In this technical tip from Phenomenex, the topic of gas chromatography (GC) column trimming is addressed from a troubleshooting perspective. The key question explored is whether trimming a GC column is necessary and how it impacts chromatographic performance.<h3>Why Trim a GC Column?</h3>Column trimming is primarily used to restore chromatographic performance by removing damaged or contaminated sections, typically located at the column inlet.<h5>1. Baseline Bleed, Noise, Ghost Peaks, Poor Peak Shape</h5><ul><li>Cause: Column contamination</li><li>Removing the contaminated stationary phase at the column entrance helps restore performance.</li></ul><h5>2. Elevated Baseline (Especially at High Temperature)</h5><ul><li>Cause: Column bleed</li><li>Degradation of the stationary phase due to oxygen exposure or thermal damage leads to increased baseline.</li></ul><h5>3. Ghost Peaks (Peaks Without Injection)</h5><ul><li>Cause: Residual sample or contamination</li><li>Compounds trapped at the beginning of the column can appear as peaks even when no sample is injected.</li></ul><h5>4. Peak Tailing (Asymmetrical Peaks)</h5><ul><li>Cause: Damaged or contaminated column sections</li><li>These issues result in adsorption effects or poor flow dynamics.</li></ul><h5>5. Retention Time Shifts</h5><ul><li>Cause: Contamination or damage near the inlet</li><li>Although trimming slightly changes retention time, it can correct shifts caused by inlet-side issues.</li></ul><h5>6. Baseline Noise and Spikes</h5><ul><li>Cause: Particulate matter or degraded stationary phase</li><li>These can lead to detector instability and random signal fluctuations.</li></ul><h5>7. Baseline Drift or Wander</h5><ul><li>Cause: Contamination or oxidized column sections</li><li>Removing these regions stabilizes the baseline.</li></ul><h5>8. Loss of Resolution or Sensitivity</h5><ul><li>Cause: General column degradation</li><li>Trimming removes the most exposed and damaged portions, effectively rejuvenating column performance.</li></ul><h3>How to Trim a GC Column</h3>A capillary GC column consists of:<ul><li>Polyimide outer coating (protective layer)</li><li>Fused silica tubing (fragile but flexible core)</li></ul><h3>Step-by-Step Procedure</h3><h5>1. Scoring the Column</h5><ul><li>Use a ceramic wafer</li><li>Hold it at an inclined angle</li><li>Score the polyimide coating perpendicular to the column</li></ul><h5>2. Breaking the Column</h5><ul><li>Perform a quick, decisive flick</li><li>This ensures a clean, square cut</li></ul><h5>3. Inspecting the Cut</h5>After trimming, visually inspect the column end.<h3>Examples of Column Cuts</h3><h4>Good Cut</h4><ul><li>Clean, square end</li><li>Ensures proper sealing and connection</li></ul><h5>Bad Cuts</h5><ul><li>Slight Irregularity<ul><li>Small imperfection at the edge</li><li>Can cause leaks and active sites</li></ul></li><li>Poor / Rough Cuts<ul><li>Uneven or jagged edges</li><li>Lead to:<ul><li>Poor connections</li><li>Active sites</li><li>Peak tailing</li></ul></li></ul></li></ul><h2>Conclusion</h2>Trimming a GC column is a simple yet effective troubleshooting step. By removing contaminated or damaged sections—especially near the inlet—it can resolve a wide range of chromatographic issues, including baseline instability, ghost peaks, and loss of performance.Proper cutting technique is essential to avoid introducing new problems such as leaks or active sites.

