<p><span><strong>The countdown is on for one of the world’s leading conferences dedicated to food analysis. The 12th International Symposium on Recent Advances in Food Analysis (RAFA 2026), taking place in Prague from 3–6 November 2026, is approaching two important milestones: the Early Bird registration deadline and the deadline for oral abstract submissions, both ending on 30 June 2026. Researchers, analysts, industry professionals, regulators, and students are encouraged to secure their participation at a reduced registration rate and take advantage of the opportunity to present their latest scientific results to the international food analysis community.</strong></span></p><p><span>RAFA 2026 will once again bring together leading experts from academia, industry, and regulatory organizations to discuss the latest developments in food safety, authenticity, contaminants, non-target screening, PFAS, microplastics, food contact materials, artificial intelligence, and advanced analytical technologies. The preliminary program already features an outstanding lineup of internationally recognized speakers addressing some of the most pressing challenges in modern food analysis and food safety.</span></p><h3><strong>Registration</strong></h3><blockquote><p class="cke-user_style-important"><strong>👉</strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://rafa.easyevent.eu/tickets/"><strong>Register to attend RAFA 2026!</strong></a></p><p><strong>Early-bird registration until 30 June, 2026</strong></p></blockquote><p>After successful submission of your registration, you will receive by e-mail (i) an automatic confirmation of receipt indicating the total amount of payment due (either for bank transfer or for on-line payment by card), (ii) login to Member section where you can administrate your profile, submit your abstracts, and from <strong>September 2026</strong> register for satellite events, workshops and seminars. If it will not be delivered within a few minutes after submission of your registration please contact us at <strong>RAFA2026@vscht.cz</strong>.</p><p>As soon as payment of registration fee is processed, you will also receive by e-mail (iii) confirmation of payment.</p><h4><strong>Registration Fees</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Smart rate (Until 30 June, 2026): </strong>€ 655</li><li><strong>Regular registration (Until 30 September, 2026):</strong> € 855</li><li><strong>Late registration (From 1 October, 2026):</strong> € 955</li><li><strong>Student rate*&nbsp;</strong><ul><li><strong>Until 30 June, 2026: </strong>€ 465</li><li><strong>From 1 July, 2026:</strong> € 605</li></ul></li></ul><p><i>* The proof of student status (e.g. copy of a student identify card) is requested as an attachment of the registration form.</i></p><h5><strong>The regular registration fee will include:</strong></h5><ul><li>Attendance at all scientific sessions, workshops, seminars, vendor seminars and other satellite events</li><li>Access to the poster and exhibition area</li><li>Conference kit (name badge, conference bag, conference documents, certificate of participation, certificate of presentation on request)</li><li>Final programme</li><li>E-Book of Abstracts</li><li>Coffee breaks</li><li>Buffet luncheons</li><li>Welcome drink</li></ul><p>In the registration form you can r<strong>egister free of charge for the welcome drink</strong> and you can also order <strong>ticket(s) for the conference dinner (€ 85).</strong></p><p><i>Please note that your registration is firm when your payment has been received.</i></p><h3><strong>Abstract submission</strong></h3><blockquote><p class="cke-user_style-important"><strong>👉</strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://rafa.easyevent.eu/tickets/"><strong>Submit your ABSTRACT HERE!</strong></a></p><p>In order to submit an abstract, you must <strong>first register to attend RAFA 2026</strong>. <strong>After registration</strong> you will receive an <strong>access to the Member section </strong>where you can <strong>submit your abstract(s).</strong></p></blockquote><p>&nbsp;After successful submission of your abstract you will receive an automatic confirmation of receipt of submitted abstract via e-mail. If it will not be delivered within a few minutes after submission of your abstract please check at first your spam box-mail and then contact us at <strong>RAFA2026@vscht.cz</strong>.</p><p>Please ensure that your abstract does not contain spelling, grammatical or scientific errors. Even though modifications of your submitted abstract will be allowed in the Abstract section of the Member section until the deadline for the abstract submission, please be confident on the lack of errors in your final version prior to starting the submission process.</p><p>The abstract will be reproduced exactly as submitted. No proofreading will be done, although some corrections may be requested by the reviewers.</p><p>If you need to withdraw your abstract, a written statement reflecting the reasons for this decision must be sent to <strong>RAFA2026@vscht.cz</strong> no later than <strong>September 30, 2026</strong>.</p><h4><strong>Important notice:</strong></h4><blockquote><p><strong>1 registered participant can submit no more than 2 abstracts.</strong></p></blockquote><p>To apply for a young scientist’s oral presentation, as an indication please respect the rule that you should be born in 1991 or later.</p><p>The <strong>text of the abstract </strong>should be<strong> limited to 3000 characters including spaces</strong>. Tables and pictures are not allowed.</p><p><strong>Abstracts of oral presentations and posters</strong> will be included into the "<strong>e-Book of Abstracts</strong>" only after receipt of the conference registration fee. Any payment of the registration fee has to be received until <strong>September 30, 2026</strong>, otherwise contribution(s) will not be included into the e-Book of Abstracts and the Conference programme.</p><h3><strong>Program</strong></h3><h4><strong>Invited Speakers</strong></h4><h5><strong>Food allergen risk assessment: Past, present, future</strong></h5><ul><li>Ben Remington from Remington Consulting Group B.V., Utrecht, the Netherlands &amp; University of Nebraska, USA</li></ul><p>Food allergy and allergen management are global public health issues, and consumer protection depends on transparent and trustworthy labelling. While 30 years of scientific advances show that low level exposures, or reference doses, are unlikely to trigger reactions in most allergic individuals, harmonized and globally aligned regulations are still needed to promote consistent allergen risk assessment and labelling decisions. This presentation will discuss the landscape of allergen risk assessment, global policy developments, current research and future needs in the area.</p><h5><strong>Unmasking hidden adulteration in honey: Strategies for detecting and characterizing honeys produced from sugar-fed colonies</strong></h5><ul><li>Oscar Nuñez Burcio from University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain</li></ul><p>From hive to jar, not all honey tells the same story. This presentation addresses hidden adulteration associated with sugar-fed bee colonies, highlighting implications for authenticity, production practices, and the need for a more precise characterization of honey to ensure consumer trust.</p><h5><strong>Analytical and toxicological methods for safety of food contact materials</strong></h5><ul><li>Erich Leitner from Graz University of Technology, Institute of Analytical Chemistry and Food Chemistry, Graz, Austria</li></ul><p>Food packaging plays a critical role in protecting and preserving food throughout the supply chain. All packaging materials intended to come into contact with food must comply with strict EU safety rules. Due to increased complexity of packaging solutions, lowering legal limits and increasing numbers of target compounds, we also have to adapt the strategies used to verify and guarantee the safety of these materials.</p><h5><strong>Data-driven strategies to reduce complexity in non-target HRMS analysis of food samples</strong></h5><ul><li>Anneli Kruve from Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden</li></ul><p>LC/HRMS based non-target screening can detect hundreds to thousands of chemical features in complex food and environmental samples. Investigating all of these in detail is practically impossible, so which ones to focus on? Novel computational tools developed in computational mass spectrometry allow predicting the toxicity and concentration of the detected chemical features even if these have not yet been fully structurally elucidated. Combining these predictions enables us to focus on the chemical features possessing high risk.</p><h5><strong>Role of AI in the identification of emerging food systems risks</strong></h5><ul><li>Ákos Bernard Jóźwiak from Syreon Research Institute, Budapest, Hungary</li></ul><p>AI-assisted evidence synthesis – spanning curated scientific evidence, exposome data, and network analysis – is the backbone of next-generation emerging chemical food safety risk identification, enabling earlier signals and more resilient surveillance systems.</p><h5><strong>Challenges of microplastics analysis in the context of food safety</strong></h5><ul><li>Dorte Herzke from Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway</li></ul><p>Food and food packaging are major sources of micro- and nanoplastic exposure. Plastics used in processing, storage, and packaging can release particles through heat, abrasion, and degradation. Small particles below 2 µm may cross gut barriers and carry chemicals, highlighting the need for robust and sensitive measurement methods.</p><h5><strong>Never-ending analytical challenges in PFAS analysis of food</strong></h5><ul><li>Darina Dvořáková from University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Prague, Czechia</li></ul><p>Exploring and monitoring PFAS in food requires advanced strategies. Combining targeted, suspect, and non-target HRMS analysis, determination of total fluorine and sum parameters, and novel sensors provides new insights into PFAS occurrence and supports food safety monitoring.</p><h5><strong>An overview of the latest scientific knowledge on process contaminants in food for appropriate risk management measures</strong></h5><ul><li>Thierry Delatour from Nestlé Research, Lausanne, Switzerland.</li></ul><p>Recent scientific findings related to acrylamide and furans formation, occurrence and analytical methods in food provide important insights for risk management.</p>

