Traditional ducted fume hoods remain the gold standard for chemical containment in most laboratories, but several innovative alternatives can provide effective protection while offering unique advantages. These alternatives include glove boxes, snorkel systems, and specialized containment units that address specific laboratory needs while potentially reducing energy consumption and installation complexity.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Organomation_Alternatives_to_Traditional_Fume_Hoods_A_Comprehensive_Guide_to_Laboratory_Containment_Solutions_9c39f814df.jpg" alt="Organomation: Alternatives to Traditional Fume Hoods: A Comprehensive Guide to Laboratory Containment Solutions" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Organomation_Alternatives_to_Traditional_Fume_Hoods_A_Comprehensive_Guide_to_Laboratory_Containment_Solutions_9c39f814df.jpg 208w," sizes="100vw" width="2016" height="1512"><h3>Glove Boxes: Maximum Containment for High-Risk Materials</h3>Glove boxes, also known as isolation enclosures, represent the highest level of containment available for laboratory operations. These fully enclosed systems create a complete physical barrier between operators and hazardous materials while maintaining precise environmental control.<h4>Key Features and Applications</h4>Glove boxes consist of hermetically sealed stainless steel or transparent enclosures equipped with integrated gloves that allow manipulation without breaking containment. Modern systems include sophisticated transfer airlocks, sensors, regulators, and automatic safety flow systems that compensate for pressure drops or accidental containment breaches.These systems excel in applications requiring extremely low occupational exposure limits (OELs). For materials classified as OEB 4 (1-50 μg/m³) or OEB 5 (&lt;1 μg/m³), glove boxes provide containment levels as low as 0.1 μg/m³ or even 0.01 μg/m³. This makes them essential for handling highly potent pharmaceutical compounds, radioactive materials, and other extremely hazardous substances.<h4>Specialized Configurations</h4>The versatility of glove box technology extends to numerous specialized applications. Compounding Aseptic Isolators (CAI) create positive pressure environments for sterile pharmaceutical compounding, meeting USP 797 requirements. Conversely, Compounding Aseptic Containment Isolators (CACI) operate under negative pressure for handling hazardous drugs per USP 800 guidelines.Inert atmosphere glove boxes utilize nitrogen or argon purging to create oxygen-free environments essential for moisture-sensitive materials and anaerobic research. These systems feature automated purge cycles and one-touch operation for seamless anaerobic transitions.<h4>Construction Materials and Performance</h4>Stainless steel construction (316L grade) provides optimal chemical resistance and durability, with continuous seam welds and wide radius corners facilitating easy decontamination. Leak rates typically specification below 0.05% chamber volume per hour, verified through pressure decay testing. Advanced systems incorporate built-in sterilization capabilities using vaporized hydrogen peroxide (VHP) generators for thorough decontamination between uses.<h4>Advantages and Limitations</h4>Glove boxes offer unparalleled containment performance with complete environmental isolation, precise atmospheric control, and robust decontamination capabilities. The closed design eliminates airflow disturbances that can compromise containment in open-front systems.However, glove boxes require larger footprints, higher initial investment, and more complex maintenance compared to open containment systems. The enclosed design may limit accessibility for larger equipment or rapid material transfers, and extended use can cause operator fatigue due to the ergonomic constraints of glove manipulation.<h3>Snorkel Systems: Localized Fume Extraction</h3>Snorkel systems, also known as articulating extraction arms or fume extraction arms, provide targeted fume capture at the source while maintaining workspace flexibility.<h4>Design and Operation</h4>These systems feature flexible, articulating arms typically 3-8 inches in diameter with working radii ranging from 3-14 feet. The arms incorporate three adjustable joints allowing 360-degree rotation and positioning flexibility. Standard configurations handle airflow rates from 30-1000 CFM depending on arm diameter and application requirements.Multiple specialized configurations address specific laboratory needs. The Original model provides general-purpose fume extraction for standard laboratory applications. ESD/EX models incorporate conductive materials to eliminate electrostatic discharge risks in electronic environments. CHEM models feature double anodized aluminum construction for enhanced corrosion resistance in aggressive chemical environments.