🎤Jessica WhitehouseHaloacetic acids (HAAs) are disinfection byproducts formed when chlorine or bromine reacts with organic matter in water—and some are linked to serious health concerns. In this episode of Concentrating on Chromatography, we sit down with Jessica Whitehouse, MSc student at the University of Calgary, to discuss how she developed a GC-MS method to detect and quantify HAAs in real-world water samples.During her undergraduate research at Thompson Rivers University, Jessica tackled a major challenge faced by many academic labs: how to analyze regulated environmental contaminants without access to GC-ECD instrumentation. &nbsp;Using dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction, derivatization, and GC-MS, she built a faster, more accessible workflow—and applied it to tap water, swimming pools, and hot tubs.<h4>In this conversation, we cover:</h4><ul><li>What haloacetic acids are and why they matter</li><li>Why standard EPA methods can be difficult for smaller or teaching-focused labs</li><li>How GC-MS can be adapted for HAA analysis</li><li>The challenges of derivatization and temperature program optimization</li><li>Unexpected findings in brominated vs. chlorinated HAAs</li><li>Why pool and hot tub water can show surprisingly high HAA levels</li><li>The excitement (and frustration) of first-time method development</li><li>Advice for undergraduate and early-career analytical chemists</li></ul>Jessica also shares how this project led directly to her current MSc research on ozone and nanobubble water disinfection, where she’s now expanding into ion chromatography.Whether you work in environmental analysis, chromatography, GC-MS, or are just starting your journey in analytical chemistry, this episode offers practical insight into real lab constraints, method development, and the joy of finding your first analyte peak.<h3>Video Transcription</h3><h4>Introduction</h4>Haloacetic acids (HAAs) are an important class of disinfectant byproducts formed when organic matter present in water reacts with chemical sanitizers. Because several HAAs are associated with adverse health effects, their determination remains relevant in environmental and public health analysis. This interview highlights the academic pathway and research experience of Jessica, whose undergraduate work focused on the development of a gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) method for the analysis of HAAs in pool and hot tub water.Her project emerged from a combination of academic interest in analytical chemistry, practical experience with water testing, and the constraints of instrument availability in an undergraduate research setting. The resulting workflow illustrates how method adaptation, critical problem-solving, and persistence can enable meaningful analytical research even when standardized methods are not directly accessible.<h4>Academic Background and Entry into Analytical Chemistry</h4>Jessica completed a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry with a minor in Physics at Thompson Rivers University in British Columbia. Her interest in analytical chemistry developed during her second year of study, when coursework revealed the quantitative and detail-oriented nature of the discipline. This emphasis on numerical interpretation, precision, and method development aligned strongly with her academic strengths and motivated her to pursue analytical research.Her specific interest in water chemistry originated even earlier through practical work in a pool and hot tub store, where she became familiar with routine water testing and the chemical factors influencing water quality. This early exposure led naturally into undergraduate research under the supervision of Dr. Sharon Brewer, whose expertise in water analysis provided an ideal foundation for the project.<h4>Haloacetic Acids as Disinfectant Byproducts</h4>Haloacetic acids are a subset of disinfectant byproducts generated when sanitizing agents react with natural organic matter in water. In treated recreational water systems such as pools and hot tubs, disinfectants are essential for microbial control, yet they can also lead to formation of unwanted chemical byproducts. Because some HAAs are considered potentially harmful, their occurrence and concentration warrant analytical attention.In this study, both chlorinated and brominated HAAs were of interest. Although the tested water systems were primarily sanitized using chlorine-based products, the occurrence of brominated HAAs emerged as a notable and somewhat unexpected finding.<h4>Analytical Challenges and Method Selection</h4>A major challenge in the project was the lack of access to the instrumentation required for the standard EPA-based method initially considered for HAA analysis. The available protocol depended on GC-ECD instrumentation, which was not accessible at the university. This limitation required the development of an alternative strategy based on the instruments available locally.GC-MS was selected as the most practical analytical platform. To support this approach, Jessica identified a literature source describing a similar method that could be adapted to her research aims. In parallel, dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction was introduced into the workflow as a means of sample preparation, providing valuable methodological experience beyond the standard undergraduate laboratory curriculum.This adaptation illustrates a common reality in academic research: analytical methodology is often shaped not only by ideal regulatory procedures, but also by local instrument access, scheduling limitations, and the practical needs of the researcher.<h4>Need for Derivatization in GC-MS Analysis</h4>A central analytical issue was that HAAs are inherently nonvolatile, which makes them poorly suited to direct GC analysis. To enable gas chromatographic separation, derivatization was required to convert the analytes into more volatile derivatives with more favorable boiling characteristics.In this method, derivatization with octanol was employed. This modification improved volatility and also generated larger fragments, which aided mass spectral interpretation by making the analyte fragmentation patterns easier to distinguish. Thus, derivatization served both chromatographic and mass spectrometric purposes.<h4>Optimization of the GC Temperature Program</h4>Considerable effort was devoted to optimization of the GC temperature program. The main difficulty did not arise solely from the analytes themselves, but from the derivatization reagent. Octanol produced a broad and persistent chromatographic feature, including a significant shoulder extending into later retention times. This complicated separation and increased pressure to keep the method sufficiently short for routine sample throughput.Among the analytes, monochloroacetic acid proved especially problematic. Because it differed only subtly in structure and produced overlapping behavior relative to the octanol-derived background, its signal was difficult to isolate confidently. Although chlorine-containing fragments could be observed, precise assignment remained challenging. This difficulty underscores how small structural differences and matrix-related interferences can complicate quantitative GC-MS workflows.