<p><strong>The human body is the most sophisticated atomic engineer. This idea underpins a breakthrough technology developed by an international research team led by scientists from the Czech Advanced Technology and Research Institute (CATRIN) at Palacký University Olomouc and the Centre for Energy and Environmental Technologies (CEET) at VSB – Technical University of Ostrava. By drawing inspiration from the way enzymes function in the human body, the researchers have created a novel material that could fundamentally change the industrial production of hydrogen peroxide and other important chemicals. The new approach simplifies the production process, eliminates the need for toxic organic solvents and expensive precious metals, and requires only sunlight, oxygen and water to operate. The results </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-025-67189-3"><strong>were published by the prestigious journal </strong><i><strong>Nature Communications</strong></i></a><strong>, which ranked the study among the 50 most significant scientific discoveries of the year.</strong></p><p>Hydrogen peroxide is one of the most important industrial chemicals. It is widely used not only in the chemical industry but also in pharmaceuticals, medicine, the textile industry and water-treatment technologies. The global hydrogen peroxide market is estimated to exceed USD 5 billion annually. Conventional production involves a multistep process that relies on toxic organic solvents and costly palladium-based catalysts. In addition, both the starting chemicals and the resulting waste products can have negative impacts on human health and the environment.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CATRIN_Cesti_vedci_vyvinuli_material_pro_vyrobu_chemikalii_z_vody_a_slunce_Inspirovali_se_lidskymi_enzymy_2_c4d5ecbafb.webp" alt="CATRIN: Czech scientists develop a material for producing chemicals from water and sunlight, inspired by human enzymes" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CATRIN_Cesti_vedci_vyvinuli_material_pro_vyrobu_chemikalii_z_vody_a_slunce_Inspirovali_se_lidskymi_enzymy_2_c4d5ecbafb.webp 208w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="1200"></p><p><i>“Our aim was to develop a material that enables the efficient, environmentally friendly and affordable production of hydrogen peroxide. When designing this photocatalyst, we were inspired by the structure and behaviour of enzymes in the human body. The result is a technology that does not require toxic organic solvents or expensive precious metals and instead uses a low-cost material based on carbon, nitrogen and copper. It operates in water using only sunlight and oxygen from the air,”</i> said<strong> Radek Zbořil, leader of research teams at CATRIN and CEET</strong>.</p><p>In developing the new photocatalyst, the Czech scientists mimicked the function of cytochrome c oxidase—an enzyme that enables human cells to obtain energy by transferring electrons to oxygen. This process relies on copper atoms embedded in the enzyme’s structure, and it was precisely this mechanism that the researchers sought to reproduce.</p><p><i>“We very precisely replicated the chemical environment of metals within the enzyme’s structure and anchored copper atoms onto the surface of extremely small carbon nanoparticles with photocatalytic properties. When exposed to light, highly efficient electron transfer occurs between the carbon nanoparticles, the copper atoms and oxygen molecules. This process closely resembles an enzymatic reaction and enables high hydrogen peroxide production,”</i> explained the first author of the study, <strong>Lukáš Zdražil, who is affiliated with both CATRIN and CEET</strong>.</p><p>Producing hydrogen peroxide using sunlight and water has been a long-standing goal of research teams worldwide, as it eliminates the use of toxic organic solvents and avoids the formation of hazardous by-products. Until now, however, research in this area has largely remained at an academic level, mainly due to the use of noble metals and often complex photocatalyst designs. Laboratory studies have also resulted in relatively low hydrogen peroxide yields, which could not compete with existing industrial processes.</p><p><i>“<strong>The new photocatalyst achieves hydrogen peroxide production rates up to two orders of magnitude higher than all previously reported systems</strong>, bringing us much closer to industrial requirements. In addition, the material is completely non-toxic, easily recyclable and reusable,”</i> added Zdražil.</p><p>The Czech teams are now focusing on potential applications of this technology in decentralised production units. Such systems could enable efficient, local production of hydrogen peroxide, for example for use in agriculture, pharmaceutical manufacturing or environmental applications. The combination of solar energy and materials inspired by enzymatic systems may also lead to further promising advances.</p><p><i>“I believe that mimicking the structures and functions of iron- and copper-based enzymes could pave the way for other innovative technologies in the chemical industry and pharmaceuticals, such as the production of epoxides, alcohols or phenols,”</i> concluded Zbořil.</p>

 Czech scientists develop a material for producing chemicals from water and sunlight, inspired by human enzymes

