Sample preparation is one of the most time-consuming steps in analytical workflows. Whether a lab is conducting forensic analyses, environmental testing, pharmaceutical development, or food safety analysis, researchers often face the challenge of concentrating samples before analysis. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/article/5392">Nitrogen blowdown evaporation</a> has become a widely used technique for this purpose because it is simple, efficient, and adaptable to a wide range of solvents. When preparing samples for evaporation, factors that play a major role in efficiency include: needle gauge and flow rate. Optimization of these parameters could aid in developing more effective solvent evaporation methods.At Organomation, all <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products?category=362&amp;manufacturerItems=540&amp;page=2">blowdown evaporators</a> come with standard 4-inch, 19-gauge stainless steel needles. This size has proven to be effective for most laboratory applications as it balances evaporation speed with nitrogen consumption while also accommodating for common sample tube sizes. For labs that need to process higher sample volumes, 16-gauge and 14-gauge needles are also available. All needles are constructed from 304 stainless steel and feature a luer lock fitting for easy attachment and removal from the nitrogen evaporator.Traditionally, Organomation has recommended using a straight 19-gauge needle with a flow rate of 0.33 L/min per sample. This setting works well for most solvents, but how could changing these parameters aid in increasing evaporation efficiency?<ul><li>Could switching to a larger gauge needle accelerate evaporation?</li><li>Does increasing nitrogen flow rate always improve efficiency, or are there trade-offs?</li><li>Can needle design modifications reduce splashing while maintaining faster drying times?</li></ul>To investigate this, a series of controlled trials using methanol as a representative solvent were conducted. The study compared evaporation rates across different needle gauges, flow rates, and needle shapes to provide practical insights for laboratories seeking to optimize their sample preparation methods.<h3>Needle Variations</h3>While straight stainless-steel needles are the standard for nitrogen blowdown evaporation, alternative needle shapes may influence how nitrogen interacts with the solvent surface. Two main modifications were tested in this study:<ul><li>Bent needles: Designed with either a short bend or a long bend near the end of the needle. The goal was to change the angle of nitrogen delivery to reduce splashing and improve solvent exposure.</li><li>Pseudo-spiral needles: Created by adding two bends to the bottom quarter of 19-gauge needles, forming it into a spiral-like curve. These were intended to generate a more turbulent nitrogen flow pattern, potentially enhancing evaporation.</li></ul>Both designs were hypothesized to improve evaporation efficiency by concentrating gas flow while minimizing sample loss.<h3>Experimental Design</h3>The study evaluated how needle gauge, needle modifications, and nitrogen flow rate influence methanol evaporation under controlled conditions. All experiments were conducted at both room temperature and 63 °C, the recommended bath temperature for methanol.<h4>Needle Gauge</h4><ul><li>Compared 19-, 16- and 14-gauge needle evaporation rates.&nbsp;</li><li>Used each needle’s recommended flow rate<ul><li>19 ga: 0.33 L/min</li><li>16 ga: 0.83 L/min</li><li>14 ga: 1.2 L/min</li></ul></li><li>Purpose: determine whether larger needle diameters accelerate evaporation relative to the standard 19-gauge configuration.</li></ul><h4>Needle Modifications</h4><ul><li>Compared straight needles to bent and pseudo-spiral designs.&nbsp;</li><li>19- and 16-gauge needles were modified to have a short bend or long bend on the end of the needle.&nbsp;</li><li>Additional pseudo-spiral designs of the 19-gauge needles were created by bending the lower quarter of the needle into two spiral shapes.&nbsp;</li><li>Purpose: evaluate whether altering gas flow direction could improve evaporation rates.</li></ul><h4>Flow Rate Variation</h4><ul><li>Increased the nitrogen flow rate past original recommendations.</li><li>Used the recommended flow rate for 16-gauge needles on the 19-gauge bent needles.</li><li>Used the recommended flow rate for 14-gauge needles on the 16-gauge bent needles.</li><li>Purpose assess whether higher flow rates improve efficiency and if pairing higher flow rates with bent needles can reduce splashing.</li></ul><h3>Results</h3><h4>Table 1. Different Needle Sizes - Methanol Evaporation Rate</h4><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Organomation_The_Effect_of_Needle_Gauge_and_Flow_Rate_on_Evaporation_Rate_2_17a8479b99.jpg" alt="Organomation: The Effect of Needle Gauge and Flow Rate on Evaporation Rate" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Organomation_The_Effect_of_Needle_Gauge_and_Flow_Rate_on_Evaporation_Rate_2_17a8479b99.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1237" height="224">The 14-gauge had the fastest evaporation rate, which was expected, as the standard flow rate for this size needle is the fastest. All needle sizes showed an increase in evaporation when using the heated water bath.<h4>Table 2. 19-gauge Needle - Methanol Evaporation Rates</h4><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Organomation_The_Effect_of_Needle_Gauge_and_Flow_Rate_on_Evaporation_Rate_3_01c176196e.jpg" alt="Organomation: The Effect of Needle Gauge and Flow Rate on Evaporation Rate" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Organomation_The_Effect_of_Needle_Gauge_and_Flow_Rate_on_Evaporation_Rate_3_01c176196e.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1473" height="346"><h4>Table 3. 16-gauge Needle - Methanol Evaporation Rates</h4><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Organomation_The_Effect_of_Needle_Gauge_and_Flow_Rate_on_Evaporation_Rate_4_ccd087323f.jpg" alt="Organomation: The Effect of Needle Gauge and Flow Rate on Evaporation Rate" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Organomation_The_Effect_of_Needle_Gauge_and_Flow_Rate_on_Evaporation_Rate_4_ccd087323f.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1473" height="222">The most effective needle shape for both the 19- and 16-gauge needles, without increasing nitrogen flow rate, proved to be the standard straight needles for both room temperature and heated water bath evaporation. There was a significant jump observed in the heated evaporation, especially in the 16-gauge needles, with over 75% increase. When comparing the short and long bend needle configurations, there were no significant differences, as the style with faster evaporation varied between trials.<h4>Table. 4 Methanol Evaporation Rates with Increased Flow Rates</h4><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Organomation_The_Effect_of_Needle_Gauge_and_Flow_Rate_on_Evaporation_Rate_5_4c4ba4d1d8.jpg" alt="Organomation: The Effect of Needle Gauge and Flow Rate on Evaporation Rate" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Organomation_The_Effect_of_Needle_Gauge_and_Flow_Rate_on_Evaporation_Rate_5_4c4ba4d1d8.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1524" height="388">At room temperature, bent needles showed only a slight improvement in evaporation rates compared to larger gauge straight needles at the same flow rates. However, under heated water bath conditions, needle gauge size played a more significant role. The larger-gauge straight needles achieved substantially higher evaporation rates than bent needles at comparable flow rates. This indicates that gauge size and flow rate have a stronger influence than needle shape when a heated water bath is used.<h3>Key Takeaways</h3><ul><li>19-gauge needles remain reliable, especially at higher-than-standard flow rates.</li><li>Flow rate is critical: higher flow rates generally increased evaporation speed, but also introduced challenges such as potential sample splashing</li><li>Heated baths amplify overall performance: all needles performed significantly better at 63 °C water baths than at room temperature.</li><li>Needle design benefits: bent needles showed potential in minimizing splashing. They allowed for increased flow rate and for the needle to be closer to the sample solution inside the tube.</li></ul><h3>Applying These Findings in Your Lab</h3>The results of this study show that needle gauge, flow rate, and needle design can all significantly influence evaporation speed. But how do these findings translate into day-to-day laboratory use?<ul><li>Stick with the standard setup for most workflows. For routine sample preparation, the 19-gauge needle at 0.33 L/min remains an ideal choice, offering reliable performance while minimizing nitrogen consumption.</li><li>If your lab works with high-volume samples or needs quicker turnaround, switching to a 16-gauge needle and increasing the flow rate from 0.83 L/min to 1.2 L/min could provide significant time savings especially when paired with a heated water bath.</li><li>Faster nitrogen delivery can improve speed, but it also increases the risk of sample loss. Start by slowly increasing flow rate, and then adjust needle position above the solvent surface to control splashing.</li><li>Consider using bent or spiral needles for reducing splashing while maintaining strong evaporation rates. While not always necessary, they may be helpful in some scenarios.</li></ul><h3>Conclusion</h3>For most applications, the standard 19-gauge, 0.33 L/min setting remains sufficient. However, labs working with high-volume samples or those needing faster evaporation can benefit from using 16-gauge needles at higher flow rates, especially when paired with a heated water bath. Needle modifications can help address the issue of sample splashing, although they have shown to decrease the rate of evaporation when compared to the standard straight needles of the same gauge. Ultimately, the choice of needle gauge and flow rate should balance speed, safety, and solvent conservation. These results provide a framework for labs looking to optimize their evaporation setup.<blockquote><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.organomation.com/contact">Contact our team</a> to discuss the best needle option and gas parameters for your application.</blockquote>