<h4>Method Performance and Practical Advantages</h4>Although the adapted GC-MS method was developed out of necessity, it also provided practical advantages over the more standardized workflow that had initially been considered. In particular, the derivatization step in the adapted approach required only approximately 10 minutes, whereas the more conventional procedure involved a water bath step lasting around two hours. In addition, the adapted workflow offered shorter overall preparation and analysis timing, allowing batches of samples to be prepared and placed on the autosampler within a normal working schedule.From a practical research perspective, this translated into substantially improved laboratory efficiency. The ability to complete derivatization quickly and begin automated sample analysis without extensive delays made the workflow more manageable and better suited to the demands of an undergraduate project.<h4>Unexpected Findings: Brominated HAAs in Chlorine-Sanitized Systems</h4>One of the more surprising outcomes of the study was the predominance of brominated HAAs, despite the fact that the investigated pools and hot tubs were sanitized using chlorine-based treatments. Four of the systems relied on sodium chloride electrolysis to generate chlorine species, while others used chlorine-containing puck formulations commonly applied in recreational water treatment.Given these conditions, higher levels of chlorinated HAAs might have been expected. Instead, the results suggested a greater abundance of brominated HAAs. A plausible explanation is the presence of bromine-containing impurities in commercial pool and hot tub chemicals. Although such impurities may occur at relatively low levels, they can still influence disinfectant byproduct formation. The observation highlights the importance of considering the full chemical composition of treatment products, not merely their primary declared active ingredients.<h4>Value of Practical Industry Experience</h4>Jessica’s prior work in the pool and hot tub industry provided an unusually strong contextual advantage for the project. Because the samples originated from store clients, she had access to detailed information about the chemicals used in each system, including safety data sheets and knowledge of treatment timing. This background significantly strengthened interpretation of the analytical results by linking measured byproducts to known product usage patterns.Such integration of practical field knowledge with laboratory analysis represents an important strength in applied environmental chemistry, particularly when studying real-world water systems rather than idealized laboratory samples.<h4>Scientific Development and Early Research Motivation</h4>An especially valuable element of the project was the role it played in building research confidence. Jessica described the first successful identification of an analyte peak as a memorable turning point, reflecting the emotional significance of early experimental success in scientific training. In analytical chemistry, where method optimization often involves repeated setbacks and ambiguous data, such moments can be critical in sustaining motivation and reinforcing scientific identity.This experience also informed her advice to early-stage researchers: unfavorable or unexpected outcomes still constitute valid results. Negative or imperfect findings remain analytically meaningful and contribute to scientific understanding, provided they are interpreted carefully.<h4>Connection to Current Research</h4>Jessica is now working at the University of Calgary on a different project focused on ozone and nanobubble disinfection. Although the analytical platform and immediate research questions have changed, the conceptual connection to her earlier work remains clear. Her experience with disinfectant byproducts and water chemistry directly supported her transition into this new role and helped position her as a strong candidate for research in water treatment-related systems.She also expressed interest in expanding her analytical expertise through ion chromatography, which will play a role in her current work. This transition reflects the broader development of an environmental analytical chemist whose work continues to center on water quality, disinfection chemistry, and the analytical tools needed to investigate both.<h4>Public Health Relevance</h4>A notable practical implication of the project concerns recreational water safety. Jessica emphasized that pool and hot tub water should not be ingested, a recommendation already widely understood in general terms but further reinforced by her findings. In at least one case, HAA concentrations were reported at levels far above the federal drinking water regulation threshold. While such regulations are designed for potable water rather than recreational water, the comparison nevertheless illustrates the extent to which disinfectant byproducts may accumulate in these environments.She also noted that several HAAs are classified as probable human carcinogens, with prolonged exposure linked to serious health concerns. Although occasional accidental ingestion is not equivalent to chronic exposure, the findings reinforce the importance of appropriate hygiene, safe water maintenance practices, and awareness of chemical byproduct formation in recreational systems.<h4>Conclusion</h4>This research demonstrates how meaningful analytical chemistry can emerge from a combination of scientific curiosity, practical constraints, and strong mentorship. By adapting a GC-MS workflow for the determination of haloacetic acids in pool and hot tub water, Jessica developed a method that was both workable within local instrument limitations and efficient enough to offer practical benefits over more conventional procedures.Beyond the analytical results themselves, the project highlights several broader themes: the value of undergraduate research, the importance of flexibility in method development, the benefit of practical contextual knowledge, and the relevance of environmental analytical chemistry to real-world public health questions. It also shows how early research experiences can shape a long-term scientific trajectory, leading from undergraduate investigation to continued work in water chemistry and disinfection science.<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>

