🎤Francis Femi OloyIn this episode of Concentrating on Chromatography, David speaks with Francis Femi Oloy about using chromatography to uncover hidden pollutants in real-world water systems.Femi’s team analyzed polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in six major rivers in southwestern Nigeria — compounds that were banned decades ago but still persist in the environment. Using a workflow that many analytical labs will recognize — liquid–liquid extraction, cleanup, rotary evaporation, nitrogen blowdown, and GC-ECD detection — they quantified 25 PCB congeners at trace levels and linked the results to ecological and human health risk.<h4>In this conversation, we cover:</h4><ul><li>Why legacy pollutants like PCBs still show up today</li><li>Choosing GC-ECD vs LC-MS for halogenated compounds</li><li>Liquid–liquid extraction and matrix cleanup strategies</li><li>Why sample concentration is critical for dilute environmental samples</li><li>How rotovap + nitrogen blowdown work together without losing volatile analytes</li><li>Seasonal trends (why wet season levels were higher)</li><li>Translating concentration data into meaningful risk assessments</li></ul><h3>Video Transcription</h3><section><div><div><div><div><div><div>Persistent organic pollutants such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) remain a significant environmental concern despite decades of regulatory restrictions. In this interview, Francais Femi Oloy discusses the environmental and analytical challenges associated with monitoring PCB contamination in rivers of southwestern Nigeria, a rapidly industrializing region where urban growth, industrial activity, agriculture, and dense populations intersect with extensive aquatic systems.Oloy explains that his interest in environmental contaminant analysis emerged from observing unexplained health problems and environmental degradation while growing up in Nigeria. This motivated his transition into organic and environmental chemistry, with a focus on identifying pollutants present in drinking water, agricultural soils, and food systems. Southwestern Nigeria, particularly the Lagos region, represents a critical environmental monitoring area due to intense industrial development, shipping activity, and widespread human dependence on rivers for domestic use, agriculture, and fishing.Although PCBs are considered “legacy pollutants” and are no longer intentionally produced, the interview highlights why they continue to persist in aquatic environments. Old electrical transformers and aging industrial equipment still contain PCB residues, while historical contamination stored in river sediments can become remobilized during flooding, dredging, or sediment disturbance. Because PCBs are hydrophobic and resistant to degradation, they preferentially accumulate in sediments and bioaccumulate through aquatic food chains, creating long-term environmental and human exposure risks.A major focus of the discussion centers on the analytical workflow used for PCB determination in environmental water samples. Composite river water samples were collected in amber glass bottles to avoid contamination and photodegradation, preserved with sodium azide to minimize microbial activity, and stored under cooled conditions prior to extraction. The analytical protocol employed liquid–liquid extraction using dichloromethane (DCM) and hexane to recover both polar and nonpolar PCB congeners. Oloy emphasizes that liquid–liquid extraction was selected over solid-phase extraction (SPE) because of concerns about congener retention within sorbent materials and clogging issues associated with large-volume environmental samples.Following extraction, concentration and cleanup represented critical analytical stages due to the trace-level occurrence and volatility of PCBs. Silica and alumina cleanup procedures were used to remove matrix interferences prior to instrumental analysis. The concentration workflow combined rotary evaporation for bulk solvent reduction with nitrogen blowdown for final volume reduction to less than 1 mL, while carefully avoiding excessive temperature or complete dryness to minimize analyte loss. Oloy repeatedly stresses that improper concentration procedures are among the most common causes of analytical failure in PCB analysis.For instrumental determination, the study utilized gas chromatography coupled with electron capture detection (GC-ECD) rather than LC-MS or GC-MS. According to Oloy, GC was preferred because PCBs are sufficiently volatile for gas chromatographic separation, while ECD provided superior sensitivity and selectivity for chlorinated compounds at environmentally relevant concentrations. The interview also discusses analytical validation strategies, including the use of surrogate standards to assess recoveries, which ranged from approximately 85% to 114%, and signal-to-noise-based determination of detection limits.The study further examined seasonal variations in PCB concentrations, revealing higher levels during the wet season. This observation was attributed to rainfall-driven runoff from contaminated infrastructure, sediment resuspension, and lower temperatures that reduce volatilization losses. To communicate toxicological relevance beyond simple concentration reporting, the researchers also calculated toxic equivalency values (TEQs), converting mixtures of PCB congeners into biologically meaningful toxicity estimates comparable to dioxin toxicity metrics.Beyond environmental monitoring, Oloy highlights broader research interests focused on pollutant remediation and sustainable environmental protection. His group is also involved in developing catalytic materials capable of degrading or removing persistent contaminants from environmental systems. Throughout the discussion, he emphasizes that analytical chemistry plays a central role not only in detecting pollutants, but also in enabling prevention, remediation, and long-term environmental management strategies.</div></div></div></div></div></div></section><blockquote>This text has been automatically transcribed from a video presentation using AI technology. It may contain inaccuracies and is not guaranteed to be 100% correct.</blockquote><blockquote><h4>Concentrating on Chromatography Podcast</h4>Dive into the frontiers of chromatography, mass spectrometry, and sample preparation with host David Oliva. Each episode features candid conversations with leading researchers, industry innovators, and passionate scientists who are shaping the future of analytical chemistry. From decoding PFAS detection challenges to exploring the latest in AI-assisted liquid chromatography, this show uncovers practical workflows, sustainability breakthroughs, and the real-world impact of separation science. Whether you’re a chromatographer, lab professional, or researcher you'll discover inspiring content!You can find Concentrating on Chromatography Podcast in podcast apps:<ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://open.spotify.com/show/1wZg67rCjoGju4yhqxI3tL">Spotify</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://podcasts.apple.com/tz/podcast/concentrating-on-chromatography/id1788429185">Apple podcast</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://podscan.fm/podcasts/concentrating-on-chromatography">podscan</a></li></ul>and on <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.youtube.com/@ChromatographyTalk/videos">YouTube channel</a></blockquote>

