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

Let’s call a PT scheme a PT scheme!

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

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

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

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

Article

Events

Academy

Video

Software

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

Recent Advances in Food Analysis (RAFA)

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

Eurachem

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

James Little/Mass Spec Interpretation Services

Wasson GC O-FID Oxygenated Components in Gasoline Analyzer

Using an Agilent Technologies 8890 with custom Wasson-ECE hardware, this instrument rapidly determines oxygenate components in motor fuels.

Approved for determining oxygenates in gasoline and other motor fuels by ASTM D5599 and EN 1601
The determination of oxygenates in motor fuels is an important mandate of the reformulated fuels program. To meet this goal, the United States Environmental Protection Agency approved the use of Oxygenate Flame Ionization Detector (O-FID) analysis in preference to other analyses currently used by the fuels industry.
<h5>Oxygen Selectivity</h5>
Using an Agilent Technologies 8890 GC with custom Wasson-ECE hardware, this instrument rapidly determines oxygenate components in motor fuels. A single injection is introduced onto a capillary column which separates oxygenate components in boiling point order. A cracking reactor converts hydrocarbons into elemental carbon, and oxygenated compounds into carbon monoxide. A methanizer then further converts the carbon monoxide into methane before eluting to the FID detector.
Because hydrocarbons never make it to the detector, this method completely eliminates problems with hydrocarbon interferences.
<h5>Single GC 8890 Instrument Configurations:</h5>
<ul>
<li>ASTM D5599 or EN1601 - Oxygenates in gasoline and other motor fuels by O-FID.
</li>
<li>O-FID with D3606 - Oxygenates by O-FID per ASTM D5599 and benzene and toluene in motor fuels by FID per ASTM D3606
</li>
<li>O-FID with D4815 - Oxygenates by O-FID per ASTM D5599 and oxygenates by FID per ASTM D4815
</li>
<li>O-FID with D4815 and D3606 - Oxygenates by O-FID per ASTM D5599, oxygenates by FID per D4815, and benzene and toluene by FID per ASTM D3606
</li>
</ul>
<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Altium_International_Wasson_O_FID_GC_analyzator_kyslikatych_latek_Ukazkovy_chromatogram_z_O_FI_Du_32e439263e.jpg" alt="Wasson: Example chromatogram from O-FID GC system"/>
<h5>Simple to Use and Operate</h5>
The Wasson-ECE O-FID has been engineered to provide long life and require infrequent service. When replacement of the cracking reactor or methanizer is necessary, the task can be accomplished in under one hour, including instrument equilibration time.
<h5>Precise Analyses</h5>
Repeatibility tests yield relative standard deviations (RSD) of approximately 1% by weight over a series of 10 runs for all major oxygenated components. The O-FID response is linear over four orders of magnitude. An automated injection device is recommended to provide the most reliable means of repeatable injection.
<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Altium_International_Wasson_O_FID_GC_analyzator_kyslikatych_latek_Opakovatelnost_mereni_51c93d3988.jpg" alt="Wasson: GC O-FID Oxygenated Components in Gasoline Analyzer - Repeatibility tests"/>

Wasson-ECE GC RGA Refinery Gas Analyzers

Wasson-ECE Refinery Gas Analyzers (RGA) are an integral part of any HPI lab. 