Detecting Haloacetic Acids in Water with GC-MS

This study presents a one-year assessment of microplastic concentrations in the River Rhine, analyzing samples from three locations and across multiple size fractions using TED-GC/MS. Dominant polymers included polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, styrene–butadiene rubber, and natural rubber.Statistical analysis revealed size-dependent distributions, minor seasonal variation, and spatial differences, highlighting the role of sources such as tire abrasion. The findings provide valuable data for environmental monitoring, ecotoxicological research, and regulatory frameworks related to water quality.<blockquote><h4>The original article</h4><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsestwater.5c00530">One Year Observation of Microplastic Concentrations in the River Rhine</a></h4>Yosri Wiesner, Paul Eisentraut, and Korinna Altmann*ACS EST Water 2026, 6, 2, 639–648<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://doi.org/10.1021/acsestwater.5c00530">https://doi.org/10.1021/acsestwater.5c00530</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>Selected sections from the article follow. Formats and hyperlinks were adapted from the original.<div>As microplastics (MPs) are found all over the world and no comprehensive knowledge is available yet, extensive monitoring campaigns are required to gain a full understanding of their occurrence, transportation and fate. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(1,2)</a> In particular, MP abundance in freshwater systems has still not been sufficiently investigated. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(3,4)</a> Additionally, the question of the toxicological potential of MPs has been the subject of numerous studies for many years, <a href="javascript:void(0);">(5,6)</a> leading to more precise and complex experimental set-ups and results. However, there is still a need for more acurate data on environmental MP concentrations in order to make ecotoxicological tests even more detailed and realistic. The lack of certainty for exposure concentrations in the risk assessment frame of MPs leads to the precautionary principle being applied by politicians and regulators worldwide. Both the EU drinking water directive and the wastewater directive call for monitoring of MPs within the next few years. It is important to establish suitable analytical methods for sampling, sample preparation and detection that must now be fast, robust and fit for purpose in order to obtain representative and valid results depending on mass or particle number. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(7−9)</a>MPs are solid particles with a size of 1–1000 μm mainly consisting of polymers (ISO/TR 21960, 2020) and can, for example, result from industrial production in the form of small particles that are designed as additives and change the properties of products, or from plastic parts that have been released into the environment. Major sources of MPs today are paints, tires, packaging materials, pellet waste and textiles. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(10−12)</a> These macroplastic products can form MP particles as a result of degradation factors such as photooxidation, hydrolysis and mechanical abrasion. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(13,14)</a>The River Rhine has its origin in Switzerland and then flows through Liechtenstein, Austria, Germany and France until it discharges into the North Sea in The Netherlands. At 1233 km and a catchment area of about 185&nbsp;000 km2, the Rhine is one of the largest river systems in Europe and, due to its expanse, forms the ecological basis for a large number of animal species. Around 30 million people in Germany are supplied with drinking water from the Rhine.It is hardly possible to assess the occurrence of MPs if either a limited sampling volume is used or only individual samples are taken. It is therefore essential that different volumes are sampled depending on whether the water to be sampled contains many or few MP particles. It is recommended to sample at least 5 m3 for drinking water samples and 1 m3 for surface water, whereas raw wastewater contains so many particles that only a few liters need to be sampled. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(15)</a> Although sampling of these water volumes leads to a representative sample from the analytic point of view, it is questionable, if the result measured is representative for the location. Previous studies have shown that the composition in terms of MP masses in a water body can change at one location with each individual sample independently whether several samples are analyzed in 1 day or spread over several days. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(16)</a> Fractionated filtration and sedimentation boxes as active and passive sampling methods have proven themselves in the sampling of freshwater systems. In active sampling, water is fractionally filtered using a pump and a sieve tower with different mesh sizes. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(17)</a> Passive sampling can be carried out using sedimentation boxes. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(18)</a> In a sedimentation box, the flow velocity of the medium flowing through is reduced by using several baffle plates. Due to the reduced velocity and energy, particles up to a certain size are forced to sediment by the now predominant gravitational force. Such boxes can remain in the water for several weeks and therefore collect a cross-section of the suspended particles including MP over a certain period of time.Mass and number-based methods have emerged as suitable detection methods for MPs. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(19)</a> Number-based methods such as μ-Raman, μ-FTIR or LDIR are well advanced to evaluate the polymer identity, particle number concentration and shape, <a href="javascript:void(0);">(20,21)</a> but are still time-consuming in terms of sample preparation. In regulatory approaches or for simulations, usually the MP mass is needed. MP polymer identity and masses can be detected by thermoanalytical methods like pyrolysis-GC/MS (Py-GC/MS) or thermal extraction desorption-GC/MS (TED-GC/MS). Especially TED-GC/MS seems to be suitable for monitoring purses of suspended particulate matter, because there is no need for additional sample preparation others than filtration and homogenization. Up to 50 mg of suspended particulate matter can be directly measured in one run, giving representative subsamples for precise measurements exceeding the limit of quantification. Furthermore, styrene–butadiene rubber (SBR) and natural rubber (NR) as indication for tire wear can be detected in the same sample run next to thermoplastics such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polystyrene (PS), polyamide 6 or polyacrylates.This work provides a comprehensive data set of MP concentrations of the River Rhine over one year sampling at three different locations starting near the source in Weil via Koblenz and Emmerich. Sampling was done with sedimentation boxes with monthly withdrawal and fractioned filtration of the collected particles afterward. The size fractions 10–50 μm, 50–100 μm and 100–500 μm were provided by the Federal Institute of Hydrology (BfG, Germany) and analyzed at the Federal Institute of Material Research and Testing (BAM, Germany) funded by a national project from the Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection (BMUV, Germany, 3719 22301 0). Detection was performed with TED-GC/MS in routine mode, proven as a fast and robust detection method. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(2,16,22)</a> Data can be used, for example, for water monitoring or as reference values for future risk assessment scenarios and experiments.<h4>2. Materials and Methods</h4><h5>2.2. TED-GC/MS</h5>TED-GC/MS is a multistage detection technique combining the thermal sample extraction by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) with chromatographic separation of the individual decomposition gases and detection by trace analysis with gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Sample material in 150 μL alumina crucibles was pyrolyzed in a TGA2 thermobalance (MettlerToledo, Gieβen, Germany) under a nitrogen flow of 30 mL/min from 200 to 500 °C with a heating rate of 10 K/min. Typical sample intake was between 10 to 50 mg depending on the organic content. The decomposition gases were collected on a solid phase (SorbStar, Envea, Vohenstrauβ, Germany) in the typical polymer decomposition temperature range between 200 and 500 °C via a heated coupling module (240 °C, Gerstel, Mülheim an der Ruhr, Germany). The loaded solid phase was transported to the thermodesorption unit (TDU)-GC/MS by an autosampler (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=8&amp;search=MultiPurposeSampler+2">MultiPurposeSampler 2</a> (MPS2), Gerstel, Mühlheim an der Ruhr). The desorption of the decomposition products took place in the TDU (50–200 °C, 5 min isothermal, He gas, Gerstel), the cryofocusing in the cold injection system (−100 °C, Gerstel). Injection was carried out from there by rapid heating (−100–270 °C, 12 K/s) onto the separation column (HP5 ms, 1 mL/min He, 40–300 °C, Agilent, Palo Alto, USA) in the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=1&amp;search=7890B">GC system (7890 B Agilent)</a>. After chromatographic separation, detection was performed in a mass spectrometer (EI, 70 eV, scan-mode, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=1&amp;search=5977B">5977 B, Agilen</a>t).