<p><strong>Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezGCMS Library in the week of 3rd August 2026? Check out new documents from the field of the gas phase, especially GC and GC/MS techniques!</strong></p><blockquote><p><span style="font-size:20px;">👉 </span><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library"><span style="font-size:20px;"><strong>SEARCH THE LARGEST REPOSITORY OF DOCUMENTS ABOUT GCMS AND RELATED TECHNIQUES</strong></span></a></p></blockquote><blockquote><p><strong>👉 Need info about different analytical techniques?</strong> Peek into <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/library"><strong>LabRulezLCMS</strong></a> or <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library"><strong>LabRulezICPMS</strong></a> libraries.</p></blockquote><p>This week we bring you application notes by <strong>Agilent Technologies </strong>and<strong> Shimadzu </strong>and presentation by<strong> MDCW / University of Alberta!</strong></p><h3><strong>1. Agilent Technologies: Analysis of Trace Impurities in Monocyclic Aromatic Solvents Following ASTM D7504</strong></h3><p><strong>Dual simultaneous analysis using the Agilent 8860B gas chromatograph</strong></p><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_trace_impurity_aromatic_solvents_analysis_astm_d7504_8860_gc_5994_9316en_agilent_c9fa6868e6.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><section><div><div><div><div><div><div><p>The production of high-purity monocyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, such as benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylenes (BTEX), is a cornerstone of the modern petrochemical industry. These compounds serve as essential feedstocks for the synthesis of plastics, resins, and textiles. Because even trace impurities can adversely affect downstream chemical reactions and product quality, rigorous analytical testing is required to ensure these intermediates meet strict commercial specifications.&nbsp;</p><p>ASTM D7504 is the industry-standard test method for determining the purity of, and trace impurities in, monocyclic aromatic hydrocarbons using gas chromatography (GC) with flame ionization detector (FID).1 This method is favored for its streamlined workflow; it utilizes effective carbon number (ECN) correction factors for area normalization. This eliminates the need for labor-intensive, multipoint calibrations for every individual impurity, allowing laboratories to calculate purity and quantify trace nonaromatics and aromatics with high precision.&nbsp;</p><p>The application scope of ASTM D7504 covers a wide array of aromatic liquids, including benzene, toluene, mixed xylenes, and styrene. To comply with the method's stringent performance requirements, the GC system must&nbsp;demonstrate:&nbsp;</p><ul><li><strong>High sensitivity: </strong>A limit of quantitation (LOQ) of at least 0.0006% by mass.</li><li><strong>Good resolution: </strong>Maintaining a valley-to-peak ratio of no more than 50% for critical separations (such as p-xylene and m-xylene).&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Strict precision: </strong>Highly reproducible peak areas to ensure accurate purity calculations.</li></ul><p>Implementing ASTM D7504 on a dual-channel GC/FID platform—where two independent analytical channels configured with identical injectors, columns, and detectors operate within a single GC oven—provides significant operational advantages:&nbsp;</p><ol><li>Enhanced laboratory throughput: By performing two injections simultaneously, the test lab can double its sample capacity per instrument, effectively reducing the cost-per-analysis and maximizing hardware ROI.&nbsp;</li><li>Method flexibility and redundancy: A dual-channel set up allows a lab to run different sample types (such as toluene on the front channel and xylene on the back) in a single oven cycle. Furthermore, it provides an immediate "back up" channel to maintain uptime during routine&nbsp;maintenance.&nbsp;</li></ol><p>For the system to be considered reliable, both channels should meet ASTM D7504 sensitivity, resolution, and precision requirements. In addition, both channels should yield consistent quantitative results for the same sample. The reproducibility limit (R) demonstrated in ASTM D7504 interlaboratory testing will be used to evaluate the result consistency between the two channels.</p><p>ASTM D7504 recommends helium and hydrogen as carrier gas. In China, major Chinese petrochemical companies often align their internal quality control standards directly with ASTM D7504 when testing for export of high-purity chemical intermediates. Because nitrogen is commonly used in China, they commonly adapt the ASTM D7504 method to use nitrogen carrier gas.&nbsp;</p><p>This application note demonstrates how dual-channel analysis on the Agilent 8860B GC, following ASTM D7504, delivers consistent and high-precision data using three types of carrier gas.