The Effect of Needle Gauge and Flow Rate on Evaporation Rate

How can we make the production of supercapacitors for energy storage more sustainable and replace the traditionally used but toxic solvent NMP (N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone)? According to scientists from CATRIN at Palacký University, the “green” solvents Cyrene and Tamisolve may be a suitable alternative. In an article published in the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1385894725130696?via%3Dihub#s0060">Chemical Engineering Journal</a>, they have shown that these solvents can be used in production without reducing the performance of the equipment. They thus offer a path to the next generation of sustainable, high-performance supercapacitors for industrial use.“Supercapacitors are one of the modern technologies for storing electric energy. As sustainable energy storage becomes more prominent, it is essential to replace the hazardous solvents used in the production of supercapacitor electrodes. Our study presents Cyrene and Tamisolve as environmentally friendly alternatives to the toxic solvent NMP, which is traditionally used in production. Both tested solvents enabled the preparation of electrodes that maintain high electrochemical performance while improving environmental compatibility,” said Michal Otyepka, corresponding author of the article.The electrodes were prepared using nitrogen-doped graphene as the active material in combination with two types of binders. The first was a common fluorinated binder (PVDF), which is widely used in industry, including in the manufacturing of battery electrodes. The researchers also tested a fluorine-free binder (PVP), which has a lower environmental impact and is more soluble in environmentally friendly solvents. Using various combinations, they monitored the performance and stability of the electrodes as well as their mechanical resistance.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CATRIN_Vedci_z_CATRIN_nabizeji_zelenejsi_cestu_pro_vyrobu_superkondenzatoru_443775296a.jpg" alt="CATRIN: CATRIN researchers offer a “greener” way to make supercapacitors" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CATRIN_Vedci_z_CATRIN_nabizeji_zelenejsi_cestu_pro_vyrobu_superkondenzatoru_443775296a.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1536" height="768">“The results showed that not only can the alternative solvents Cyrene and Tamisolve fully replace the toxic solvent NMP, but also that the prepared electrodes have the necessary mechanical properties. Their compatibility with both fluorinated PVDF and non-fluorinated PVP binders, together with excellent layer uniformity and electrochemical stability, makes them ideal for use in scalable applications. This is essential for industrial production,” said the publication’s first author, Ivan Dědek.Cyrene, or dihydrolevoglucosenone, is obtained from renewable biomass sources such as cellulose. Tamisolve (N-butyl-2-pyrrolidone) is a substance related to the commonly used NMP, but is more gentle on human health and the environment.Supercapacitor research has been a priority at CATRIN for almost ten years. In addition to developing new active materials, such as the successful nitrogen-doped graphene (SC-GN3), it also focuses on environmentally friendly and industrially feasible manufacturing processes. The replacement of toxic NMP with the “greener” solvents Cyrene and Tamisolve confirms that more sustainable production can go hand in hand with high performance and represents an important step towards industrial implementation.<blockquote><h4>The original article</h4><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1385894725130696?via%3Dihub#s0060">Toward transitioning to green and sustainable supercapacitors</a></h4>Ivan Dědek, Vojtěch Kupka, Veronika Šedajová, Petr Jakubec, Matěj Navrátil, Michal Otyepka&nbsp;Chemical Engineering Journal, 529, 2026, 172220<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cej.2025.172220">https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cej.2025.172220</a><h6>licensed under <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/">CC-BY 4.0</a></h6></blockquote><h4>Abstract</h4>The rapid advancement of supercapacitor technologies has intensified the demand for sustainable electrode fabrication methods that minimize environmental impact. A major challenge arises from the extensive use of the toxic solvent N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), which is subject to increasingly stringent regulatory restrictions. We demonstrate that NMP can be effectively replaced with two green solvents, dihydrolevoglucosenone (Cyrene) and N-butyl-2-pyrrolidone (Tamisolve), without compromising electrochemical performance. Electrode formulations were prepared using nitrogen-doped graphene as the active material, in combination with either polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), a widely employed fluorinated binder, or polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), a non-fluorinated alternative with improved environmental profile. Optimized coatings exhibited high mass loadings exceeding 6 mg cm−2 while maintaining strong adhesion to current collectors, an often overlooked yet critical parameter for scalable manufacturing. Electrochemical testing revealed that PVDF in Cyrene delivered an energy density of 66.6 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 1.85 kW kg−1, with excellent cycling stability, retaining 91 % of capacitance after 100,000 cycles. PVP in Cyrene provided a more environmentally benign alternative, achieving an energy density of 64.2 Wh kg−1 at 1.80 kW kg−1, with 78 % capacitance retention after 100,000 cycles, thereby highlighting the trade-off between performance and sustainability.