Wasson-ECE Refinery Gas Analyzers (RGA) are an integral part of any HPI lab. These instruments often carry the heaviest sample loads because of the critical information they provide. RGAs provide valuable information regarding plant operation, unit optimization, and quality control. Our RGA systems are designed for flexibility while maintaining the accurate and repeatable results our clients have come to expect.
As a premier channel partner of Agilent Technologies, Wasson-ECE extends the capabilities of the 8890 Gas Chromatograph to meet key requirements of refinery gas analysis. The Wasson-ECE RGA incorporates our specially designed auxiliary oven, which holds up to five additional rotary valves and six columns, extending the analysis capabilities far beyond traditional methods.
At Wasson-ECE we strive to produce a product that is innovative and state-of-the-art to help our customers overcome their analytical challenges. The flexibility of our RGA systems can ease bench space issues by combining analyses into a single instrument while maintaining an easy to service system with minimal downtime.
<h3>RGA Features</h3>
<ul>
<li>Complete range of analyzers for refinery and other petroleum gases and liquids
</li>
<li>vIncludes method development, selection of valves, and columns** in all configurations
</li>
<li>Dual TCDs and a single FID for the simultaneous analysis of fixed gases and hydrocarbons
</li>
<li>Wasson-ECE Auxiliary Oven which provides a second thermal zone
</li>
<li>Customized reports including calculations for mole %, weight %, or volume %, and calorific value available
</li>
<li>Optional liquid sampling valves or On-board Vaporizer expands the analytical capabilities to liquefied gases
</li>
<li>Optional fourth detector available on all Super RGA configurations
</li>
</ul>
<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Altium_International_Wasson_RGA_GC_analyzator_rafinerskych_plynu_Wasson_ECE_Moznosti_konfigurace_RGA_17545e3d4c.jpg" alt="Wasson: Wasson-ECE RGA Configuration Options"/>
<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Altium_International_Wasson_RGA_GC_analyzator_rafinerskych_plynu_Ukazkovy_chromatogram_standardni_RGA_1b72a88528.jpg" alt="Wasson: 383-Standard Refinery Gas Analysis"/>
<h3>Wasson-ECE Super RGA</h3>
Wasson-ECE has the unique ability to add a fourth detector to the GC, building our Super RGA series of analyzers. The additional detector expands the analytical capabilities of the standard RGA to accommodate applications such as sulfurs, oxygenates, heavy hydrocarbons, and trace CO/CO₂. This increased flexibility in configurations can reduce the number of GC’s used in a lab, saving clients valuable bench space and time.
<h5>Performance Guarantee</h5>
From hardware to analysis we stand behind our quoted application. Prior to shipping the instrument, chromatograms are submitted for customer approval. Performance is guaranteed to the clients actual sample, not just a generic standard. Any problems with the application during the first year are covered under warranty for an unparalleled performance guarantee.
<h3>The Wasson-ECE Turn-key Process</h3>
<h5>Sales</h5>
<ul>
<li>Application designed to customer&#39;s requirements</li>
</ul>
<h5>Factory Application</h5>
<ul>
<li>Method development and application setup</li>
<li>Customer samples are run to verify performance</li>
<li>Chromatograms are sent for client approval</li>
<li>Factory acceptance training if desired</li>
</ul>
<h5>Installation</h5>
<ul>
<li>Experienced Wasson Field Service Technician</li>
<li>Analysis of client’s real world samples</li>
<li>Calibration and familiarization</li>
</ul>
<h5>Customer Satisfaction</h5>
<ul>
<li>Follow up after installation</li>
<li>Knowledgeable and responsive service team</li>
<li>Optional preventative maintenance visits or service contracts</li>
</ul>
<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Altium_International_Wasson_RGA_GC_analyzator_rafinerskych_plynu_Ukazkove_chromatogramy_Super_RGA_c62a4d715e.jpg" alt="Wasson: Example chromatograms (Super RGA)"/>

Wasson GC DHA Hydrocarbon Expert software

DHA analysis easy and simple. Efficient analysis is now even more efficient. Hydrocarbon Expert software.