Trimming a GC Column: Purpose, Symptoms, and Proper Technique

<h3>We're excited to announce that <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/999">Clarity Chromatography Software</a> version 10.1.2 is now available!</h3>This minor update expands Clarity’s portfolio with new control modules.<h4>Newly added Instrument control modules</h4><ul><li>Ecom auxiliary modules</li><li>HTA ICF control modules</li><li>Spark pump</li></ul><h4>Updated Instrument control modules</h4><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/companies/168">Ecom</a> HPLC</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/companies/328">Knauer</a> HPLC</li><li>Spark ICF control modules</li><li>YoungIn Chromass HPLC</li></ul><blockquote>For a complete list of module changes, see the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.dataapex.com/version_history?product=1">Changelog</a>. For more info about exciting new features directly in Clarity, explore what was introduced in the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/article/5622">Clarity 10.1 release highlights</a>.Clarity can control 1000+ instruments; the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.dataapex.com/controls">list can be previewed here</a>.</blockquote><h4>Supported Instruments in Clarity (DataApex) — Quick Guide</h4>Clarity Chromatography Software supports a wide range of chromatographs and peripherals via digital control (DD) and analog acquisition (A/D) using the Colibrick module.<h5>Gas Chromatographs (GC)</h5>Digital integration over LAN/RS232 (many via ICF):<ul><li>Agilent: 5890, 6890, 7890, 8860, 8890, Intuvo 9000</li><li>Shimadzu: GC-2010/2014, Nexis GC-2030</li><li>Thermo Fisher: TRACE 1300/1310</li><li>PerkinElmer: Clarus 400–690</li><li>Also supported: Dani, Ellutia, Young In Chromass, Apix, Fuli, GOW-MAC (selected models)</li></ul><blockquote>Note: Most Agilent 6890–8890 and Intuvo use LAN – ICF.</blockquote><h5>HPLC Systems</h5>Full system/module control:<ul><li>Agilent 1100–1290 Infinity II (ICF)</li><li>Shimadzu LC-10/20 and Nexera LC-40</li><li>PerkinElmer Flexar / NexSAR</li><li>Knauer Azura / BlueShadow / Smartline</li><li>Hitachi Chromaster / Primaide</li><li>Young In Chromass ChroZen series</li><li>Sykam S500–S600, Watrex Streamline, Hanon LC7000–7300</li></ul><h5>HPLC Modules (Pumps, Detectors, Ovens, Fraction Collectors)</h5><ul><li>Pumps: Agilent 1100–1290 families, Knauer, Shimadzu, PerkinElmer, Sykam, SSI, Ecom</li><li>Detectors: VWD/DAD(PDA)/RID/FLD/ELSD across Agilent, Shimadzu, Knauer, PerkinElmer, Young In Chromass, Ecom, etc.</li><li>Column Ovens: Agilent G1316x / G7116x, Shimadzu CTO-20/30/40, Knauer CT2.1, PerkinElmer Flexar</li><li>Fraction Collectors: Knauer FC 6.1, Teledyne FOXY series, Ecom ECF 2096, Waters Fraction Collector II</li></ul><h5>Autosamplers</h5><ul><li>Agilent GC ALS (7673/7683/7693/8697), HPLC ALS modules (G1313A–G7167C)</li><li>Shimadzu AOC-20 / AOC-5000+, SIL-10 / SIL-20 / SIL-40 series</li><li>CTC Analytics PAL, HTA autosamplers, Spark Alias/UHPLC, Knauer AS 6.1L</li><li>PerkinElmer Flexar / NexSAR AS</li></ul><h5>Other Devices</h5><ul><li>GC×GC modulators (e.g., Charles University GC×GC Modulator)</li><li>Valves &amp; switch modules (Agilent, Knauer, Shimadzu, VICI-Valco)</li><li>Degassers, flow monitors, managers, interfaces</li><li>LC-MS / GC-MS: Advion Expression CMS, Microsaic 4500 MiD, Markes BenchTOF (and others)</li><li>Balances (EA extension): Mettler Toledo, Sartorius</li></ul><h5>Analog Acquisition (Colibrick)</h5>A/D support for legacy or analog-output devices:<ul><li>GC: Agilent 5880/4890A, Varian 3xxx/3800/3900, PerkinElmer Clarus series, Thermo TRACE, Shimadzu GC-14/9A, Scion 43x/45x/83xx/85xx, etc.</li><li>HPLC Detectors: Waters 2487/2489, ESA Corona, Hitachi L-series, JASCO FP/UV, Ecom LCD series, many others</li><li>Elemental &amp; Amino Acid Analyzers: Carlo Erba/Costech ECS, Biochrom 20/30+</li></ul>If you are interested in a DEMO VERSION, contact us!