<h4>Installation and Integration</h4>Snorkel systems mount to walls, ceilings, workbenches, or specialized support structures. They integrate with facility HVAC systems or standalone filtration units depending on application requirements. Mobile configurations with integrated collectors provide complete portability for applications requiring frequent repositioning.Advanced mounting systems include swing boom configurations for extended reach applications (18-35 feet) and rail-mounted trolley systems for linear positioning along extended work areas. These systems require minimal operator force for positioning and repositioning.<h4>Hood Options and Customization</h4>Extraction hoods vary based on application requirements. Transparent dome hoods optimize visibility for precision work while providing effective capture for high-dispersion particles. Metal hoods offer enhanced durability and chemical resistance for aggressive environments. Specialized hood geometries optimize capture efficiency for specific processes like chromatography or analytical instrumentation.<h4>Performance and Applications</h4>Snorkel systems excel in applications requiring localized fume extraction from specific equipment like chromatographs, analytical instruments, or small-scale chemical processes. They provide effective capture distances of 12-20 inches from the source with capture areas up to 20 inches in diameter.These systems prove particularly valuable in laboratories with limited space, flexible furniture arrangements, or applications where full fume hood installation is impractical. Educational laboratories benefit from their overhead mounting that preserves floor space while providing necessary ventilation.<h4>Energy Efficiency Considerations</h4>Snorkel systems typically require lower airflow rates than full-sized fume hoods, reducing energy consumption and HVAC demands. When integrated with variable speed controls and demand-based operation, they provide energy-efficient alternatives to constant-volume hood operation.<h3>Ductless Fume Hoods: Energy-Efficient Alternatives</h3>Ductless fume hoods represent a growing alternative to traditional ducted systems, offering significant energy savings and installation flexibility while maintaining safety standards.<h4>Energy Performance Advantages</h4>Ductless systems achieve remarkable energy efficiency improvements over traditional ducted hoods. Studies indicate energy efficiency improvements of 18-25 times compared to total exhaust systems, primarily through air recirculation rather than continuous exhaust of conditioned air. This translates to substantial reductions in HVAC loads and operational costs.A comparative analysis of a hypothetical 30-hood facility demonstrated that ductless systems consume only 2.4 kBTU per square foot annually compared to 127.5 kBTU for constant volume hoods and 74.1 kBTU for VAV systems. Carbon dioxide emissions similarly decrease from 873 tons annually for constant volume systems to just 55 tons for ductless alternatives.<h4>Filtration Technology and Safety</h4>Modern ductless hoods employ sophisticated multi-stage filtration systems combining carbon, HEPA, and specialized chemical filters. Advanced monitoring systems continuously assess filter performance and provide alerts when replacement is required. These systems maintain face velocities of 100 feet per minute, meeting OSHA recommendations while achieving ASHRAE 110 certification standards.Filter replacement costs range from $350-2,000 annually, representing significant savings compared to ongoing HVAC operational costs of ducted systems. Filter life varies based on application but typically extends 6-12 months under normal laboratory conditions.<h4>Installation and Flexibility Benefits</h4>Ductless hoods arrive fully certified and ready for immediate use without requiring building modifications or HVAC integration. This eliminates lengthy installation timelines and coordination requirements associated with ducted systems. Mobile configurations provide additional flexibility for laboratories requiring equipment relocation.The plug-and-play nature of ductless systems allows rapid deployment and adaptation to changing laboratory needs without facility downtime or infrastructure modifications.