Tracking Toxic PCBs in River Water using Gas Chromatography–Electron Capture Detection

This study presents a high-temperature GC-APCI-MS/MS method for detecting large polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in pyroplastics and environmental samples. The approach enables sensitive analysis of PAHs with molecular weights from 314–424 Da without extensive cleanup or fractionation.Application to pyroplastics from the M/V X-Press Pearl fire revealed substantially elevated levels of large PAHs compared to unburnt plastics. Several compounds, including 1,3,5-triphenylbenzene, emerged as promising markers for identifying pyroplastic contamination, supporting future monitoring of plastic burning, fires, and microplastic pollution.<blockquote><h4>The original article</h4><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsomega.5c11703">Gas Chromatography-Atmospheric Pressure Chemical Ionization (GC-APCI) Expands the Analytical Window for Detection of Large PAHs (≥24 Ringed-Carbons) in Pyroplastics and Other Environmental Matrices</a></h4>Cara Megill, Douglas M. Stevens*, Christopher M. Reddy, Bryan D. James*, Robert K. Nelson, and Frank L. DormanACS Omega 2026, 11, 7, 12321–12329<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://doi.org/10.1021/acsomega.5c11703">https://doi.org/10.1021/acsomega.5c11703</a><h6>licensed under <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/">CC-BY 4.0</a></h6></blockquote>Selected sections from the article follow. Formats and hyperlinks were adapted from the original.<div>The measurement and reporting of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are routine practices in environmental monitoring and risk assessment. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(1−3)</a> However, of the thousands of PAHs, only the 16 designated as Priority Pollutants by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA16) are typically reported. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(4,5)</a> These span two to six ringed parent PAHs, ranging in molecular weight from 128 to 278 Da. It is well recognized that this limited analyte list drastically simplifies and misses a significant fraction of PAHs. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(4)</a> For example, the concentration of C1–C4 alkylated PAHs can be greater than or equal to the concentration of the EPA16 in crude oils and fuels. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(6)</a> Expanding the analytical window of PAHs has proven valuable for forensic analysis of oil spills (e.g., alkylated and heterocycle-containing PAHs) and relevant for toxicological evaluation(e.g., oxygen-, nitrogen-, and sulfur-containing PAHs). <a href="javascript:void(0);">(3,7)</a> Moreover, the sources of PAHs have distinct compositions of PAHs, <a href="javascript:void(0);">(1,8)</a> which enables the use of PAHs for source apportionment. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(2,7)</a> Including alkylated and sulfur-containing PAHs (those beyond the EPA16) in the investigation of environmental samples and other matrices provides greater discriminating power between potential sources (using extracted ion chromatograms). <a href="javascript:void(0);">(3,7,9)</a> Additionally, monitoring the compositional changes of PAHs in the environment can inform about the fate and environmental processing of the matrix (e.g., oil weathering). <a href="javascript:void(0);">(2)</a> While these efforts have made strides in considering other PAHs, an environmentally relevant fraction of PAHs remains underutilized.PAHs with more than six rings have been reported in diverse environmental matrices. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(10,11)</a> These large PAHs (≥24 ringed-carbons <a href="javascript:void(0);">(10)</a>) have been found in combustion-derived particulate matter, <a href="javascript:void(0);">(12−19)</a> urban dust, <a href="javascript:void(0);">(20−23)</a> refinery deposits, <a href="javascript:void(0);">(11)</a> coal tars and pitches, <a href="javascript:void(0);">(24−27)</a> cokes, <a href="javascript:void(0);">(28)</a> soils, <a href="javascript:void(0);">(20,22)</a> sediments, <a href="javascript:void(0);">(20−23)</a> and deep-sea hydrothermal vent bitumen. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(29)</a> Most reports of large PAHs in environmental matrices have been from analyses of U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) standard reference materials (SRMs); <a href="javascript:void(0);">(18,21−23,25,26,30)</a> a few 302 Da isomers have been certified in three SRM. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(31)</a> Nonetheless, isomers ranging from 326 to 374 Da have been reported in SRMs for urban dust (1649a/b), diesel particulate (1650b and 2975), coal tar (1597a), and marine sediment (1941b), displaying qualitative differences between the sources in their large PAH compositions; <a href="javascript:void(0);">(18,20,22,23,27)</a> thus, large PAHs should offer forensic utility.Recent advances in soft ionization within an atmospheric pressure chemical ionization source for gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-APCI) are well-suited for the analysis of large PAHs. Two contributing factors for this are the tolerance for high carrier gas flow rates by GC-APCI and the sensitivity of charge exchange APCI for aromatic species. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(48)</a> Increasing the carrier gas flow rate reduces the elution temperature of analytes, making many higher mass analytes accessible using a conventional GC and column, although poor thermal stability may still pose challenges for some analytes. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(49)</a> Classic vacuum-source GC/MS systems using electron ionization (EI) restrict the upper carrier gas flow allowed from the GC, and therefore, cannot fully utilize high GC carrier gas flows. The sensitivity of GC-APCI for components of petroleum, such as PAHs, has been previously reported. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(48)</a> Furthermore, unlike LC-APCI, which commonly exhibits protonation of analytes in positive ion mode, <a href="javascript:void(0);">(50)</a> GC-APCI+ can operate with dry source conditions. These conditions result in nitrogen-mediated charge exchange ionization and ions of the form M+•, the same form of molecular ion created using EI. As a result, because the charge site location on an ion dictates which product ions will be stable, the same multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) transitions can be used for both GC-APCI MS/MS and EI MS/MS. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(51)</a>Herein, a GC-APCI method was developed for the detection of large PAHs. Due to the limited availability of pure standards, previously characterized NIST SRMs were used in method development as sources of large PAHs. The values of the method and detection of large PAHs were demonstrated by analyzing environmental plastic samples collected after the M/V X-Press Pearl ship fire and plastic spill.<h4>Materials and Methods</h4><h5>GC-APCI</h5>The solvent extracts and dilutions were analyzed by GC-APCI on a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/554">Xevo TQ Absolute</a> (Waters Corporation) tandem quadrupole mass spectrometer (TQ-MS/MS). The atmospheric pressure gas chromatography (APGC) ionization source was operated in charge transfer mode using dry N2 as the reagent gas. Dry N2 reagent gas creates molecular ions of the form M+• with no significant adduct formation for large PAHs. The high reagent gas flow rate of 350 mL/min into the ionization chamber, combined with low energies applied to the transfer optics from the atmospheric pressure region to the first quadrupole, leads to a high molecular ion survival rate. Furthermore, the use of MS/MS with quadrupoles operating at unit mass resolution prevents potential effects on response caused by adduct formation. Acquisitions were performed in positive ion, MRM mode. Two MRM transitions were used for each of the 16 precursor masses, ranging from 314 to 424 Da (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/suppl/10.1021/acsomega.5c11703/suppl_file/ao5c11703_si_001.pdf">Table S1</a>). No optimization of source conditions specific to the analysis of large PAHs was required. The list of 16 specific precursor masses targeted in this range was developed using multiple sources reporting large PAHs in NIST SRMs and samples from deep-sea hydrothermal vents. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(18,29,30)</a> The two transitions represented constant neutral losses of 2 and 4 Da at high collision energies of 60–100 eV, using N2 as the collision gas.For 1,3,5-TPB analysis, the APGC ionization source was operated in charge transfer mode using N2 as the collision gas. Acquisitions were performed in positive ion, MRM mode, yielding six MRM transitions for analysis (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/suppl/10.1021/acsomega.5c11703/suppl_file/ao5c11703_si_001.pdf">Table S2</a>). Similar to the large PAHs, this analyte also shows neutral losses of 2 and 4 Da, reflecting behavior like that of the more condensed structures.The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=8890+GC">8890 GC (Agilent Technologies)</a> was configured with N2 as the carrier gas and an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=7&amp;search=Rxi-5HT">Rxi-5HT column (Restek)</a> of 15 m in length, 0.25 mm inner diameter, and 0.10 μm film thickness. The split/splitless (SSL) injection port was operated at a 10:1 split ratio with a temperature of 380 °C. A 1 μL injection volume was used for all analyses. The temperature program was 30.8 min; it started by holding at 40 °C for 0.5 min, then ramped to 160 °C at 14 °C/min, followed by a ramp to 395 °C at 22 °C/min and a hold at the temperature for 11 min. The flow rate of the N2 carrier gas was initially 0.60 mL/min, then ramped at 0.015 mL/min2 to 0.90 mL/min, followed by a ramp at 0.150 mL/min2 to 3.0 mL/min. To adapt the system for high-temperature work, the SSL was configured with a high-temperature septum (400 °C maximum), a 100% graphite liner O-ring, and a straight 4 mm inner diameter, wool-packed liner (450 °C maximum). Additional instrument and method details are included in the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/suppl/10.1021/acsomega.5c11703/suppl_file/ao5c11703_si_001.pdf">Supporting Information</a>.