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

Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezGCMS Library in the week of 30th March 2026? Check out new documents from the field of the gas phase, especially GC and GC/MS techniques!<blockquote>👉 <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library">SEARCH THE LARGEST REPOSITORY OF DOCUMENTS ABOUT GCMS AND RELATED TECHNIQUES</a></blockquote><blockquote>👉 Need info about different analytical techniques? Peek into <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/library">LabRulezLCMS</a> or <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library">LabRulezICPMS</a> libraries.</blockquote>This week we bring you application notes by Agilent Technologies, Thermo Fisher Scientific, brochure by Shimadzu and presentation by MDCW / LECO!<h3>1. Agilent Technologies: Extraction and Analysis of Pesticides from Water by Solid Phase Extraction and GC/MS</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_extraction_analysis_pesticides_water_gcms_5994_8996en_agilent_28fc35d0e7.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Drinking water is defined as water intended for human consumption obtained from different sources. Several guidelines/regulations exist for ensuring that undesirable substances such as pesticides are not present in excessive amounts that may be harmful to human health. These regulations ensure that water intended for human consumption can be consumed safely. In India, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has set regulatory limits for residual pesticides in drinking water (IS 10500)1 , packaged drinking water (IS 14543)2 , and natural mineral water (IS 13428).3 A total of 26 pesticides are regulated by BIS standards, of which four compounds (monocrotophos, phorate, 2,4-D, and isoproturon) are more suitable for analysis by liquid chromatography.&nbsp;EPA Method 525.2 is a general-purpose method for determination of organic compounds in finished drinking water or water from any source or treatment stage.4 This method is applicable to a range of organic compounds that are partitioned from the water sample onto a C18 organic phase packed in a disk or cartridge. The organic compounds are then eluted using a suitable eluent, concentrated, and analyzed by GC/MS.&nbsp;This application note describes the use of EPA Method 525.2 for extraction of pesticide residues at trace levels in water using solid-phase extraction (Agilent Bond Elut C18: Straight barrel cartridges, p/n 12102118) and analysis using Agilent 8890-5977 GC/MS.&nbsp;Excellent linearity with R2 &gt; 0.995 was obtained for all pesticides considered for the study. Recoveries were obtained in the range of 80–120% with associated RSDs &lt; 15% at 0.005–0.080 ng/mL level of fortification.<h4>Experimental</h4><h5>Instrument parameters</h5><ul><li>GC: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=1&amp;search=8890">Agilent 8890</a></li><li>Column: Agilent <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=1&amp;search=J%26W+HP-5ms">J&amp;W HP-5ms</a> UI 30 m × 0.25 mm, 0.25 μm&nbsp;</li><li>Carrier Gas: Helium, constant flow, 1.2 mL/min&nbsp;</li><li>Inlet: Agilent Multimode Inlet (MMI)</li><li>MS: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=1&amp;search=5977">5977 GC/MS</a></li></ul><h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>A simple, easy, and efficient method based on EPA 525.2 was implemented for the determination of 22 pesticides in water. The method demonstrated good sensitivity, precision, and accuracy, and allows for rapid analysis. The results demonstrate that pesticide residues can be detected below the current maximum residue levels (MRL) required by the BIS specifications. Acceptable recoveries and precision were obtained at concentrations as low as 5 ng/L for all pesticides. The method is ideally suited for use in a regulatory laboratory for the determination of pesticides in surface, drinking, and packaged drinking water.<h3>2. MDCW / LECO: Exploring PFAS in Consumer Goods Using GCxGC and High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry</h3><ul><li>Presentation</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/O_3_Alonso_6f61e3ea43.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are widely used in consumer and industrial products due to their unique physicochemical properties, but their persistence and potential health risks have made their detection increasingly important. This study focuses on developing an untargeted analytical approach for screening PFAS and related compounds in consumer goods using advanced chromatographic and mass spectrometric techniques.The analytical workflow combines gas chromatography with time-of-flight mass spectrometry (GC-TOFMS) and comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography coupled with high-resolution TOFMS (GC×GC-HRTOFMS), using systems such as the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/1097">LECO Pegasus® BTX </a>and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/38">Pegasus® HRT+</a> platforms. Sample introduction is performed via thermal