CATRIN researchers offer a “greener” way to make supercapacitors

🎤Dr. Kristen Vanderveen (Dr. Vanderveen's chemistry education content on YouTube: @<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.youtube.com/@drvchemistry">drvchemistry</a>)Dr. Kristen Vanderveen is a chemistry teacher at The Bromfield School with over 20 years of experience teaching high school chemistry, including AP Chemistry. Her background includes working as a protein chemist before transitioning to education.In this episode of Concentrating on Chromatography, David interviews his former high school chemistry teacher, Dr. Kristen Vanderveen from The Bromfield School, about teaching separation science at the high school level.Dr. Vanderveen shares her approach to introducing chromatography, filtration, and gravimetric analysis to both first-year chemistry students and AP Chemistry students. She discusses the hands-on experiments that work best in a high school setting, including paper chromatography with food dyes, TLC separations, and the challenges of balancing lab time with curriculum requirements.<h4>Topics discussed:</h4><ul><li>Separation methods taught in high school chemistry (filtration, paper chromatography, TLC)</li><li>Gravimetric analysis and precipitation experiments for AP Chemistry</li><li>Student engagement strategies and memorable lab activities</li><li>Balancing theoretical concepts with hands-on experimentation</li><li>Common student misconceptions about separation techniques</li><li>Preparing students for college-level chemistry courses</li></ul><h3>Video Transcription</h3><h4>How Separation Science Is Introduced in High School Chemistry</h4>Separation science may seem like an advanced topic associated mainly with research laboratories and analytical instrumentation, but its foundations are introduced much earlier. In this interview, chemistry teacher Kristen reflects on how separation methods are taught at the high school level, especially in AP Chemistry, and how these early experiences help prepare students for future studies in chemistry and related fields.<h4>Filtration and chromatography as core teaching tools</h4>According to Kristen, one of the most important separation techniques taught in high school chemistry is filtration, particularly through gravimetric analysis. In AP Chemistry, students are expected to understand how to form, isolate, dry, and weigh a precipitate, making filtration one of the most frequently practiced laboratory skills. These exercises help students connect separation techniques with stoichiometry, quantitative analysis, and proper laboratory handling.Another key topic is chromatography. Although AP Chemistry does not cover chromatography in great technical depth, students are introduced to important principles such as the stationary phase, mobile phase, solvent front, and Rf values. Kristen explains that these ideas are most effectively learned through hands-on experiments, which is why she regularly includes paper chromatography and, in some cases, thin-layer chromatography (TLC) in her classes.<h4>Hands-on experiments make the concepts real</h4>Among the most engaging classroom activities are chromatography labs based on food dyes and marker inks. Students may begin with a guided exercise to learn how to spot samples, prepare chromatography chambers, and compare separations under different solvent conditions. In more advanced versions of the experiment, they are asked to design their own solvent systems to optimize the separation of selected dyes and then present their findings in a small poster format.Kristen notes that these activities help students understand not only the scientific principle but also the practical challenges of separations. They quickly learn that details matter — for example, how sample spotting affects band shape, or how easy it is to make errors by placing the paper incorrectly in the solvent. These moments often become valuable “aha” experiences, showing students that experimental science requires patience, repetition, and careful observation.<h4>Balancing theory, time, and skill development</h4>One of the biggest challenges in teaching separation science at the high school level is limited classroom time. Modern school schedules, AP curriculum demands, and the need to teach many other foundational laboratory skills mean that only a few separation methods can be explored in depth. While students are introduced to concepts such as distillation, evaporation, and decanting, chromatography and filtration are the main techniques they actively practice.Kristen emphasizes that the goal is not to make students experts, but to ensure they leave high school with enough familiarity to succeed in college-level chemistry. If they have filtered a precipitate, seen chromatography in action, and understand that mixtures can be separated based on physical and chemical properties, then they are better prepared for more advanced topics such as separatory funnels, column chromatography, GC-MS, or LC-MS later in their education.<h4>Building the bridge to future chemistry careers</h4>The interview also highlights a broader point: high school chemistry is often the first point of contact students have with analytical thinking and laboratory separation methods. While they may not yet know about the full range of chromatographic and mass spectrometric techniques used in research and industry, these early lab experiences build the conceptual framework needed for future growth.Kristen also points out that students are often unaware of the many careers connected to analytical chemistry beyond academia. From teaching and research to applications science, instrument support, and industrial laboratories, separation science opens doors to a wide range of scientific paths. High school exposure may be basic, but it plays an important role in making those future possibilities accessible.<blockquote>This text has been automatically transcribed from a video presentation using AI technology. It may contain inaccuracies and is not guaranteed to be 100% correct.</blockquote><blockquote><h4>Concentrating on Chromatography Podcast</h4>Dive into the frontiers of chromatography, mass spectrometry, and sample preparation with host David Oliva. Each episode features candid conversations with leading researchers, industry innovators, and passionate scientists who are shaping the future of analytical chemistry. From decoding PFAS detection challenges to exploring the latest in AI-assisted liquid chromatography, this show uncovers practical workflows, sustainability breakthroughs, and the real-world impact of separation science. Whether you’re a chromatographer, lab professional, or researcher you'll discover inspiring content!You can find Concentrating on Chromatography Podcast in podcast apps:<ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://open.spotify.com/show/1wZg67rCjoGju4yhqxI3tL">Spotify</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://podcasts.apple.com/tz/podcast/concentrating-on-chromatography/id1788429185">Apple podcast</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://podscan.fm/podcasts/concentrating-on-chromatography">podscan</a></li></ul>and on <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.youtube.com/@ChromatographyTalk/videos">YouTube channel</a></blockquote>