<h4>3. Results and Discussion</h4>A summary of the identified polymer types and their corresponding mass concentrations per sampling location is provided in <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsestwater.5c00530#fig1">Figure 1</a>. All individual results are presented in <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/suppl/10.1021/acsestwater.5c00530/suppl_file/ew5c00530_si_001.pdf">Table S1</a> of the Supporting Information. With a few exceptions, the polymers PE, PP, PS, SBR and NR were detected. To cope with the large amount of measurement data and to obtain an overview of possible correlations, the data was evaluated using statistical and mathematical algorithms. Only the five polymers named above provide enough input data and are therefore used as the basis for the data analysis. The individual results were sorted according to various aspects that are included in the data set as independent variables:(I)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Particle size fractions(II)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Temporal variation(III)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Spatial variation due to the sampling locations<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/ACS_EST_Water_2026_6_2_639_648_Figure_1_Overview_of_sampling_locations_along_the_German_part_of_the_River_Rhine_and_sum_of_identified_median_mass_concentrations_fe570f51b5.jpg" alt="ACS EST Water 2026, 6, 2, 639–648: Figure 1. Overview of sampling locations along the German part of the River Rhine and sum of identified median mass concentrations." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_ACS_EST_Water_2026_6_2_639_648_Figure_1_Overview_of_sampling_locations_along_the_German_part_of_the_River_Rhine_and_sum_of_identified_median_mass_concentrations_fe570f51b5.jpg 158w," sizes="100vw" width="1883" height="1860">The concentrations of the various polymers in the suspended matter serve as input values. The riverine balancing and material transport based on the total masses (polymer mass in total suspended solids mass) is carried out explicitly and will be published at Umweltbundesamt as part of the project report by the BfG (Ternes, final project report, 2023).<h5>3.1. Particle Size Fractions</h5>This section describes the possible correlation of the polymer mass concentration with the size of the measured particles regardless of the sampling location. Therefore, the generated samples were sorted by sieving into different size fractions of 10–50, 50–100 and 100–500 μm. The relative mean values of the individual fractions are calculated (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/suppl/10.1021/acsestwater.5c00530/suppl_file/ew5c00530_si_001.pdf">Figure S2</a>) to obtain the shares of the different polymer types in the total amount of MP. PE is the dominant polymer in all size fractions with 68–76%, followed by PS (10–15%), SBR (4–13%), PP (2–5%) and NR (2–4%). Obviously, all polymer types are approximately evenly distributed across the size fractions, with SBR being less present in the 100–500 μm fraction.In general, it can be determined that PE accounts for the highest proportion of MP. PS makes up the second highest proportion, followed by SBR. Next in line are PP and NR. The polymer findings are in good agreement with previous MP studies of the Rhine. PE, PP and PS in particular are the most frequently detected polymers. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(3)</a> The relative abundance of PE, PP and PS is also relatively similar to Skalska et al., even when the particle number was considered here. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(26)</a> Especially in comparison with the results of Mani et al. significant similarities to the ratios of PE, PP and PS can be found. Data on SBR from tire abrasion in the Rhine is difficult to find in existing studies, as such particles cannot easily be identified using vibrational methods due to the IR absorbing properties and the intense fluorescence of the accompanying soot. However, a comparison with suspended particulate matter samples from the Danube is possible, as here the detection was also carried out using TED-GC/MS. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(2)</a> The relative ratios of PE, PP, PS, SBR and NR are comparable and support the plausibility of the results.Total MP mass concentrations are presented in <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/suppl/10.1021/acsestwater.5c00530/suppl_file/ew5c00530_si_001.pdf">Figure S3</a> for individual polymer types, showing highest mass concentrations in the size fraction 100–500 μm. The median varies from 0.17 to 6.80 μg/mg depending on the polymer type. In absolute terms, the PE mass concentrations are significantly higher than those of all other polymers. PP and PS show a strong mass increase in the 100–500 μm fraction, together with higher uncertainty compared to 10–50 μm and 50–100 μm. With a variation of 0.27–0.32 μg/mg across all particle size fractions, the mass contents of SBR are relatively constant, while NR mass concentration seems to increase more linearly. The high mass concentrations and the strong scattering of the 100–500 μm fractions could be due to the presence or absence of large but few particles. Basically, the larger a particle is, the higher its contribution to the mass concentration. In contrast, the larger a particle is, the lower the probability of an equal distribution in all samples.If other regions associated with the Rhine are considered, comparable ratios of mass concentration in the various particle size fractions are found in Rhine floodplains. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(27)</a>At the beginning of the data analysis, a Principal Component Analysis (PCA) is carried out to identify parameters that have a high influence on the mass content. This analysis identified that the particle size has the greatest influence on the mass concentration (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsestwater.5c00530#fig2">Figure 2</a>). The first principal component (PC 1) was identified as the particle size fraction and explains over 50% of the differences in the data.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/ACS_EST_Water_2026_6_2_639_648_Figure_2_PCA_Score_plot_of_mass_concentrations_of_the_different_polymers_be94ae16c4.jpg" alt="ACS EST Water 2026, 6, 2, 639–648: Figure 2. PCA Score plot of mass concentrations of the different polymers." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_ACS_EST_Water_2026_6_2_639_648_Figure_2_PCA_Score_plot_of_mass_concentrations_of_the_different_polymers_be94ae16c4.jpg 184w," sizes="100vw" width="747" height="635"><h4>4. Conclusion</h4>This study demonstrated that long-term sampling of the Rhine is possible and provides plausible results, which is important for future MP monitoring campaigns, as required by the Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive for the EU. Although the MP concentrations in the Rhine are relatively constant, seasonal and downstream differences were observed. In order to confirm these possible trends, further sampling campaigns are needed to identify possible differences on an annual scale. Furthermore, the influences of urban proximity and land use must be examined in greater detail by increasing the number of measuring points. Additional sample sites are needed to identify possible sources of input. This would be particularly important to clarify the PS concentrations, which show a high correlation between the different particle size fractions in almost all seasons and could indicate a possible common source. SBR is the only polymer to show a relatively constant concentration across all particle sizes and seasons, independent of the river course. Since it is a tire component, constant road traffic could be part of the explanation. However, a different particle ratio must be assumed here compared to the other polymers. The fragmentation mechanism and/or another transport mechanism needs to be clarified.Although PE constitutes the majority of the total MP concentration, there may be an overestimation due to false positive signals. To exclude or confirm this, further studies must be conducted to analyze the organic components of the riverine suspended matter in detail.A comparison with other studies reveals similar occurrences of the same polymer types and in parts also similar seasonal fluctuations and a slight downstream increase. The differentiated presentation of results in polymer type, particle size fraction and range of mass concentrations can provide a valuable basis for more complex and realistic exposure tests for ecotoxicological studies on freshwater organisms. In particular, the large database for SBR as a tire component could be of special interest, as the toxicity of tire particles due to their chemical composition has already been shown in other studies. In studies using FTIR-based detection methods, these values are usually missing due to the high absorbance of the black tire particles.</div>