<h4>Application Limitations and Considerations</h4>Ductless systems prove most effective for applications involving naturally evaporating chemicals in limited volumes. They are not suitable for heated chemicals, highly volatile solvents, or applications generating large volumes of hazardous vapors. Regular filter monitoring and replacement are essential to maintain protection effectiveness.<h3>Specialized Containment Solutions</h3>Beyond traditional glove boxes and snorkel systems, several specialized containment solutions address specific laboratory needs.<h4>Downflow Booths</h4>Downflow booths utilize unidirectional airflow to carry contaminants away from operator breathing zones into low-level exhaust systems. These systems prove effective for powder handling operations requiring containment levels of 50-100 μg/m³.Recirculatory configurations suit powder operations while single-pass designs handle applications involving solvents or vapor generation. HEPA filtration and controlled airflow patterns (typically 90 FPM) provide effective containment while maintaining operator accessibility.<h4>Mobile Fume Extractors</h4>Portable fume extraction units combine the benefits of source capture with complete mobility. These self-contained systems feature integrated filtration, typically 3-stage systems with aluminum mesh pre-filters, MERV 15 cartridge filters, and activated carbon after-filters.Units range from 750-1200 CFM capacity with 6-8 inch diameter extraction arms in lengths from 7-14 feet. Advanced models incorporate pulse-cleaning systems extending filter life 6-7 times beyond traditional reverse-pulse systems.<h4>Biosafety Cabinets and Biological Containment</h4>While primarily designed for biological applications, Class III biosafety cabinets function as glove box systems for maximum biological containment. These systems provide complete enclosure with HEPA filtration for handling BSL-3 and BSL-4 materials.Class II biosafety cabinets offer open-front operation with HEPA filtration for lower-risk biological materials while providing some chemical containment capabilities for limited applications.<h3>Selection Criteria and Implementation Considerations</h3><h4>Material Hazard Assessment</h4>The selection of appropriate fume hood alternatives depends primarily on the occupational exposure limits and toxicological properties of materials being handled. OEB classifications provide guidance for containment requirements:<ul><li>OEB 1-2 (100-5000 μg/m³): Standard downflow booths with minimal additional controls</li><li>OEB 3 (10-100 μg/m³): Enhanced downflow booths or limited containment systems</li><li>OEB 4 (1-10 μg/m³): Specialized containment or glove box systems recommended</li><li>OEB 5 (&lt;1 μg/m³): Full isolation systems required</li></ul><h4>Economic Considerations</h4>Initial investment costs vary significantly among alternatives. Ductless hoods typically require lower upfront investment due to eliminated infrastructure requirements. Glove boxes represent higher initial costs but provide superior long-term containment assurance for high-risk materials.Operational costs favor ductless systems through reduced energy consumption, while glove boxes may require higher maintenance but offer lower risk exposure costs.<h4>Laboratory Design Integration</h4>Space constraints and laboratory layout significantly influence alternative selection. Snorkel systems optimize overhead space utilization while maintaining floor accessibility. Ductless hoods provide location flexibility without ducting constraints. Glove boxes require dedicated space but offer maximum containment assurance.Future laboratory needs and potential application changes should inform selection decisions, with modular and mobile solutions providing greater adaptability.The landscape of fume hood alternatives continues expanding with advancing filtration technology, improved energy efficiency, and enhanced safety monitoring systems. Each alternative offers distinct advantages addressing specific laboratory requirements while potentially providing economic and operational benefits over traditional ducted systems. Proper selection requires careful assessment of material hazards, operational requirements, and facility constraints to ensure both safety and efficiency objectives are met.

