li isotope measurements.</li><li><strong>Virtual amplifier technology</strong> enables cancellation of gain factor uncertainties through amplifier rotation, achieving low-ppm external reproducibility in efficient static measurement modes.</li></ul><h3><strong>Designed for the most demanding isotope ratio applications</strong></h3><p>The Triton Series is ideally suited for applications where ultimate precision and high abundance sensitivity are essential, including:</p><ul><li>Radiogenic and stable isotope geochemistry</li><li>Geochronology (U–Pb, Pb–Pb, Rb–Sr, Sm–Nd, Lu–Hf systems)</li><li>Nuclear safeguards and nuclear forensic isotope analysis</li><li>Environmental and cosmochemical research</li><li>Analysis of ultra-small sample amounts and isotopically scarce materials</li></ul><p>Available in configurations such as <strong>Triton XT</strong> and <strong>Triton Plus</strong>, tailored to different performance priorities within high-precision isotope ratio analysis, the Thermo Scientific Triton Series TIMS offers a flexible, future-proof solution that continues to set the benchmark for thermal ionization mass spectrometry.</p>

Thermo Scientific ConFlo IV Universal Continuous Flow Interface

Universal continuous flow interface for IRMS enabling automated multi-device control, higher throughput, lower costs, and stable, unattended isotope analysis.

<p><strong>Thermo Scientific™ ConFlo IV Universal Continuous Flow Interface is a versatile continuous flow interface designed to significantly expand the application range of stable isotope laboratories using isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS). The ConFlo IV system enables seamless connection of multiple sample preparation devices, delivering fully automated, stable, and highly reproducible measurements.</strong></p><p>The system features <strong>intelligent management of all required reference gases, automatic sample-size recognition, precise matching of sample and reference signals, and advanced self-diagnostics</strong>. These capabilities reduce operator involvement, lower operating costs, and increase overall laboratory throughput.</p><h3><strong>Key features</strong></h3><ul><li><strong>Management of multiple devices</strong><br>Automated switching between different sample preparation units, including activation, deactivation, and reference gas changes, maximizes IRMS utilization.</li><li><strong>Continuous, unattended operation</strong><br>Application switching can occur at any time without operator intervention; preparation devices can be regenerated and reloaded while other analyses are running.</li><li><strong>Maximized performance and efficiency</strong><br>Using reference gases instead of bulk reference materials reduces operating costs by nearly 50 % while increasing sample throughput by almost 50 %.</li><li><strong>Enhanced accuracy and stability</strong><br>Automatic adjustment of reference gas pulse intensities equalizes conditions between sample and reference gases, improving precision and long-term reliability.</li><li><strong>Advanced data quality control</strong><br>Critical system parameters affecting data quality are automatically monitored across all sample sequences.</li><li><strong>Single-interface control</strong><br>All connected preparation and inlet devices are controlled through one interface, with the ability to add new samples or entirely new applications without interrupting ongoing data acquisition.</li></ul>

Thermo Scientific DELTA Q Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometer

High-performance IRMS combining exceptional sensitivity, robust design, and intuitive Qtegra ISDS software for food authenticity, environmental, forensic, and research isotope applications.

<p><strong>The Thermo Scientific™ DELTA™ Q Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometer (IRMS) represents a new evolutionary step in isotope ratio analysis, combining outstanding analytical performance with intuitive operation powered by </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1489"><strong>Qtegra™ Intelligent Scientific Data Solution (ISDS)</strong></a><strong> software.&nbsp;</strong></p><p>The DELTA Q IRMS is designed for seamless integration with a wide range of Thermo Scientific peripherals, making it a highly flexible platform for applications such as <strong>food authenticity testing, environmental and forensic analysis, doping control, and advanced scientific research</strong>.</p><h4><strong>Outstanding sensitivity</strong></h4><ul><li>Sensitivities of up to <strong>800 molecules per CO₂ ion</strong> in dual-inlet mode and <strong>1,000 molecules per ion</strong> in continuous-flow mode.</li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Scientific_DELTA_Q_Isotope_Ratio_Mass_Spectrometer_2_671e47510f.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific DELTA Q Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometer" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Scientific_DELTA_Q_Isotope_Ratio_Mass_Spectrometer_2_671e47510f.jpg 197w," sizes="100vw" width="650" height="517"></p><h4><strong>Versatility for diverse applications</strong></h4><ul><li>Support for up to <strong>10 collectors</strong> in multiple configurations, covering all IRMS applications up to <strong>m/z 96</strong>.</li><li><strong>Simultaneous mass range up to ±25%</strong>, enabling efficient multi-isotope measurements.</li><li>Compatibility with <strong>preconcentrators, elemental analyzers, GC interfaces, LC interfaces</strong>, and continuous-flow inlets.</li><li><strong>On-line H₂ capability</strong> for hydrogen isotope analysis.</li></ul><h4><strong>Highly robust and reliable design</strong></h4><ul><li>A <strong>monolithic analyzer</strong> with fixed alignment of all ion-optical components, including the electromagnet, ensuring exceptional long-term stability and robustness.</li><li>Integrated signal amplifiers and digitizers minimize external connections and increase reliability.</li><li>Fixed-position ion optics eliminate the need for realignment during installation or routine maintenance.</li><li>Optimized pumping strategy enables <strong>single-stage turbo pumping</strong> for all standard continuous-flow applications.</li><li>Comprehensive, automated diagnostics driven by <strong>Qtegra ISDS software</strong> support continuous performance monitoring.</li></ul><h4><strong>Compact and user-friendly design</strong></h4><ul><li>Compact footprint requiring minimal laboratory space.</li><li>Dedicated space for online peripherals on top of the instrument.</li><li>Dual inlet, µ-volume, and multiport interfaces are neatly integrated inside the system.</li><li>Continuous-flow interfaces can be fully controlled from the front panel.</li><li>All pumps are located internally, reducing noise and laboratory clutter.</li></ul><h4><strong>Qtegra™ ISDS Software</strong></h4><ul><li>Significantly increases laboratory productivity with <strong>automatic Get Ready functionality</strong>, ready-to-use templates, and built-in quality control tools.</li><li>Intelligent, optimized workflows guide users from sample to result while allowing flexible switching between system configurations.</li><li>Ensures full <strong>data integrity and traceability</strong> for raw data, metadata, and reported results.</li></ul><h4><strong>ACT label certification</strong></h4><p>The DELTA Q IRMS is certified with the <strong>ACT Environmental Impact Label</strong> from My Green Lab, providing transparent, third-party verified information on environmental impact across manufacturing, energy and water use, packaging, and end-of-life considerations—supporting sustainable laboratory procurement and reduced carbon footprint.</p>

Products from category IRMS - page 1

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