Deadline for RAFA 2026 Early Registration and Oral Abstract Submission is approaching

<p><strong>Traditional EI library searching works exceptionally well when the unknown compound is already present in the spectral library. However, analytical chemists frequently encounter compounds that are structurally related to library entries but are not exact matches. NIST's EI Hybrid Search addresses this challenge by combining conventional spectral matching with mass-shifted fragment alignment, allowing the identification of analogs, derivatives, and novel compounds that may not exist in the database.</strong></p><p>This guide summarizes the workflow presented by James Little and demonstrates how to use NIST 26 Hybrid Search in conjunction with the Chromatogram Window and MS Interpreter to obtain more meaningful structural information from unknown EI GC-MS spectra.</p><blockquote><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/paper/33370"><strong>You can download PDF Handout for this guide HERE</strong></a></p></blockquote><h4><strong>Why Hybrid Search Matters</strong></h4><p>Conventional EI library searching relies on direct matching between an unknown spectrum and spectra stored in a library. Hybrid Search expands this concept by allowing fragment ions to be matched even when they are shifted by a consistent mass difference (Δm). This enables the software to recognize compounds that differ by substituents or structural modifications.</p><p><strong>Key advantages include:</strong></p><ul><li>Identification of structurally related compounds not present in the library</li><li>Detection of analogs, derivatives, and emerging compounds</li><li>Integration of exact fragment matches and mass-shifted matches into a single score</li><li>Improved interpretation of unknowns through proposed structural modifications</li><li>Enhanced confidence when molecular weight information is available</li></ul><p>Although Hybrid Search does not require the molecular ion to be present, performance improves significantly when the molecular weight can be estimated or constrained. In these cases, the observed mass difference between the unknown and library compounds can often be translated directly into a plausible chemical modification.</p><h4><strong>Configuring Hybrid Search</strong></h4><p>Before performing a search, the Hybrid Search settings should be configured within the NIST Library Search window.</p><p>Recommended settings:</p><ul><li>Select the Similarity search mode</li><li>Enable Hybrid Search</li><li>Keep the In Spectrum option checked under normal circumstances</li><li>Allow the software to estimate the molecular weight automatically</li><li>If the estimated molecular weight appears incorrect, manually enter a nominal molecular weight</li><li>Select all relevant libraries (NIST, Wiley, user libraries, etc.)</li><li>Save the configuration for future use</li></ul><p>The selected molecular weight used to constrain the search is displayed in the lower-right corner after the search is completed.</p><h4><strong>Optimizing the Results Display</strong></h4><p>Hybrid Search produces several unique parameters that are not shown in the default results table.</p><p>Additional columns should be added by right-clicking within the results table and selecting Properties. Recommended columns include:</p><ul><li>DeltaMass</li><li>dForm</li><li>pctRelForm</li><li>o.Match (equivalent to the traditional EI Normal Match score)</li></ul><p>Without these parameters, much of the structural interpretation power of Hybrid Search is lost.</p><h4><strong>Working with Spectra from the Chromatogram Window</strong></h4><p>Currently, the Chromatogram Window performs standard EI library searching. When a potentially interesting unknown is encountered:</p><ul><li>Perform the normal EI search in the Chromatogram Window</li><li>Send the spectrum to the standalone Library Search module</li><li>Perform a Hybrid Search using the enhanced Hybrid Search functionality</li></ul><p>This workflow combines rapid screening with advanced structural interpretation.</p><h4><strong>Understanding Key Hybrid Search Parameters</strong></h4><h5><strong>DeltaMass (Δm)</strong></h5><p>DeltaMass represents the mass difference between the unknown compound and the matched library compound.</p><p>A consistent Δm across multiple high-scoring hits often indicates a specific structural modification.</p><h5><strong>dForm</strong></h5><p>dForm provides a proposed elemental composition that explains the observed mass difference.</p><p>Examples include:</p><ul><li>H–1F</li><li>CH₂</li><li>O–1</li><li>C₁H₃F</li></ul><p>These transformations can suggest likely chemical modifications between the library compound and the unknown.</p><h5><strong>pctRelForm</strong></h5><p>New in NIST 26, pctRelForm estimates how frequently a given elemental transformation occurs relative to the most common transformation (CH₂ = 100%).</p><p>Interpretation:</p><ul><li>High values indicate chemically plausible and commonly observed transformations</li><li>Very low values suggest the proposed transformation may be accidental or unlikely</li></ul><h5><strong>o.Match</strong></h5><p>Represents the traditional EI match score and allows comparison between standard searching and Hybrid Search results.</p><h4><strong>Case Study: Identifying a Fluorinated Unknown</strong></h4><p>The presentation demonstrates the identification of an unknown compound with a proposed molecular weight of 152 Da.</p><p>Hybrid Search returned several high-scoring hits with consistent evidence suggesting fluorine substitution:</p><p><strong>Hit #1</strong></p><ul><li>Library MW: 134</li><li>DeltaMass: +18</li><li>dForm: H–1F</li><li>Interpretation: Addition of fluorine</li></ul><p><strong>Hit #5</strong></p><ul><li>Library MW: 138</li><li>DeltaMass: +14</li><li>dForm: CH₂</li><li>Interpretation: Related fluorinated analog</li></ul><p><strong>Hit #6</strong></p><ul><li>Library MW: 168</li><li>DeltaMass: –16</li><li>dForm: O–1</li><li>Interpretation: Structurally consistent fluorinated compound</li></ul><p>Multiple independent hits converged on the same conclusion: the unknown was likely a fluorinated analog of known aromatic compounds.</p><p>This illustrates the major strength of Hybrid Search: identifying structural relationships even when the exact compound is absent from the library.</p><h4><strong>Moving from Hybrid Search to Structural Interpretation</strong></h4><p>Once a plausible structure is identified:</p><h5><strong>Step 1 – Export the Structure</strong></h5><p>From the Hybrid Search results:</p><ul><li>Right-click the best hit</li><li>Use Send To → Default Structure Editor</li><li>Open the structure in a drawing program such as ChemSketch</li><li>Copy the proposed structure to the clipboard</li></ul><h5><strong>Step 2 – Open MS Interpreter</strong></h5><p>Within MS Interpreter:</p><ul><li>Paste the proposed structure</li><li>Load the unknown spectrum</li><li>Compare predicted fragmentation with observed ions</li><li>Evaluate isotope patterns and fragment assignments</li></ul><h5><strong>Step 3 – Validate the Proposal</strong></h5><p>Indicators of a good structural proposal include:</p><ul><li>Consistent isotope ratios</li><li>Logical fragmentation pathways</li><li>Agreement between observed and predicted fragment ions</li><li>Multiple Hybrid Search hits supporting the same structural modification</li></ul><p>In the example presented, MS Interpreter showed excellent agreement between the proposed fluorinated structure and the observed EI spectrum, although the exact positions of the fluorine and methyl substituents on the aromatic ring could not be definitively assigned.</p><h4><strong>Best Practices</strong></h4><ul><li>Always review DeltaMass, dForm, and pctRelForm together</li><li>Do not rely solely on the highest match score</li><li>Give greater weight to transformations supported by multiple independent hits</li><li>Use molecular weight information whenever possible</li><li>Confirm structural hypotheses using MS Interpreter</li><li>Consider Hybrid Search as a structure-elucidation tool rather than simply a library search tool</li></ul><h4><strong>Conclusion</strong></h4><p>NIST 26 Hybrid Search significantly extends the capabilities of conventional EI library searching by identifying structural relationships between unknown compounds and library entries. Through the use of DeltaMass calculations, elemental transformation analysis (dForm), and statistical plausibility metrics (pctRelForm), Hybrid Search provides valuable clues for elucidating compounds that are absent from spectral libraries.</p><p>When combined with MS Interpreter, it becomes a powerful workflow for the characterization of unknowns, analogs, degradation products, metabolites, and emerging compounds in EI GC-MS analysis.</p>

Lib Search: Similarity EI Hybrid Search for Spectra Sent from Chromatogram Window