One Year Observation of Microplastic Concentrations in the River Rhine

In the week of April 6, the following webinars await you in the field of gas / solid phase and especially Raman, FTIR, GC and GC/MS.<blockquote><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/webinars">👉 DETAILS AND REGISTRATION IN THE WEBINARS SECTION</a></h4>👉 Search and filter in the largest global database with over 5 500 GC, LC, MS and spectroscopy webinars.</blockquote><div><div><div><div><div><div><h5>1. Bruker: Advances in AFM for the Characterization of 2D Materials</h5><ul><li>We, 8.4.2026 17:00 CET</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/webinar/6054">Registration</a></li></ul>Explore how AFM enables comprehensive nanoscale characterization of 2D materials. Learn about structural, electrical, and chemical mapping, AFM-IR, and nanomanipulation for device fabrication.<h5>2. Agilent Technologies: Mastering Gas Sampling: Valve Fundamentals to ASTM Ready RGA &amp; TOGA Analysis</h5><ul><li>Th, 9.4.2026 08:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/webinar/6056">Registration</a></li></ul>In this session, learn how to achieve reliable permanent gas analysis, starting from proper valve selection and sampling fundamentals.</div></div></div></div></div></div>

Webinars LabRulezGCMS Week 15/2026

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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.

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On-site chemistry analysis has been a more and more important task of today’s FTIR spectroscopy. However, the traditional desktop or mobile FTIR instruments still facing significant restrictions. Agilent’s Handheld FTIR spectrometer is a unique and innovative platform for measuring samples on site to yield fast and reliable chemistry analyses.
The ergonomically-designed handheld systems can handle tough sampling situations in which the samples are difficult to be reached by traditional FTIR spectrometers. The versatile system is equipped with variety of accessories such as ATR, Specular Reflection and Diffusive Reflection, making minor-damage or even non-invasive testing practical.
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Presenter: Yanqia Wang, PhD (Application Engineer, Molecular Spectroscopy, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
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Dr. Yanqia Wang started working for Agilent Technologies Inc. as a FTIR application Engineer in 2013, providing pre-&amp;post-sale application support. The products he covers from Bench-top FTIR microscopes to various Mobile FTIR spectrometers. Dr. Wang received his PhD of analytical chemistry from Duke University in 2004, doing dynamic IR spectroscopy research. Then he joined Fitzpatrick Center for Photonics at Duke University, doing Tissue Raman spectrometer instrumentation. Since 2007, Dr. Wang worked for Avery Dennison Corp. as a spectroscopist, providing molecular analytical support to the research &amp; development.
</blockquote>

Agilnt Technologies: Out of Lab Analysis Workshop: Meet the Handheld FTIR Family

Out of Lab Analysis Workshop: Meet the Handheld FTIR Family

Agilent’s Handheld FTIR spectrometer is a unique and innovative platform for measuring samples on site to yield fast and reliable chemistry analyses.