Teaching Separation Science in High School

Article

Product

Academy

Video

Scientists

Scientific article

Interview

Science and research

The Czech Advanced Technology and Research Institute (CATRIN) at Palacký University is a cutting-edge scientific hub dedicated to advancing research in the fields of nanotechnology, biotechnology, and biomedicine. At its core, CATRIN boasts outstanding scientific teams, featuring international researchers. We emphasize interdisciplinarity, foster global collaborations, and work to translate our research findings into practical applications.

CATRIN

Organomation, founded in 1959, designs and manufactures high-quality nitrogen evaporators and extraction systems. Known for innovation and durability, their lab instruments are used globally for efficient sample preparation with strong customer support.

Organomation

New Food magazine

Separation Science

Metrohm

Markes International

LECO

Thermo Fisher Scientific

Waters Corporation

In today’s fast-paced food production environment, manufacturers need more than just data - they need the ability to act on it instantly. This webinar will explore how Process NIR technology can drive smarter, faster decisions on the production line by enabling real-time process control and automation.As food processors face mounting pressure to reduce waste, maintain consistency, and respond to supply chain variability, the shift toward smarter, data-integrated operations is accelerating. Inline technologies like Process NIR are no longer limited to quality monitoring—they’re becoming central to automation strategies and Industry 4.0 transformation. This session will provide context for that shift and show how producers can move from data collection to actionable control.The webinar will address key challenges such as inconsistent product quality, high raw material losses, and the gap between data visibility and real-time action. Many producers collect production data, but lack the systems or integration needed to turn it into automated process improvements.Attendees will gain insights into how Process NIR fits into automation workflows, supports closed-loop control, and contributes to profitability. The session will cover trends like Industry 4.0, smart manufacturing, and digital transformation in food processing, with actionable strategies for implementation.The speakers will share a real-world example of how one processor improved efficiency and process stability using inline NIR technology in a high-throughput production environment. This example highlights how real-time data was used to make automatic adjustments, leading to tangible results.The speakers will provide practical tips for integrating Process NIR into existing systems, discuss common automation pitfalls, and answer live audience questions. They’ll also highlight how to evaluate readiness for automation and identify where real-time process control can deliver the most value.Key learning points:<ul><li>Discover how real-time process data can drive automation and reduce manual intervention in food production</li><li>Understand the role of Process NIR in supporting smarter, more consistent process control</li><li>Learn how leading processors are integrating NIR into their automation strategies for measurable gains</li><li>Explore the connection between Process NIR and Industry 4.0 trends in food manufacturing</li><li>Hear a real-world example of improved efficiency and control using inline NIR in high-throughput conditions</li><li>Ask our expert speakers your questions and gain practical advice for starting or scaling your automation journey</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Egbert Stärk (Principal Sales Specialist EMEAI, Perten)Presenter: Christian Müller (Principal Product Specialist, Perten)&nbsp;</blockquote>

New Food Magazine: From insight to automation: taking control with Process NIR

From insight to automation: taking control with Process NIR

Join webinar to explore how Process NIR technology enables real-time process control and automation

It is critical to keep your lab current and one of the ways to achieve this is by leveraging new features and functionality. In this session, we will explore new and upcoming Empower Software features, including:<ul><li>Updated functionality to simplify workflows requiring more stringent technical controls</li><li>New features to support expanded workflows</li><li>New data processing features and options</li></ul>Please join us for a lively discussion as we explore this topic. &nbsp;As always, please bring your questions for this exclusive opportunity to ask our experts anything about using Empower Software.<blockquote>Presenter: Neil Lander (Principal Product Manager, Informatics, Waters Corporation)Neil has worked for Waters Corporation since 1994 and has held a variety of positions including Technical Support Specialist, Technical Trainer, Manager Customer Education and currently, Principal Marketing Manager focusing on Informatics solutions. He provides internal support for Empower Chromatography Data System and is focused on developing laboratory software solutions that help organizations achieve their scientific and operational objectives. Prior to joining Waters, he was an analytical chemist where he gained experience in both the cosmetics and specialty chemical industries.Presenter: Dr. Andy Meyer (Senior Application Scientist, Wyatt Technology)Dr. Andy Meyer joined Wyatt Technology in 2001, serving for several years as an Applications Scientist, then as Dean of Wyatt's "Light Scattering University" and as Director of Customer Service &amp; Support. After managing multiple regions in North America, Dr. Meyer is now a Senior Application Scientist for Wyatt. As a Wyatt customer, he completed his Ph.D. in Applied Science – Polymer Chemistry from the College of William and Mary in Virginia.</blockquote>