<p><strong>🎤 Presenter:</strong> Sarah C. Foster (William &amp; Mary)</p><p>💾 <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&amp;redir_token=QUFFLUhqbFk5RFV6cGdVaThIVjRSQ0N3OVFkdzE5d2Y0QXxBQ3Jtc0trUHhzWGtLeTNKcFVhelU3X1E3U3A4Z1ZHUDBkME02MDl1ajk1QnpFc25ka3ZKUlhKOFVOdDZocnAwTEZZOTZEUE84cWJTUEVUVjgyY0FvT2xBcmpkenVYOVJTd3d0a1pQNVJkSENfZXFsVmF0dF9rMA&amp;q=https%3A%2F%2Fgcms.labrulez.com%2Flabrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3%2FO_2_Foster_04b38f9b88.pdf&amp;v=e5w4zwhBzRY"><strong>PDF presentation</strong></a></p><h3><strong>Abstract</strong></h3><p><strong>Fermentation is a byproduct of microbial metabolism. When beverages become fermented, the microorganisms involved produce volatile organic compounds (VOCs). It is important to examine the VOC profile of fermented beverages to understand their consumer perception and health considerations. Traditionally, VOCs are detected by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). However, more complex matrices, like fermented products, benefit from the enhanced separation of comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography (GC×GC). This study aimed to develop an understanding of the VOCs related to different fermented beverages through a nontargeted lens via comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography with dual detection using flame ionization detection and time-of-flight mass spectrometry (GC×GC-FID/TOFMS).&nbsp;</strong></p><p>Data analysis focused on developing a complete VOC profile of fermented products. Moreover, analysis aimed to identify differentiating VOCs to understand differences between products and distinguish the drink matrix from the microbial matrix. Results indicate that it is possible to attribute VOCs to one component of a complex sample, creating a microbial VOC profile and a base VOC profile. It was possible to discern products from one another, including contaminated products from non-contaminated products. Data visualization consisted of Principal Component Analysis (PCA) scores and loadings plots, bar chats, Hierarchical Cluster Analysis (HCA), and Partial Least Squares Discriminant Analysis (PLS-DA). Data analysis software was capable of processing and aligning samples with high levels of biological variation, making GC×GC a promising analytical tool for market research and regulation. Future studies will aim to correlate VOCs detected via GC×GC-FID/TOFMS to the microbial genetics of fermented products.</p><h3><strong>Video Transcription</strong></h3><h4><strong>1. Introduction</strong></h4><p>Sarah Foster introduces research focused on the application of comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography (GC×GC) for analyzing fermented beverages.</p><p>The laboratory primarily uses <strong>GC×GC</strong> for:</p><ul><li>Separation and identification of volatile organic compounds (VOCs)</li><li>Applications in forensic sciences and food sciences</li></ul><h5><strong>Forensic Applications</strong></h5><ul><li>Fingerprint residue</li><li>Gunshot residue</li><li>Pepper spray</li><li>Other trace evidence</li></ul><h5><strong>Food Science Applications</strong></h5><ul><li>Fermented beverages</li><li>Foods claiming health benefits</li></ul><p>An additional focus of the lab is transitioning GC×GC from proof-of-concept research toward real-world field applications, including improved data interpretation and presentation.