<h4>Results</h4><h5>Analysis of Large PAHs in Pyroplastic Samples by GC-APCI</h5>Macroplastic and microplastic debris from the M/V X-Press Pearl ship fire and plastic spill were investigated for the presence and distribution of large PAHs. The field samples included white, unburnt polyethylene nurdles and two types of pyroplastic, termed burnt plastic and combustion remnant (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsomega.5c11703#fig1">Figure 1</a>), both of which were polyethylene. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(43)</a> The types of pyroplastics were previously operationally defined based on the size and shape of the pieces. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(43)</a>Investigation of the 302 Da isomers revealed profiles similar to those of the SRMs; however, unique differences were observed (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/suppl/10.1021/acsomega.5c11703/suppl_file/ao5c11703_si_001.pdf">Figure S2</a>). Eighteen to twenty-one peaks were detected across the plastic samples. Compared with the SRMs, the pyroplastics showed decreases in the relative abundance of dibenzo[a,e]fluoranthene and increases in dibenzo[a,h]pyrene (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/suppl/10.1021/acsomega.5c11703/suppl_file/ao5c11703_si_001.pdf">Figure S2</a>). This trend was not the case for the white nurdle sample. Starting at a retention time of 16.80 min, two peaks were unique to the pyroplastic samples (not present in the SRMs and especially minor in the white nurdles). These peaks followed that for dibenzo[a,h]pyrene, which had previously been reported as the last detected 302 Da isomer compound in the SRMs, <a href="javascript:void(0);">(21)</a> supporting their novelty as marker compounds of pyroplastics.The plastic samples displayed similarities and differences in the presence and distribution of large PAHs (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsomega.5c11703#fig3">Figure 3</a>). The white nurdles, burnt plastic, and combustion remnant all contained high-intensity peaks at 20.50 min for 398 Da and 19.55 min for 374 Da. Peaks between 20.00 and 20.25 min of 398 Da and the 19.35 min peak of 374 Da were reduced in intensity for the pyroplastics compared to the white nurdles (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/suppl/10.1021/acsomega.5c11703/suppl_file/ao5c11703_si_001.pdf">Figure S3</a>). Conversely, the peaks between 18.50 and 18.75 min of 350 Da were more intense in the pyroplastics compared to the white nurdles.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/ACS_Omega_2026_11_7_12321_12329_Figure_3_Comparison_of_the_resolved_isomers_for_398_374_and_350_Da_of_the_white_nurdles_burnt_plastic_and_combustion_remnant_pieces_ec390ebae3.jpg" alt="ACS Omega 2026, 11, 7, 12321–12329: Figure 3. Comparison of the resolved isomers for 398, 374, and 350 Da of the white nurdles, burnt plastic, and combustion remnant pieces collected from Pamunugama Beach, Sri Lanka, following the 2021 M/V X-Press Pearl ship fire and plastic spill." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_ACS_Omega_2026_11_7_12321_12329_Figure_3_Comparison_of_the_resolved_isomers_for_398_374_and_350_Da_of_the_white_nurdles_burnt_plastic_and_combustion_remnant_pieces_ec390ebae3.jpg 232w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="1077">The levels of all the targeted large PAHs were at least 2 orders of magnitude higher in the pyroplastics than in the white nurdles. These levels included the individual PAHs that were common to the pyroplastics. This trend mirrored that observed for smaller PAHs and the solvent-extractable content of the sample types. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(39,43,46)</a> There were also slight differences in the signatures of the large PAHs found in the pyroplastics. The 398 Da peak at 20.24 min, along with the 374 Da peak at 19.31 min and the 350 Da peak at 18.61 min, were more prominent in the combustion remnant compared to the burnt plastic (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/suppl/10.1021/acsomega.5c11703/suppl_file/ao5c11703_si_001.pdf">Figure S3</a>).Similar to the differences in large PAH signatures between the SRMs, the plastic samples had different signatures. Such qualitative interpretation of extracted ion chromatograms is forensically accepted for distinguishing sources. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(3)</a> This feature can potentially be utilized to differentiate between plastic types (e.g., virgin, weathered, and partially combusted) as well as to identify sources of the large PAHs and the combustion temperature.<h4>Conclusions</h4>GC-APCI-MS/MS proved a useful technique for detecting large PAHs in diverse environmental matrices, including extracts from pyroplastic field samples. Despite a lack of widely available analytical standards for large PAHs, NIST SRMs provided ample material for method development for their detection. Nonetheless, with the increasing research on microplastics in the environment and their relevance to human health, an environmental SRM with certified values for large PAHs is needed, and pyroplastics may provide such a source of material. Large PAHs and 1,3,5-TPB were detected in pyroplastic field samples and hold promise as chemical markers for pyroplastics, complementing other means for their detection in environmental samples (e.g., appearance and physical properties). Due to the accessibility of GC-APCI, the detection of large PAHs can be integrated into workflows for evaluating environmental samples, including those for microplastics.</div>