Alternatives to Traditional Fume Hoods: A Comprehensive Guide to Laboratory Containment Solutions

News from LabRulezGCMS Library - Week 09, 2026

<h3>Helium as a Critical Resource in Gas Chromatography</h3>Gas chromatography is among the analytical techniques with the highest helium consumption. In routine laboratory operation, helium is used not only during analytical runs themselves, but also during method development, stabilization modes, standby operation, and instrument maintenance. Taken together, GC and GC–MS systems account for a significant share of total helium consumption in analytical laboratories.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Watrex_GC_green_uvod_9d153f0f42.jpg" alt="Watrex: Helium Saver from Watrex Praha" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Watrex_GC_green_uvod_9d153f0f42.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="900">From the perspective of modern green chromatography, this represents a major challenge. Helium is a non-renewable and strategically limited resource, and its waste during non-productive phases of operation is unsustainable in the long term. Contemporary approaches to sustainable chromatography therefore do not aim to replace helium at any cost, but rather focus on optimizing its use deploying helium only where it is analytically truly necessary.<h4>Supply Disruptions and Price Volatility: The Everyday Reality of GC Laboratories</h4>Over recent decades, repeated disruptions in helium supply, significant price fluctuations, and increasing pressure from other industrial sectors—particularly cryogenics, medicine, and the semiconductor industry—have become common. These sectors consume helium in large volumes and often receive priority in distribution.For analytical laboratories, this has several direct consequences:<ul><li>increased operating costs due to rising prices,</li><li>uncertainty in planning routine analyses,</li><li>the need to limit GC system operation during periods of shortage,</li><li>pressure to seek alternative operational strategies.</li></ul>Especially problematic is the fact that a substantial portion of helium consumption in laboratories does not directly contribute to the analytical value of measurements, but merely serves to keep systems in an operational state.<h4>Green Chromatography: Efficient Use Instead of Replacement</h4>While switching to alternative carrier gases (e.g., nitrogen or hydrogen) may be suitable in some applications, it is not always technically or validation-wise feasible—particularly for established GC methods. Green chromatography therefore increasingly relies on the concept of intelligent carrier gas management, which makes it possible to:<ul><li>preserve helium for analytical runs,</li><li>minimize its consumption during non-productive modes,</li><li>eliminate human error associated with manual gas switching.</li></ul>This is precisely where automated technological solutions come into play.<h4>Model Calculation of Helium Savings in a Typical GC Laboratory</h4>To illustrate the potential for savings, consider a model GC laboratory with the following parameters:<ul><li>helium flow rate: 1.5 mL/min</li><li>instrument operation: 24 hours per day</li><li>analytical runs: 8 hours per day</li><li>non-productive modes (standby, waiting, stabilization): 16 hours per day</li></ul>Daily helium consumption without optimization:<ul><li>1.5 mL/min × 60 × 24 = 2.16 L helium/day</li></ul>Of this:<ul><li>analytical runs: 0.72 L/day</li><li>non-productive operation: 1.44 L/day</li></ul>If helium is replaced by nitrogen during non-productive modes via automatic switching:<blockquote>➡ helium savings: approx. 67% of daily consumption</blockquote>At a helium price (including logistics and cylinder rental) of, for example, CZK 400–600 per m³, and with several GC systems in operation, annual savings can reach tens of thousands of Czech crowns per instrument while also improving operational stability during periods of limited helium availability.<h4>Automated Solution: Helium Saver™ in the Context of Green Chromatography</h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://watrex.com/obchod/chromatography/dedicated-instruments/helium-saver/?utm_source=labrulez&amp;utm_medium=propagace&amp;utm_campaign=labrulez_clanky">Helium Saver™</a> from <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://watrex.com/?utm_source=labrulez&amp;utm_medium=propagace&amp;utm_campaign=labrulez_clanky">Watrex Praha</a> is an intelligent device designed for automatic switching between helium and nitrogen based on predefined operating modes. Helium is used exclusively during analytical runs, while during non-productive phases the system is automatically switched to nitrogen.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Watrex_GC_green_schema_98b674386d.jpg" alt="Watrex: Fig.2: Typical Helium Saver connection" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Watrex_GC_green_schema_98b674386d.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="900">Thanks to its modular design (Control Module, Switching Valve, and Manual Switch) and universal interface, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://watrex.com/obchod/chromatography/dedicated-instruments/helium-saver/?utm_source=labrulez&amp;utm_medium=propagace&amp;utm_campaign=labrulez_clanky">Helium Saver™</a> can be integrated into GC systems from various manufacturers without major modifications to the instrumentation.From a green chromatography perspective, this solution represents a practical compromise between sustainability, economic efficiency, and preservation of analytical data quality.<h4>Conclusion</h4>Increasing pressure on helium availability and the sustainability of laboratory operations is forcing analytical laboratories to reconsider traditional models of gas chromatography operation. Intelligent management of helium consumption enables significant reductions in costs and environmental burden without the need to modify validation protocols or analytical methodologies.Automated solutions such as <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://watrex.com/obchod/chromatography/dedicated-instruments/helium-saver/?utm_source=labrulez&amp;utm_medium=propagace&amp;utm_campaign=labrulez_clanky">Helium Saver™ </a>demonstrate that the principles of green chromatography can be successfully applied even in routine GC practice.<blockquote>Are you interested in <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://watrex.com/obchod/chromatography/dedicated-instruments/helium-saver/?utm_source=labrulez&amp;utm_medium=propagace&amp;utm_campaign=labrulez_clanky">Helium Saver</a>? Feel free to contact us at watrex@watrex.com for more information or a non-binding quote.</blockquote>