</p><h4><strong>2. Challenges in Non-Targeted GC×GC Data</strong></h4><p>Working with complex, non-targeted datasets presents several challenges:</p><ul><li>Resolution of complex coelutions</li><li>Increased number of detectable features</li><li>Expansion of compound classes</li><li>Detection of low-level analytes previously masked by abundant compounds</li><li>Difficulty in longitudinal tracking due to increased data complexity</li></ul><p>While GC×GC reveals more chemical information, interpreting this data becomes more demanding.</p><h4><strong>3. Data Processing and Statistical Tools</strong></h4><h5><strong>Software Used</strong></h5><ul><li><strong>ChromaTOF</strong> – for single chromatogram peak detection and deconvolution</li><li><strong>ChromaTOF Sync 2D</strong> – alignment software for entire datasets</li><li><strong>R statistical software</strong> – for multivariate visualization<ul><li>vegan package</li><li>ComplexHeatmap package</li></ul></li></ul><h5><strong>Advantages of Sync 2D</strong></h5><ul><li>Performs peak detection and deconvolution across all chromatograms simultaneously</li><li>Generates a unified peak table for entire datasets</li><li>Facilitates trend analysis</li></ul><h5><strong>Dimensionality Reduction Techniques Used</strong></h5><ul><li>Principal Component Analysis (PCA)</li><li>Principal Coordinate Analysis (PCoA)</li><li>Hierarchical Cluster Analysis (HCA)</li></ul><p>Each data point includes:</p><ul><li>Primary retention time</li><li>Secondary retention time</li><li>Signal intensity</li></ul><h4><strong>4. Statistical Approaches Explained</strong></h4><h5><strong>PCA (Principal Component Analysis)</strong></h5><ul><li>Uses Euclidean distance</li><li>Assumes linear variance structure</li><li>Clustering based on shared analytes</li><li>Identifies key analytes driving variance</li><li>Loadings plots explain separation patterns</li></ul><h5><strong>PCoA (Principal Coordinate Analysis)</strong></h5><ul><li>Uses non-Euclidean dissimilarity (e.g., Bray–Curtis)</li><li>Emphasizes compositional differences</li><li>Better for non-linear variance structures</li></ul><h5><strong>HCA (Hierarchical Cluster Analysis)</strong></h5><ul><li>Uses Euclidean dissimilarity (in this study)</li><li>Clustering based on:<ul><li>Presence/absence</li><li>Relative abundance</li></ul></li><li>Output: dendrogram<ul><li>Short branches = more similar</li><li>Long branches = more dissimilar</li></ul></li></ul><h4><strong>5. Research Goals</strong></h4><ul><li>Apply GC×GC-TOFMS for volatile analysis and aroma profiling of mead</li><li>Investigate impact of:<ul><li>Yeast strain</li><li>Honey concentration</li></ul></li><li>Use a non-targeted analytical approach</li><li>Extract and compare chemical features across samples</li></ul><h4><strong>6. Mead Production Overview</strong></h4><p>Mead is produced by fermenting honey with filtered water. Fruits or spices may be added. It may also be barrel-aged.</p><h5><strong>Experimental Design (Silverhand Meadery Collaboration)</strong></h5><ul><li>1-gallon batches</li><li>5 yeast strains</li><li>3 honey concentrations:<ul><li>1.5 lb/gal (low alcohol, expected dry finish)</li><li>3 lb/gal (standard)</li><li>5 lb/gal (high alcohol, expected sweet finish)</li></ul></li></ul><h5><strong>Yeast Strains Tested</strong></h5><ul><li><strong>Kveik Voss</strong> – neutral with citrus notes</li><li><strong>Munich</strong> – banana, clove (esters &amp; phenols)</li><li><strong>EC1118</strong> – neutral (sparkling wine yeast)</li><li><strong>D47</strong> – tropical/white floral</li><li><strong>Abbaye</strong> – temperature-dependent:<ul><li>Low temp: banana, tropical, spicy</li><li>High temp: raisin, fig</li></ul></li></ul><p>Fermentation lasted 9 months. Stabilizers were added post-fermentation.