Gas Chromatography-Atmospheric Pressure Chemical Ionization (GC-APCI) Expands the Analytical Window for Detection of Large PAHs (≥24 Ringed-Carbons) in Pyroplastics and Other Environmental Matrices

In the week of May 11, the following webinars await you in the field of gas / solid phase and especially Raman, FTIR, GC and GC/MS.<blockquote><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/webinars">👉 DETAILS AND REGISTRATION IN THE WEBINARS SECTION</a></h4>👉 Search and filter in the largest global database with over 5 500 GC, LC, MS and spectroscopy webinars.</blockquote><h5>1. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Uncovering Microplastics: Identification, Quantification, and Exposure Assessment</h5><ul><li>Tu, 12.5.2026 08:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/webinar/6136">Registration</a></li></ul>In this webinar, we will explore complementary analytical solutions for comprehensive microplastics characterization.<h5>2. AZoM: From Lab to Line: Leveraging GC and Process MS for Petrochemical Gas Analysis</h5><ul><li>We, 13.5.2026 16:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/webinar/6171">Registration</a></li></ul>Explore how GC and process MS work together in petrochemical workflows, combining detailed lab analysis with real-time gas monitoring for faster decisions.<h5>3. Milestone: Modern Sample Prep for Organic Contaminants: PAHs, PFAS, MOSH/MOAH in Food</h5><ul><li>We, 13.5.2026 16:00 CET</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/webinar/5822">Registration</a></li></ul>Learn how microwave-assisted extraction streamlines food analysis of PAHs, PFAS, and MOSH/MOAH, improving recoveries, reducing solvents, and meeting regulatory demands.<h5>4. Thermo Fisher Scientific: End-to-end automation in GC/GC-MS: Trends, tools, and practical implementation</h5><ul><li>We, 13.5.2026 18:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/webinar/6186">Registration</a></li></ul>In this GC/GC-MS power hour session, we’ll explore how automation is transforming laboratories by helping teams do more with less time, fewer resources, and greater confidence.<h5>5. GERSTEL: Automating Food Safety Workflows for the Analysis of Edible Oils and Fats</h5><ul><li>We, 13.5.2026 20:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/webinar/6168">Registration</a></li></ul>Learn how automated workflows improve data quality in edible oil testing, including FAMEs, MOSH/MOAH, and 3-MCPD analysis with real-world insights.