<p><strong>Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezGCMS Library in the week of 22nd June 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 brochure by <strong>Agilent Technologies, </strong>application note<strong> </strong>by<strong> Shimadzu </strong>and posters by <strong>MDCW / William &amp; Mary </strong>and <strong>Waters Corporation / ASMS!</strong></p><h3><strong>1. Agilent Technologies: Operational efficiency for your GC and GC/MS labs with the </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=8890B"><strong>Agilent 8890B gas chromatography system</strong></a></h3><ul><li>Brochure</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/br_8890b_gc_5994_9205en_agilent_fb5db29527.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><section><div><div><div><div><div><div><h4><strong>Analyze more samples every day with faster cycle times&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=8890B"><strong>8890B GC </strong></a>provides faster maximum oven temperature ramps and cooldown rates for conventional dual-channel GC. If you want even faster cycle times, an optional rapid cooling fan is available.&nbsp;</p><h4><strong>Achieve excellent repeatability across multiple injections&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>Consistent retention time and area count performance are the cornerstone of what you can expect from the 8890B GC. The system also meets all specifications required for regulatory methods such as USP Method &lt;467&gt; (residual solvents).</p><h4><strong>Shine a new light on your connections and components&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>Make maintenance easier and faster with a built-in oven light that illuminates the internal space on the 8890B GC. That means you can perform tasks like troubleshooting and column installation in less time—and with fewer errors.</p><h4><strong>Boost GC performance with capillary flow technology&nbsp;</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Backflush</strong> significantly reduces timing between injections, increasing productivity.&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Purged Ultimate unions</strong> provide leak-free connections, reducing downtime.&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Flow splitters</strong> enable data collection from up to three detectors.&nbsp;</li><li><strong>New CFT calculators</strong> let you download calculated setpoints to your method—avoiding time-consuming, error-prone manual input.&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Multidimensional chromatography:&nbsp;</strong><ul><li><strong>Deans Switch</strong> facilitates heart cutting, enabling resolution of trace compound in complex matrices.&nbsp;</li><li><strong>GC x GC flow modulation</strong> enables multidimensional chromatography without the need for cryogen</li></ul></li></ul><h4><strong>Helium conservation module&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>Extend the life of your helium tanks by up to 30 times. The Agilent helium conservation module allows you to use helium for your GC runs and switch to a different gas (typically nitrogen) when your GC is idle. That means you can achieve better control of laboratory operating expenses and avoid workflow disruptions.</p><h4><strong>Alternative carrier gas support&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>Alternative carrier gases like hydrogen and nitrogen are popular low-cost options.&nbsp;</p><p>The <strong>Agilent Hydrogen Sensor Module Series 2 </strong>option adds built-in peace of mind when operating with H2 gas.&nbsp;</p><p>The <strong>Agilent HydroInert source </strong>minimizes sensitivity loss and spectral anomalies associated with H2. It also:&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Maintains spectral fidelity, even for compounds highly susceptible to hydrogenation.&nbsp;</li><li>Improves peak shape for high-boilers, especially polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)</li></ul><h3><strong>2. MDCW / William &amp; Mary: Decomposition Analysis Using Differing Data Processing Methods to Identify Volatile Organic Compounds</strong></h3><ul><li>Poster</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/P_25_Weina_2ae94f0998.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><section><div><div><div><div><div><div><p>When a body decomposes it emits volatile organic compounds (VOCs). VOCs from decomposing remains have been studied before,1 however there is a gap that remains in the knowledge on VOCs that evolve from submerged decomposing remains. 2 In this study, submerged animal tissue was tested to see how the VOCs can be utilized in forensic settings.&nbsp;</p><p>This study used data obtained last summer using comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography – time-of-flight mass spectrometry (GC×GC-TOFMS). Pigs (Sus scrofa domesticus) are often used as analogs in decomposition studies due to similarities with humans. 3 In this study, pork belly samples were submerged in mason jars filled with water and stored at different temperatures. The GC×GC-TOFMS instrument was used to collect odor from above water samples for a period of twelve days.</p><p>GC×GC is often used to analyze complex odor profiles. When analyzing samples with GC×GC, there is a lack of standardization to process the data acquired from time trials. There is a need to discover effective ways to track VOCs for chemical identification and longitudinal analysis.</p><p>The goal of this research was to compare different software approaches to analyze GC×GC longitudinal data to achieve accurate analyte identification, representation of data over time, and effective class characterization.</p><h4><strong>Methods</strong></h4><p>For the first four days, 5 mL of water was taken and run on the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/37"><strong>GC×GC-TOFMS</strong></a>. Thereafter, the samples were sampled and run every three days until day twelve. Data were analyzed initially using <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/41"><strong>ChromaTOF</strong></a> (LECO Corporation). The samples were then analyzed using <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/348"><strong>ChromaTOF Tile </strong></a>and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/1873"><strong>ChromaTOF Sync 2D</strong></a> to compare how they can be used in a forensic setting.</p><p>Peak tables were curated in Tile and Sync 2D. Then, ChromaTOF was used as a guide to confirm which peaks were identified correctly. If the compound was correctly identified, the peak would be accepted or kept on the table. If not correctly identified, the peak would either be rejected or deleted. Once the tables were complete from the different software approaches, they were exported to Excel for further comparison.</p><p>In excel, the relevant hits that were identified as decomposition VOCs were compared across the software approaches. The compounds that were most commonly found were compared to existing literature on decomposition VOCs. From there, two tables were built; where one table was compounds confirmed with literature and the other table was compounds not confirmed with literature.</p><p>Comparison between software approaches included looking at different criteria to see which method was the most effective and efficient. The criteria included how long the software approach took, the number of compounds found in each software approach, the accuracy of peak area in the software approach compared to ChromaTOF data, and principal component analysis (PCA) comparison to see which software approach was best used for forensic practice or research.