DataApex Clarity Chromatography software 10.1.2 just released!

🎤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

Article

Product

Academy

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Interview

Science and research

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Since 1991 DataApex develops and manufactures chromatography data stations. DataApex is constantly striving to provide users with efficient and up-to-date tools for chromatography data processing.

DataApex

Phenomenex is a global technology leader committed to developing novel analytical chemistry solutions that solve the separation and purification challenges of researchers in industrial, government and academic laboratories.

Phenomenex

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

Agilent Technologies

ACD/Labs

Petro Industry News

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Waters Corporation

Questions that are answered by structure elucidation and &amp; verification are integral parts of chemical R&amp;D workflows from discovery to development and manufacturing. But as scientists constantly strive to do their work faster and better, they must be careful to ensure that efficiency does not come at the cost of confidence in the determined structure.
Join us as we bring together experts from some of the industry’s leading organizations to share how they leverage software to make the most of their NMR, LC/MS, and GC/MS data and boost their structure elucidation and verification workflows.
<h5>Who won’t want to miss this symposium?</h5>
<ul>
<li>Synthetic and medicinal chemists responsible for elucidating and verifying the structures of their reaction products and by-products Natural products researchers
</li>
<li>Members of structure elucidation groups
</li>
<li>Decision makers at institutions where chemical structures need to be identified quickly and confidently
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Event Agenda</h3>
<h5>15:30-16:10 (CEST) Combined LC/MS and NMR for Automated Verification of Chemical Structures</h5>
<ul>
<li>Celine Nguyen-Van-Dau (Head of Integrated Drug Discovery (IDD) Structural Analysis team, Sanofi)</li>
</ul>
<h5>16:15-16:50 (CEST) Pharmaceutical Discovery and Development Analytical Workflows</h5>
<ul>
<li>Kevin Robbins (Associate Principle Scientist, AstraZeneca)</li>
</ul>
<h5>16:55-17:30 (CEST) Conformational Analysis of Peptidomimetic Drug Leads by NMR</h5>
<ul>
<li>Purnima Khandelwal (Senior Principal Scientist, Small Molecule Drug Discovery, Bristol Myers Squibb)</li>
</ul>
<h5>Hosted By</h5>
<ul>
<li>Sanji Bhal (Director, Marketing Communications (ACD/Labs))</li>
<li>Sarah Srokosz (Marketing Communications Specialist (ACD/Labs))</li>
</ul>

ACD/Labs: What's That Peak? Structure Elucidation & Verification Virtual Symposium 

What's That Peak? Structure Elucidation & Verification Virtual Symposium

What’s in my sample? Did I make what I think I made? What’s that peak?

What's That Peak? Structure Elucidation & Verification

Semivolatile organic compound (SVOC) analysis can be tough. When analyzing acidic, basic or neutral compounds, you need a column with a balanced, highly inert deactivation which is also rugged enough to withstand repeated injections of challenging matrices, such as waste-water and hazardous waste extracts.
In this webinar, discover how the new Rxi-SVOCms columns were designed and built from the silica surface up to perform reliably and consistently under the harshest testing conditions. Whether it is PAH analysis in under 10 minutes or a wide calibration range for routine 8270 analysis, there is an Rxi-SVOCms column to meet all needs.
<h5>Key learning objectives</h5>
<ul>
<li>Learn how the specific challenges of SVOC analysis were used to guide development of the Rxi-SVOCms</li>
<li>Examine how the inertness of the column impacts sensitive analytes</li>
<li>See how the column performs over time and how routine maintenance restores performance</li>
</ul>
<h5>Who should attend?</h5>
Lab directors, scientists, method developers, analysts, and technicians working on the analysis of semivolatile organic compounds.
<blockquote>
Presenters: Chris Rattray (Senior scientist, GC applications, Restek Corporation)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Chris Rattray is a senior scientist in GC applications with a BSc in chemistry from the University of California, Riverside, and almost 15 years’ experience in environmental analysis. Prior to joining Restek, he worked at multiple environmental testing laboratories in Southern California in the positions of organic analyst, organic supervisor, technical director, and laboratory director. His responsibilities at Restek are split between the optimization of existing environmental methods and the development of new GC columns and GC accessories.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenters: Ellie Abbott (SelectScience)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Ellie studied biochemistry at the University of Nottingham, UK, and has previous experience working in management consultancy. As a member of the Editorial team, she now plays an integral role in shaping the content on SelectScience.
</blockquote>