Webinars LabRulezGCMS Week 20/2026

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Organomation, founded in 1959, designs and manufactures high-quality nitrogen evaporators and extraction systems. Known for innovation and durability, their lab instruments are used globally for efficient sample preparation with strong customer support.

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Chromatographic Methods to Speed Up Your Analysis and Increase Your Throughput: A review of chromatography theory with a focus on using principles of chromatography to make your analysis more efficient and cost effective.
We will also review the Agilent software tools available to help with column selection and GC method conditions.
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Presenter: Shannon Coleman (GC Application Scientist, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
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Shannon Coleman holds a B.S. degree in Chemistry from the University of Colorado and an M.S. in Chemistry from Emory University. He is currently a GC Application Scientist at Agilent. He has been working with multidimensional and valve gas chromatography across various industries for the past 20 years. He supports Agilent’s North America Field Organization and spends his time consulting with and delivering educational content on understanding the fundamentals of chromatography and understanding complex gas chromatography analysis to Agilent’s customers.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Chromatographic Methods to Speed Up Your Analysis and Increase Your Throughput

Chromatographic Methods to Speed Up Your Analysis and Increase Your Throughput

Analysis for ethanol and other volatiles in blood has traditionally been performed by Gas Chromatography with Flame Ionization detection (GC-FID). This technique has excellent quantitative accuracy, but the flame ionization detector provides no molecular or structural information (apart from the existence of C-C bonds). Structure specific information is helpful in ruling out co-elution and to verify the identity of the chromatographic peak. Vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) absorption spectroscopy can provide this sort of informative detection.
VUV detectors specifically designed for GC are commercially available and provide important benefits to blood alcohol analysis, such as verification of peak purity, facile deconvolution of coeluting peaks, and calibration based on Beer–Lambert law and molar absorptivity of the analyte. Since molar absorptivity is an inherent constant property of a molecule, calibration is straightforward and stable.
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Presenter: Alan Gallapsy (Field Application Scientist, PerkinElmer)
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PerkinElmer: Vacuum Ultraviolet Detection of Blood Volatiles