</p><h4><strong>Conclusions</strong></h4><p>Sync 2D showed the capability of showing trends in decomposition compounds</p><ul><li>This software approach can be used in research environment where longitudinal data is needed to determine the trends of decomposition data&nbsp;</li><li>Best purpose: research applications requiring longitudinal tracking&nbsp;</li></ul><p>Coefficient of Variance’s and Fold Change’s PCA plots showed their ability for clear class differentiation&nbsp;</p><ul><li>The two software approaches can be used to distinguish water containing decomposition in a crime scene&nbsp;</li><li>Best purpose: comparison at a single point and time [detailed analysis]&nbsp;</li></ul><p>Fisher Ratio showed a proficiency in identifying top differentiating compounds and showed aptitude for class differentiation&nbsp;</p><ul><li>The software approach would be helpful for cursory analysis for crime scene evidence&nbsp;</li><li>Best purpose: quick comparison of biggest difference for swift identification</li></ul><h3><strong>3. Shimadzu: Determination of Ester and Linolenic Acid Methyl Ester Contents in Biodiesel According to EN 14103:2020</strong></h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_05_sca_180_054_en_93d1029b72.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><h5><strong>User Benefits</strong></h5><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=2060"><strong>NexisTM GC-2060</strong></a> provides reliable analysis of biodiesel samples regarding their ester and linolenic acid methyl ester contents using hydrogen as a cost-effective carrier gas&nbsp;</li><li>It delivers excellent repeatability and provides appropriate safety measures for the use of hydrogen as carrier gas&nbsp;</li><li>The optional multi-mode injection unit (MMI) offers performance equivalent to a conventional split-splitlessinjection unit (SPL), significantly reducing maintenance downtime</li></ul><p>Biofuels play an important role in enabling countriesto meet their greenhouse gas reduction targets. They can be produced from a range of raw materials, including plant oils, animal fats, and used cooking oils. Biodiesel is mainly being produced from rapeseed, soybean, and palm oils. Due to this diversity of feedstocks, continuous quality control is necessary as the quality of the raw material has an enormousimpact on the quality of the biodiesel.&nbsp;</p><p>The EN 14103:2020 describes the determination of total ester content and linolenic acid methyl ester content in biodiesel by means of gas chromatography with flame ionization detection (GC-FID). The total ester content covers a range of fatty acid methyl esters (FAME) from C6 to C24, and linolenic acid methyl ester is investigated separately as interfering reactive compound that might influence long-term stability of the biodiesel. According to the standard, the total ester content must be greater than 90 % (m/m) and the linolenic acid methyl ester content shall be between 1 and 15 % (m/m)1.</p><p>This study shows the analysis of biodiesel originating from rapeseed,soybean, and palm oil using the Nexis GC-2060.</p><h4><strong>Multi-Mode Injection Unit as Alternative&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>Shimadzu’s multi-mode injection unit (MMI) offers reliable splitsplitless mode functionality over a broad range of carbon numbers. It allows analysis of biodiesel samples with high repeatability and provides chromatographic results comparable to those measured with SPL as dedicated split-splitless injection unit. The use of MMI significantly shortens maintenance downtime from tens of minutes for a classical split-splitless injection unit to just a few minutes. Figure 3 gives a direct comparison of an exemplary rapeseed-based biodiesel sample measured with SPL (top) and MMI (bottom).</p><h4><strong>Conclusion</strong></h4><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=2060"><strong>Nexis GC-2060</strong></a> provides reliable analysis of biodiesel samples regarding their ester and linolenic acid methyl ester content according to EN 14103:2020, covering the various ester types commonly in use. It allows repeatable analysis using hydrogen as a cost-effective carrier gas. The optional multi-mode injection unit (MMI) can be selected as alternative to a classical splitsplitlessinjection unit (SPL).</p><h3><strong>4. Waters Corporation / ASMS: Putting the (Atmospheric) Pressure on Forever Chemicals: A Targeted Analysis of GC Amenable PFAS using APGC–MS/MS</strong></h3><ul><li>Poster</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/720009413_dfa4082b45.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><p>This poster presents a targeted analytical method for the determination of gas chromatography (GC)-amenable PFAS compounds using atmospheric pressure gas chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (APGC-MS/MS). The study addresses a key limitation of conventional LC-MS/MS methods, which are highly effective for many PFAS but less suitable for more volatile species such as fluorotelomer alcohols (FTOHs), fluorotelomer acrylates (FTAcr), and fluorotelomer acetates (FTOAc). By incorporating GC-MS/MS analysis, laboratories can obtain a more complete characterization of PFAS contamination across environmental, biological, and food-contact materials.</p><p>The analytical workflow utilized an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=8890"><strong>Agilent 8890 gas chromatograph</strong></a> equipped with an autosampler and coupled to a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/554"><strong>Waters Xevo TQ Absolute tandem mass spectrometer</strong></a> operated with APGC ionization in positive-ion mode. Separation was performed on an Rtx-200 capillary column, while data acquisition and quantification were managed using <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/1544"><strong>waters_connect software</strong></a>. Unlike traditional electron ionization (EI), APGC generated intact protonated molecular ions, significantly improving sensitivity and selectivity for GC-amenable PFAS. A method covering 35 PFAS compounds was developed, achieving lower limits of quantification (LLOQs) of 0.025–0.1 ng/mL for most analytes.</p><p>Several sample types were evaluated, including wastewater, surface water, soil, fish tissue, shrimp, and food-packaging materials. Environmental and biological samples were prepared according to EPA Method 1633A and had previously been analyzed by LC-MS/MS, allowing the GC-MS/MS method to serve as a complementary technique. Food-packaging samples were extracted with methanol containing ammonium hydroxide and analyzed for targeted PFAS. While no target PFAS were detected in the tested packaging materials, multiple GC-amenable PFAS were found in environmental samples. Fluorotelomer alcohols were the most frequently detected compounds, with wastewater and ski-wax-impacted soils showing the highest concentrations.</p><p>The results demonstrate that APGC-MS/MS provides a sensitive and robust solution for the analysis of volatile PFAS classes that may be missed by LC-MS/MS alone. The method delivered accurate quantification, effective chromatographic separation, and reliable recovery in spiked samples. The authors conclude that combining APGC-MS/MS with established LC-MS/MS workflows enables a more comprehensive assessment of PFAS contamination, particularly for emerging fluorotelomer compounds and other GC-amenable PFAS that are increasingly relevant in environmental monitoring and food-packaging investigations.</p></div></div></div></div></div></div></section></div></div></div></div></div></div></section>