Agilent Technologies Molecular Instrumentation and Applications...
<blockquote>
Presenter: Mark Fisher, PhD (Application Engineer, Molecular Spectroscopy, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Mark, an Application Scientist for Agilent Technologies, has over 30 years of experience in molecular spectroscopy. He has held roles in Agilent&#39;s UV-Vis-NIR, fluorescence, and atomic absorption product portfolios. In addition to identifying industry trends and new business needs, Mark&#39;s responsibilities include application development, pre and post-sales support, as well as acting as a customer advocate for new product and technology opportunities. Mark received his doctorate in analytical chemistry from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
</blockquote>

Demystifying Molecular Instrumentation and Applications

Agilent Technologies Molecular Instrumentation and Applications...

Two of the biggest challenges analysts face in the analytical lab are verifying product quality and identifying unknown contaminants. It is also common to look to reverse engineer competitor products. Infrared and Raman spectroscopies are ideal tools for these analyses, as they are non-destructive and non-invasive methods. FTIR and Raman are also very highly specific, as each molecule has its own corresponding fingerprint in the region of the electromagnetic spectrum where the analyses are performed. These analyses can also be conducted most readily even in the most stringent regulatory environment. Tiered user access and a locked data pool are only a few of the features of a fully integrated and compliant platform meeting FDA and other regulatory requirements.
During this webinar, we’ll cover the theory of FTIR and Raman spectroscopies and why they work so well for even the most challenging samples. The management of regulatory requirements in the modern lab will also be discussed.
Key Webinar Take-Aways:
<ul>
<li>IR and Raman offer quick and reliable identification of unknown compounds.</li>
<li>Regulatory requirements are easy managed with Bruker hardware and software platform.</li>
<li>Quality assurance of product and raw materials is reliably performed with Raman and IR.</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Dr. Tom Tague (Applications Manager, Bruker Corporation)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Dr. Tom Tague is the Applications Manager for Bruker Optics. He is also a member of the Visiting Advisory Committee of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and the Strategic Advisory Board of Amplified Sciences. Dr. Tague received his Ph.D. from the University of Utah in Physical Chemistry and his B.S. also in Chemistry from the University of Texas at San Antonio. He also conducted his postdoctoral research at the University of Virginia working with Professor Lester Andrews. He is a member of the American Chemical Society, Society for Applied Spectroscopy, American Physical Society, and the Optical Society of America. Dr. Tague is active in developing new methods and instrumentation with the goal of improving the sensitivity and detection limits of spectroscopy related applications. Tom has more than 90 publications and 5 Patents.
</blockquote>

Pixabay/Gerd Altmann: Maximizing the Power of Spectroscopy in Your Regulated Analytical Laboratory

Maximizing the Power of Spectroscopy in Your Regulated Analytical Laboratory

Infrared and Raman spectroscopy are ideal tools for verifying product quality, identifying unknown contaminants, and reverse engineering competitive products.

Power of Spectroscopy in Regulated Analytical Laboratory

In this third session of a four-part ‘Fundamentals of Spectroscopy’ course, having previously covered the ‘why’, we’ll now focus on the ‘how’. There is currently a dizzying array of tools available for spectroscopy, but the fundamental goal remains the same.
Here we will discuss the current state-of-the-art common spectroscopy components – spectrometers, detectors, and associated optics – as well as their historical development. We will discuss some of the technological breakthroughs that have made the heroic measurements of yesterday commonplace practice today, as well as how different equipment has evolved to suit the particular needs of different experiments.
Key learning objectives
<ul>
<li>Discover the function of a spectrograph and how the earliest spectrographs achieved this</li>
<li>Understand the difference between a prism and grating spectrograph and learn why grating spectrographs are significantly more common</li>
<li>Consider what is meant by “dispersion” in a spectrometer, what is spectral resolution, and how the two concepts relate to each other</li>
</ul>
Who should attend?
<ul>
<li>Academic researchers</li>
<li>R&amp;D scientists</li>
<li>Lab technicians</li>
<li>Principal investigators</li>
<li>Laboratory, facilities or corporate managers</li>
<li>Postdoctoral research assistants</li>
<li>Undergraduate and PhD students</li>
<li>Engineers or software engineers</li>
<li>Teaching fellows</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Adam Wise (Andor Technology)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Adam Wise is an applications scientist at Andor Technology, specializing in spectroscopy and scientific cameras. He earned his PhD working with John Grey at the University of New Mexico, studying Raman spectroscopy of organic semiconductors. After his postdoctoral research at UMass Amherst, Wise entered the field of optical instrumentation, and continues to support research by helping scientists get the right cutting-edge tools.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Georgina Wynne Hughes (Editorial Team)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Georgina studied at Birmingham University where she gained a BSc in Biomedical Science, and an MSc by Research in Cancer and Genomic Sciences, which focused on defective autophagy in rare neurodegenerative diseases. As a member of the Editorial team, she now plays an integral role in shaping the content on SelectScience.
</blockquote>

SelectScience: Optimizing equipment for optical spectroscopy

Optimizing equipment for optical spectroscopy

In this third session of a four-part ‘Fundamentals of Spectroscopy’ course, having previously covered the ‘why’, we’ll now focus on the ‘how’.