Green Chromatography in Practice: How to Reduce Helium Consumption in GC Without Compromising Data Quality

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Everything from the world of analytical chemistry in one place. We connect people in solving their problems. At Labrulez you will find all the necessary information easily, quickly and clearly. Stop searching and start finding.

LabRulez

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

WATREX Prague is the distributor and producer of HPLC techniques in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. Main Chromatografic and Related Techniques Supported: LC, GPC, IC, IEC, Automated SPE, LC Columns and special column packings, LC method development, Software development, Laboratory Robots.

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Separation Science

Agilent Technologies

Teledyne LABS

Restek Corporation

Plasmion

Join us for this complimentary webinar in our Troubleshooting series. Attendees will learn tips to help overcome purge and trap system leaks.
The following will be covered during the webinar:
<ul>
<li>To be added shortly</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Amy Nutter (Sr VOC Applications Chemist)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Amy Nutter is a senior VOC applications chemist at Teledyne Tekmar. Currently, she is focused on applications development and customer application support on the Purge and Trap product line. Previous to her current role, Amy worked for the city of Cincinnati in both the drinking water and wastewater laboratories.
</blockquote>

Teledyne Tekmar: Troubleshooting Series: Purge and Trap System Leaks

Troubleshooting Series: Purge and Trap System Leaks

Carrier gas is a necessary component to any functioning gas chromatographic system. The rising cost of helium, due to a global shortage in supply, has forced labs to consider alternatives such as hydrogen or even nitrogen, but is this a smart choice? Does it make sense for your laboratory? What are the common pitfalls or issues that might arise? In this talk we will take out some of the guess work associated with making this important decision and help you decide if the switch is right for you.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Mark Sinnott (Application Engineer, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Mark Sinnott works for Agilent Technologies as a Technical Support Engineer in the Consumables and Supplies Division (CSD) at the capillary column manufacturing facility (the “J&amp;W Scientific” location). In his position at Agilent, Mark performs technical support and applications assistance to gas chromatographers worldwide. He has more than 22 years of experience in gas chromatography, including environmental analysis of compounds in air, soil and water matrices, including dissolved gas analysis for the electrical industry. Mark holds a Master’s Degree in Chemistry from California State University, Sacramento, and currently resides in Sacramento.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Ballooning helium costs keeping you up at night? Try Hydrogen and Nitrogen as Alternative Carrier Gases

Ballooning helium costs keeping you up at night? Try Hydrogen and Nitrogen as Alternative Carrier Gases

Plasmion&#39;s annual Customer Forum is a platform for customers and people interested in Plasmion&#39;s ion source technology to get in dialogue.
09:00 - 09:20 Welcome &amp; Introduction Plasmion GmbH
09:20 - 09:45 Charles C Liu (ASPEC Technologies)
09:45 - 10:00 Q &amp; A I
10:00 - 10:25 Christoph Haisch (TU Munich)
10:25 - 10:40 Q &amp; A II
10:40 - 11:05 Sasha Rexroth (SHIMADZU Europa)
11:05 - 11:20 Q &amp; A III
11:20 - 11:50 Open Discussion with referents of Talks I-III in separate Breakout Rooms)
11:50 - 12:00 Summary &amp; Closing Plasmion GmbH