News from LabRulezGCMS Library - Week 26, 2026

Article

Events

Application

Academy

Video

Software

Poster

RAFA provides an overview of contemporary trends in ANALYTICAL & BIOANALYTICAL STRATEGIES IN FOOD QUALITY AND SAFETY CONTROL and discusses CHALLENGES / NOVEL APPROACHES IN FOOD AND NATURAL PRODUCTS ANALYSIS.

Recent Advances in Food Analysis (RAFA)

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

My main interest is the identification of organic compounds by mass spectrometry in organic mixtures.

James Little/Mass Spec Interpretation Services

ChromSoc

Technology Networks

LECO

F-DGSi

Restek Corporation

Peak Scientific

Shimadzu Corporation

<p><strong>The first in this series, brought to you by our GC gas product expert, Dr. Ed Connor, will cover Precision SL&#39;s industry-leading small size and how it can benefit your lab&#39;s workflow and will take place on Wednesday, 28th of July at 09.30 (GMT+1).</strong></p>
<p>The webinar will be followed by a live Q &amp; A session for any questions you may have about Precision SL or lab gas generators in general.</p>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter: Dr Ed. Connor (Product Manager, Peak Scientific)</strong></p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>joined Peak Scientific in February 2013 as a GC product specialist and now functions as a Product Manager. He has been working on a number of collaborative projects with Peak customers and the major instrument manufacturers worldwide. The main focus of these collaborations has been to look at conversion from helium to hydrogen or nitrogen carrier gas for GC applications but he has also worked on ELSD nitrogen gas solutions and nitrogen generators for LC-MS instruments. Prior to joining Peak, Ed completed his Dr.Sc. at ETH Zurich in 2007 using GC-MS to look at herbivore induced plant volatiles and their interaction with beneficial insects. He then joined the University of Zurich where his work focussed primarily on floral volatile analysis using a variety of volatile collection methods, GC-MS and GC-FID.</p>
</blockquote>


Peak Scientific: Streamline your GC-FID analysis with Precision SL

Streamline your GC-FID analysis with Precision SL

<p><strong>Bulk gas supply in the form of liquid nitrogen dewars and cylinders present laboratories with safety risks stemming from the frequent need to handle and manage gas supplies. Laboratory staff are at risk of injury every time they need to move a gas cylinder and a leak from bulk storage can result in the development of a potentially deadly atmosphere.</strong></p>
<p>Flammable gases such as hydrogen present additional risks of fire or explosion, which need to be addressed through safe gas handling, storage and detection in the laboratory, increasing the cost of their use.</p>
<h3><strong>Attend this webinar to learn about:</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li>General gas cylinder safety tips</li>
<li>Risks associated with bulk gas supply</li>
<li>The risks of using nitrogen and hydrogen in the laboratory</li>
<li>Benefits of using a gas generator to supply nitrogen and/or   hydrogen</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter: Dr. Ed Connor (Product Manager, PEAK Scientific)</strong></p>
</blockquote>