Wasson-ECE Dragon DHA is a fast, easy to use application for the detailed hydrocarbon analysis of petroleum products by high efficiency gas chromatography. Dragon DHA uses a convenient, graphical interface to provide a one-screen display for visually observing the chromatogram and manipulating the data calculations in order to obtain the optimum results for analysis and data presentation.
<h3>Dragon DHA Includes:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Quick database creation.
</li>
<li>Fast peak identification and results processing.
</li>
<li>“Unknown” tab lists unidentified peaks in order of concentration.
</li>
<li>“Unknown indexer” takes the user directly to the unknown peak for identification.
</li>
<li>Unique dashboard feature continuously presents the user with all calculated results and instantly recalculates when changes are made.
</li>
<li>Hydrocarbon group-type filtering.
</li>
<li>Full preview and printing of reports.
</li>
<li>Results are bound with chromatographic data for instant retrieval and archiving. 
</li>
<li>Original files and data are never affected (CFR Part 11/ISO 17025).
</li>
<li>Result files are saved as netCDF (.AIA) format files and can be accessed by any third-party application that supports reading .AIA file format.
</li>
<li>Result files work as fully functional reference databases.
</li>
<li>Full reports are stored with results for easy retrieval without reprocessing.
</li>
</ul>
<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Altium_International_Wasson_Obrazek_1_Diagram_casti_DHA_chromatogramu_s_identifikovanymi_a_neidentifikovanymi_piky_b50386d9b9.jpg" alt="Wasson: Diagram of the part of the DHA chromatogram with identified and unidentified peaks. Hydrocarbon Expert greatly simplifies the identification of components by comparing the measured chromatogram with a reference."/>
<h3>Wasson-ECE Dragon DHA Software</h3>
Wasson-ECE Instrumentation Dragon DHA software uses integrated chromatographic data from commercial GC data systems, i.e. ChromPerfect, EZ Chrome, ChemStation. In fact, any GC data system capable of AIA (ANDI) file output is compatible with Dragon DHA.
<h3>Chemical and Physical Property Calculations</h3>
<ul>
<li>Vapor pressure</li>
<li>Oxygenate content</li>
<li>Relative density</li>
<li>Average molecular weight</li>
<li>Calculated research octane number</li>
<li>% carbon, % hydrogen</li>
<li>Calculated bromine number</li>
<li>Mass% and vol% multi-substituted ring aromatics</li>
<li>Total boiling point distribution</li>
<li>Wt%, vol%, mole% of group types by carbon number</li>
<li>Wt%, vol%, mole% of individual components</li>
</ul>
<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Altium_International_Wasson_Obrazek_5_V_software_lze_porovnavat_neomezeny_pocet_signalu_a_reportu_Srovnani_lze_provest_na_jakekoli_urovni_od_shrnuti_dle_skupin_po_vlastni_vypocty_9c06f36d16.jpg" alt="Wasson: An unlimited number of signals and reports can be compared in the software. Comparisons can be made at any level, from group summaries to custom calculations."/>

Wasson Pressurized Liquid Auto-sampler (LS100B)

Wasson-ECE Liquid Auto-Sampler (LS100B) offers laboratory automation for pressurized liquid samples such as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and natural gas liquids (NGL).

Wasson-ECE Liquid Auto-Sampler (LS100B) offers laboratory automation for pressurized liquid samples such as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and natural gas liquids (NGL).
The LS100B uses inert gases to maintain pressure so that the sample remains in the liquid state at ambient temperature as it passes to the GC for analysis.
The LS100B accommodates up to nine sample cylinders with 1/4 inch tube, VCO, or quick connect fittings. These fittings hold the sample cylinders vertically, ensuring that samples are drawn from the bottom of the cylinder.
<h4>Pressurized Liquid Auto-sampler Features</h4>
<ul>
<li>Purges automatically with carrier gas between each sample run
</li>
<li>Remote-starts the GC and the data recording software such as ChemStation™
</li>
<li>Adds a date/time stamp to all samples
</li>
<li>Holds up to nine 3.5 inch / 8.9 cm diameter sample cylinders
</li>
<li>Works with standard open or floating-piston sample cylinders
</li>
<li>Pauses automatically when it detects that the GC is not running or not ready
</li>
<li>Can interrupt the scheduled sample sequence to process a priority sample
</li>
</ul>

Wasson Dynamic Blender for GC (DB302)

The Dynamic Blender is a portable gas blending device that dilutes a sample or a certified standard with a matrix gas of choice.