Plasmion: Plasmion Customer Forum 2021 - Session I

Plasmion Customer Forum 2021 - Session I

Plasmion&#39;s annual Customer Forum is a platform for customers and people interested in Plasmion&#39;s ion source technology to get in dialogue.
05:00 - 05:20 Welcome &amp; Introduction Plasmion GmbH
05:20 - 05:45 Leopold Weidner (Helmholtz Center Munich)
05:45 - 06:00 Q &amp; A I
06:00 - 06:25 Rory Steven (National Physical Laboratory, UK)
06:25 - 06:40 Q &amp; A II
06:40 - 07:05 Chip Cody (JEOL USA, Inc.)
07:05 - 07:20 Q &amp; A III
07:20 - 07:50 Open Discussion with referents of Talks I-III in separate Breakout Rooms
07:50 - 08:00: Summary &amp; Closing Plasmion GmbH

Plasmion: Plasmion Customer Forum 2021 - Session II

Plasmion Customer Forum 2021 - Session II

This webinar will show you ways to improve your method optimization of SPME. Fundamental and practical aspects of SPME will be discussed, together with tips and tricks for SPME method development. An overview of extraction phases available for SPME sampling will be provided, together with an overview of applications of biocompatible SPME fibers for analysis of food samples.
<h3>By attending this presentation you will learn...</h3>
<ul>
<li>method optimization with SPME</li>
<li>selection of the best conditions for extraction of liquid and gaseous samples</li>
<li>hyphenation of SPME to gas chromatography.</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Emanuela Gionfriddo (Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The University of Toledo, Toledo, Ohio, USA)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Dr. Emanuela Gionfriddo is an Assistant Professor of Chemistry at the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry of The University of Toledo (OH, USA). Research work in Dr. Gionfriddo’s lab focuses on the development of advanced analytical separation tools for the analysis of complex biological and environmental matrices, with emphasis on alternative green sample preparation methodologies.
</blockquote>

Merck: Improve your Method Optimization for SPME

Improve your Method Optimization for SPME

<ul>
<li>Broadcast #1: 12pm Singapore / 3pm Sydney</li>
<li>Broadcast #2: 10am London / 11am Paris / 3.30pm Mumbai</li>
<li>Broadcast #3: 12pm PDT / 2pm CDT / 3pm EDT</li>
</ul>
This expert presentation and discussion forum will focus on data integrity and compliance, particularly in the context of QA/QC, development, and manufacturing. Experts will highlight why technology companies need to put the customer at the heart of innovation, to ensure the development of solutions not just products. They will examine how different technology can offer benefits for regulatory compliance, with specific examples of how instrumentation, data integrity and compliance have been combined to provide effective solutions. The event will kick-off with the following presentation.
<h3>Technological Facilitation of Data Integrity Compliance</h3>
Data is the raw material of decisions and claims we make and, in modern society, the basis for being considered good practitioners on actions that others can observe. However, we have not acknowledged that we have been living in the postmodern world for many decades. Now, amidst and beyond the COVID-19 pandamonium, the economic plan is named “the Great Reset,” and “Build Back Better” is the political path forward. We must acknowledge that truth and reality are understood individually and influenced by personal reality, social belonging, gender preference, and culture, which is primed to cancel other realities. Hence, data integrity and truth will exponentially be assured in producing data electronically without human interference. While many parts of pharmaceutical processes and analytical equipment are certifiably compliant with CFR 21 part 11 requirements today, many gaps persist (e.g., mass spectrometers, NMR, IR, and their automation platforms. Historically developing 21 CFR part 11 compliant software has not been a priority for vendors, given that a tiny fraction of their customer base comes from the QC/GMP environment. Placing an added emphasis on the “totality of the evidence” in regulatory science is how we can fairly and responsibly (as per the FD&amp;C Act) progress to mind and fill gaps. Let us make sense of an integrated approach to data integrity in the postmodern world.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Ajaz Hussain (Independent Insights, Advice and Solutions for Science in Life)
</blockquote>

SeparationScience: Facilitating Data Integrity & Compliance

Facilitating Data Integrity & Compliance

To detect traces, the whole GC system needs to be optimised to maximise sensitivity. As noise is directly related to system background, the system background needs to be minimized. Using inert and low-bleed GC columns, like Restek’s Rxi range, can offer improvements but other parts of the GC system should also be considered.
In this presentation, we will discuss the impact of column, carrier gas, connections, liners, injection volume, septa, setup conditions and maintenance to help you achieve better results.