Vacuum Ultraviolet Detection of Blood Volatiles

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Presenter: Tom Mancuso (Product Specialist, PerkinElmer)
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PerkinElmer: Detectors for GC Analysis of Ethanol in Blood

Detectors for GC Analysis of Ethanol in Blood

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Presenter: Lee Marotta (Principal Field Application Scientist, PerkinElmer)
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Lee Marotta started her career in gas chromatography at Exxon Corporate Research in 1988. In 1992, Lee moved onto PerkinElmer developing methods and helping people in all industries that require gas chromatography including headspace, thermal desorption and mass spectrometry. With 32 years experience in all fields of gas chromatography, Lee feels her main role is to help people be successful
</blockquote>

GC Tips and Tricks

Have you ever had a question about your GC/GCMS analysis and thought, &quot;I have no idea what to do,&quot; or that because the question seemed so simple, everyone must already know the answer and &quot;I’m the only one who doesn’t know what to do.&quot; We can assure you that you are not alone.
If you have a question, we can guarantee that you are not the first... nor the last person to ask it. Sometimes the simplest of questions can have the most complex answers. A question about which liner to use can lead to a discussion on the benefits of glass wool versus glass frits. A question about how long a column should last may trigger a discussion about the importance of a leak free system, the maximum temperature limit, proper phase selection, and how an application may benefit from using backflush.
There’s no such thing as an easy answer, because the answer always depends on many different factors. Therefore, we have complied a list of some of our most frequently asked questions, which may seem like simple questions, but in reality they have anything but simple answers.
Why not submit your question to us in advance when you register for the webinar.
<h3>By attending this webinar you will learn:</h3>
<ul>
<li>best practices with GC and GC/MS systems – from liner and column selection to why gas filters matter and instrument prep recommendations, and</li>
<li>why there is not always an easy answer to most GC(MS) questions</li>
</ul>
<h3>Why should you attend?</h3>
To gain more understanding on why different consumables are used for different applications, and listen to Agilent Scientists discuss the complexities of the most frequently asked questions they receive.
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Presenter: Angie Smith-Henry (Applications Chemist for GC and MS Supplies, Agilent)
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Angie is is an applications chemist for GC and MS Supplies at Agilent in Wilmington, Delaware, USA. Previously, she was an applications chemist for the MSD Solutions and Applications group with a focus on developing analysers and applications for energy, chemical and environmental markets. Angie holds a PhD in Physical Chemistry from Lehigh University and BS in Chemistry from Juniata College.
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Presenter: Vanessa Abercrombie (Gas Chromatography Applications Chemist, Agilent)
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<blockquote>
Vanessa is a GC Applications Chemist at Agilent in Folsom, California, USA. Vanessa has a broad background in GC and GC/MS, including experience as an instrument chemist at Bode Technology in Virginia working under contract to the FBI’s Laboratory Division. Prior to that, Vanessa worked for ETS Labs in St. Helena, California as an Analytical Chemist where she researched and developed quantitative separations by GC/MS and UHPLC for beer, wine, and spirits. She holds a Master of Forensic Science from The George Washington University and a Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry from Sonoma State University.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Moderator: Diane Turner (Director &amp; Senior Consultant, Anthias Consulting)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Diane Turner is Director and Senior Consultant of Anthias Consulting in Cambridgeshire, UK. A Warwick University graduate, Diane completed her masters in Analytical Chemistry and started her career in environmental chemistry, later gaining significant experience as an Applications Chemist. Diane’s area of research through her PhD studies at The Open University was disease diagnosis. She has developed methods for, and given support and training for companies in most industries around the world for more than 20 years. Diane also holds voluntary roles with The Royal Society of Chemistry and other scientific organisations.
</blockquote>

Pixabay/loufre: Ask the Agilent Experts: GC and GC/MS Scientists Answer Your Most Frequently Asked Questions

Ask the Agilent Experts: GC and GC/MS Scientists Answer Your Most Frequently Asked Questions

best practices with GC and GC/MS systems – from liner and column selection to why gas filters matter and instrument prep recommendations...