Gas chromatography (GC) analyses often include trace level detection of components requiring samples or standards at low concentrations. Some analytes are expensive or difficult to purchase at low levels due to reactivity, adsorption, or high molecular weight. Analyses may also cover a wide concentration range, requiring multi-point calibration.
The Wasson-ECE Dynamic Blender (DB302) provides a simple solution to these calibration needs. The Dynamic Blender is a portable gas blending device that dilutes a sample or a certified standard with a matrix gas of choice. One certified standard with concentrations at the upper limit of the desired calibration curve can be diluted to a lower level (&gt;2 orders of magnitude lower) to create a full calibration curve.
An inert flow path and heated bridge eliminate adsorption and condensation problems when blending gas standards that include sulfur, nitrogen, and other reactive compounds.
An on-board flow controller allows the diluent gas flow to be controlled digitally and samples are fed directly to a gas chromatograph. The Dynamic Blender eliminates the need to purchase and store multiple gas cylinders and provides an easy, cost-effective solution for gas phase calibration needs.
<h4>Dynamic Blender Features</h4>
<ul>
<li>Approximately 100 pre-programmed pure diluent gases and mixtures and twenty user configurable diluent mixture slots.
</li>
<li>Maximum Diluent Pressure of 100 psi (leak tested to this pressure)
</li>
<li>Maximum Temperature of 150°C (operation verified at this temp.)
</li>
<li>Mass Flow Controller Range of 10 – 500 cc/min
</li>
<li>7 μm in-line gas filters (treated) are also provided
</li>
<li>Specially passivated tubing for trace reactive compounds (sulfurs, oxygenates, etc.)
</li>
</ul>
*This treatment is not suitable for samples with pH &gt; 8.0, so please notify your sales representative if you have high pH samples.

Wasson Variable Pressure Sampler (VPS)

The Variable Pressure Sampler (VPS) works in two ways to ensure the precision and accuracy of gas results.

The Variable Pressure Sampler (VPS) works in two ways to ensure the precision and accuracy of gas results. The first method is pressure correction, used to create uniform pressure among all injected samples and the calibration blend. The second method is multi-point calibration, which can deliver a calibration blend to the GC at various pressures.
The VPS pressure correction system performs a multi-step process that ensures samples and calibration blends are at uniform pressures when they are injected.
First, when the calibration blend is run through the GC, the VPS measures and stores the pressure of the calibration blend at the time of injection. Then, as each sample is injected at the stored pressure, the VPS adjusts the pressure of the sample to match the pressure of the calibration blend.
The inject pressure of the sample is reported to Agilent Technologies OpenLAB ChemStation software so calculations and quality control operations can be performed.
Using the VPS, calibration samples can be run at various pressures from a single standard. This decreases overall lab costs while ensuring greater accuracy in results. The multi-point calibration function allows testing for signal linearity at different pressures. With this feature, the user can easily pinpoint the range of pressures which generates the most accurate and meaningful results from the calibration standard.
<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Wassson_Variable_Pressure_Sampler_VPS_linearity_77314725d6.jpg" alt="Wassson: Variable Pressure Sampler (VPS) - linearity"/>

Wasson LPG Vaporizer (1107)

The LPG Vaporizer uses an innovative, proprietary technique to vaporize liquid samples for injection in an existing GC system.