SelectScience: How to overcome challenges and improve your semivolatile organic compound analysis

How to overcome challenges and improve your semivolatile organic compound analysis

Whether it is PAH analysis in under 10 minutes or a wide calibration range for routine 8270 analysis, there is an Rxi-SVOCms column to meet all needs.

How to overcome challenges and improve your SVOCs analysis

We’ll explore polymer characterization, including quick polymer identification for recycling purposes, identifying product defects or failures for quality control, reverse engineering to facilitate product development. We’ll dive into polymer research – an active area of scientific endeavor where performance and a reduced environmental impact are key elements of interest. Learn why vibrational spectroscopy (infrared (IR) and Raman) instruments are useful for the analysis of polymers in an industrial setting, as IR and Raman are highly specific and sensitive tools that are non-destructive and easy to use.
During the session, we’ll offer clear examples that demonstrate the effectiveness of IR and Raman analysis in each of these categories.
<h5>Key webinar take-aways:</h5>
<ul>
<li>The importance of polymer research where performance and a reduced environmental impact are key elements of interest.</li>
<li>Utilizing vibrational spectroscopy (infrared (IR) and Raman) as a useful tool for the analysis of polymers in an industrial setting.</li>
<li>IR and Raman are highly specific and sensitive tools that are non-destructive and easy to use.</li>
<li>Examples will be presented demonstrating the effectiveness of IR and Raman analysis in each of these categories.</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/Adrian Malec: Polymer Science A to Z: Getting Answers from FTIR and Raman Analyses

Polymer Science A to Z: Getting Answers from FTIR and Raman Analyses

Let’s tackle the science of polymer analysis using the power of spectroscopy, including identification, quality control and reverse engineering. 

Polymer Science A to Z: FTIR and Raman Analyses

According to the PIC/S guidance complex or open-ended processes that lead to subjective interpretation, can result in an increase in data failures. One way to reduce this risk is with a simplified, well-defined process. Empower software enables you with tools to create structure in your chromatographic processes and workflow. Leveraging a well-defined workflow along with a clear SOP that details important steps, such as how to work thru reprocessing of data, will reduce the risk of failures. More complexity added to a workflow can result in an increase in data review requirements and subsequently the associated audit trails.
In this workshop we will define a chromatographic workflow with Empower software to support data integrity goals. Starting with method development, method validation, and routine usage to data acquisition, data processing, reporting results, and using control charts to track and trend data. 
Please join us for this live discussion to learn more and bring your Empower software questions for this exclusive opportunity to ask our expert, Neil Lander, anything about Empower CDS!
<blockquote>
Presenter: Neil Lander (Principal Product Manager, Waters Corporation)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
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.
</blockquote>

Waters Corporation: Empower Tips: Ask Me Anything About Creating Efficiency in Your Routine Workflow with Simple Automation Steps

Empower Tips: Ask Me Anything About Creating Efficiency in Your Routine Workflow with Simple Automation Steps

In this workshop we will define a chromatographic workflow with Empower software to support data integrity goals.