</p><h4><strong>Experimental</strong></h4><p>An <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=8860B"><strong>Agilent 8860B GC</strong></a><strong> </strong>was configured with dual split/splitless inlets and dual flame ionization detectors (FIDs). The sample introduction was made by dual <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=7693A"><strong>Agilent 7693A automatic liquid samplers (ALS)</strong></a> with high density turrets (16-vial). The analytical parameters and consumables are summarized in Tables 1 and 2. Data acquisition and analysis were conducted using <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=OpenLab+CDS"><strong>Agilent OpenLab CDS version 2.8</strong></a></p><h4><strong>Conclusion&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>The Agilent 8860B gas chromatography system configured with two identical analytical channels are applied for impurity analysis in monocyclic aromatic solvents using three carrier gases. Each analytical channel was evaluated according to the ASTM D7504 method in terms of resolution, sensitivity, quantitation precision, and recovery with satisfactory results. The quantitation results between the two channels are consistent with each other.&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Column resolution compounds pair demonstrated good separation with H/V no less than 5:1 for 300 ppm m-xylene and p-xylene solvent.&nbsp;</li><li>The LODs achieved for benzene on each analytical channel are less than 0.0001%, exceeding the 0.0002% LOD required by ASTM D7504.&nbsp;</li><li>The response and mass concentration precisions of most impurities in check standards are below 1%, meeting or exceeding the precision requirements in D7504.&nbsp;</li><li>Excellent recovery results, ranging from 93 to 105%, was achieved for added impurities, indicating good quantification accuracy based on the 8860B GC system.&nbsp;</li><li>The quantitation difference of all probe impurities between two channels is less than the reproducibility thresholds (R), demonstrating excellent across channel consistency</li></ul><p>Besides great instrument performance, the Agilent OpenLab CDS software can realize ECN based normalization for easy and fast quantitation and report generation. The 8860B dual channel GC system coupled with the OpenLab CDS software provides an accurate and reliable analysis of impurities in monocyclic aromatic solvents with satisfactory precision. Lab productivity can be improved significantly compared to the single channel analytical system.</p><h3><strong>2. MDCW / University of Alberta: Leveraging Local Libraries for Positively Parsimonious Peak Tables</strong></h3><ul><li>Presentation</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/O_6_Harynuk_f005bdafaf.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><section><div><div><div><div><div><div><p>James J. Harynuk’s presentation, <strong>“Leveraging Local Libraries for Positively Parsimonious Peak Tables,”</strong> explores how custom mass spectral libraries can simplify and improve compound identification in complex GC×GC-(HR)MS datasets. GC×GC-MS is widely applied in petroleum, environmental, food/flavour, and omics research, where samples can contain hundreds or thousands of peaks. While expanded separation space, cleaner spectra, retention patterns, and high-resolution accurate-mass data provide strong identification capabilities, converting large datasets into coherent peak tables with consistent compound assignments across multiple samples remains challenging.</p><p>The presentation demonstrates the approach using a field pea study investigating how nitrogen availability influences plant metabolism and volatile organic compounds. A conventional workflow based on peak finding and library searching can generate very large peak tables and inconsistent assignments. Incorporating retention indices (RI) and LECO’s Identification Grading System (IGS) substantially reduces the number of questionable peaks. In one example, a pea sample containing <strong>789 detected peaks was reduced to 146 retained peaks</strong> after RI filtering and IGS scoring, producing a much more manageable dataset. However, conventional libraries still struggle with isomers and with compounds that repeatedly occur in a laboratory’s samples but cannot yet be confidently identified—the presentation calls these <strong>“unknown knowns.”</strong></p><p>Harynuk therefore proposes building a <strong>custom local HRMS library</strong> containing not only standards and confidently identified compounds, but also reproducible unknown features. To qualify for inclusion, a peak should have a high-quality spectrum, S/N &gt;100, chromatographic purity, occurrence in multiple technical replicates, an assigned retention index, and a unique identifier. Crucially, the exact chemical identity does not need to be known: an unknown but reproducible feature can receive an internal identifier such as “JJH-001” and be updated later as more information becomes available. This allows laboratories to retain analytically meaningful recurring signals instead of discarding them simply because a definitive library identification is unavailable.</p><p>The results show that combining a custom library with local RI data and IGS filtering improves both the consistency and efficiency of peak-table generation. Compounds with IGS scores ≥3.0 were generally assigned the same identification across samples when the custom library was used, while reliance on NIST and IGS alone produced less consistent results. After correcting only a small number of problematic identifications per peak table, retention-index errors for custom-library entries dropped dramatically—in the evaluated samples, typically to around <strong>0.5–1.9 RI units</strong>. The key recommendation is therefore straightforward: <strong>build a custom MS library, include recurring “unknown knowns,” collect local retention-index data, and apply identification-quality filters</strong> to obtain cleaner and more consistent GC×GC-MS peak tables with substantially less manual effort.