The LPG Vaporizer uses an innovative, proprietary technique to vaporize liquid samples for injection in an existing GC system. This convenient laboratory system offers flexibility and accuracy for both gas and liquid samples.
The LPG Vaporizer is more convenient than a typical liquid sample valve with more accurate results. All liquid samples are vaporized and run at a constant pressure, eliminating sample density changes that cause errors in liquid phase samples. This ensures sharp, easy-to-read peaks for all samples.
The LPG Vaporizer is built with specially passivated parts for analyzing trace reactive analytes such as sulfurs and oxygenates.
Wasson-ECE&#39;s unique, proprietary vaporization technique produces an even and accurate gas sample. Other vaporizers use tubing with a large volume, causing samples to fractionate when vaporized. This can lead to incomplete sample analysis. The LPG Vaporizer controls the injection volume so that all elements in the liquid sample are vaporized and sent to the GC simultaneously, producing a complete and accurate analysis of the sample.
<h4>LPG Vaporizer Features</h4>
<ul>
<li>Inject liquid and gas samples with a single valve
</li>
<li>High sample throughput
</li>
<li>Purging technique reduces cross-contamination
</li>
<li>Ability to stop sample flow to the GC at any time
</li>
<li>Controlled injection volume
</li>
<li>4 ft. heated bridge from vaporizer to customer&#39;s GC sample valve to prevent sample re-condensing
</li>
</ul>

Comprehensive Hydrocarbon Group-Type Analysis by ASTM D8396 (GC×GC-FID)

At LabRulez, we deliver high-resolution quantification of hydrocarbon group types in complex fuel matrices using GC×GC-FID with thermal modulation, fully compliant with ASTM D8396. 

At LabRulez, we deliver high-resolution quantification of hydrocarbon group types in complex fuel matrices using GC×GC-FID with thermal modulation, fully compliant with ASTM D8396. This method is ideal for samples with boiling points between 36 °C and 451 °C, such as jet fuels, diesel, and synthetic blends.✔️ Detailed profiling of n-paraffins, iso-paraffins, naphthenes, and aromatics (one-ring, two+ rings) ✔️ Custom analysis options available—targeted compounds or stream-specific reporting upon request.This method provides precise and high-resolution profiling of hydrocarbon group types across a broad boiling range (36 °C to 451 °C). Using orthogonal GC×GC separation with polar and non-polar column chemistries, it offers unparalleled resolution of complex fuel matrices. Its performance has been validated through interlaboratory studies, making it ideally suited for quality assurance, process optimization, and regulatory compliance.ASTM D8396 quantifies key hydrocarbon classes—n-paraffins (up to C30), iso-paraffins, naphthenes, one-ring aromatics, and two-ring plus aromatics—with excellent repeatability across diverse fuel types. Results are generated using template-based quantification, ensuring consistency and reproducibility between samples and over time.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Precision_Range_wt_final_5079960ca7.jpg" alt="Table 1: Precision Range (wt. %)" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Precision_Range_wt_final_5079960ca7.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="631">This method may also be applied to other hydrocarbon types—such as benzene, toluene, and individual n-paraffins by carbon number—as well as alternative hydrocarbon streams. However, validated precision data is currently limited to the groups above.Targeted component analysis (e.g., BTEX, PAHs, or carbon-specific paraffins) and customized reporting are available upon request.<h5>Samples suitable for this technique include:</h5><ul><li>Jet fuel (Jet A, A-1, synthetic aviation fuels)</li><li>Paraffinic diesel and HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil)</li><li>Synthetic fuels (GTL, BTL, FT-diesel)</li><li>Gasoline and reformulated gasoline streams</li><li>Complex refinery intermediates with low olefin content</li></ul><h5>Sample Requirements and Logistics:</h5><ul><li>Sample Volume: 5 mL&nbsp;</li><li>Typical Turnaround: 3–5 business days</li></ul><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Comprehensive_Hydrocarbon_Group_Type_Analysis_by_ASTM_D8396_GC_GC_FID_aea925cd0a.jpg" alt="Comprehensive Hydrocarbon Group-Type Analysis by ASTM D8396 (GC×GC-FID)" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Comprehensive_Hydrocarbon_Group_Type_Analysis_by_ASTM_D8396_GC_GC_FID_aea925cd0a.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="600" height="267">

Thermo Scientific Prima PRO Process Mass Spectrometer

Thermo Scientific™ Prima PRO is a highly reliable process analyzer designed for fast, precise multi-stream analysis in industrial processes. It delivers high analytical accuracy, stability, and robust performance in demanding process control applications.