Waters Corporation: Empower Tips: Ask Me Anything About What's New in Empower Software

Empower Tips: Ask Me Anything About What's New in Empower Software

In this session, we will explore new and upcoming Empower Software features

Empower Tips What's New in Empower Software

This webinar will explore how the new Agilent 8850 gas chromatograph, now compatible with single and triple quadrupole mass spectrometry, can save users bench space, utility costs, and analysis time without compromising on performance. Viewers will see these features demonstrated through the applications of solvent purity by ASTM D7504 and gasoline aromatic composition by ASTM D5769.&nbsp;The 8850 GC using FID successfully accelerated the D7504 application from a runtime of 39 minutes using helium carrier gas down to 6 minutes using hydrogen. Combining the 8850 GC with the Agilent 5977C single quadrupole mass spec also yielded an accelerated solution for D5769 using hydrogen carrier gas with a total runtime of 9 minutes while achieving exceptional linearity for bulk compounds without compromising on sensitivity for trace analytes.<h5>By attending this presentation, you will learn about:</h5><ul><li>How the 8850 GC can help expand available bench space while using less electricity and gas for FID, TCD, and now both single and triple quadrupole MS applications</li><li>How the GC Intelligence features of the 8850 can help increase system up-time through advanced system monitoring, onboard maintenance, and guided troubleshooting</li><li>How the 8850 GC can accelerate applications with examples for solvent purity by ASTM D7504 and gasoline aromatic composition by ASTM D5769.</li></ul><h5>Who should attend:</h5><ul><li>Lab analysts using GC and GC/MS who are interested in increasing efficiency and throughput</li><li>Analytical lab managers looking to save time, operational expenses, and bench space</li><li>Petrochemical scientists producing high-purity aromatic streams and finished motor gasoline</li><li>Analytical chemists interested in the latest innovations in GC and GC/MS</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Scott Hoy (Applications Chemist, Agilent, Gas Phase Separations Division)Scott received his BS in Chemistry from the Georgia Institute of Technology in 2009 and his PhD in Analytical Chemistry from the University of South Carolina in 2013. He spent eight years working for ExxonMobil as a GC chemist in a refinery quality control lab and as a GC and GCxGC research chemist in R&amp;D. Scott joined Agilent Technologies in 2021 and is an applications chemist in the GC and GC/MS business unit in Wilmington, Delaware. His current work is focused on GC applications supporting conventional and renewable fuels, and the emerging GCxGC applications landscape.Presenter:&nbsp;James Cain (Product Manager, Agilent, Gas Phase Separations Division)James earned his BS in Chemistry from the University of Pittsburgh and his PhD in Organic Chemistry from the University of Arizona. After serving in various research and commercial roles with other organizations, including as an Agilent customer, he has been a product manager in the GC and GC/MS business unit with Agilent for five years. He is focused on understanding the needs of GC users globally, tracking changes in the market and regulatory landscape, and seeking new opportunities to apply Agilent innovation to emerging applications.</blockquote>

Separation Science: At Home on Any Bench: High-Performance GC/MS for Every Lab

At Home on Any Bench: High-Performance GC/MS for Every Lab

Save space and time while increasing efficiency and throughput with the Agilent 8850 gas chromatograph.

<div>Environmental air specialists face increasing challenges in monitoring volatile and semi-volatile organic compounds (VOCs and SVOCs). Evolving regulatory demands and complex compound lists both increase complexity of sampling and analysis. &nbsp;From hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) to emerging contaminants like PFAS and microplastics, the need to deliver accurate, reliable data with robust, future-proof methods is greater than ever.In this webinar, Markes’ environmental expert, Aaron Davies, will explore how advanced techniques for thermal desorption–GC–MS, including a range of sorbent and whole air samplers, simplify VOC monitoring and enhance data confidence. Attendees will learn how these methodologies address key challenges, aid compliance with stringent regulations, and provide a scalable solution for environmental air monitoring of a wide range of compounds. Discover how to future-proof your analytical workflows and stay ahead in this rapidly evolving field.<blockquote>Presenter: Aaron Davies (Market Development Manager, Markes International)</blockquote></div>

Markes International: Fundamentals of Environmental Air Monitoring: Overcoming Challenges in VOC Analysis with Advanced GC-MS Techniques

Fundamentals of Environmental Air Monitoring: Overcoming Challenges in VOC Analysis with Advanced GC-MS Techniques

Learn how advanced TD–GC–MS and sorbent sampling improve VOC monitoring, support regulatory compliance, and future-proof your air analysis workflows.