</p><h3><strong>3. Shimadzu: Simultaneous Analysis of Pesticide Residues in Food Using Triple Quadrupole GC-MS/MS with SPL Mode of a Multimode injection Unit (MMI)</strong></h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_01_01234_en_d8cff47c74.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><h4><strong>User benefits</strong></h4><ul><li>The MMI’s rapid heating and cooling technology significantly reduces waiting time during inlet maintenance, improving instrument uptime.&nbsp;</li><li>The Smart Pesticides Database enables automatic creation of analytical methods without the need for pesticide standards.&nbsp;</li><li>Peakintelligence for GCMS uses AI-based peak processing to deliver highly accurate analysis with no parameter settings required</li></ul><p>GC-MS/MS is an indispensable tool for the simultaneous analysis of pesticide residues in food. However, improving productivity in high-throughput workflows remains a persistent challenge. With the increasing use of simplified sample preparation methods such as QuEChERS, contamination of the inlet by matrix components is unavoidable, and frequent inlet maintenance, including liner replacement, is often required. Because this maintenance involves both cooling the inlet and waiting for temperature re-stabilization afterward, it can become a major source of instrument downtime.&nbsp;</p><p>The newly developed Multi-Mode Inlet (MMI) incorporates Shimadzu’s proprietary thermal insulation technology, providing excellent temperature stability together with rapid heating and cooling performance. While maintaining high data compatibility with conventional split/splitless inlets, the MMI significantly reduces the waiting time associated with inlet maintenance.</p><p>In this Application News, simultaneous multiresidue analysis in SPL mode is demonstrated for four food matrices with different characteristics - spinach, orange, avocado, and ginger - using the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=GCMS-TQ+8040+RX"><strong>GCMS-TQ 8040 RX triple quadrupole</strong> </a>GC-MS/MS equipped with the MMI.</p><h4><strong>Data Analysis&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>LabSolutions Insight, a quantitative data processing software package designed for high-throughput sample analysis, was used for data analysis, with Peakintelligence for GCMS applied as the peak integration algorithm (Fig. 6). Peakintelligence is an AI-based waveform processing algorithm that uses machine learning to emulate the peak processing performed by experienced analysts. It requires no operator-defined parameter settings and provides peak integration performance comparable to that of skilled users.&nbsp;</p><p>For more information on improving the efficiency of pesticide data analysis using Peakintelligence for GCMS, please refer to Application News 01-00585-EN, “<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_01_00585_en_7e311a3c77/an_01-00585-en.pdf"><strong>Time-Saving Data Processing for Pesticide Residues with Peakintelligence for GCMS</strong></a>.”</p><h4><strong>Conclusion&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>In this Application News, an example of simultaneous multiresidue pesticide analysis in food using a triple quadrupole GC-MS/MS equipped with a Multi-Mode Inlet (MMI) was presented. By adopting the MMI, instrument downtime associated with inlet maintenance can be significantly reduced while maintaining high quantitative performance. In addition, by combining automated method creation with the Smart Pesticides Database and efficient data analysis using the AIbased waveform processing algorithm Peakintelligence for GCMS, highly accurate results were obtained even for complex food matrices. This system optimizes the overall analytical workflow, from method development and maintenance to data analysis, and can make a substantial contribution to improving productivity in high-throughput pesticide residue analysis.</p></div></div></div></div></div></div></section></div></div></div></div></div></div></section>

News from LabRulezGCMS Library - Week 32, 2026

<p><strong>Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) is a powerful analytical technique widely used for compound identification, quantification, and structural elucidation. By coupling the separation efficiency of gas chromatography (GC) with the detection and identification capabilities of mass spectrometry (MS), GC-MS enables highly sensitive and specific chemical analysis.&nbsp;</strong></p><p>Understanding how GC-MS works, and its underlying principles, helps scientists optimize analytical workflows, improve accuracy, and troubleshoot effectively whether in environmental testing, drug development, or forensic investigations.</p><h3><strong>What is GC-MS?</strong></h3><p>GC-MS is a hybrid analytical technique that combines the separation power of gas chromatography with the molecular identification capability of mass spectrometry.