Empower Tips: Simple Automation Steps

Monitoring the quality of hydraulic and/or lube oils is critical to prevent premature wear of any kind of machinery. In this session we will look at this topic from a new perspective focusing on the combination of titration (potentiometric, thermometric, coulometric Karl Fischer titration) and Vis-Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (Vis-NIRS).
Combining titration (highly sensitive, specific, a widely used primary method) with Vis-NIRS (fast, non-destructive, results for multiple parameters at once) can make your oil condition monitoring and/or lubricant analysis much more efficient, especially, if your laboratory has to analyze large sample series every day.
Attending this session, you will learn and understand:
<ul>
<li>The specific advantages of each method (titration and Vis-NIR-Spectroscopy)</li>
<li>How and when to use these methods to measure critical chemical and physical parameters in lube and hydraulic oils</li>
<li>What thermometric titration is and how it helps to improve robustness of serial acid number testing</li>
<li>How to automate measurements of large sample series to increase efficiency and reproducibility</li>
<li>How Vis-NIRS for lubricant analysis complies with ASTM guidelines and can save costs and time</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Robert Tobler (Application Specialist Titration)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Robert Tobler studied chemistry at the Zurich University of Applied Science in Wädenswil, Switzerland. He joined Metrohm in 2015 as an application specialist titration. Since 2018 he has also been involved in stability measurement.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Nicolas Rühl, PhD (Product Manager Spectroscopy)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Dr. Nicolas Rühl is working in the Competence Center Spectroscopy since 2015. In this time, he has been in charge of developing the near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy business at Metrohm. Nicolas has a Master in Business Administration and received his PhD in physical chemistry on single-molecule spectroscopy using Vis-NIR and Raman spectroscopy technologies.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Moderator: Tom Lynch CChem FRSC (Independent Analytical Consultant, International Labmate)
</blockquote>
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Tom has 35 years of experience in the petroleum industry, specialising in the delivery of forensic and problem solving /method development capabilities for BP Fuels and Lubricants businesses globally. He was also a member of the BP Science Council representing Analytical Science and led a BP wide Analytical Science network.Tom has published over 30 citable papers, 4 book chapters and has given over 60 presentations at conferences. He is a past Vice President of the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) Analytical Division and a past Chairman of the RSC Separation Science Group. In addition, Tom is a recipient of the Silver Jubilee Medal by the Chromatographic Society and a technical achievement award by the Energy Institute.
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Metrohm: Making your quality control of hydraulic and lube oils more efficient

Making your quality control of hydraulic and lube oils more efficient

Combining titration and Vis-Near-Infrared Spectroscopy for higher sample throughput & faster results

Efficient quality control of hydraulic and lube oils

Event Overview: Pesticide analysis can feel like an uphill battle: an ever-expanding list of target compounds, increasingly stringent regulations that drive lower detection limits, and constantly evolving sample matrices make it challenging to keep up. Agilent&#39;s multi-class, multi-residue methods based on LC/MS and GC/MS, give you a leg up on routine monitoring, enabling high throughput, sensitive detection levels, and rapid quantitative analysis for hundreds of pesticides in a single sample.
Bring all your questions to be answered during our “Ask the Experts” panel. Join Agilent application scientists and engineers who will be available to provide guidance and expertise for all your hardware, software, and application related questions. 
<h5>This day will be dedicated to pesticide work using GCMS. Some topics to be discussed are:</h5>
<ul>
<li>Sample clean up in complex matrices: QuEChERS and beyond</li>
<li>Analyte enrichment out of aqueous matrices</li>
<li>GCMSMS acquisition settings for pesticides</li>
<li>Introduction to HydroInert source for H2 carrier gas</li>
<li>Converting your pesticides analysis to retain retention times or make the analysis faster</li>
<li>Full scan data analysis utilizing deconvolution for higher confidence with library matches</li>
<li>MRM Optimizer for transition creation and optimization</li>
</ul>
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Presenter: Tina Chambers (Sample Prep Application Scientist, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
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Tina started her career in Analytical Chromatography with Varian in 2002 and spent the first five years providing technical support for their LC columns, GC columns and sample preparation portfolios. After three years in sales, she returned to her technical roots with Agilent in 2010, consulting with customers on efficient and optimized sample preparation strategies.
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Presenter: Rachael Ciotti (GC/MS Application Specialist, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
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Rachael Ciotti is a GCMS Application Specialist at Agilent Technologies in Wilmington, DE. Previously, she was a Field Service Engineer specializing in installing, maintaining, and repairing Agilent GC and GC/MS systems. Prior to joining Agilent, Rachael worked at DuPont as an analytical chemist responsible for GC and GC/MS method development and transfer to manufacturing labs. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics from Rutgers University.
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Presenter: Matt Curtis, PhD (GC/MS Applications Scientist, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
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Matt joined Agilent in 2013 as a GC/MS applications scientist in the Santa Clara, CA Center of Excellence. His primary responsibility is focused on providing instrument demos for customer interested in each technology Agilent offers; the GC/MS single quadrupole, triple quadrupole and the quadrupole Time-of-Flight. The variety of different samples submitted to the demo lab provide a unique knowledge of optimizing parameters for different applications to provide the best quality data from the instrument.
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Presenter: Angela Smith, PhD (Applications Chemist for GC and MS Supplies, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
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Angie is an applications chemist for GC and MS Supplies at Agilent Technologies in Wilmington, DE. Previously, she was an Applications Chemist for the MSD Solutions and Applications group with a focus on developing analyzers and applications for energy, chemical and environmental markets. She holds a Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry from Lehigh University and B.S. in Chemistry from Juniata College.
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Agilent Technologies: Ask the Experts Panel: Pesticides by GC/MS