Unsplash/Julia Lobkova: Gas Safety in Your Laboratory

Gas Safety in Your Laboratory

<p><strong>There is a general perception that gas chromatography (GC) and the various forms of detection that are used with this technique have developed to the point where it is now a “mature” technology, but GC practitioners know that there are many new challenges to face and that new solutions are required to overcome longstanding issues.</strong></p>
<p>This virtual symposium, organized by the Chromatographic Society (ChromSoc) and LCGC, will focus on areas of GC where the sample complexity, the requirements for highly accurate measurements, the sensitivity requirements imposed by regulators, and the need to push scientific discovery force GC users to look with fresh eyes on this supposedly “mature” technique. The highly respected international speakers will bring a fresh perspective on almost every aspect of GC in the vapour phase and the virtual symposium will maintain the high reputation that this bi-annual meeting has established over many years.</p>
<h3><strong>Key Learning Objectives:</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li>Modern approaches to achieving ultratrace detection limits in GC and GC–MS are revealed</li>
<li>The use of GC and GCxGC with high-resolution MS for complex sample screening will be discussed</li>
<li>Learn about advanced techniques for sample preparation and enrichment for qualitative and quantitative analysis</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Who Should Attend:</strong></h3>
<p>Anyone working with GC who wants to understand the very latest approaches to achieving ultratrace analyte quantitation, sample preparation, and enrichment for complex matrices and reducing error in quantitative GC analysis.</p>
<h3><strong>Agenda:</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><p><strong>12pm BST = 7am EDT Symposium Introduction</strong> (Tony Taylor, Arch Sciences Group, UK)</p>
</li>
<li><p><strong>12:30pm BST = 7:30am EDT High Resolution GC–MS and GC×GC–MS with Advanced Data Processing for Investigative Compositional Analysis</strong> (Hans-Gerd Janssen, Unilever and Wageningen University, The Netherlands)</p>
</li>
</ul>
<h4><strong>Technology Session 1</strong></h4>
<ul>
<li><p><strong>1:10pm BST = 8:10am EDT Hydrogen Carrier Gas for Fast GC: Choosing the right setup for your GC</strong> (Ed Connor, Product Manager, PEAK Scientific)</p>
</li>
<li><p><strong>1:25pm BST = 8:25am EDT Derivatization and Traceable Quantification—A Match Made in Hell?</strong> (Chris Hopley, LGC’s National Measurement Laboratory, UK)</p>
</li>
</ul>
<h4><strong>Technology Session 2</strong></h4>
<ul>
<li><p><strong>2:05pm BST = 9:05am EDT Low-Pressure Gas Chromatography (LPGC)–The Fast Way to Your Pesticide Analysis</strong> (Dr. Jana Hepner, Applications Scientist, Restek)</p>
</li>
<li><p><strong>2.20pm BST = 9:20am EDT Meeting the Analytical Challenges of Environmental Monitoring for the Water Framework Directive: Quantifying a Drop (or Two) in the Ocean</strong> (John Quick, ALS Environmental, UK)</p>
</li>
</ul>
<h4><strong>Technology Session 3</strong></h4>
<ul>
<li><p><strong>3pm BST = 10am EDT VICI Fast Temperature Programmer Methods and Applications</strong> (Dale Ashworth, Product Manager Analytical Systems, VICI)</p>
</li>
<li><p><strong>3:15pm BST = 10:15am EDT Is the E&amp;L Community Ready to Move Away from Conventional Large Volume Liquid–Liquid Extraction and Solvent Evaporation?</strong> (Mike Hodgson, Baxter, UK)</p>
</li>
</ul>
<h4><strong>Technology Session 4</strong></h4>
<ul>
<li><p><strong>3:55pm BST = 10:55am EDT Raise the Bar of Trace Analysis: Simultaneous high quality target and non-target data are within reach</strong> (Liz Humston-Fulmer, Application Chemist, LECO Corporation)</p>
</li>
<li><p><strong>4:10pm EDT = 11:10am EDT Combining Automated Green and Exhaustive Enrichment Techniques with 1D GC–TOF–MS for Untargeted Aroma Profiling of Food/Beverages and Consumer Products in QA/QC Industrial Laboratories</strong> (Tatiana Cucu, Research Institute of Chromatography)</p>
</li>
<li><p><strong>4:50pm BST = 11:50am EDT Technology Session 5</strong></p>
</li>
<li><p><strong>5:05pm BST = 12:05pm EDT Technology Session 6</strong></p>
</li>
<li><p><strong>5:20pm BST = 12:20pm EDT Panel Discussion</strong></p>
</li>
</ul>