</p><p>In gas chromatography, a vaporized sample is carried by an inert gas (such as helium or hydrogen) through a capillary column coated with a stationary phase. Each compound interacts differently with the stationary phase depending on its volatility and polarity, causing them to separate as they elute at distinct retention times.</p><p>As compounds exit the column, they enter the mass spectrometer, where they are ionized and fragmented. The mass-to-charge ratio (m/z) of these ions is measured, producing a mass spectrum, a unique molecular fingerprint that enables unambiguous compound identification and quantification.</p><p>This seamless coupling of GC and MS enhances analytical performance by combining chromatographic separation with mass-based detection, allowing even trace-level compounds to be analyzed in complex matrices.</p><h3><strong>Principle of GC-MS</strong></h3><p>The principle of gas chromatography–mass spectrometry involves two fundamental processes:</p><h4><strong>Separation by Gas Chromatography</strong></h4><p>Compounds are vaporized and separated in the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products?category=7&amp;manufacturerItems=50"><strong>GC column</strong></a> based on their boiling points and interaction strength with the stationary phase. Less volatile compounds or those with stronger affinity for the column elute later, giving each component a unique retention time.</p><h4><strong>Detection by Mass Spectrometry</strong></h4><p>As compounds elute, they are introduced into the MS, where they undergo ionization commonly by electron impact or chemical ionization. Ionization produces charged fragments that are separated in a mass analyzer according to their mass-to-charge (m/z) ratio. The resulting mass spectra serve as fingerprints that enable identification and quantitation through comparison with spectral libraries.</p><p>This dual process allows GC-MS to distinguish structurally similar molecules and perform trace-level analyses in complex mixtures with exceptional accuracy.</p><h3><strong>Step-by-Step Working of GC-MS</strong></h3><ul><li><strong>Sample Introduction:</strong> A liquid or gaseous sample is introduced into the GC, typically with a split or splitless inlet, where it is vaporized immediately.</li><li><strong>Separation in GC Column:</strong> The carrier gas propels the vaporized sample through a long capillary column. Compounds interact with the stationary phase, and those with greater affinity or lower volatility move slower, thus separating from other compounds.</li><li><strong>Transfer to MS:</strong> As separated analytes elute, they are transferred into the mass spectrometer via a heated interface.</li><li><strong>Ionization and Fragmentation:</strong> In the MS, an ion source generates charged ions and fragments. These fragments reflect the compound’s structure.</li><li><strong>Mass Analysis:</strong> The mass analyzer (commonly a quadrupole, but also ion trap or TOF) separates ions by m/z. Each analyte produces a unique mass spectrum.</li><li><strong>Detection and Data Output:</strong> Detectors (e.g., electron multipliers) record signal intensities at each m/z, producing a total ion chromatogram (TIC) and mass spectra, which the data system interprets for compound identification and quantification.</li></ul><h3><strong>Applications of GC-MS</strong></h3><ul><li><strong>Forensic Science:</strong> Used in toxicology, drug identification, and arson investigations, GC-MS provides highly specific detection of trace evidence and controlled substances.</li><li><strong>Pharmaceuticals:</strong> Supports drug purity testing, residual solvent analysis, and metabolite profiling during formulation and quality control.</li><li><strong>Environmental Testing:</strong> Monitors pesticides, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and pollutants in air, water, and soil samples to ensure regulatory compliance.</li><li><strong>Food Safety:</strong> Detects contaminants, additives, and flavor compounds to maintain product safety and authenticity.</li><li><strong>Clinical and Biomedical Research:</strong> Used in metabolomics and clinical diagnostics to identify volatile biomarkers and metabolites relevant to disease states.</li></ul><h3><strong>Key Benefits of Using GC-MS</strong></h3><ul><li><strong>High Sensitivity and Specificity:</strong> Detects trace-level compounds in complex matrices.</li><li><strong>Comprehensive Structural Information:</strong> Mass spectra provide molecular fingerprints for precise identification.</li><li><strong>Separation and Identification Combined:</strong> Minimizes matrix interference and enhances quantitation accuracy.</li><li><strong>Wide Application Range:</strong> Suitable for environmental, pharmaceutical, food, and forensic testing.</li><li><strong>Extensive Spectral Libraries:</strong> Enables rapid identification of known and unknown compounds.</li></ul><p>A solid understanding of the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.phenomenex.com/resources/knowledge-center/gc-knowledge-center/understanding-the-essential-components-of-gas-chromatography"><strong>components of gas chromatography</strong></a> such as injectors, columns, and detectors helps analysts optimize GC-MS system performance and ensure accurate, reproducible results.</p>

GC-MS: Principles of How it Works?