desorption or pyrolysis, enabling analysis of both volatile and complex matrices. High-resolution MS provides accurate mass measurements and elemental composition, which are essential for identifying unknown compounds and reducing matrix interferences.In the first case study, anti-fog solutions were analyzed and found to contain a wide range of compounds, including fluorotelomer alcohols and related PFAS species. While GC-TOFMS enabled initial screening, high-resolution TOFMS was necessary to characterize unknown compounds through accurate mass determination and complementary ionization techniques (EI and PCI). This approach allowed tentative structural assignment using external databases, demonstrating the importance of HRMS in identifying compounds not present in standard libraries.The second case study focused on chewing gum, a highly complex matrix with diverse chemical constituents and trace-level analytes. The use of GC×GC-HRTOFMS significantly improved chromatographic separation and spectral clarity, enabling detailed profiling of volatile and semi-volatile compounds. A dedicated PFAS screening workflow based on mass defect analysis and spectral filtering was applied, leveraging the characteristic CF₂ patterns of PFAS molecules to simplify data interpretation.Despite the complexity of the sample, no PFAS were detected in the chewing gum, its packaging, or the box. Overall, the study demonstrates that combining GC×GC separation, high-resolution mass spectrometry, and advanced data processing tools provides a powerful and reliable strategy for untargeted PFAS screening in complex consumer products, particularly when unknown or emerging contaminants are of concern.<h3>3. Shimadzu: Gas Chromatograph Nexis GC-2060</h3><ul><li>Brochure</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/c184_e056_06c3456516.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>The Shimadzu <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=3&amp;search=Nexis+GC-2060">Nexis GC-2060</a> represents a new generation of gas chromatographs, built on over 70 years of GC development and designed to serve as a flexible and future-proof analytical platform. It integrates the concept of Analytical Intelligence, which enables automated system monitoring, troubleshooting, and optimization, helping both experienced and less experienced users achieve reliable and consistent results. The system is highly configurable, supporting up to two injectors, three injection units, and four detectors simultaneously, allowing a single instrument to cover multiple analytical applications.A key advantage of the Nexis GC-2060 is its versatility in sample introduction and detection. The Multi-Mode Injection Unit (MMI) supports a wide range of injection techniques, including split/splitless, PTV, direct injection, large-volume injection (LVI), and thermal desorption, significantly reducing the need for complex sample preparation. The system is also equipped with next-generation detectors such as FID and TCD, offering high sensitivity, stability, and linearity, with additional detector options (ECD, FPD, FTD, BID) enabling broad application coverage.The instrument is designed to maximize laboratory efficiency and minimize downtime. Features such as tool-free column installation (ClickTek), automated startup/shutdown, Easy sTop maintenance mode, and Clean Pilot for automated column conditioning simplify routine operation and reduce manual intervention. In addition, Eco Idling technology automatically optimizes gas and power consumption during standby, significantly lowering operational costs while maintaining readiness for analysis.From an analytical performance perspective, the Nexis GC-2060 delivers excellent reproducibility and sensitivity, supported by advanced autosamplers (e.g., AOC-30) and compatibility with third-party systems. The platform supports hydrogen carrier gas for faster analysis and includes smart gas management features such as automatic gas switching. Its modular design allows seamless integration with various sample preparation systems, autosamplers, and detectors, ensuring adaptability to evolving laboratory needs.Overall, the Nexis GC-2060 combines high performance, operational efficiency, and flexibility in a single platform, making it suitable for a wide range of applications, including pharmaceutical analysis, environmental testing, food analysis, and energy-related measurements. Its scalability and continuous software updates ensure long-term usability and alignment with future analytical requirements.<h3>4. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Accurate multi-component blast furnace gas analysis maximizes iron production and minimizes coke consumption</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/epm_AN_Iron_Production_Prima_PRO_bd5de98b44.