ChromSoc: Advances in Gas Chromatography: A Virtual Symposium

Advances in Gas Chromatography: A Virtual Symposium

<p><strong><a href="https://gcms.cz/products?search=pegasus&amp;manufacturerItems=24&amp;instrumentationItems=3">LECO&#39;s Pegasus®</a> line is designed to take full advantage of the speed of TOFMS analyses without sacrificing the sensitivity you need, and our<a href="https://gcms.cz/library?search=+stayclean&amp;mainauthorItems=24"> StayClean®</a> Ion Source means you never have to slow down to clean out your engine.</strong></p>
<p>The advantages of helium as a carrier gas for mass spectrometers have long been known, but it is a limited natural resource with varied supplies and expenses. On the other hand, hydrogen gas generators can be installed in any lab for a constant supply and, conveniently, increased chromatographic speeds.</p>
<p>Join LECO&#39;s panel of experts for a one-day forum to discuss how to overcome the challenges of switching from helium to hydrogen, the analytical and business impacts of adding hydrogen generators to your lab, and how the resulting mass spectral profiles compare between helium and hydrogen gases.</p>
<h3><strong>Forum Talks</strong></h3>
<h4><strong>Fast GC/Hydrogen Method Transfer Overview &amp; Application Examples</strong></h4>
<p>Helium is a limited natural resource with huge variations in both supply and expense. At the same time, the advantages of hydrogen to achieve increased chromatographic throughput in GC applications is attractive. The transferral of methods to hydrogen carrier gas can be problematic due to limitations and challenges associated with some types of mass spectrometry technology used. In particular, the mass spectral quality and fragmentation, in comparison with that obtained using helium, as well system sensitivity and also, system robustness and acquisition rate are important factors which can differ and negatively affect results. In this study we have investigated the use of a particular type of GC-TOF-MS technology in regards to overcoming these issues. The method transfer approach, technology benefits, and application examples are presented.</p>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter: Nick Jones an David Benanou</strong></p>
</blockquote>
<h4><strong>Flow Modulated Fast Comprehensive Two-Dimensional Gas Chromatography Combined With Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry: A Comparison Between the use of Helium and Hydrogen as Carrier Gas</strong></h4>
<p>The present research is focused on the comparison between the use of hydrogen and helium carrier gases, within the context of flow-modulation fast comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography-time-of-flight mass spectrometry. All experiments were carried out by using the following column set: low polarity with dimensions 10 m × 0.25 mm ID × 0.25 µm df and medium polarity with dimensions 2 m × 0.10 mm ID × 0.10 µm df. Fundamental gas chromatography parameters (efficiency, resolution) were measured under different experimental conditions, using the two carrier gases. Efficiency was measured in both the first (using C12 alkane) and second (using naphthalene) dimensions; after defining the optimum carrier gas conditions, a sample of diesel was analyzed, with the overall separation evaluated to make final conclusions on the analytical performances. Finally, a comparison was made between mass spectral profiles obtained analyzing fatty acid methyl esters and pesticides.</p>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter: Peter Q. Tranchida and Luigi Mondello (University of Messina, Messina, Italy)</strong></p>
</blockquote>
<h4><strong>Switch to Fast GC Easily - Theory and Practice</strong></h4>
<p>There a number of ways that the analysis time can be reduced. It all depends on how well the components are separated in the present application. Most easy is to trade in some resolution for speed using higher gas velocities or using a shorter column. If the exact separation must be maintained, a choice has to be made between using hydrogen as carrier gas, or use a smaller ID capillary column (or a combination). What is important is that in the new method, the same chromatogram (and peak elution order) must be obtained. Using the EZGC method translator, you can simply calculate the oven program you need for that. Also, in the ProEZGC chromatogram modeler, you can see the impact of any changed parameter, just using your laptop.</p>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter: Jaap de Zeeuw (Restek)</strong></p>
</blockquote>
<h4><strong>Advantages of Hydrogen Generators: Usage, Costs, and Safety Made Easy</strong></h4>
<p>Analytical laboratories use a variety of analytical techniques as part of their research and development and quality control of products. Many of these processes require high purity gases, many of which can be produced by gas generators. For a number of reasons, including safety, cost, convenience, and analytical throughput, more and more labs are abandoning hydrogen cylinders in favor of hydrogen gas generators to supply the gases they require for their analyses. During this session, Jean-Marie Casanova will cover analytical and business impacts about implementing Hydrogen gas generators in your lab.</p>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter: Jean-Marie Casanova (Sales Director, F-DGSi)</strong></p>
</blockquote>


LECO: Designed for Speed: A Fast-GC Forum

Designed for Speed: A Fast-GC Forum

<p><strong>F-DGSi company is hosting a webinar the 24th of June with the participation of David Benanou, Analytical Innovation &amp; Research expert at Veolia company.</strong></p>
<h3><strong>YOUR LABORATORY ... GREEN AND 6.0</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li>Do you want to save time?</li>
<li>Do you want to save up to 20,000 euros per year?</li>
<li>Do you want to be independent?</li>
<li>Do you want to reduce your carbon footprint?</li>
</ul>
<p>The price of helium is still going up and it is already, without you knowing it, an increasingly significant expense in running your laboratory.</p>
<p>The attractive alternative with many advantages is the hydrogen generator: thus, the F-DGSi COSMOS line generators represent an ideal source of hydrogen having the potential to supply many GCs with a gas quality of 99.9999% superior to those in cylinder while producing on-demand and at low pressure.<br/>In addition, the GC-MS/MS can be supplied with hydrogen carrier gas and this is no longer a challenge but a more reassuring reality!!</p>
<p>In collaboration with David Benanou, F-DGSi will present the results of an analytical and economic study of this transition from helium to hydrogen.</p>
<p>F-DGSi wishes to support you and share with you this transition from helium to hydrogen.</p>


Pixabay: From Helium to Hydrogen in GC-MS/MS

From Helium to Hydrogen in GC-MS/MS

<p><strong>The price of helium is soaring and deliveries can be erratic.</strong></p>
<p>Learn how to save time and money in your lab by reducing your GCMS system&#39;s helium consumption or swapping your GCMS carrier gas to hydrogen!</p>
<p><strong>This webinar will cover:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>How Shimadzu&#39;s GCMS systems can reduce carrier gas consumption by 80% and power consumption by 40%.</li>
<li>How Shimadzu&#39;s GCMS-QP2020 NX is designed for operation with He, H2 and N2 carrier gas.</li>
<li>Information on how Peak Scientific&#39;s range of generators for GC &amp; GCMS can improve your lab safety and reduce running costs.</li>
</ul>


Shimadzu Products & Applications Series - Helium (Part 2 - GCMS): Save it or Swap it!

Learn how to save time and money in your lab by reducing your GCMS system's helium consumption or swapping your GCMS carrier gas to hydrogen!

Helium (Part 2 - GCMS): Save it or Swap it!

<p><strong>Peak Scientific&#39;s Product Manager, Dr. Ed Connor, shares his recommendations on how labs can reduce helium consumption by making the switch to hydrogen carrier gas for GC analysis.</strong></p>
<p>Following the webinar there will also be a live Q &amp; A session where you can get answers to your questions about Peak&#39;s products &amp; services and lab productivity.</p>