</p><h4><strong>7. Sample Preparation</strong></h4><h5><strong>Mead Samples</strong></h5><ul><li>3 mL in 20 mL headspace vial</li><li>0.5 g salt</li><li>5 µL (500 ppm) 1-decanol internal standard</li></ul><h5><strong>Honey Samples</strong></h5><ul><li>1.5 g honey + 1.5 mL water</li><li>Salt + internal standard</li></ul><h5><strong>Water Controls</strong></h5><ul><li>3 mL water + salt + internal standard</li></ul><p>All samples were vortexed and analyzed by GC×GC-TOFMS.</p><h4><strong>8. Instrumentation</strong></h4><p>Instrument: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=24&amp;search=Pegasus+BTX+4D"><strong>LECO Pegasus BTX 4D GC×GC-TOFMS</strong></a></p><p>Features:</p><ul><li>Dual TOFMS and FID detection</li><li>Reverse fill/flush modulator</li><li>Flow splitter</li></ul><p>The modulator:</p><ul><li>Fills loop in forward direction</li><li>Flushes to secondary column</li><li>High secondary flow split between TOFMS and FID</li></ul><h4><strong>9. Initial Observations</strong></h4><p>Key compounds identified:</p><ul><li>Furfurol (heated honey marker)</li><li>2-ethylhexanol (water)</li><li>3-methylbutanol (fermentation product)</li><li>Benzaldehyde (fermentation product)</li></ul><p>Total detected: <strong>96 volatile organic compounds</strong></p><h4><strong>10. Multivariate Results</strong></h4><h5><strong>PCA Findings</strong></h5><ul><li>Four groupings largely dictated by honey concentration</li><li>1.5 lb/gal group clustered together</li><li>3 lb/gal group tightly clustered</li><li>5 lb/gal showed pattern similar to 1.5 lb/gal</li><li>Abbey yeast formed a distinct cluster</li></ul><h5><strong>PCoA Findings</strong></h5><ul><li>Similar overall patterns</li><li>Abbey yeast more distinctly separated</li><li>Likely due to Bray–Curtis dissimilarity emphasizing compositional differences</li></ul><h5><strong>HCA + Heatmap Findings</strong></h5><ul><li>Clustering aligned with PCA/PCoA trends</li><li>Abbey yeast again formed distinct grouping</li><li>Appeared to contain similar compounds but in lower relative abundances</li></ul><p>Two major overall clusters:</p><ul><li>1.5 lb/gal group</li><li>All other meads</li></ul><h4><strong>11. Compound Trends vs Honey Concentration</strong></h4><p>Observed correlations:</p><ul><li><strong>Ethyl lactate</strong>: increased with honey concentration</li><li><strong>Furfurol</strong>: increased with honey concentration</li><li><strong>3-methylbutanol</strong>:<ul><li>Decreased with honey concentration (except Abbey strain)</li></ul></li><li><strong>Ethyl octanoate</strong>:<ul><li>Highest at 3 lb/gal</li><li>Lowest at 1.5 lb/gal</li><li>Intermediate at 5 lb/gal</li></ul></li></ul><p>Abbey strain showed unique behavior, possibly explaining its distinct clustering.</p><h4><strong>12. Conclusions</strong></h4><ul><li>GC×GC-TOFMS is highly effective for aroma profiling of mead</li><li>Dimensionality reduction techniques successfully highlighted relationships between samples</li><li>Honey concentration strongly influences volatile profile</li><li>Yeast strain (especially Abbey) significantly impacts composition</li></ul><h4><strong>13. Future Work</strong></h4><ul><li>Investigate microbial environment effects on VOC production</li><li>Link microbial kinetics data to volatile profiles</li><li>Explore compound-class-specific trends</li></ul><blockquote><p><strong>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.</strong></p></blockquote>