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Over a billion tonnes of iron a year are produced in blast furnaces, representing around 94% of global iron production¹. The blast furnace consists of a large steel stack, lined with refractory brick. Iron ore, coke and limestone are dropped into the top of the furnace and preheated air blown into the bottom through nozzles called ‘Tuyeres’. Iron oxides are reduced in the melting zone, or ‘Bosh’, forming liquid iron (called ‘hot metal’) and liquid slag. These liquid products are drained from the furnace at regular intervals, and the blast furnace will run continuously for several years, until the refractory lining needs replacing.Analysis of carbon monoxide (CO) and carbon dioxide (CO₂) give vital information on the efficiency of the reduction processes. Historically, two non-dispersive infrared (NDIR) analyzers were used, one to measure CO, the other CO₂. Additional discrete analyzers were required to monitor oxygen and hydrogen – typically paramagnetic O₂ analyzers and thermal conductivity analyzers for H₂.&nbsp;Thermo Scientific™ process mass spectrometers have been widely used for many years for key gas analysis applications in iron and steel plants, including blast furnace, basic oxygen steelmaking, coke oven gas analysis, secondary steel process control, fuel gas analysis and direct reduction iron processes²<h4>Process control requirements&nbsp;</h4>The advantages of process MS over conventional analysis techniques have been proven over many years in the iron and steel industry. The ability to measure a wide range of components on a single analyzer, coupled with advanced calibration, data transmission, and self-diagnostic software, makes the modern mass spectrometer ideal for integration into the modern plant. On blast furnaces, superior gas analysis is being used to calculate gas efficiency, mass and heat balances, and heat profiles through probe analysis, as well as being an essential tool in the early detection of cooling water leaks and sample system failures.&nbsp;Figure 2 shows 64 hours of data from a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/2305">Thermo Scientific™ Prima™ PRO Process MS</a> monitoring the six gases in a blast furnace top gas every 10 seconds. The pulse every 12 hours is generated by an automatic nitrogen blowback from the sample conditioning system, to keep the sample probe clear of particulates.<h4>Hydrogen analysis&nbsp;</h4>An increase in the hydrogen level in the furnace can indicate a leak from the furnace cooling system, as water dissociates into hydrogen and oxygen in the furnace. This has implications both for plant efficiency and plant safety. Water leaks will lower the furnace temperature, causing heat loss and a consequent increase in fuel consumption. In extreme cases, damage to plant and personnel can be caused by ignition of these hazardous mixtures of explosive gases.&nbsp;Figure 4 shows a plot of top gas hydrogen concentration measured by Thermo Scientific process MS over a 24-hour period, with the departure of the measured H2 value from that predicted by the mass balance model indicating a water leak. This leak was caused by the failure of a cooling member, and the furnace was taken off blast for repair. The mass spectrometer’s ability to provide fast, accurate hydrogen analysis removes the need for an additional discrete analyzer.&nbsp;Gas composition measurement is particularly important during the end-of-campaign blowdown that takes place prior to rebuilds and relines, because explosive gas mixtures can be generated.&nbsp;<h4>Probe analysis&nbsp;</h4>The fast analysis provided by MS offers another significant advantage over discrete analyzers—a number of process streams can be analyzed using a single instrument. This is achieved using a fully automated multi-inlet system, designed to switch between sample streams at high speeds with minimal sample flushing times. For example, as well as furnace top gas, the MS can also analyze gases from probes placed above and below the burden (the furnace charge of iron ore, coke and limestone). These are known as above-burden and sub-burden probes and provide valuable information on fuel efficiency, iron conversion and furnace charging. Figure 5 shows a schematic of these two probes; they can be moved across the furnace to build a cross-sectional profile of the furnace.<h4>Summary&nbsp;</h4>Thermo Scientific process mass spectrometers have been successfully monitoring blast furnace off gas at many of the world’s iron and steel companies for over 30 years. For a blast furnace producing 5,000 tonnes a day, a reduction in coke consumption of just 10 kg per tonne of iron produced provides a payback of over $10,000 a day. Users report that the combination of fast, accurate MS gas analysis for gas efficiency, heat and mass balances and hydrogen analysis, with advanced process control and mathematical modeling, has reduced coke consumption by up to 100 kg per tonne and increased iron production. Upgrading to Prima PRO MS can therefore result in complete installation payback within a few weeks.&nbsp;<ul><li>Reduces coke consumption&nbsp;</li><li>Produces consistent quality iron&nbsp;</li><li>Reduces downstream processing costs&nbsp;</li><li>Detects water leaks fast&nbsp;</li><li>Improves thermal control of furnace&nbsp;</li><li>Enables safer operation during blowdown</li></ul>