The Thermo Scientific™ Prima PRO Process Mass Spectrometer is a highly reliable and versatile gas analyzer designed for fast, precise, multi-stream gas analysis in industrial process environments. Utilizing scanning magnetic sector technology, the system delivers superior analytical accuracy, long calibration intervals, and strong resistance to contamination. These capabilities make it suitable for demanding process control applications across the chemical, petrochemical, biotechnology, semiconductor, and steel industries.The integrated Rapid Multi-Stream Sampler (RMS) inlet system enables selection from up to 127 process streams, allowing a single analyzer to replace multiple gas chromatographs while maintaining high sampling frequency. The intuitive touchscreen interface, configurable user permissions, and flexible model configurations support efficient operation, regulatory compliance, and scalable deployment across diverse industrial workflows.<h4>Key features</h4><ul><li>High-precision scanning magnetic sector technology for real-time gas analysis</li><li>Rapid Multi-Stream Sampling (RMS) system for up to 127 process streams</li><li>Programmable analytical methods with universal detector capability</li><li>Optional Variable Pressure Inlet (1000 mbar to 0.3 mbar) for flexible integration</li><li>Intuitive touchscreen interface with real-time data visualization</li><li>Advanced security with multi-role user permissions</li><li>Scalable configurations for diverse industrial applications</li></ul><h4>Technical specifications</h4><ul><li>Analysis time: 0.3–1.0 s per gas component</li><li>Analyzer type: Scanning laminated electromagnet, 6 cm radius, 80° deflection</li><li>Area classification: ATEX / IECEx / UKEx Zone 1 and Zone 2 T3</li><li>Detector: Faraday and optional Faraday/SEM dual detector</li><li>Dynamic range: 1 ppm – 100% (application dependent)</li><li>Power: 115/230 VAC</li><li>Precision: Better than 0.1% relative over 24 h</li><li>Resolution: Switchable collector slits; standard resolving powers 60 (1 mm) and 20 (4 mm); optional higher resolutions</li><li>Stability: Better than 10% relative over one month</li><li>User interface:&nbsp;<ul style="list-style-type:circle;"><li>Prima PRO 710:&nbsp;Color touchscreen GUI</li><li>Prima PRO 700:&nbsp;None (remote operation)</li></ul></li><li>Ambient temperature: 12–42 °C</li><li>Mass range: 1–200 amu</li></ul>

Wiley Mass Spectra of Geochemicals, Petrochemicals and Biomarkers

Mass Spectra of Geochemicals, Petrochemicals and Biomarkers features 1,093 high-quality spectra of well-defined compounds, with structures confirmed by methods like NMR and x-ray crystallography—ideal for organic, geo, and petrochemists.

<h4>Identify Key Biomarkers in Oil Exploration with Confidence</h4>The Mass Spectra of Geochemicals, Petrochemicals and Biomarkers library offers 1,093 high-quality spectra of well-defined compounds, ideal for organic, geo-, and petrochemical analysis. Structures were confirmed using techniques such as NMR and x-ray crystallography.Collected by J. W. de Leeuw’s team at NIOZ, the data supports studies on biomacromolecules, lipid diagenesis, and organic sulfur chemistry. Compounds were carefully purified and span classes such as hydrocarbons, terpenes, steroids, and sulfur/oxygen compounds.Highlights:<ul><li>1,093 spectra of &gt;1,080 unique compounds</li><li>Includes degradation products and diverse hydrocarbon types</li><li>Supports most major MS instrument formats</li></ul>Search compound coverage at: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.compoundsearch.com">www.compoundsearch.com</a>

Products - page 1

Related content

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

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

Let’s call a PT scheme a PT scheme!