Application of GC×GC for the investigation of fermented beverages (Sarah C. Foster, MDCW 2026)

<p><strong>Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezGCMS Library in the week of 16th February 2026? Check out new documents from the field of the gas phase, especially GC and GC/MS techniques!</strong></p><blockquote><p><span style="font-size:20px;">👉 </span><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library"><span style="font-size:20px;"><strong>SEARCH THE LARGEST REPOSITORY OF DOCUMENTS ABOUT GCMS AND RELATED TECHNIQUES</strong></span></a></p></blockquote><blockquote><p><strong>👉 Need info about different analytical techniques?</strong> Peek into <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/library"><strong>LabRulezLCMS</strong></a> or <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library"><strong>LabRulezICPMS</strong></a> libraries.</p></blockquote><p>This week we bring you technical note by <strong>Agilent Technologies, </strong>presentation by<strong> MDCW / C³AL </strong>and<strong> </strong>application notes by<strong> BaySpec </strong>and<strong> Shimadzu!</strong></p><h3><strong>1. Agilent Technologies: Why Do Loss of Resolution and Retention Time Shift Occur After Installing a New GC Column?</strong></h3><ul><li>Technical note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/te_loss_resolution_retention_time_shifts_gc_column_5994_8773en_agilent_e5e79a5f5e.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><p>When a new column is installed on an instrument that has been running an application for a long time, and all the instrument parameters are set to the same values as before, the resolution between a pair of critical analytes can drop unacceptably, creating concern that the column is defective.&nbsp;</p><p>The chromatograms that accompany columns like these will show that the retention times of the poorly resolved peaks on the new column have shifted. This difference indicates a change in linear velocity of the carrier gas, since the run conditions were the same.&nbsp;</p><p>Why did the retention times of those compounds shift under seemingly identical run&nbsp;conditions? The answer is that the run conditions are not identical because the columns are not truly identical. In any manufacturing process, products are built to tolerances. In the case of a GC capillary column, these tolerances include diameter and length. Even small differences in diameter and length will affect the actual velocity and flow rate through a column at a given head pressure.</p><h3><strong>2. BaySpec: Illicit Drug Detection &amp; Identification Using the Continuity™ Field Portable Mass Spectrometer</strong></h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Bay_Spec_App_Note_C101_Illicit_Drug_Detection_1_5bd32f3fe9.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><p>The trafficking and abuse of illicit drugs inflict tremendous harm upon individuals, families, and communities throughout the United States and the world. Based on the report of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, nearly 296 million people worldwide used drugs in 2022, with an estimated 64 million suffering from drug use disorders. The opioid epidemic alone has claimed over 160,000 lives in the United States over the past two years, highlighting the urgent need for effective measures to combat this scourge.</p><p>Traditional methods of drug detection, such as laboratory-based analysis, are often time-consuming, costly, and require specialized personnel. These limitations make it challenging to address the rapid and widespread nature of drug trafficking and abuse. Moreover, the constant evolution of synthetic drugs and new psychoactive substances poses a significant challenge for law enforcement and public health officials, as these substances often evade detection using conventional methods.&nbsp;</p><p>In recent years, portable mass spectrometry has emerged as a promising solution for the rapid detection and identification of illicit drugs. Unlike traditional laboratory instruments, portable mass spectrometers offer the advantage of on-site analysis, enabling law enforcement officers and first responders to quickly identify substances in real-time. This technology can be deployed in various settings, including border checkpoints, public events, and field investigations, providing a versatile and efficient tool for combating drug-related crimes. As the opioid crisis and the rise of synthetic drugs continue to pose significant challenges, the integration of portable mass spectrometry into drug detection strategies represents a critical step towards a safer and healthier society.</p><h4><strong>Instrumentation&nbsp;</strong></h4><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/2218"><strong>BaySpec Continuity™ Portable Mass Spectrometer</strong></a> was used equipped with a Swab-APCI source, specifically designed for TSA-approved swabs. The samples on swabs were converted into vapors via the Swab vaporizer unit, which then were drawn into the ionization chamber by the built-in sampling pump.</p><h4><strong>Conclusions&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>In this study, we demonstrated the use of the Continuity™ Field Portable Mass Spectrometer equipped with a SwabAPCI ionization source for the detection and identification of various drugs. The capabilities of the instrument were assessed through the creation of calibration curves and surface sampling experiments using ten drug standards and four selected analytes: fentanyl, cocaine, methamphetamine, and MDMA. By serial diluting these standards in methanol, we established calibration curves and determined the instrument’s Limits of Detection (LODs) in MS2 mode. These experiments highlighted the instrument’s ability to detect trace amounts of drugs with high sensitivity and specificity.&nbsp;</p><p>The performance of the Continuity™ field portable mass spectrometer in both controlled and real-world scenarios underscores its potential as a rapid, on-site analytical tool. The results obtained from triplicate measurements reinforce the reliability of this method, making it a valuable asset for law enforcement and public health agencies in their efforts to combat drug-related issues. This study confirms that the portable MS system can quickly and effectively identify illicit substances, offering a practical solution for field investigations and real-time decision-making. As the landscape of illicit drug use continues to evolve, such advancements in portable analytical technology will be crucial in providing timely and accurate information for intervention and prevention strategies.