News from LabRulezGCMS Library - Week 14, 2026

<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!

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We invite you to join a hybrid event on October 15th to explore the latest solutions and workflows for overcoming environmental and food contaminant testing challenges.This event will be broadcast live from the laboratory at Thermo Fisher Scientific Customer Solutions Center (CSC) in Paris. You can join in person at one of our many 'satellite' venues worldwide, where we will offer an extended agenda, or participate remotely through the live broadcast.During the live stream broadcast, you will meet our Customer Solution Centre specialist team and leading industry expert, John Quick, as they discuss innovative solutions to meet the ever-evolving testing demands. There will be plenty of time to ask these experts your questions.The following sessions will be streamed all over Europe and beyond:<ul><li>Detecting PFAS in drinking water to meet regulations across Europe – New automated sample preparation high-resolution MS solution to achieve parts per trillion detection limits. Aristide Ganci,&nbsp;Senior Product Application Specialist, Thermo Fisher Scientific; Valérie Thibert, Senior Product Application Specialist, Thermo Fisher Scientific; Bénédicte Gauriat, Senior Product Application Specialist, Thermo Fisher Scientific</li><li>New ready-to-go pesticide residue solution for faster, more confident results Zoe Julian, Product Marketing Specialist, Manager; Bénédicte Gauriat, Senior Product Application Specialist, Thermo Fisher Scientific; Julie Moriceau, Senior Product Application Specialist, Thermo Fisher Scientific</li><li>Low-level contaminant testing in environmental water matrices&nbsp;– High-Resolution Accurate Mass GC-MS approach to meet future regulations John Quick, Principal Scientist, ALS Environmental Ltd</li></ul>After the live stream concludes, 'satellite' locations offer a unique program onsite. Take this unique opportunity to connect with industry professionals, or join us to explore, network, and collaborate on your future projects. Scroll below to the venue of your choice to discover the individual agenda.Participation is free of charge, registration is required.For any questions about this event or regarding your registration, please email <a href="mailto:CMDEvents@thermofisher.com">CMDEvents@thermofisher.com</a>.<h3>Preliminary agenda</h3><h5>10:15 Live streaming of this event to ‘satellite’ locations and online audience</h5><h5>10:30 Introduction</h5><ul><li>Jeff Stubbs (Business Development Manager, Environment and Food Safety, Thermo Fisher Scientific)</li></ul><h5>10:55 Detecting PFAS in drinking water to meet regulations across Europe - New automated sample preparation high-resolution MS solution to achieve ppt detection limits</h5><ul><li>A Ganci, V Thibert and B Gauriat (Senior Product Application Specialists, Thermo Fisher Scientific)</li></ul><h5>11:35 Break</h5><h5>12:05 New ready-to-go pesticide residue solution for faster, more confident results</h5><ul><li>Z Julian, Product Marketing, B Gauriat, and J Moriceau (Senior Product Application Specialists Thermo Fisher Scientific)</li></ul><h5>12:45 Low-level contaminant testing in environmental water matrices – high-resolution GCMS approach to meet future regulations</h5><ul><li>John Quick (Principal Scientist, ALS Environmental Ltd)</li></ul><h5>13:15 Closing comments</h5><h5>13:30 End of live streaming</h5><div><div container-id="cq-colctrl-lt7" comp-id="B1"><div><div><div><div><div><div><blockquote><h3>How to attend?</h3>3 ways of attending:Customer Solution Centre (in-person event):&nbsp; Join the heart of the event at our Customer Solution Center in Paris, where the main agenda will be hosted and live-streamed worldwide to our ‘Satellite’ locations and our audience.Join a ‘Satellite’ location (in-person event):&nbsp; Our in-person ‘Satellite’ events will broadcast the main agenda live-streamed from our Customer Solution Center in Paris and supplement the day with local presentations, lab tours, or workshops. Take this opportunity to meet your Thermo Fisher representatives and industry experts from the region. Discover the individual agenda for your ‘Satellite’ location of interest.Online attendees (remote):&nbsp; Unable to travel to a ‘Satellite’ event? Not a problem! You can register to attend conveniently online from your desk or anywhere else through the live stream from our Customer Solutions Center in Paris.</blockquote></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>

Thermo Scientific: Solutions for environmental and food contaminant testing

Solutions for environmental and food contaminant testing

New and advancing workflows to meet and exceed European regulations.