Peak Scientific - Converting from Helium to Hydrogen Gas

Converting from Helium to Hydrogen Gas

<p><strong>1. FAMEs analysis method re-validation from helium to hydrogen for GC</strong></p>
<p><strong>2. Detailed hydrocarbon analysis (DHA) using ASTM method D6729 &amp; D6729 Appendix X2</strong></p>
<p><strong>3. The Effect of Draw-out Lens Diameter on Sensitivity of GC-MS analysis</strong></p>
<h3><strong>Webinar Q&amp;A</strong></h3>
<p>Dr. Ed Connor answers all the questions from the webinar Q&amp;A below. </p>
<h5><strong>Is a gas generator environmentally friendly?</strong></h5>
<p>The production of H2 is via electrolysis of DI water. The process is a repeatable process, so once a generator is in the lab, there is no need for repeated deliveries of gas, meaning lower emissions from delivery trucks. If the supply of electricity is from renewable sources, the generator is a very environmentally friendly option.</p>
<h5><strong>What are the safety risks in using H2 instead of N2?</strong></h5>
<p>When supplied by a gas generator, the risks of H2 are minimised, so there should be little risk using H2 carrier for any GC or GC-MS analysis. N2 bulk supply (dewars and cylinders) also poses a risk to lab personnel, so should not be underestimated as a risk. Generators of any kind are a safer alternative to cylinders and bulk supply.</p>
<h5><strong>If hydrogen is 5 minutes faster than helium in the FAMEs analysis, could it be faster if we reduce column width/length?</strong></h5>
<p>Yes, reducing column width and length would be a way to improve separation and speed up analysis.</p>
<h5><strong>Do you know of any issues with helium supply to labs in Europe recently?</strong></h5>
<p>We have had reports from labs worldwide in regards to the current helium shortage, including customers in Europe. In areas where labs can obtain regular supply, the price of helium has risen starkly over the past few years.</p>
<h5><strong>Can we use H2 gas simultaneously for carrier and combustion in FID?</strong></h5>
<p>Yes, the supply from the generator can be connected to the ‘carrier’ and ‘H2 detector’ inlets on the GC by making a T-piece.</p>
<h5><strong>How many GCs can one generator supply? And how many GC-FID can a generator supply?</strong></h5>
<p>This will depend on the total carrier gas flow of the methods being run and how many FID detectors need gas. Peak have H2 generators producing up to 1200cc/min which can support multiple GCs and for larger labs, multiple generators can be cascaded to give multiple litres of H2 per minute.</p>
<h5><strong>Have you tried the DHA analysis using 100 Micron ID column?</strong></h5>
<p>We did not try using a small diameter column, but this would be an interesting option to speed up the analysis further. We would need to double-check the requirements of the ASTM method, in terms of recommended column to be sure whether this could be done.</p>
<h5><strong>What is the loss in sensitivity when you change from helium to hydrogen without any BG subtraction?</strong></h5>
<p>On an Agilent system, typically a 2-5x reduction in sensitivity is expected in full scan mode, although this will depend on the analyte.</p>
<h5><strong>Can you discuss the safety implications of using hydrogen? I.e. if there is a leak in the system into the oven etc</strong></h5>
<p>The risk of a leak into the GC oven is possible, but most leaks are seen at the inlet. If the inlet cannot maintain pressure, the GC would normally shut down and the generator would go into standby. If there was a leak at the detector end of the column, there is a risk that back pressure would allow the system to run as normal, so there is a small risk that in this situation, the LEL could be reached. All Peak H2 generators have a safety shut down if they supply H2 at maximum flow for 20 minutes, to prevent this from happening. Additionally, Peak offer an in-oven leak detector that can be connected to the generator to shut it down if a significant H2 concentration is detected in the GC oven. However, we have never heard of any customers without an H2 detector having any significant problems with a build-up of H2 in their GC.</p>
<h5><strong>Risk of H2 gas leakage in column oven. Hence, labs do not recommend use of H2 as carrier gas. Do you agree on this?</strong></h5>
<p>As mentioned in the previous response, there is a small, but very low risk of leaks causing a problem in the GC. Modern GCs are very sensitive to pressure and flow changes and can be equipped with in-oven detectors. Peak also offer a leak detector that can be connected to the generator.</p>
<h5><strong>Did you have any application with Shimadzu GCs?</strong></h5>
<p>Yes we have application notes with Shimadzu GCs on GC-MS applications. Please see <a href="https://www.peakscientific.com/discover/articles/gc-ms-ms-pcbanalysis-on-site-gas-generators/">here</a> as an example.</p>
<h5><strong>Are there any classes of chemical which tend to react with hydrogen when used with GCMS?</strong></h5>
<p>The key concern that most people have is reaction with Chlorinated solvents and the subsequent formation of HCl. This can be avoided by using pulsed pressure injection, which will reduce residence time of H2 in the GC inlet, where reactions are most likely to occur.</p>
<p><strong>Are there any classes of chemical which tend to react with the hydrogen when used with GCMS? We are particularly interested in aromatic VOCs.</strong></p>
<p>We are not aware of any specific classes of compounds where reactivity is a problem. Terpenes have been cited as a risk, previously, but in testing at Peak we have not had any difficulty in analysing terpene samples.</p>


Peak Scientific: Hydrogen as an alternative to Helium for GC

Hydrogen as an alternative to Helium for GC

<p><strong>And takes you through:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Key benefits of gas generators</li>
<li>Generator safety</li>
<li>Calculating gas flow requirements for GC (detectors &amp; carrier gas)</li>
<li>​Acquisition methods</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter: Dr. Ed Connor (Product Manager, Peak Scientific)</strong></p>
</blockquote>


Peak Scientific: Your Local Gas Generation Webinar: Choosing the correct gas set up for GC

Your Local Gas Generation Webinar: Choosing the correct gas set up for GC

<p><strong>In GC mostly helium is used as the carrier gas. The challenge with helium is that it is expensive and will only become more expensive.  Also the supply is not secured which makes many labs look for alternatives. It is also possible to use nitrogen or hydrogen as the carrier gas. Big advantage of these gases is their low cost and secured availability. They can even be produced in the lab. Depending on the separations required it is possible to use nitrogen or hydrogen.</strong></p>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter: Presenter: Jaap de Zeeuw (Gas Chromatography Specialist, Restek)</strong></p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Jaap is a world-renowned chromatographer with over 40 years of experience, including 27 years with Varian/Chrompack focusing on industrial analysis challenges. For his 1979 graduation from The Institute for Higher Education, specialized in chemistry, Jaap authored a paper titled &quot;The Challenge of Coating Flexible Fused Silica Capillary Columns&quot; and has since distinguished himself as an authority on the subject. Directly involved with the creation of numerous chemically bonded columns, including the first bonded PEG column and the stabilized PLOT columns widely used in the petrochemical arena, Restek’s international GC specialist has helped develop new techniques, such as fast GC-MS using vacuum GC technology, and has filed two patents for his work. Based out of the Netherlands, Jaap celebrates 10 years with Restek. Jaap is extensively published and regularly travels internationally to share his knowledge.</p>
</blockquote>


GCMS webinars focusing on Gas Generators - page 2