VOC Air Monitoring with Advanced GC-MS Techniques

Today, laboratories consume a staggering ten times more energy and water than a typical office. Labs with GC and GC/MS systems have unique sustainability challenges due to the resource-intensive nature of these instruments, as they consume large amounts of gas and energy. A more efficient laboratory is a more sustainable one. In this webinar, we will discuss tactics that laboratories can take today to improve the sustainability of their existing GC workflows.&nbsp;By focusing on making workflows more productive and efficient, we can lessen laboratory resource consumption and waste. Topics include tactics to minimize carrier gas and energy consumption, GC column scaling to shorten analysis time, alternative carrier gases, and data quality and up-time enhancements from proper consumable selection. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<h5>By attending this presentation, you will learn about:</h5><ul><li>Simple tactics that can be employed today to optimize workflow efficiency and productivity, thus minimizing resource consumption</li><li>Methods to minimize carrier gas and energy consumption, and GC column scaling to shorten analysis time</li><li>Illustrations of data quality and up-time enhancements from proper consumable selection. &nbsp;</li></ul><h5>Why Should You Attend?</h5><ul><li>According to Agilent customer surveys, 85 percent of labs and organizations have sustainability goals in place, and 83 percent of lab leaders believe their current workflow requires optimization to meet their sustainability ambitions. &nbsp;We will illustrate how existing methods can be scaled and new methods developed to operate more sustainably and profitably. &nbsp;</li></ul><h5>Who should attend:</h5><ul><li>Laboratory technicians, researchers, and scientists wishing to learn more about how to improve operational efficiency and lower the consumption of laboratory consumables</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Vanessa Abercrombie (Gas Chromatography Applications Chemist, Agilent Technologies)Vanessa Abercrombie is a GC applications chemist at Agilent Technologies in Folsom, CA. Vanessa has a broad background in GC and GC/MS, including experience as an instrument chemist at Bode Technology in Virginia, working under contract to the FBI’s Laboratory Division. Prior to that, Vanessa worked for ETS Labs in St. Helena, CA, as an analytical chemist, where she researched and developed quantitative separations by GC/MS and UHPLC for beer, wine, and spirits. She holds a Masters of Forensic Science from The George Washington University and a Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry from Sonoma State University.Presenter:&nbsp;Ashlee Gerardi (GC Columns Product Manager, Agilent Technologies)&nbsp;Ashlee Gerardi is currently a GC columns product manager at Agilent Technologies. She has a B.S. in Chemistry and an MBA in General Management. Over the past 13 years, Ashlee has held a variety of roles and experience in product development and product marketing. She spent five years in GC columns R&amp;D focusing on novel stationary phase and surface chemistries. She then transitioned into marketing roles, including market segment development and strategic market management. &nbsp;</blockquote>

Separation Science: How to Build Speed and Sustainability into Your GC Methods

How to Build Speed and Sustainability into Your GC Methods

Discover strategies to boost workflow efficiency and productivity while advancing your lab’s sustainability goals.

<h5>By attending this presentation, you will learn:</h5><ul><li>Non-targeted analytical methodologies for PFAS characterizations</li><li>Practical examples of identifying emerging PFAS in industrial wastewater, indoor dust, and outdoor air</li><li>Evaluation of impact from ski waxes and potentially hydrophobic coatings</li><li>Environmental transport, transformation, and degradation of commercial PFAS materials</li></ul><h4>Presentation 1: Non-targeted screening of per-/polyfluoroalkyl substances by cyclic ion mobility-mass spectrometry</h4><ul><li>Karl J. Jobst, Associate Professor, Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador</li></ul>Concerns regarding the persistence, bioaccumulation behaviour, and toxicity of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorosulfonic acid (PFSA) have resulted in the creation of thousands of replacements whose occurrence, environmental fate, and adverse health impacts are unknown. This has driven analytical chemists to develop non-targeted screening (NTS) methods to accelerate the identification of unknown PFAS. Unlike other halogens, such as chlorine or bromine, 19F exists as a single stable isotope; thus, PFAS are not characterized by diagnostic isotope patterns.This presentation describes a novel strategy to identify unknown PFAS using gas or liquid chromatographic cyclic ion mobility mass spectrometry (LCxcIMS or GCxcIMS). Unknown PFAS are recognized by having a collision-cross section (CCS) that is less than the sum of 100 Å2 and one fifth of their mass. By filtering the detected unknowns by mass and CCS, novel PFAS were revealed in a variety of environmental media, including industrial wastewater, indoor dust, and outdoor air, and their identities were confirmed through tandem mass spectrometry experiments with (synthesized) standards.<h4>Presentation 2: Explore a multidimensional, non-targeted analytical approach using advanced chromatography and mass spectrometry to improve PFAS identification</h4><ul><li>Frank Dorman, Senior Business Development Manager, Waters</li></ul>Poly/per-fluorinated aliphatic substances (PFAS) are of increasing concern in both the environment and food, and the understanding of their chemical complexity is strategically important. According to published literature, known PFAS chemicals, quantified on a targeted basis using available reference standards, have been shown to account for only 20-30% of total organic fluorine in “traditional source” samples. The remaining 70-80% is derived from other PFAS that are either commercial chemicals for which no reference standards are available, or downstream degradation/metabolism products of commercial chemicals with novel structures. Additionally, it is arguable if the target compound lists associated with regulatory methods even apply to “non-traditional” PFAS sources (non-AFFF, etc.).This presentation will describe an analytical approach capable of utilizing both liquid- and gas-chromatographic separations coupled to a high-resolution ion-mobility spectrometer in series with a high-resolution time-of-flight mass spectrometer. This multidimensional, non-targeted separation dramatically improves identification of PFAS compounds. In addition, a post-acquisition data reduction strategy will be discussed, which effectively enables more automated characterization of non-targeted PFAS, either as native or degradation compounds. This becomes especially beneficial in “non-traditional” source contamination or where degradation products are of interest. This methodology will be utilized for a series of environmental forensic applications towards winter sports activities, an emerging area of concern with respect to PFAS contamination in the environment.<h5>Who should attend:</h5><ul><li>Environmental scientists and chemists</li><li>Analytical chemists</li><li>Laboratory directors and technical leads</li><li>Contract testing organizations (CTOs)</li><li>Government and academic lab researchers</li><li>Regulatory and risk assessment professionals</li><li>Environmental forensics researchers</li><li>Food safety scientists</li><li>Toxicologists and exposure scientists</li><li>Winter sports organizations and sustainability officers</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Karl J. Jobst (Associate Professor, Department of Chemistry, Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador)Karl J. Jobst is an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemistry at Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador. He obtained his Ph.D. in gas-phase ion chemistry from McMaster University under the supervision of Professor Johan K. Terlouw. His interests in the chemistry of interstellar clouds soon evolved into more earth-oriented research as a Visiting Fellow at Environment Canada, a Scientist with the Ontario Ministry of the Environment, as well as Adjunct Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry of his alma mater and in the Department of Physical and Environmental Sciences at the University of Toronto Scarborough. His current research focuses on the identification of emerging contaminants and understanding their environmental and human health impacts using novel mass spectrometry and computational methods. Dr. Jobst has (co)authored over 100 publications in peer-reviewed journals, and serves on the editorial board of Current Opinion in Environmental Science &amp; Health.Presenter: Frank Dorman &nbsp;(Senior Business Development Manager, Waters)Frank Dorman is currently Senior Business Development Manager for Waters focusing on their global environmental business and, concurrently, a resident scholar in the Chemistry Department at Dartmouth College in Hanover, NH where he is active in teaching analytical chemistry to undergraduates and graduate students. In his role at Waters, Frank manages the research-focused environmental market, external collaborations, and interfaces with R&amp;D for new product development. Prior to this, Frank was an Associate Professor in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (BMB) at Penn State University in University Park, PA. At Penn State, Frank served as a member of the Graduate Faculty in Biochemistry, Microbiology and Molecular Biology (BMMB), Chemistry (CHEM), Biogeochemistry (BGC) and the Forensic Science Program (FRNSC) and the Center for Molecular Toxicology and Carcinogenesis. Frank's scientific interests are in gas and liquid chromatography and fundamental characterization, instrumentation and column development, as well as mass spectrometry and atomic spectroscopy as applied to trace analysis in complex sample matrices.</blockquote>