<p><strong>In late February 2025, a train carrying benzene derailed in Hustopeče nad Bečvou, and within hours, a race was on to save the groundwater and surface water. One of the most toxic industrial substances began seeping into the gravel-sand subsoil. While fieldwork was underway to prevent the spread of contamination, decisions were already being made in the CXI TUL laboratories regarding how to subsequently clean up the contaminated rock environment.</strong></p><p>The accident ranks among the <strong>most serious environmental incidents in the Czech Republic in recent years</strong>. After a tanker train derailed, hundreds of<strong> metric tons of benzene leaked</strong>; due to the highly permeable geological subsoil, it quickly seeped into deeper soil layers and into the groundwater. The combination of the substance’s high toxicity and local conditions complicated both the emergency response and the subsequent remediation. The key was to stop further spread, determine the extent of the contamination, and establish a remediation strategy for the entire site.</p><p>It was at this stage that CXI TUL became involved in the solution. At the request of the renowned remediation company DEKONTA, a.s., a team led by <strong>RNDr. Jan Němeček, Ph.D.</strong>, began testing the feasibility of the<strong> in situ chemical oxidation (ISCO) method</strong>. This technology is designed to<strong> break down benzene directly within the rock matrix</strong>, without the need for extensive excavation of contaminated soil or the pumping out of large volumes of groundwater. The goal was simple: to find a method that would work quickly, safely, and under the actual conditions of the affected site.</p><h4><strong>Benzene Remediation: Technically Simple, Complicated in Practice</strong></h4><p>Benzene is a highly toxic and carcinogenic substance that rapidly penetrates into groundwater in permeable subsoil, where it dissolves and spreads further as the water flows toward surface water bodies. Benzene also binds to rock particles and migrates in the form of vapors into overlying unconsolidated layers.</p><p>Scientists in Liberec therefore tested <i>in situ </i>chemical oxidation (ISCO) technology under laboratory conditions. The goal was to find an oxidant capable of breaking down benzene directly underground into less hazardous substances.</p><p>The tests evaluated two main options:<strong> activated hydrogen peroxide and sodium peroxodisulfate</strong>. Both substances removed up to<strong> 99.99% of the benzene</strong>, but there was a difference in their kinetics and impacts on the natural environment. Activated hydrogen peroxide achieved nearly complete degradation of the contaminant within a single day. Activated sodium peroxodisulfate was slower and also significantly altered the chemistry of the water; it acidified the environment and increased the sulfate content in the water, which poses an additional environmental burden.</p><p>For field applications, the researchers therefore unequivocally recommended <strong>activated hydrogen peroxide</strong>.</p><h4><strong>Dosage Matters</strong></h4><p>It was not just the oxidant’s effectiveness that was key. It was equally important to determine how the chemical reaction would behave in a real geological environment. The team of scientists therefore also analyzed what is known as <strong>soil oxidant consumption (SOD)</strong>. It turned out that a significant portion of the oxidizing agent does not react solely with benzene but is also consumed to a significant extent by the rock environment itself, particularly by natural organic substances present in the fine-grained fraction of the soil.</p><p>An oxidant consumption value was determined specifically for the local composition of the aquifers, which is essential for the correct dosing of chemicals in the field so that the remediation is not only effective but also economically viable and safe for surrounding ecosystems.</p><h4><strong>One Year After the Accident: Research Turns into Real-World Assistance</strong></h4><p>While the public often perceives university science as a distant world of laboratories and grant projects, it is precisely situations like this that demonstrate its practical impact. The results of the work by researchers at CXI TUL did not remain confined to academic studies but directly influenced decisions regarding the technology used to clean up one of the largest environmental accidents in recent years.</p>

Science on the Front Lines: Cleanup of a Benzene Spill

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The Institute for Nanomaterials, Advanced Technologies and Innovations of the Technical University of Liberec, also known as CXI TUL, was founded in 2009. Our mission is to support TUL's long-term vision of collaboration with industry and innovation.

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Thermo Scientific SureSTART Vials and Well Plates Collection

Start your analysis with confidence using SureSTART vials, caps, well plates, and kits—offering full compatibility, quality materials, and performance across three levels.