Restek: Improving Trace Analyses: Maximizing Sensitivity by Minimising Background Noise in GC and GC/MS 

Improving Trace Analyses: Maximizing Sensitivity by Minimising Background Noise in GC and GC/MS 

<h3>Part 1: Chromatographic and mass spectrometric techniques solutions to assess food quality and maintain purity control</h3>
This webinar will present solutions to assess food quality and maintain purity control, primarily by focusing on their lipid profiles using chromatographic and mass spectrometric techniques. Traditionally both GC and HPLC have been applied to routine approaches, whereas mass spectrometric (MS) approaches are the newer, more insightful techniques used to assess food quality and purity control. A particular emphasis will be given to the study of the patterns of volatile compounds in food, using MS techniques, with cases of olive oils and honey as prime examples.
<h3>What you will learn:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Meaning of terms food “quality” and “purity” and related parameters from a legal viewpoint</li>
<li>Chromatographic techniques used in official food control and their development</li>
<li>How different GC/MS techniques are used to assess “quality” and “purity” </li>
<li>How patterns of volatile compounds vs. sensory evaluation compare for identification and purity assessmen</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Prof. Lanfranco Conte (Department of Food Chemistry at University of Udine, Province of Udine, Italy)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
In 1977 Lanfranco Conte was awarded the “Laurea” in Biological Sciences defending an experimental thesis in Chemistry of fermentative processes at University of Bologna. Between 1973 and 1982 he worked as laboratory technician at University of Bologna. In 1982 he moved to the laboratory of the Italian Food Fraud Detection Agency as the Chief Chemistry Officer, and later in 1992, he became associate professor in Food Chemistry at University of Udine, subsequently becoming full professor in Food Chemistry in 1994.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
The research activity of Lanfranco Conte focusses on the development and validation of analytical methods to assess the authenticity, quality and (chemical) safety of several foods, mainly olive and seeds oils and honeys.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
L. Conte is author or co-author of more than 250 Scientific papers on peer reviewed journals, and 8 book chapters and 1 book devoted to sample preparation.
</blockquote>
<h3>Part 2: UHPLC/QTOF untargeted metabolomics approaches towards food integrity: Ensuring hazelnut geographical origin and saffron authenticity</h3>
The combined effect of geographical origin and cultivar on hazelnut phytochemical fingerprints has been evaluated through UHPLC-Q/TOF untargeted metabolomics coupled to multivariate statistical analysis. Unsupervised statistics (hierarchical clustering and PCA) and supervised statistics (OPLS-DA) allowed identifying markers specifically discriminating hazelnut cultivar or geographical origin. Among others, secondary metabolites such as phenolic compounds (mainly flavonoids) and phytosterols showed the strongest discrimination potential. Similarly, UHPLC-Q/TOF allowed discriminating saffron geographical origin (three distinct Italian PDO productions, separately from commercial products and foreign products). This untargeted metabolomics approach has been finally used to evaluate the most critical adulteration of saffron, namely the addition of other flower parts (stamens and tepals) to styles. Adulteration down to 5% of addition could be discriminated by metabolomics.
<h3>What you will learn:</h3>
<ul>
<li>How using untargeted metabolomics with LC UHPLC-Q/TOF with multivariate statistical analysis can be used to:</li>
<li>Identify the key biomarkers for hazelnut for confident identification/discrimination</li>
<li>Determine the geographical origin of hazelnut irrespective from the cultivar</li>
<li>Identify critical adulteration of saffron</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Prof. Luigi Lucini (Dept of Biochemistry, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Piacenza, Italy)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Luigi Lucini is professor of Biochemistry at Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Piacenza, Italy holding degrees in Food science and technology (1999), and “Safety in food industry” (2000), as well as a PhD in “Pesticides chemistry, biochemistry and ecology” (2004) from the University of Milan.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
In 2008 he moved to Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Piacenza, as researcher and since 2018 he is Associate Professor in agricultural chemistry. He is responsible of the metabolomic facility at his Faculty, dealing with plant, food, microbiology, and environmental metabolomics.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Research topics include the effect of edaphic factors and abiotic stresses on plant biochemistry and plant secondary metabolism, including stress mechanisms, plant resilience and acclimation processes. Luigi Lucini is dealing with the modulation of functional components in plant-based foods, and in the use of plant biostimulants to increase sustainable agricultural production.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Application of Mass Spectrometric Techniques for Ensuring Food Integrity, Quality and Authenticity