SeparationScience: Emerging Strategies in PFAS Identification: Advanced Analytical Approaches for Environmental Samples

Emerging Strategies in PFAS Identification: Advanced Analytical Approaches for Environmental Samples

Explore how advanced non-targeted workflows using ion mobility and HRMS reveal hidden PFAS in environmental samples

PFAS Identification: Advanced Strategies for Environment

The pharmaceutical industry is focusing more and more on reducing the cost of quality control while maintaining compliance and testing frequency.In a free webinar on 19 June, Dave van Staveren and Jonas Noguiera from Metrohm International Headquarters will present near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) as a highly efficient alternative to traditional technologies for the quality control of pharmaceuticals. This non-destructive technology delivers results in seconds, is chemical-free, and complies with regulatory standards, allowing companies to speed up their analytical processes and minimize costs.The webinar starts with a look at the basic principles of NIRS and a quick overview of the requirements that regulate QC testing in the pharmaceutical sector. The speakers will then present several application examples that highlight the advantages of this method for analytical testing and how it complies with the regulatory requirements.The webinar ends with a Q&amp;A session where the audience can ask the speakers any questions they might have.Key Learning Objectives:<ul><li>Learn about the basic principles of NIRS and how it works.</li><li>Discover the advantages of using NIRS for pharmaceutical QC.</li><li>Understand how NIRS meets the regulatory requirements.</li><li>Explore various applications demonstrating how compliance, cost, and time savings are achieved simultaneously.</li></ul>Who Should Attend:<ul><li>QC and QA managers ready to challenge their current analytical methods for a faster, cost-efficient alternative.</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Dr. Dave van Staveren (Head of Competence Center Spectroscopy, Metrohm International Headquarters)Dave van Staveren completed his Ph. D. work at the Max-Planck-Institute for Bioinorganic Chemistry in Germany with a strong focus on various spectroscopic methods. After starting his career as a R&amp;D scientist for a Biotech company, he transitioned into Product Management roles in the field of Analytical Instrumentation. In his current position at Metrohm, he has been in charge of NIR Product Management and Application Development since 2016.Presenter:&nbsp;Jonas Motte Nogueira (Product Specialist NIR Spectroscopy, Metrohm International Headquarters)Jonas Nogueira is a chemist with substantial practical experience in Near-Infrared spectroscopy. During his over 10-year tenure at Metrohm Brasil, he built a strong foundation in spectroscopy, ion chromatography, and electrochemistry. Currently stationed at Metrohm HQ in Switzerland, he collaborates on an international scale to provide support and implement NIR applications along with integrated laboratory solutions.</blockquote>

Metrohm: Streamlining pharmaceutical analysis with NIR spectroscopy: faster, easier, and more efficient

Streamlining pharmaceutical analysis with NIR spectroscopy: faster, easier, and more efficient

Join Metrohm’s free webinar on June 19 to discover how NIRS offers fast, chemical-free, compliant QC for pharma—cutting costs without compromising quality.

Streamlining pharmaceutical analysis with NIR spectroscopy

Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) has held a constant ratio of annually published metabolomics articles. A steady increase in the number of metabolomic reports for LC-MS was accompanied by a decrease of NMR-based metabolic phenotyping over the past 10 years. What is the reason for this success in GC-MS?First, GC can analyze both compounds that are volatile at room temperature, in addition to those that remain stable up to their boiling point. While classic volatiles such as terpenes continue to be the exclusive domain of GC-MS, a surprisingly high number of compounds show high thermal stability to be analyzed by this technique without any additional derivatization. UC Davis continues its use of GC-TOF MS for profiling primary metabolism with two-step derivatizations, now with the latest innovation, the Pegasus BTX instrument. However, we have also expanded our portfolio by measuring a range of volatiles that can be broadly classified into room-temperature volatiles (requiring trapping techniques) and volatiles that have higher boiling points than hexane (enabling liquid injections).Here, we focus on an additional advantage of GC-techniques over LC-MS, the superior total chromatographic resolution owed to the total number of theoretical plates (either with or without 2D separations). With very long columns, a large number of isomers can be separated prior to MS detection. For example, human gut microbes have the ability to produce a vast array of uncommon lipids, from sulfonolipids and FAHFAs to cyclopropane-containing fatty acids. These compounds have identical formulas to isomers, requiring 60 m columns to distinguish complex mixtures in human diet studies such as with almonds. Secondly, we will showcase how LECO’s benchtop GC-TOF MS instrument enables studying the social interactions within the honeybee hives, distinguishing chemical signaling panels between queens, drones, nurses and foragers. As many of these types of compounds cannot be ionized by electrospray ionization, GC-MS techniques are here to stay, and thriving in the analysis of complex mixtures!<blockquote>Presenter: Oliver Fiehn (University of California, Davis)</blockquote>