<h4><strong>Streamlined choice. Trusted quality.</strong></h4><p><strong>Start your analysis with confidence using Thermo Scientific™ SureSTART™ vials, caps, inserts, well plates, mats, and certified kits designed to meet your analytical, regulatory, and performance requirements. With full instrument compatibility, high material quality, and consistent performance across three defined levels, the SureSTART collection offers a smarter way to choose the right sample containment solution for your workflow.</strong></p><h3><strong>Why choose SureSTART?</strong></h3><ul><li><strong>Proven reliability</strong>: Every product is manufactured and certified to meet physical specifications—no weak links in your workflow.</li><li><strong>Clear selection</strong>: Three performance levels help you balance sensitivity, robustness, and cost, now visually marked with one, two, or three waves on the vial.</li><li><strong>Universal compatibility</strong>: Designed for seamless integration with all major GC, HPLC/UHPLC, and MS autosamplers across all vendors.</li><li><strong>Certified cleanliness</strong>: Products are manufactured using the purest glass and plastics with low extractables and leachables, including GOLD-grade and silanized glass.</li><li><strong>Maximum sample integrity</strong>: Minimize analyte loss and background peaks with precision-engineered sealing, surface chemistry, and material composition.</li><li><strong>Bulk savings &amp; simplified inventory</strong>: Available in multiple pack sizes, performance levels, and formats to support your lab’s needs and budget.</li></ul><h3><strong>The Three Performance Levels</strong></h3><ul><li><strong>Level 1 – Everyday analysis</strong>: For general-purpose GC/HPLC detection (e.g. UV/Vis, FID, RI). These chromatography-approved products are ideal for routine analyses with cost-efficiency in mind.</li><li><strong>Level 2 – High-throughput analysis</strong>: Designed for regulated labs requiring robust and reproducible data, especially when using MS detectors for routine quantification.</li><li><strong>Level 3 – High performance</strong>: For the most sensitive and selective analyses near the method detection limit. Packed in cleanroom environments and made with ultra-pure materials for maximum sample security and MS compatibility.</li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Scientific_Sure_START_Vials_and_Well_Plates_Collection_5a8b0da936.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific SureSTART Vials and Well Plates Collection: Three performance levels help you balance sensitivity, robustness, and cost, now visually marked with one, two, or three waves on the vial." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Scientific_Sure_START_Vials_and_Well_Plates_Collection_5a8b0da936.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1182" height="270"></p><h3><strong>SureSTART Certified Vial and Cap Kits</strong></h3><ul><li><strong>Specification Certified</strong>: Routine analyses – Certified for physical specifications; no individual certificate.</li><li><strong>LC/GC Certified</strong>: Chromatography-grade – Tested for 15 physical parameters with LC-UV &amp; GC-FID; certificate included.</li><li><strong>MSCERT</strong>: For LC-MS/GC-MS – Certified low-adsorption kits tested with MS; includes SureStop™ vials with AVCS™ caps.</li><li><strong>MSCERT+</strong>: For trace-level MS or DIA – Pre-cleaned, tested with LC-MS/GC-MS, and sold only as kits to ensure purity.</li><li><strong>Application Certified</strong>: Pre-matched kits for specific instruments or validated applications.</li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Scientific_Sure_START_Vials_and_Well_Plates_Collection_2_fef6049d71.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific SureSTART Vials and Well Plates Collection: There are several factors to consider when choosing a vial or well plate for your application. The table below will help guide you through this process to determine what type of product/performance level is most suitable for your application requirements." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Scientific_Sure_START_Vials_and_Well_Plates_Collection_2_fef6049d71.jpg 204w," sizes="100vw" width="1515" height="1159"></p><h3><strong>SureSTART Well Plates and Mats</strong></h3><p>Thermo Scientific™ WebSeal™ well plates are ideal for laboratories seeking to increase autosampler capacity, reduce solvent usage, and streamline high-throughput workflows. Available in <strong>96- and 384-well formats</strong>, they offer a certified alternative to traditional vials and are fully compatible with automated SPE/SLE platforms.</p><ul><li><strong>Space-saving efficiency</strong>: Replace vials with well plates to increase sample capacity up to 8× and reduce storage footprint.</li><li><strong>Flexible performance levels</strong>:<ul><li><strong>Level 1: Standard plates for routine</strong>, non-regulated use (GC-tested).</li><li><strong>Level 2: Low-bleed plates and high-performance mats</strong>, validated for LC-MS/GC-MS.</li><li><strong>Level 3: Premium WebSeal Plate+</strong> with glass-coated plastic wells—ideal for trace analytes and protein adsorption control.</li></ul></li><li><strong>Solvent stability and clean sample contact</strong>: WebSeal Plate+ uses nanolayered silicon dioxide for minimal extractables and ultra-low adsorption.</li><li><strong>Compatible sealing options</strong>:<ul><li><strong>Silicone mats: </strong>For long-term storage and consistent results.</li><li><strong>Pre-slit mats: </strong>For autosampler injection without evaporation or contamination.</li><li><strong>Adhesive seals: </strong>For single-use workflows and re-sealing options with cavity protection.</li></ul></li></ul><p>Whether you work with polar solvents, proteins, or trace-level analyses, SureSTART well plates and sealing accessories help you optimize throughput, precision, and data confidence across all chromatography workflows.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Scientific_Sure_START_Vials_and_Well_Plates_Collection_3_abce3dd960.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific SureSTART Vials and Well Plates Collection: Selecting the perfect Thermo Scientific WebSeal well plates and mats for your chromatography requirements is easy using our selector tools and resources." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Scientific_Sure_START_Vials_and_Well_Plates_Collection_3_abce3dd960.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1516" height="902"></p>

Thermo Scientific QuEChERS Sample Preparation Kits

QuEChERS is a versatile sample preparation method for analyzing pesticides, veterinary drugs, and other residues in various sample types before GC-MS or LC-MS analysis.