Join Agilent and GERSTEL for a 3-day live virtual seminar discussing how you can assure safety, authenticity, and quality of alcoholic beverages. The focus will be on sharing the latest in technology developments and capabilities, new applications, and customer stories.<h4>Presentation 1: Comparison of Headspace GC-MS Techniques to Characterize Volatile Phenols contributing to Smoke Taint in Pinot Noir Wines</h4><ul><li>Stephen Toth, GCMS Specialist in the Structure Elucidation Department – International Flavors &amp; Fragrances (IFF)</li></ul>A series of volatile phenols originating from smoke tainted grapes exposed to regional fires have been known to exhibit undesirable sensory characteristics such as smoky, burnt, ashy and medicinal flavoring in affected wines. This can be negatively perceived by consumers and often leads to an aftertaste of these characteristics lingering in the mouth after the wine has been swallowed. Wildfires plagued the counties in northern California and Oregon during the 2020 wildfire season from August through October. These fires severely impacted the grape harvest and challenged wine makers as many of their vineyards were either destroyed or their crops were contaminated with smoke taint. Numerous wineries opted to release limited amounts of 2020 Pinot Noir for this reason or produce rosé or white wines from affected grapes. Our research will look specifically at three different vintages (2019, 2020 and 2021) of Pinot Noir from the same vineyard in the Willamette Valley region of Oregon. It should be noted that “smoke” as an indicator of taste in wines is not always an indicator of smoke taint but can also be imparted into the wine by aging in oak barrels.We will compare headspace based GCMS techniques to characterize these wines and profile the volatile phenol content. Solid phase micro extraction (SPME) and stir bar sorptive extraction (SBSE) will be used to analyze both free volatile content and gylcosidically bound phenolic content. The free volatiles will be acquired in unaltered wine to best represent the consumer’s initial experience. These samples will then experience a pH adjustment, sonication and heat treatment to release gylcosidically bound phenolic compounds which could potentially be released over time by aging the wine.Our research will characterize the phenolic compounds contributing to the smoke taint odor and flavor present in the Pinot Noirs against the sugar bound compounds that can potentially release over the shelf life of the wine utilizing SPME and SBSE extraction methods. Additionally, the comparison of vintages will indicate whether the phenolic characteristics obtained by GCMS can be used to capture the smoke defect in the wine profile from 2020.<h5>Key Learning Objectives/What attendees will learn:</h5>1. Theory and applicability of SHS, SPME, SBSE, TF-SPME, DHS, and pyrolysis.2. How to decide on the most optimal extraction technique based on research challenges.<h4>Presentation 2: An Exploration of Phenolics in Red Wines: Chemical and Sensory Effects of Selected Winemaking Techniques</h4><ul><li>Dr. L. Federico Casassa, Associate Professor, Enology, Cal Poly</li></ul>This presentation discusses how the winemaker can manage winemaking elements – those over which we have control – to develop, evolve and enhance mouthfeel, with focus on phenolic compounds in grapes and wines from the Central Coast of California. The discussion then covers which elements can be leveraged and managed during the production of the wine. There are known protocols for grapes, yeast, fermentation, and aging. However, the challenge for the winemaker is to understand how our various treatments affect the end product. This presentation covers the effects of fermentation temperatures, cold soaking and how the manipulations of these elements can be used to modulate astringency and mouthfeel in the wines.<blockquote>Presenter: Stephen Toth (GCMS specialist in the Structure Elucidation Department, International Flavors &amp; Fragrances (IFF))Stephen Toth is a GCMS specialist in the Structure Elucidation Department at International Flavors &amp; Fragrances (IFF) in Union Beach, NJ. He has spent his lengthy career at IFF working in fragrance delivery, chromatography and ultimately in the mass spectrometry group where part of his role is scouting out new technologies. He is very active in the Agricultural and Food Chemistry Division of the American Chemical Society and currently serves as the treasurer and executive board member. He has edited multiple books and has organized several analytical and flavor chemistry symposia at national meetings. He also serves as a graduate student mentor for the division. He holds a B.S. and M.S in chemistry from Seton Hall University and a Ph.D in food science from Rutgers University.Presenter:&nbsp;Dr. L. Federico Casassa (Associate Professor, Enology, Cal Poly)Dr. Casassa’s research focus lies on the broad areas of grape and wine chemistry and biochemistry and their sensory implications, with especial emphasis on applied research. He has been involved in research projects focusing on the impact of irrigation techniques, especially Regulated Deficit Irrigation. Current and ongoing research projects include studies on the extraction of phenolics of sensory relevance during the course of different maceration techniques in red wines, coupled with other regulating factors and their sensory impact as evaluated by formal sensory evaluation techniques.</blockquote>

Aglient Technologies: Alcoholic Beverages Virtual Symposium: Wine

Alcoholic Beverages Virtual Symposium: Wine

How you can assure safety, authenticity, and quality of alcoholic beverages.