Ask the Experts Panel: Pesticides by GC/MS

Join Agilent application scientists who will be available to provide guidance and expertise for all your hardware, software, and application related questions.

In 2018 Valsartan was found to contain the N-Nitrosamine, NDMA. This discovery set in motion an issue that, still to this day, has sent shock waves through the Pharmaceutical Industry and continues to threaten the future viability of many critical medicines.
This presentation will seek to examine the chain of events that have led us to the present day and asks the question: Is the issue we now faced the same issue as that first identified in the Valsartan incident and are the same approaches valid?
The evolution of the issue from a drug substance contamination issue to one related to N-Nitrosamines formed from the active itself. How the two issues are distinct and how by treating them as equivalent threatens the very existence of many critical medicines and the choices industry and regulators now face.
<h5>Key learning objectives</h5>
<ul>
<li>Formation of API related N-Nitrosamines in formulated products where the active is a secondary amine is virtually unavoidable</li>
<li>The principle of avoidance aligned to acceptable intakes, based on potent dialkyl amines e.g., NDEA (26.5ng/day) threatens to see widespread withdrawal of whole classes of pharmaceuticals</li>
<li>What is being done to avoid the disaster we face</li>
</ul>
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Presenter: Dr. Andrew Teasdale (Senior Principal Scientist Impurity Management and External Advocacy, AstraZeneca)
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Dr. Teasdale has 30 years experience in the pharmaceutical industry. In his current role, he chairs AstraZeneca’s Impurity Advisory Group. Dr. Teasdale has published over 50 peer reviewed publications and three books relating to mutagenic impurities, N-Nitrosamines, extractables and leachables, and other impurity related matters.
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Thermo Scientific: N-Nitrosamines – the Evolution of the Concerns

N-Nitrosamines – the Evolution of the Concerns

Ask the question: Is the issue we now faced the same issue as that first identified in the Valsartan incident and are the same approaches valid?