<div><div><div><h3><strong>QuEChERS sample preparation—now easier, more convenient, and affordable</strong></h3><p><strong>QuEChERS</strong> (<strong><u>Q</u></strong><u>u</u>ick, <strong><u>E</u></strong>asy, <strong><u>C</u></strong>heap, <strong><u>E</u></strong>ffective, <strong><u>R</u></strong>ugged, and <strong><u>S</u></strong>afe)is a <strong>sample preparation method</strong> that was initially developed in 2003 for <strong>analyzing veterinary drugs in food</strong>. The method was also tested for <strong>pesticide residue analysis in plant material</strong> with great success. In 2003, the <strong>detailed method was published</strong> in the journal AOAC International. Since then, the QuEChERS method has evolved into a <strong>sample preparation technique used on a variety of analytes</strong> in an <strong>expanding number of sample types</strong> before analysis by <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/cz/en/home/industrial/mass-spectrometry/gas-chromatography-mass-spectrometry-gc-ms.html"><strong>GC-MS</strong></a><strong> or </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/cz/en/home/industrial/mass-spectrometry/liquid-chromatography-mass-spectrometry-lc-ms.html"><strong>LC-MS</strong></a>.</p><p><strong>Thermo Scientific QuEChERS kits</strong> contain <strong>pre-packaged, ready-weighed salts, sorbents, and buffers</strong> to <strong>streamline your workflow</strong> and <strong>minimize the potential for error</strong>. The kits are grouped according to your <strong>analytes of interest</strong>, <strong>sample matrix</strong>, and <strong>preferred QuEChERS method</strong>:</p><ul><li><strong>Original 2003 Method</strong></li><li><strong>AOAC 2007.01 Method</strong></li><li><strong>EN 15662 Method</strong></li><li><strong>NY/T 1380-2007 Method</strong></li></ul><p><strong>Complete packages</strong>—including both <strong>extraction and clean-up kits</strong>—are available. <strong>Extraction-only and cleanup-only kits</strong> are also offered to suit your laboratory’s sample preparation needs. These <strong>pre-packaged kits save time and money</strong>, make QuEChERS procedures <strong>easier and more convenient</strong>, and ensure <strong>quality to yield reproducible results</strong> and <strong>excellent recoveries</strong> for a wide variety of analytes.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Scientific_Qu_E_Ch_ERS_Sample_Preparation_Kits_2_1e99f0c81b.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific QuEChERS Sample Preparation Kits" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Scientific_Qu_E_Ch_ERS_Sample_Preparation_Kits_2_1e99f0c81b.jpg 217w," sizes="100vw" width="891" height="640"></p><h3><strong>Typical QuEChERS workflow</strong></h3><div><div><div><div><div><p>As shown in the workflow diagram below, the <strong>QuEChERS method has four basic steps</strong>:</p><ol><li><strong>Homogenize sample</strong> (fruit or vegetable)</li><li><strong>Extract analytes of interest</strong> from a sample using <strong>extraction salts</strong> (pesticide residues, veterinary drugs, and/or mycotoxins)</li><li><strong>Clean-up the resulting supernatant</strong> using <strong>dispersive solid phase extraction (dSPE)</strong></li><li><strong>Analyze by GC-MS or LC-MS</strong></li></ol><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Scientific_Qu_E_Ch_ERS_Sample_Preparation_Kits_496491ceff.jpeg" alt="Thermo Scientific QuEChERS Sample Preparation Kits" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Scientific_Qu_E_Ch_ERS_Sample_Preparation_Kits_496491ceff.jpeg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1170" height="706"></p><div><h3><strong>QuEChERS products</strong></h3></div><div><h4><strong>QuEChERS extraction kits for original 2003 method</strong></h4></div><div><p>The <strong>original QuEChERS method</strong> (Anastassiades et al, 2003) was developed by <strong>Steven J. Lehotay and Michelangelo Anastassiades</strong> in 2003 for the <strong>determination of pesticide residues in fruits and vegetables</strong>. The original method was created to <strong>analyze non-base-sensitive compounds</strong> and uses a <strong>sodium chloride buffer</strong> to <strong>reduce polar interferences</strong> and <strong>enhance extraction</strong>. <strong>Buffering</strong> is an important part of the QuEChERS procedure because it <strong>allows for analysis of pesticides and other residues</strong> that display <strong>pH dependence in their recoveries</strong>, depending on the <strong>sample matrix</strong>. <strong>Three different extraction kits</strong> are available to support the <strong>original 2003 QuEChERS method</strong>.