Join Agilent and GERSTEL for a 3-day live virtual seminar discussing how you can assure safety, authenticity, and quality of alcoholic beverages. The focus will be on sharing the latest in technology developments and capabilities, new applications, and customer stories.<h4>Presentation 1: GC-MS Technology for Non-Alcoholic Beer Flavor Improvement and Off-Odor Identification</h4><ul><li>Tiffany Crawford, Lead Scientist 1 – Analytical, Kalsec Inc.</li></ul>Non-alcoholic and low alcoholic beers are growing in demand worldwide. However, dealcoholization and arrested fermentation lead to changes in the overall aroma and flavor profiles compared to full strength beer analogues. This webinar will discuss a semi-targeted method developed using DHS-GC-MS technology that allows for improvement of NA beer flavor through the addition of specialized hops products. This webinar will also discuss the use of GC-MS-O technology to determine the source of off-odors in a plant extract matrix.<h5>Key Learning Objectives/What attendees will learn:</h5>1. Understand the analytical challenges in the determination of off-flavors and odors in complex matrix.2. How a combination of Gerstel and Agilent Instrumentation improves GC-MS analysis and understanding of negative sensory characteristics identified in beer.3. How analytical techniques can be used to identify and solver sensory issues in food and beverage matrices.<h5>Who Should Attend:</h5><ul><li>Chemists and lab managers from contract testing labs and the food and beverage industry</li></ul><h4>Presentation 2: Single Analysis of Beer Volatile Compounds in Two Channels FID and ECD with GC Intuvo</h4><ul><li>Celso Blatt, Pre-Sales Application Engineer, Agilent</li></ul>One single injection for determination/analysis of 12 volatile compounds in beer using an Agilent 7697A Headspace Sampler integrated with the Intuvo 9000 GC System. The use of a Splitter that divides the sample 1:1 allows simultaneous analysis in two capillary columns with different stationary phases and FID and ECD detectors. This saves time and avoids a second GC for these two important analyzes for beer quality control. The DB-WAX column with the FID was used for the main volatile compounds in beer and the HP-5MS column was used with the ECD for the ketones that can cause undesirable odors in beer and are in low concentrations.<h5>Key Learning Objectives/What attendees will learn:</h5>1. Single injection beer analysis2. Saving time and instrument3. Ease to use<blockquote>Presenter: Tiffany Crawford (Lead Scientist 1 – Analytical, Kalsec Inc.)Tiffany Crawford works for Kalsec Inc. as a Lead Scientist in the Hops business unit. In her position at Kalsec, she develops methods using GC-MS and LC-MS technology for the detection of small molecules of interest in different food matrices. She holds a Ph. D. in Chemistry from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.Presenter:&nbsp;Celso Blatt (Pre-Sales Application Engineer, Agilent Technologies do Brasil)Graduação em Química Industrial pela UFSM de Santa Maria, RS. Mestrado e Doutorado em Química Analítica pela USP, SP. Pesquisador em instrumentação analítica na Instrumentos Científicos CG Ltda - SP de 1987 a 1992. Engenheiro de suporte e depois cientista de aplicações na Hewlett Packard / Agilent Technologies Brasil desde 1992 até hoje.</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Alcoholic Beverages Virtual Symposium: Beer

Alcoholic Beverages Virtual Symposium: Beer

LECO will regularly invite key leaders of the NTS space from all industries to present and discuss their groundbreaking work. This series promises not only to delve deeper into the intricacies of non-targeted screening but also to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange among experts and enthusiasts alike. Secure your spot now and embark on a journey of discovery in chemical analysis, with each instalments of our monthly webinar series delivering fresh perspectives and invaluable insights.<blockquote>Presenter: Prof. John Langley (University of Southampton, UK)Prof. John Langley, Head of Characterisation and Analytics, Chemistry, from University of Southampton, a leading expert in sustainable fuels, will present on the latest advancements in renewable and sustainable fuel analysis. As the demand for eco-friendly alternatives like Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and Hydrotreated Vegetable Oils (HVOs) grows, so do the analytical challenges associated with their stability, complexity, and integration into traditional fuel matrices, such as diesel.In this session, Prof. Langley will explore how these next-generation fuels introduce new hurdles for quality measurement, requiring innovative hyphenated techniques, including GC-MS and comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography (GCxGC-MS). Attendees will gain insights into the crucial role of these methods in evaluating fuel quality, especially as renewable fuels are blended with conventional fuels.He will further discuss how GCxGC-MS is pivotal for comparing and analyzing different HVOs, providing clarity on how these tools enable the screening of differences and similarities across various renewable fuel sources. This webinar will offer invaluable perspectives for anyone involved in fuel analytics, energy sustainability, or related industries.</blockquote>

LECO: Non-Targeted Screening in Sustainable Fuels: Exploring Method Development and Fuel Quality Assessment Using GCxGC-MS and Hyphenated Techniques

Non-Targeted Screening in Sustainable Fuels: Exploring Method Development and Fuel Quality Assessment Using GCxGC-MS and Hyphenated Techniques

Exploring Method Development and Fuel Quality Assessment Using GCxGC-MS and Hyphenated Techniques