</p><h3><strong>3. MDCW / C³AL: COUNTING DOUBLE BONDS: GC×GC–FID FOR PLASTIC PYROLYSIS OILS</strong></h3><ul><li>Presentation</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/O_26_Petr_Vozka_04ef50f601.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><p>The presentation focuses on the analytical challenge of accurately quantifying olefins (double bonds) in plastic pyrolysis oils and alternative fuels derived from plastic waste. As chemical recycling processes such as pyrolysis and hydrothermal processing gain importance, detailed compositional analysis becomes essential. Pyrolysis oils are highly complex mixtures containing paraffins, iso-paraffins, olefins, cycloalkanes, aromatics, and multi-ring structures. Because olefin content strongly affects fuel stability and upgrading requirements, reliable quantification is critical.</p><p>Traditional bulk methods such as bromine number, bromine index, iodine value, FTIR, Raman, and NMR provide only total unsaturation and often suffer from interferences or limited selectivity. To achieve detailed group-type and compound-level analysis, the authors apply comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography with flame ionization detection (GC×GC–FID). This technique delivers high resolution, reduces co-elution, and enables classification of linear, branched, cyclic, and aromatic olefins across wide boiling ranges.</p><p>To further improve quantitative accuracy, a selective adsorption approach using silver-modified silica (Ag–SiO₂) solid-phase extraction is introduced. Olefins are selectively retained, and comparison of GC×GC–FID chromatograms before and after adsorption allows precise determination of olefin content. This method is shown to be cost-effective and reliable for samples containing more than 5 wt% olefins.</p><p>Additionally, the presentation explores chemical derivatization of olefins using dimethyl disulfide (DMDS) and other disulfides to improve structural identification and quantification. While effective for lighter gasoline-range samples, challenges remain for heavier fuels such as jet and diesel fractions. Ongoing work focuses on testing heavier disulfides, optimizing reaction conditions, and validating results using ¹H NMR spectroscopy and future TOFMS analysis.</p><h3><strong>4. Shimadzu: Analysis of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) in Tattoo Inks Using GC-MS</strong></h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_09_ssk_023_en_ff47795f55.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><h5><strong>User Benefits</strong></h5><ul><li>&nbsp;GCMS-QP2020 NX supports effective analysis of PAHs in Tattoo inks.</li><li>It provides an MFDS-based GC-MS method for PAHs in tattoo inks, enabling compliance with Korean regulations.</li></ul><p>Tattoo inks have been utilized for diverse purposes throughout history, serving as cultural identifiers and means of personal expression. In contemporary society, tattooing extends beyond aesthetics and self-expression to include medical applications such as camouflage of scars and post-operative rehabilitation. Because these inks are injected directly into the dermal layer, rigorous safety and hygienic control are essential to ensure human health protection.&nbsp;</p><p>Among the regulated constituents in tattoo inks, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are of particular concern. PAHs comprise over a hundred structurally related compounds, commonly generated through incomplete combustion processes, vehicle exhaust, and tobacco smoke. Several PAHs have been classified as carcinogenic, and chronic exposure may lead to bioaccumulation and subsequent adverse health effects.&nbsp;</p><p>In January 2022, the European Union implemented stringent restrictions through updated REACH regulations, limiting the presence of approximately 4,000 hazardous substances in tattoo and permanent make-up inks, including PAHs. 1) These regulations prohibit the use of carcinogenic, mutagenic, and sensitizing substances previously detected in such products. Since the enforcement date, only compliant inks are permitted for distribution and use within the EU.&nbsp;</p><p>In South Korea, tattoo inks were regulated as consumer chemical products under the Ministry of Environment until June 2025. Due to increasing safety concerns, they have since been reclassified as sanitary products under the authority of the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS), resulting in the implementation of more stringent safety requirements. 2)&nbsp;</p><p>This application news introduces the analytical methodology for quantification of PAHs in tattoo inks based on the MFDS regulatory standards (Notice 2025-36). Samples were prepared in accordance with the prescribed protocol, and PAH concentrations were determined using gas chromatography– mass spectrometry (GC-MS) in selected ion monitoring (SIM) mode.</p><h4><strong>Analytical Conditions&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>For the determination of PAHs in tattoo inks, a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=GCMS-QP2020+NX"><strong>GCMS-QP2020 NX</strong></a> system was employed, as shown in Figure 1. The instrumental parameters and selected ion monitoring (SIM) conditions used for PAH analysis are summarized in Table 1.</p><h4><strong>Conclusions</strong></h4><p>Quantitative analysis of PAHs in tattoo inks was performed using the GCMS-QP2020 NX. Sample preparation followed the procedure outlined in the MFDS ‘Standards and Specifications for Sanitary Products.’ All eight PAH analytes showed excellent linearity, with correlation coefficients (R²) exceeding 0.999. Recovery tests showed values between 81.6% and 115.1%, with relative standard deviations (%RSD) ranging from 0.11% to 3.13%, demonstrating good accuracy and precision. These results confirm that the GCMS-QP2020 NX is a suitable instrument for PAH analysis in tattoo inks.</p>