Application of Mass Spectrometric Techniques for Ensuring Food Integrity, Quality and Authenticity

<h3>In this webinar, you will have an opportunity to discuss and learn:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Right choice of consumables for the right application</li>
<li>Enhance your Lab Productivity with Agilent services and digital portfolio solutions</li>
<li>Introduction to Gas Chromatography with Mass Spectrometer</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Dr. Rajni Mujoo (Technical Support Specialist, Chemistries &amp; Supplies Division, Agilent Technologies)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Dr. Rajni is working with us as Technical Support Specialist in Chemistries and Supplies Division at Agilent Technologies since 2011. She has a Ph.D degree in Food Science from CFTRI, Mysore and Post Doctorate from Department Of Food Science, Michigan State University. She also has four International Presentations &amp; 13 publications in reputed National &amp; International journals to her credit. Rajni has a total work experience of 16 yrs spread across research and Sales building expertise in different Instrument techniques.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Anjali Premraj (Account Manager, Agilent Technologies)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Anjali has been working in Agilent Technologies from past 4 years after finishing her M.Sc in Biotechnology. She joined Agilent as a campus hire in 2017 and currently supporting Service Sales division in Bangalore as Key Account Manager
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Preethi Warrier (Application Engineer , Solution Support, Agilent Technologies)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
M-Tech from ICT, Mumbai, Preethi is working as a Customer Application Engineer for GC, GC/MS products at India level from past 4 years. She is also, India Lead for Agilent University Program and taking up Customer Educations.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Enhance Your Lab Productivity School Series: GCMS Chapter

Enhance Your Lab Productivity School Series: GCMS Chapter - Basic

<h3>In this webinar, you will have an opportunity to discuss and learn:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Make the right choice of GC Columns for GCMS Applications</li>
<li>Services for entire Lab from Simplification to optimization</li>
<li>Best Practices : User Related Maintenance, Tips &amp; Tricks</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Dr. Ramaprasad Ganni (Technical Support Specialist, Agilent Technologies)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Ramaprasad Ganni has 21 years of experience in the field of Chromatography and Column chemistries. Working with Agilent technologies India, since 2008 in Chemistries and Supplies division. Previously Worked for Elsevier GmbH, and Millipore India Pvt, Ltd. Responsible for Workflow solutions development, providing technical support, and trainings. Experienced in Sample prep, HPLC, GC, Mass spec and GPC Chromatography technologies
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Anish Sahay (Enterprise/LPS Sales Development Manager, Agilent Technologies India)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Anish Leads the Enterprise Business development for South &amp; East India regions in Agilent India. He has worked in Analytical instruments and IT industry focusing on Lifesciences and Oil &amp; Gas customers for over 16 years. He specializes in helping Life Sciences companies formulate its strategy for implementation and adaption of Digital technologies like Data &amp; Analytics, Mobility, Cloud solution to improve their productivity and efficiency.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Anuraj Kumar (Customer Application Engineer- GC/GCMS, Agilent Technologies)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Anuraj has overall 10+ years of experience in handling Gas Phase products. Working with Agilent since 4+ years and looking for GC &amp; GCMS products as core Post Sales application engineer for PAN India. Previously he had worked with multiple pharmaceutical R&amp;D as an Research Scientist in Teva, Fresenius kabi &amp; Jubilant Life Sciences.
</blockquote>

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