Non-Targeted Screening in Sustainable Fuels

Get the most out of your mass spectrometer using the new DB-5Q and HP-5Q columns, which simplify mass spectral identification and deliver confident analysis of active compounds with unparalleled uptime of your instrument.As mass spectrometry continues to push the boundaries of sensitivity and speed, customers need a column that can do the same. The combination of our existing ultra inert (UI) and high-temperature (ht) features, combined with our new ultra low-bleed technology, enables our customers to reach lower levels of detection, accelerate sample throughput, improve data quality and reliability.<h4>Key learning objectives:</h4><ul><li>See what the new DB-5Q and HP-5Q columns can offer you by delivering ultra-low bleed, ultra-inert performance, and ultra-fast conditioning, combined with outstanding column durability.</li></ul><h4>Who should attend:</h4><ul><li>Anyone who uses gas chromatography – especially those using MS detection.</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Jan-Willem Marinissen (Technical Support Engineer, Agilent Technologies)Jan Willem Marinissen is a technical support engineer within the organization for the consumables and supplies division in the EMEA region.His working experience in the last decades has been in the field of chromatography in the broadest sense, that is, HPLC, sample prep and GC techniques.</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Get the Most Out of Your MS

Get the Most Out of Your MS

Get the most out of your mass spectrometer using the new DB-5Q and HP-5Q columns.

This session will provide a comprehensive introduction to the user interface, ensuring you can navigate with ease. Discover the various acquisition modes available and learn how to select the best one for your specific application.Additionally, we will explore the innovative Intelligent Reflex feature, highlighting its benefits in boosting your productivity.Whether you’re new to MassHunter or looking to refine your skills, this webinar is designed to enhance your understanding and efficiency.<blockquote>Presenter: Christian Hegmanns (Application Specialist LC/MS, Agilent Technologies, Waldbronn, Germany)Christian Hegmanns is a state-certified food chemist and works at Agilent as an LC/MS application specialist.With over 10 years of experience in the field of instrumental analysis, Christian develops customer-oriented solutions for a variety of applications with a focus on food analysis.</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: MassHunter Masterclass Months

MassHunter Acquisition Q-TOF Part I – Basic Overview

Join us for an insightful webinar where we delve into the essentials of MassHunter Acquisition Q-TOF. 

This webinar will guide you through optimizing your Q-TOF for superior data quality by selecting the most suitable tune mode for your samples.We will delve into various MS acquisition modes, including MS only, All Ions (QRAI), Auto MS/MS (directed MS/MS; targeted MS/MS), and PRM mode.Learn how to fine-tune method settings to enhance your data quality and achieve the best analytical results. Whether you’re a seasoned user or new to QTOF, this session will provide valuable insights to elevate your mass spectrometry.<blockquote>Presenter: &nbsp;Stefan Schaebler (Application Specialist LC/MS, Agilent Technologies)Stefan completed his PhD in Biology, specializing in LC-MS-based lipidomics and metabolomics. Following his doctoral studies, he joined Agilent Technologies as an LC/MS Application Specialist. In this role, Stefan focuses on small molecule applications using LC-QTOF, with a strong emphasis on software tools and data interpretation.</blockquote>

MassHunter Acquisition Q-TOF Part II – Advance Settings

Join us for an in-depth exploration of advanced settings in MassHunter Acquisition for Q-TOF systems.

Volatile profiling of food and beverages is crucial for understanding and enhancing their quality, safety, and consumer appeal. Analysing these volatiles presents several challenges due to the diversity of chemical classes, their varying concentrations, and the complex matrices involved, which can be problematic for conventional gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) approaches.Join Prof. Kieran Kilcawley, Principal Research Officer at Teagasc Food Research Centre and Adjunct Professor, University College Cork and Technological University Dublin, as he explores how innovative extraction and enrichment techniques, combined with state-of-the-art GC–MS analyses, can overcome these difficulties and deliver more detailed and accurate volatile profiles.Key learning objectives<ul><li>Understand the critical role volatile compounds play in shaping the flavor and overall quality of food and beverages</li><li>Learn about the latest techniques for the sensitive extraction and analysis of aroma-active compounds, including high-capacity sorptive extraction and comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography (GCxGC).</li><li>Explore practical applications through case studies, including volatile profiling of whiskey, analysis of fatty acids in dairy products, and evaluating the impact of cooking temperature on the volatile profile of beef</li></ul>Who should attend?<ul><li>Food scientists who want to understand more about profiling, odour perception, sensory evaluation, and food authenticity analysis.</li><li>R&amp;D food scientists and analytical scientists who want to enhance their understanding of analysing complex samples.</li><li>GC(–MS) users eager to hear about the latest instrument developments.</li></ul>Certificate of attendanceAll webinar participants can request a certificate of attendance, including a learning outcomes summary, for continuing education purposes.<blockquote>Presenter: Prof. Kieran Kilcawley (Principal Research Officer, Teagasc Food Research Centre and Adjunct Professor, University College Cork and Technological University Dublin)Prof. Kieran Kilcawley oversees the flavor chemistry facility at Teagasc, where he conducts extensive research on flavors in various foods and beverages. He became an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Food and Nutritional Sciences at University College Cork in 2020 and in the School of Food Science and Environmental Health at the Technological University Dublin in 2024. His expertise encompasses advanced gas chromatography and mass spectrometry, including olfactometry, as well as aroma extraction, method development and validation, data processing, and chemometrics.Moderator: Carrie Haslam (Associate Editor, SelectScience)</blockquote>