News from LabRulezGCMS Library - Week 08, 2026

Article

Application

Video

Presentation

Science and research

The Multidimensional Chromatography (MDC) Workshop draws experts in this exciting field to share and discuss their research.

The Multidimensional Chromatography Workshop

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

CATRIN

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

New Food magazine

Labmate

LECO

Spectroscopy & Separation Science

<p><strong>This e-seminar focuses on the application of nominal and high resolution time-of-flight mass spectrometry coupled to gas chromatography and thermal inlet systems for the comprehensive quantitative and/or qualitative analysis of petroleum derived matrices, from middle distillates to vacuum residues.</strong></p>
<h3><strong>Highlights include:</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li>Adoption of GCxGC towards high temperature and phase considerations</li>
<li>Determination of boiling point distribution by high temp GCxGC</li>
<li>Classification according to compound class</li>
<li>Derivation of absolute quantitative information</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter: Thomas Groeger (Joint Mass Spectrometry Centre, Univ of Rostock and Helmholtz Zentrum Muenchen)</strong></p>
</blockquote>


Pixabay/SatyaPrem: High Temp GCxGC of Light Crude Oil and High Boilers

High Temp GCxGC of Light Crude Oil and High Boilers

<p><strong>The determination of water content in alcoholic beverages, solvents and various consumer products such as foods, fuels, pharmaceuticals, and petroleum products is one of the most common types of chemical testing.</strong></p>
<p>Many techniques such as gravimetric analysis, gas chromatography (GC), Karl Fischer Titration, near infra-red spectroscopy, and others have been used for water quantification with good results. [1] However, the limitations of these approaches can include high limits of detection, large sample sizes required for trace analysis, side reactions, the use of expensive consumables, and the production of chemical waste. Previous work by Prof. Daniel Armstrong and co-workers has described the use of ionic liquid GC capillary columns for the trace analysis of the water content in a wide variety of solvents. [2] These columns were capable of providing a rapid and quantitative determination of water contents using very small sample amounts. This webinar further examines the characteristics of ionic liquid capillary columns for the GC analysis of water.</p>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Leonard M. Sidisky (Milliporesigma)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Len is the R&amp;D Manager for Gas Separations at MilliporeSigma. He received his B.S. degree in Biology (1980) and an M.S. in Food Science (1997) from The Pennsylvania State University. He has been working at Supelco since 1982 and is responsible for new novel technologies related to GC, sample preparation, air sampling, solid-phase microextraction (SPME) and high-performance carbon adsorbents. His analytical background includes expertise in GC, LC and sample preparation such as SPE and SPME. He is very active in the American Oil Chemist’s Society (AOCS) including their Analytical Division. He has served the AOCS’s Northeast Section (President, 2000-2001 and VP 1998-1999), Chromatography Committee Chairperson (2000-2009), Governing Board Technical Steering Committee Chairperson (2010-2017), Vice-President (2017-present), National Secretary (2016-2017), AOCS Fellow 2016, NE-AOCS Section president (2000-2001) as well as VP (1998-1999). Other activities include Hans Kaunitz Award Chairman 2000-2001, Supelco/ Nicholas Pelick AOCS Lipid Award Representative 1994-present, 1992 Ralph H. Potts Memorial Fellowship Award Winner. Len is also a member of the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT), American Chemical Society (ACS) member; ASTM D01, D02, D03, D16, D19, D22, D26 and E13 Committees. His research interests are in the development of GC products for a wide range of industrial applications, capillary columns for lipid sample analyses, theory and practical application of Capillary GC and SPME product development and applications. He has presented and published numerous papers and given seminars worldwide.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Mark Janeczko ( Shimadzu Scientific Instruments, Inc)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Mark Janeczko has over 30 years’ experience in the analytical chemistry instrumentation industry holding leadership roles in applications, sales, business development, and marketing for some of the leading companies in the industry. Currently he is the Energy and Chemicals Marketing Manager for Shimadzu Scientific Instruments, Inc. (Columbia, MD). Mark earned a BA in Chemistry from Canisius College (Buffalo, NY) and joint International MBA from the University of Maryland (College Park, MD) and the University of Antwerp (Antwerp, Belgium).</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Tom Lynch CChem (FRSC, Labamate)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>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.</p>
</blockquote>


Shimadzu: Supelco’s Watercol™ Ionic Liquid Capillary Columns Coupled with TCD and Shimadzu’s BID for Detection and Quantitative Analysis of Water by Gas Chromatography.

Supelco’s Watercol™ Ionic Liquid Capillary Columns Coupled with TCD and Shimadzu’s BID for Detection and Quantitative Analysis of Water by Gas Chromatography.

Characteristics of ionic liquid capillary columns for the GC analysis of water.