Thousands of polymeric compounds and materials have been developed over the years to optimize the properties and performance of products spanning nearly every industry. There are a few areas where characterizing these products can be important: first is performing a quick polymer identification for recycling purposes; second is quality control to identify product defects or failures; and third is reverse engineering to facilitate product development in a highly competitive marketplace.
Infrared (IR) and Raman spectroscopy are especially useful for the analysis of polymers in an industrial setting because in most cases it does not require sample preparation or expensive consumables. Examples will be presented demonstrating the effectiveness of IR and Raman analysis in each of these categories.
Mass Spectrometry (MS) has become an indispensable tool for polymer analysis and has been widely used to study polymer structure and composition, end groups and additives, molecular weight distribution, and so on. MS analysis is extremely sensitive, allowing the detection and identification of minor polymer components and synthesis by-products, as well as low-level impurities and products of decomposition. Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization (MALDI) allows performing rapid MS analysis without lengthy pre-separation and with minimal sample preparation. MALDI MS can provide structural and copolymer composition information, as well as be used for imaging of polymer surfaces, characterization of complex polymer mixtures, and many other analytical tasks.
In this webinar, we will discuss several MS analytical techniques and their applications for polymer analysis using real-life examples from the industry and academia.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Sergey V. Shilov, Ph.D. (R&amp;D Product Manager for North America, Bruker Optics)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Dr. Sergey V. Shilov is the R&amp;D Product Manager for North America at Bruker Optics. Sergey joined Bruker in 2001. He is responsible for the support and development of new applications for the Bruker research FTIR systems. He received his Ph.D in 1992 from the Russian Academy of Sciences in Polymer Physics and his M.S. from St. Petersburg State University (Russia) in Physics in 1986. Alexander Von Humboldt foundation (Germany) awarded him research fellowship in 1996. Sergey published 37 papers in peer-reviewed journals. His research interests include time-resolved FTIR spectroscopy, surface science, polymer and life-science applications. 
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Kushal Modi (Business Development Manager, Polymers, and Industrial Chemicals, Bruker Applied Mass Spectrometry)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Kushal Modi has been serving the scientific community for over 10 years. He joined Bruker in 2022 under the Applied Mass Spectrometry division after a legacy with Waters Corporation. He is a leading expert as a Business Development Manager and is currently supporting the polymers and industrial chemical markets nationally. 
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Dr. Rebecca Pool (Editor Microscopy and Analysis, Wiley, Moderator)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Rebecca is news editor of Microscopy&amp;Analysis and a freelance science journalist with a doctorate in Materials Science. She has published in Wiley Analytical Science, Nature Photonics, SPIE Photonics Focus, Physics World, Sci Fi Generation, Engineering and Technology magazine, WorldSteel and more.
</blockquote>

Wiley Analytical Science: Effective Analysis of Polymers Using IR, Raman Spectroscopy, and MALDI-TOF Mass Spectrometry

Effective Analysis of Polymers Using IR, Raman Spectroscopy, and MALDI-TOF Mass Spectrometry

Examples will be presented demonstrating the effectiveness of IR and Raman analysis and will discuss several MS techniques and apps for polymer analysis.

Polymers Using IR, Raman Spectroscopy, and MALDI-TOF MS

The easy-to-use 8700 LDIR has undergone a performance enhancements with the addition of automated on-filter analysis. This improvement will be described in this webinar and the results of analyses will be presented.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Louis Tisinger, PhD (Application Engineer, Molecular Spectroscopy, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Louis (Lou) Tisinger has a Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry from Miami University in Oxford Ohio, where his graduate research involved the study of ATR imaging and microscope performance in vibrational spectroscopy. Most of his career has been related to pre- and post-sales support of FTIR spectrometers, microscopes, imaging systems, and thermal analytical instruments, focusing on analyzing customer samples, demonstrations, post-sales training, troubleshooting, and R&amp;D.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: New LDIR Enhancements to Streamline Microplastics Analysis

New LDIR Enhancements to Streamline Microplastics Analysis

The easy-to-use 8700 LDIR has undergone a performance enhancements with the addition of automated on-filter analysis.

The analysis of microplastics (MP) becomes more difficult for smaller sizes, especially in complex matrices such as sediment of natural waters. In this work, we analyzed MPs in sediment using laser direct infrared (LDIR) imaging, a relatively new technique in environmental MP studies.
Sediment samples were spiked with analytical surrogates (polyethylene spheres), and subjected to density separation, wet peroxide oxidation, calcite removal, and filtration. The extracted particles were coated on to a low-emissivity glass slide which was first examined on a stereomicroscope. Six slides (two sediment samples and four different blanks) were further analyzed using an Agilent LDIR system. Approximately 520 and 430 MP/g were found in the two samples, with diameter ranging 20-3,384 um and 84% being smaller than 100 um. The increase in particle count with decreasing particle sizes followed a power law curve, suggesting that a large portion of the smaller MPs was generated by the breakdown of larger plastic pieces.
Major polymers found in this work included polyamide, polyester, polytetrafluoroethylene, and polyacetal. Most MPs were fragments, while beads and fiber were also found. In the two sediment samples, 14% and 46% of the total particles, respectively, were composed of non-plastic micro-sized particles, including natural polyamide, cellulose, chitin, rubber, and &quot;unknown&quot;. Challenges, potential biases, and uncertainties are discussed.
This work is the first application of LDIR imaging on MPs in natural sediment.
<blockquote>
Presenter: An Li (Professor Emerita, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Dr. An Li is a Professor Emeritus in School of Public Health, University of Illinois Chicago. She is an environmental chemist, with her research focus on how human activities influence the natural environment and how the changes in turn affect human health. Her research particularly focuses on persistent and bioaccumulative organic chemicals which are potentially toxic. She has led a number of federally funded projects and programs, including the Great Lakes Sediment Surveillance Program (GLSSP) funded by the US EPA. Dr. Li has published two books Physical and Chemical Processes in the Aquatic Environment (2014) and Persistent Organic Pollutants in Asia (2007), &gt;100 journal articles, as well as numerous other publications.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Characterization of microplastics in sediment using stereomicroscopy and laser direct infrared (LDIR) spectroscopy