</p><h5><strong>Chemicals used in the original 2003 method</strong></h5></div><ul><li><strong>Acetonitrile:</strong> Used to perform single-phase extraction (SPE) on a sample</li><li><strong>Anhydrous MgSO₄:</strong> Induces phase separation between water content in sample and acetonitrile layer during liquid-liquid partitioning step; removes remaining water from sample during dispersive solid phase extraction (dSPE) step</li><li><strong>NaCl:</strong> Induces phase separation between water content in sample and acetonitrile layer during liquid-liquid partitioning step; removes residual water from sample; reduces polar interference and enhances extraction</li><li><strong>PSA:</strong> Primary secondary amine, used to remove polar matrix components, citric co-extractives, and free fatty acids, from sample during dispersive solid phase extraction (dSPE) step</li></ul><div><h4><strong>QuEChERS extraction and clean-up kits for AOAC 2007.01 method</strong></h4><p>The <strong>AOAC 2007.01 QuEChERS Method</strong> was developed by <strong>Steven J. Lehotay and his co-workers</strong>, who <strong>modified the original 2003 method</strong> to accommodate the use of <strong>acetate buffering at higher concentration</strong> for <strong>greater buffering strength</strong>. <strong>Buffering</strong> is an important part of the QuEChERS procedure because it <strong>allows for analysis of pesticides and other residues</strong> that display <strong>pH dependence in their recoveries</strong>, depending on the <strong>sample matrix</strong>. These <strong>extraction and clean-up products</strong> here support the <strong>AOAC 2007.01 method</strong>.</p><div><h5><strong>Chemicals used in the AOAC 2007.01 method</strong></h5><ul><li><strong>Acetonitrile:</strong> Used to perform single-phase extraction on a sample</li><li><strong>Anhydrous MgSO₄:</strong> Induces phase separation between water content in sample and acetonitrile layer during liquid-liquid partitioning step; removes remaining water from sample during dispersive solid phase extraction (dSPE) step</li><li><strong>NaOAc:</strong> Buffers the sample to stabilize pH</li><li><strong>PSA:</strong> Primary secondary amine, used to remove polar matrix components, citric co-extractives, and free fatty acids, from sample during dispersive solid phase extraction (dSPE) step</li><li><strong>C18:</strong> Removes fats, sterols, and other non-polar interferences from sample</li><li><strong>GCB:</strong> Graphitized carbon black, removes pigment (<i>not recommended for use with planar pesticides</i>)</li></ul><div><h4><strong>QuEChERS extraction and clean-up kits for EN 15662 method</strong></h4><p>The <strong>extraction and clean-up products</strong> here support the <strong>EN 15662 method</strong>. <strong>Widely used in Europe</strong>, the EN 15662 method was developed by <strong>Michelangelo Anastassiades and co-workers</strong>, who <strong>modified the original 2003 method</strong> to accommodate the use of <strong>citrate buffering at a relatively low buffering capacity</strong>. This variation uses a <strong>sodium chloride buffer</strong> to <strong>minimize polar interferences</strong> in addition to <strong>sodium citrate dihydrate</strong> and <strong>disodium citrate sesquihydrate buffers</strong>. <strong>Buffering</strong> is an important part of the QuEChERS procedure because it <strong>allows for analysis of pesticides and other residues</strong> that display <strong>pH dependence in their recoveries</strong>, depending on the <strong>sample matrix</strong>.</p><h5><strong>Chemicals used in the EN 15662 method</strong></h5><ul><li><strong>Acetonitrile:</strong> Used to perform single-phase extraction on a sample</li><li><strong>Anhydrous MgSO₄:</strong> Induces phase separation between water content in sample and acetonitrile layer during liquid-liquid partitioning step; removes remaining water from sample during dispersive solid phase extraction (dSPE) step</li><li><strong>NaCl:</strong> Induces phase separation between water content in sample and acetonitrile layer during liquid-liquid partitioning step; removes residual water from sample</li><li><strong>Trisodium Citrate:</strong> Buffers the sample to stabilize pH</li><li><strong>Disodium Citrate Sesquihydrate:</strong> Buffers the sample to stabilize pH</li><li><strong>PSA:</strong> Primary secondary amine, used to remove polar matrix components, citric co-extractives, and free fatty acids, from sample during dispersive solid phase extraction (dSPE) step</li><li><strong>C18:</strong> Removes fats, sterols, and other non-polar interferences from sample</li><li><strong>GCB:</strong> Graphitized carbon black, removes pigment (<i>not recommended for use with planar pesticides</i>)</li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Scientific_Qu_E_Ch_ERS_Sample_Preparation_Kits_3_721562526f.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific QuEChERS Sample Preparation Kits" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Scientific_Qu_E_Ch_ERS_Sample_Preparation_Kits_3_721562526f.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1471" height="488"></p><div><h4><strong>QuEChERS clean-up kit for NY/T 1380-2007 method</strong></h4></div><div><p>The <strong>NY/T 1380-2007 method</strong> is <strong>recommended by China Ministry of Agriculture</strong> for the <strong>QuEChERS Method sample preparation</strong> of <strong>51 specific pesticide residues</strong> in <strong>fruits and vegetables</strong> with <strong>analysis by GC-MS</strong>.</p><h5><strong>Chemicals used in the NY/T 1380-2007 method</strong></h5><ul><li><strong>Anhydrous MgSO₄:</strong> Induces phase separation between water content in sample and acetonitrile layer during liquid-liquid partitioning step; removes remaining water from sample during dispersive solid phase extraction (dSPE) step</li><li><strong>PSA:</strong> Primary secondary amine, used to remove polar matrix components, citric co-extractives, and free fatty acids, from sample during dSPE step</li><li><strong>C18:</strong> Removes fats, sterols, and other non-polar interferences from sample</li></ul></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>

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