Over the last two and a half years, we’ve all had to learn to communicate and work in new ways. With the help of technology, we’ve connected with colleagues across the globe in ways we never thought possible. The ability to work remotely has ensured continued quality management of products consumed daily. For an analytical chemist or lab manager, quality management may include reviewing and approving data from the safety of your office whether in the lab or at home. No matter where the data is reviewed, completeness, accuracy and traceability must be maintained. This can be accomplished with a secure and efficient software platform.
During this webinar, Kerri-Ann Blake, Product Manager for Titration, and Daniel Schmidt, IT Systems Engineer, will introduce you to the OMNIS data management platform. They will discuss how you can securely implement the software, review and sign data. You’ll learn how to track it all via audit trail from anywhere in the world - giving you peace-of-mind that all your data is being kept safe. 
<h5>Key Learning Objectives</h5>
<ul>
<li>Introduce OMNIS software’s seamless networking capability and user management system</li>
<li>Demonstrate convenient audit trail features with next level compliance and data integrity</li>
<li>Discuss system security and ease of implementation</li>
</ul>
<h5>Who Should Attend</h5>
<ul>
<li>QC/QA, R&amp;D and Process Development Lab Managers and Users </li>
<li>Anyone performing titrations in a 21 CFR Part 11 Compliant Environment </li>
<li>Those interested in data security and integrity</li>
</ul>
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Presenter: Kerri-Ann Blake (Titration Product Manager, Metrohm USA)
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Presenter: Daniel Schmidt (IT Systems Engineer, Metrohm USA)
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Presenter: Catherine Dold (Health &amp; Environment Writer, C&amp;EN Media Group)
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C&EN: Peace-of-Mind with Secure Data Management

Peace-of-Mind with Secure Data Management

Kerri-Ann Blake, Product Manager for Titration, and Daniel Schmidt, IT Systems Engineer, will introduce you to the OMNIS data management platform.

Microplastics pollution in watersheds was reported as early as the 1970’s. Now microplastics are one of the prevalent constituents of marine pollution. Microplastics are differentiated from other plastic particles, being in the size regime of &lt;5 mm. These small plastics present a potential threat to marine ecosystems due to ingestion of the microplastics but have also been noted as a means of concentrating toxic pollutants that may then enter humans through consumption of marine animals. The first step to understanding the nature of a microplastics pollution problem is the correct identification of the plastics. Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy is a primary analytical method for the identification of organic materials. FT-IR microspectroscopy is well-suited to analyze particles &lt; 5 mm in dimension through the combination of the focusing power of a microscope with the chemical identification capabilities of FT-IR spectroscopy.
We present the FT-IR microspectroscopic analyses of microplastics collected from water samples and living oceanic organisms as a means of tracing the microplastic contamination back to the originating source.
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Presenter: Dave Schiering, PhD (Founder and Chief Technology Officer, Redwave)
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<blockquote>
Dr. David W. Schiering is a founder and Chief Technology Officer of RedWave Technology, a private company that develops and markets vibrational spectroscopy products. Dr. Schiering has many years of experience in the chemical instrumentation field. He has held numerous scientific and management roles in technology and product development and has been previously employed by Smiths Detection, SensIR Technologies, Thermo Electron Corp., and Perkin Elmer. Dr. Schiering has written many publications on various aspects of vibrational spectroscopy. He earned a PhD in analytical chemistry from Miami University, where he is also an adjunct Assistant Professor of Chemistry. Dr. Schiering has served the Coblentz Society as a member of the Board of Managers and as secretary from 1991 to 2010. In 2011, Dr. Schiering was made an Honorary Member of the Coblentz Society and in 2018 received a Society of Applied Spectroscopy Fellows award.
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Agilent Technologies: Microplastic Pollution: IR Microspectroscopy is Enhancing Chemical Identification

Microplastic Pollution: IR Microspectroscopy is Enhancing Chemical Identification

FT-IR microspectroscopic analyses of microplastics collected from water samples and living oceanic organisms as a means of tracing.

Microplastic Pollution: IR Microspectroscopy Identification

Why are corrected baselines important in making a good uv-vis (nir) measurement? What are the components of a baseline and what do they tell us about the performance of the instrument? We will be examining these and other baseline questions during this presentation/demo.
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Presenter: Mark Fisher, PhD (Application Engineer, Molecular Spectroscopy, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
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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.
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Agilent Technologies: What’s in a UV-Vis-NIR Baseline

What’s in a UV-Vis-NIR Baseline

Why are corrected baselines important in making a good uv-vis (nir) measurement? What are the components of a baseline and what do they tell us?