Supelco’s Watercol™ Ionic Liquid Capillary Columns

<p><strong>There is increased concern regarding the authenticity of basmati rice throughout the world. For years, traders have been passing off a lesser quality rice as the world&#39;s finest long-grained, aromatic rice, basmati, in key markets like the US, Canada and the EU.</strong></p>
<p>In this on-demand webinar, we describe a proof of principle method to assess the authenticity of basmati rice using the latest advancements in high resolution GC-MS and informatics technologies. Volatile compounds of interest were extracted from heated dry rice via SPME and headspace. Following a generic GC separation, detection was performed using a SYNAPT G2-Si MS run in HDMSE mode. Collection of a HDMSE dataset offers a high level of specificity owing to the orthogonal nature of the ion mobility separation to the GC separation.</p>
<p>Progenesis QI, the latest OMICS informatics package from Waters, is designed to utilize the 4-dimensional data produced during a SYNAPT G2-Si HDMSE acquisition. Initially, alignment of all injections was performed followed by the unique peak co-detection process resulting in the same number of analyte measurements in every sample and no missing values. Data from all isotopes and adducts of a parent compound were then deconvoluted giving a single robust and accurate quantitative measurement for that parent compound. The peak picking and deconvolution algorithms ensure a high quality compound table where adducts and isotopes are grouped with the parent m/z. Compounds of interest from the rice samples were highlighted using various multivariate statistical techniques such as PCA and identified using elucidation tools and relevant database searches within the software platform.</p>
<p>This workflow has general applicability to many areas of discovery OMICS and food research where biomarkers differentiating between two or multiple groups are required.</p>
<h3><strong>What will I learn?</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li>An experimental workflow to evaluate the authenticity of foodstuffs</li>
<li>A basic workflow for the discovery of volatile biomarkers between multiple groups of samples</li>
<li>The basics of HDMSE data independent acquisition</li>
<li>How Progenesis QI is used to analyze metabolomics data</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Who should attend?</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li>Food research scientists</li>
<li>Metabolomics research scientists</li>
<li>Biomarker research scientists</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter: Robert Tonge, Ph.D. (Senior Product Manager, OMICS Informatics, Waters Corporation)</strong></p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Dr Robert Tonge is Senior Product Manager for OMICS Informatics at Waters Corporation, Manchester UK. Robert has been at Waters for 4 years in both Product Development and Field Marketing and has approaching 20 years experience in OMICS science. He trained initially in Biochemistry and Toxicology before moving to &#39;Big Pharma&#39; where he worked in Discovery and Translational Research across a wide variety of disease areas from cancer, cardiovascular disease and infection research.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter: Gareth Cleland, Ph.D. (Principal Scientist, Food &amp; Environmental Business, Waters Corporation)</strong></p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Dr Gareth Cleland is a Principal Scientist within the Food and Environment Business Operations at Waters Headquarters, USA. Following his Chemistry studies, he started his professional career working as a Development Chemist for a small coatings company in Oxfordshire, UK. He joined Waters Corporation in 2002 and has held various roles within the organization, both UK and US based, over the last 12 years.</p>
</blockquote>


Pixabay/Trung Hieu Dang: Discovery OMICS and Progenesis QI for Food Authenticity Testing

Discovery OMICS and Progenesis QI for Food Authenticity Testing

<p><strong>This webinar will provide an overview on the topic of analyzing various fat species in foods and methods to determine various classes from total fat to various lipid fractions and the wide variety of analyses available for fat determination. Topics discussed will include the analyses of fatty acid methyl esters (FAMES) in foods and the use of comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography (GC x GC) for the enhanced separation of highly complex mixtures. Advances in GC column stationary phases and new phases based on ionic liquid technology for the analyses of saturated and polyunsaturated FAMES will be discussed aswell as the use of GC×GC in the field of food lipid analysis. The considerable advantages of the two-dimensional approach (both with and without MS detection), in experiments related to a series of lipid volatiles (fatty acids, sterols, oxidation products, fatty alcohols, etc) will be illustrated.</strong></p>
<h3><strong>Featured in this webinar:</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li>Overview the wide variety of methods available for the analysis of fat in foods.</li>
<li>Examine traditional and new classes of GC Stationary Phases for the evaluation of various FAME species.</li>
<li>Discuss the power of two-dimensional gas chromatography (GCxGC) for separating highly complex mixtures and how it can be combined with mass spectrometry for analyzing volatile and semi-volatile analytes</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter: Len Sidisky (R&amp;D Manager, Gas Separations Business Unit, Sigma-Aldrich)</strong></p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Len discusses traditional and new stationary phases for FAME analyses and how these can be used to resolve various fatty acid species.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Len holds a Masters of Food Science from Penn State University and is the author of numerous papers, seminars, and other presentations on capillary gas chromatographic and SPME theory, techniques and applications. He has lectured worldwide, including the United States, Europe, Japan, China and in South America on various chromatographic techniques primarily focusing on capillary GC, SPME and air monitoring devices/ adsorbents.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter: Dr. Peter Q. Tranchida (Associate Professor, Food Chemistry in the Department of Pharmaceutical and Health Product Sciences, University of Messina)</strong></p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Dr. Tranchida discusses the use of GC×GC in the field of food lipid analysis. The considerable advantages of the two-dimensional approach (both with and without MS detection), in experiments related to a series of lipid volatiles (fatty acids, sterols, oxidation products, fatty alcohols, etc) will be illustrated and discussed. </p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Dr. Tranchida focuses on the study of complex food samples using advanced chromatography processes, such as fast and very-fast GC systems. An emphasis of his work is the evaluation of ultimate generation stationary phases (i.e., ionic liquids), and the development and application of classical multidimensional and comprehensive chromatography systems. In the field of GC×GC, he has performed applications, method optimization studies, and introduced a new form of flow modulation. At the”9th GC×GC symposium” he was awarded the “John Phillips Award” for outstanding achievements in the field of comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography. He has co-authored 100 scientific papers, 16 book chapters, and 240 oral/poster presentations.</p>
</blockquote>


Pixabay/engin akyurt: Novel Techniques and New Advances in the Analyses of Fat species in Foods