LECO: Comprehensive Omics Profiling for Volatiles and Uncommon Fatty Acids: from Bees to Microbes

Comprehensive Omics Profiling for Volatiles and Uncommon Fatty Acids: from Bees to Microbes

Explore why GC-MS remains vital in metabolomics. Learn how LECO's Pegasus BTX and GC-TOF MS enable analysis of volatiles, lipids and complex biological mixtures

Omics Profiling for Volatiles and Uncommon Fatty Acids

<div><div container-id="cq-colctrl-lt0" comp-id="A1"><div>Are you setting up new GC-MS methods? Don’t know when to perform the required maintenance on your GC-MS system? Do you struggle to reoptimize methods after maintenance? Are you spending too long on data review? If you answer is yes to any of these questions you cannot miss this webinar! Our specialists will address all these areas and offer helpful software hints and tips to streamline your workflow.Key topics include:<ul><li>Overview of Thermo Scientific Chromeleon software</li><li>Importing pre-optimized workflows to cut method development time</li><li>Automating sample preparation with autosampler methods</li><li>Using intelligent software for peak system performance and proactive maintenance</li><li>Automating data review to speed up processing</li></ul>Ideal for laboratories performing food safety, environmental monitoring, and battery analysis. Register now for this educational webinar.Cannot attend the broadcast on June 17? Please register to automatically receive the link to the webinar recording.<blockquote>Presenter: Nicholas Warner (Product Applications Specialist GC-MS, Thermo Fisher Scientific)Nicholas is a product specialist with a strong scientific background in GC and GC-MS applications. Originally from Canada, he has worked as an environmental researcher for 14 years within Norway before moving to join the Thermo Fisher Scientific team in Bremen, Germany in 2021. With a background in Environmental/Analytical chemistry, he is a specialist in the analysis of emerging harmful substances in the environment using gas chromatography mass spectrometry and high-resolution mass spectrometry.Presenter: Zoe Julian (Product Marketing Manager, Thermo Fisher Scientific)Zoe Julian is a product marketing manager for chromatography and mass spectrometry software at Thermo Fisher Scientific.With over 12 years' experience of working with chromatography and mass spectrometry techniques with a background in GC and GC-MS(/MS) organic environmental analysis, she has helped many laboratories and industries improve their workflows through a unique understanding of their challenges. Transitioning to a focus on Chromeleon CDS she has shown customers how software solutions can improve their productivity and support their day-to-day operations.Presenter: Adam Ladak (Global Product Marketing Manager, GC Quadrupole MS, Thermo Fisher Scientific)Adam started his career working in a contracting testing lab analyzing sports supplements and horse feed for prohibited substances. He has over 20 years of experience in the analytical testing industry and has worked for leading instrument manufacturers in various roles from an application specialist to a global marketing role focused on food and environmental testing. Adam is passionate about utilizing our GCMS instrumentation to meet the customer needs and solve real world problems.</blockquote></div></div></div>

Thermo Fisher Scientific: Software masterclass: Hints and tips to help optimize your GC-MS

Software masterclass: Hints and tips to help optimize your GC-MS

Optimize GC-MS methods faster! Learn maintenance tips, automated workflows, and data review shortcuts with Thermo Scientific Chromeleon software.

Software Hints and tips to optimize your GC-MS

<div>Analysing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) across a wide variety of sample matrices can present various challenges depending on the specific method requirements. Modern analytical laboratories require solutions where sensitivity and throughput may still pose challenges alongside limitations in selectivity and manual operation. Robotic automation is commonly used to reduce preparation steps and increase productivity. Combining a sample preconcentration system with gold standard robotics, VOC/SVOC analysis can be performed automatically, providing enhanced sensitivity using HS– and SPME–trap and/or thermal desorption (TD).In this webinar, we explore how the Centri 90 platform – from Markes International – combines flexible sampling, robotic automation and unique pre-concentration trapping technology in one system to simplify and enhance workflows. Importantly, we will introduce HiSorb automation on the Centri 90 platform, a high-capacity sorptive extraction technique, which enables improved targeted trace-level analyses and untargeted compound profiling compared to existing sorptive extraction methods. Centri 90’s modular design allows existing PAL3 users to upgrade to automated HiSorb seamlessly, providing more representative chromatographic profiles, increased throughput, and flexibility with phase selection.<h5>Learning objectives:</h5><ul><li>Discover how automated high-capacity sorptive extraction can increase throughput and preconcentrate trace-level analytes using trapping technology.</li><li>Learn how to see more from your sample with the use of multiple phases as well as higher phase capacity. &nbsp;</li><li>Understand the benefits of enhanced technique flexibility with Centri 90, with easy switching between sampling techniques on one platform.&nbsp;</li><li>Determine the range of compounds that can be extracted from complex matrices by using immersive and headspace extractions.&nbsp;</li><li>See how your GC–MS system can be seamlessly integrated with automated HiSorb</li></ul></div>

Markes International: Expanding automated sorptive extraction capabilities for GC–MS

Expanding automated sorptive extraction capabilities for GC–MS

Explore how the Centri 90 platform combines flexible sampling, robotic automation and unique pre-concentration trapping technology in one system

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