SelectScience: Investigating the impact of volatile compounds on the flavor profiles of foods and drinks

Investigating the impact of volatile compounds on the flavor profiles of foods and drinks

Innovative extraction and enrichment techniques with GC–MS analyses for detailed and accurate volatile profiles.

Impact of volatile compounds on the flavor profiles

Microplastic pollution is emerging as a critical environmental issue, and studies have found its presence in the highest mountains and deepest seas. To better understand the spread and impact of microplastics, reliable and accurate analysis is required, from sample collection to preparation and, finally, analysis and reporting.Our speaker, Dr. Shuhei Tanaka, will explore the following topics while using a recent study of samples collected from the 8km deep Japan Trench:<ul><li>Optimizing sample preparation in sediments using hydrogen peroxide digestions and density separation techniques.</li><li>How to conduct recovery testing as a means of improving accuracy</li><li>Using complimentary techniques such as Pyrolysis coupled with GC/MS for analysis of nanoplastics</li></ul><h5>Key Learning Objectives:</h5><ul><li>Optimizing sample preparation</li><li>Suitability of LDIR for Microplastics analysis</li><li>Complimentary techniques for nano plastics analysis</li></ul><h5>Who Should Attend:</h5><ul><li>Laboratory managers</li><li>Microplastics researchers</li><li>Principal investigators</li><li>Post Doctoral researchers</li><li>Microplastics analysts from commercial, QA, or research labs&nbsp;</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Dr. Shuhei Tanaka (Associate Professor at the Graduate School of Global Environmental Studies, Kyoto, Japan)Presenter: Kelly McSweeney (Contributing Editor, C&amp;EN Media Group)</blockquote>

C&EN: Best Practice for LDIR Analysis of Microplastics: A Case Study from the Japan Trench

Best Practice for LDIR Analysis of Microplastics: A Case Study from the Japan Trench

We will explore the following topics while using a recent study of samples collected from the 8km deep Japan Trench.

Best Practice for LDIR Analysis of Microplastics

Join us as we dive into a common challenge faced by research facilities: managing the ever-growing mountain of measurement data. As a facility manager, you’re all too familiar with the constant juggling act of handling sample submissions, data collection, and distribution—all while trying to keep your workflows efficient and your focus on the science.In today’s data-driven landscape, adhering to the FAIR principles—making your data Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable—is not just a best practice but a growing requirement for securing public funding. Funding bodies are increasingly looking for research facilities to demonstrate that their data management processes align with these principles.That’s why we’re excited to introduce you to LOGS for Facilities, our comprehensive software solution tailored specifically for research facilities like yours. Supported by the powerful automation engine Mnova Gears, LOGS streamlines your entire workflow—from sample submission and automatic data processing to data distribution—into a single, seamless platform that adheres to the FAIR principles.In today’s session, we’ll explore how LOGS can simplify your data management processes, helping you save time, reduce errors, and get back to what matters most: advancing your research by making your data findable - wherever you are.<blockquote>Presenter: Peter Bellstedt, PhD (Director of Business Development and Product Manager)Peter studied Biochemistry at the University of Jena before completing a PhD on the structural characterization of a DNA repair protein using solution and solid-state NMR. He was then appointed as the head of the NMR Spectroscopy Platform in Jena, Germany, where he pioneered the implementation of modern, highly efficient data-driven workflows. After five years, he moved to the University of Zurich, Switzerland, as a principal investigator, where his lab focused on structure-based drug discovery. This year, he brought his wealth of experience to the LOGS by SciY team, focusing on efficient workflow solutions for research labs and facilities on a global scale.</blockquote>

Mestrelab Research: Integrating Measurement Requests, Data Collection, and Data Distribution in One Platform

Integrating Measurement Requests, Data Collection, and Data Distribution in One Platform

In today’s session, we’ll explore how LOGS can simplify your data management processes, helping you save time

GCMS webinars focusing on GC/MS - page 17