Characterization of microplastics in sediment using stereomicroscopy and laser direct infrared (LDIR) spectroscopy

In this work, we analyzed MPs in sediment using laser direct infrared (LDIR) imaging, a relatively new technique in environmental MP studies.

Characterization of microplastics in sediment using LDIR

Contamination is one of the most common causes of deteriorated product quality and equipment performance in industrial environment. FTIR has been proven to be a valuable tool to characterize the contamination rapidly and economically.
Agilent’s compact and portable FTIR spectrometers provide a complete product portfolio with versatile sampling interfaces and spectral process capabilities, which can offer great convenience, stability and high-throughput solution to the contamination-related applications.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Yanqia Wang, PhD (Application Engineer, Molecular Spectroscopy, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Dr. Yanqia Wang started working for Agilent Technologies Inc. as a FTIR application Engineer in 2013, providing pre-&amp;post-sale application support. The products he covers from Bench-top FTIR microscopes to various Mobile FTIR spectrometers. Dr. Wang received his PhD of analytical chemistry from Duke University in 2004, doing dynamic IR spectroscopy research. Then he joined Fitzpatrick Center for Photonics at Duke University, doing Tissue Raman spectrometer instrumentation. Since 2007, Dr. Wang worked for Avery Dennison Corp. as a spectroscopist, providing molecular analytical support to the research &amp; development.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Concerned of Contamination and Poor Product Quality? Learn how Convenient and Friendly FTIR is for these common issues

Concerned of Contamination and Poor Product Quality? Learn how Convenient and Friendly FTIR is for these common issues

FTIR has been proven to be a valuable tool to characterize the contamination rapidly and economically.

Contamination and Poor Product Quality by FTIR

IR spectroscopy is a ubiquitous analytical technique that was first used during World War II. Since that time it has undergone significant development, providing a means for the analysis of many types of samples both in the laboratory and in the field.
This session will focus on the theory of Infrared and will discuss some modern infrared analytical techniques.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Louis Tisinger, PhD (Application Engineer, Molecular Spectroscopy, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Louis (Lou) Tisinger has a Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry from Miami University in Oxford Ohio, where his graduate research involved the study of ATR imaging and microscope performance in vibrational spectroscopy. Most of his career has been related to pre- and post-sales support of FTIR spectrometers, microscopes, imaging systems, and thermal analytical instruments, focusing on analyzing customer samples, demonstrations, post-sales training, troubleshooting, and R&amp;D.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: A discussion on the Theory of FTIR

A discussion on the Theory of FTIR

This session will focus on the theory of Infrared and will discuss some modern infrared analytical techniques.

This webinar will guide you on the best practices, tools, and techniques needed to get the most reliable, verifiable insights into your optical components. Appropriate choice of technique and methodology is critical to getting the information you need to improve design, verify product performance, and accelerate manufacturing.
We will explore the subtleties of reflection and transmission measurements at normal incidence and at oblique angles, emphasizing high absorbance, optical density, linearity, and effects of incident beam collimation. We will discuss diffuse scattering measurements and automation/robotics to broaden quality assurance programs and speed up analysis. 
The webinar is relevant to developers of optics, photonics, and electro-optical or semiconductor devices such as visual displays, laser-based range detection (LiDAR), optical communications systems and light-based scientific instrumentation. Improve your understanding of the link between your desired outcomes and the spectrophotometric approaches needed to achieve those insights. 
Key Learning Objectives:
<ul>
<li>The best spectrophotometric practices to extract deeper insights into the characteristics of optical samples.</li>
<li>How to overcome the limitations of traditional spectrophotometric tools and verify outcomes.</li>
<li>Accelerating QA/QC of optics in a production environment.</li>
</ul>
Who Should Attend:
<ul>
<li>Commercial or Academic organizations in the fields of optics, photonics, electro-optical, or semiconductors</li>
<li>Laboratory Managers </li>
<li>Scientist/Staff Scientists</li>
<li>Lab Technician/Technologist</li>
<li>Analyst</li>
<li>Project Manager</li>
<li>SME Directors, Core Lab/ Facility Managers </li>
<li>Under/Post Graduate Researchers</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Travis Burt (Global Product Manager – Cary UV-Vis-NIR Spectrophotometers, Agilent Technologies)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Catherine Dold (Health &amp; Environment Writer, C&amp;EN Media Group)
</blockquote>

C&EN: Optimizing Optics Using Advanced Spectrophotometry

Optimizing Optics Using Advanced Spectrophotometry

This webinar will guide you on the best practices, tools, and techniques needed to get the most reliable, verifiable insights into your optical components.

GCMS webinars focusing on FTIR Spectroscopy - page 10