Agilent Experts: GC and GC/MS Scientists FAQ Answers

<h3>Learning objective:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Testing Detailed Hydrocarbon Analysis by ZB-DHA PONA COLUMN</li>
<li>How to improve Excellent Response and Peak Symmetry for Polar Oxygenates</li>
<li>Applications on DHA, PONA, PIONA, PIANO, and ASTM Methods - (D5134, D5441, D5501, D6729, D6730, D6733)</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Rahela Banu (Business Development Manager, Phenomenex India)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Rahela Banu holds a master’s degree in Micro Biology from Osmania University. She worked as a Microbiologist in Royal life sciences doing analysis of FAME by Gas chromatography from various microbial samples. Later started working with Merck as Patient Support counselor. After successful 3 years stint with them she moved to Phenomenex.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
She started as an Application specialist with Gas Chromatography; Being the sole person to handle GC technique entirely for 9 years, Rahela has gained vast experience in handling customer Applications/Inquiries catering to wide extended market segments. 
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Rahela has traveled extensively through all parts of India reaching customers of various segments working with GC/HPLC/SPE technique as Industry Specialist; Having visited manufacturing plant of Phenomenex Torrance unit Rahela works very closely with GC developing team making a bridge between advanced technologies and customer applications. 
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Currently she is working as a Business Development Manager at Phenomenex India and is responsible for Seminars/webinars/training&#39;s/Global coordination/market development in all product lines that goes into this applied market segment PAN India.
</blockquote>

Phenomenex: ASTM Methods for DHA, PONA, PIONA, PIANO with GC

ASTM Methods for DHA, PONA, PIONA, PIANO with GC

DHA by  ZB-DHA PONA COLUMN, Improve Polar Oxygenates and Applications on DHA, PONA, PIONA, PIANO, ASTM Methods (D5134, D5441, D5501, D6729, D6730, D6733).

Gas chromatography (GC) is considered a mature analytical technology with many critical industrial applications. Despite its maturity, the role of GC has not been diminished. Instead, its role continues to gain influence. Innovations that aid in widening the use of contemporary GC include: maintaining gas chromatographic performance without compromising affordability, enhanced data reliability between analysts, and precise digital pneumatic controls.
Join Dr. Ronda Gras and Dr. Alicia Stell as they discuss advancements in gas chromatography (GC) with novel system improvements that enable ease of use, even when operated by inexperienced operators. Since ease of use means nothing if the data is not meaningful, Drs. Gras and Stell will review applications in the petrochemical and chemical industries and determine if data is comparable to larger GC systems.
<h3>Key Learning Objectives:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Trends and recent developments of GC in industry </li>
<li>New column form factors with rapid column replacement capability </li>
<li>Relevant industrial petrochemical and chemical industry applications</li>
</ul>
<h3>Who Should Attend:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Laboratory managers </li>
<li>Chromatographers </li>
<li>New product developers</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Ronda Gras, Ph.D. (Research Scientist of Analytical Science, Core R&amp;D of the Dow Chemical Company)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Alicia Stell, Ph.D. (Lead R&amp;D Scientist, CEM Corporation)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Jeff Huber (Contributing Editor, C&amp;EN Media Group)
</blockquote>

C&EN: Innovations and Developments in the Advancement of Gas Chromatography

Innovations and Developments in the Advancement of Gas Chromatography

<blockquote>
Presenter: Jaap de Zeeuw (Restek, Netherlands) 
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Jan Pschierer (Restek, Germany)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Emanuele Ceccon (Restek, Italy)
</blockquote>
<a href="https://www.rafa2021.eu/vendor_webinars/nov_3/3_Nov%203_Restek_RAFA%202021_Vendor%20webinar.pdf">Presentation details</a>
<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Restek_Rafa_2021_New_Concepts_to_Speed_up_Pesticides_Residue_Analysis_1f441975ba/Restek-Rafa-2021-New-Concepts-to-Speed-up-Pesticides-Residue-Analysis.png" alt="Restek/Rafa 2021: New Concepts to Speed up Pesticides Residue Analysis.png"/>

Restek/RAFA 2021: New Concepts to Speed up Pesticides Residue Analysis

RAFA 2021: New Concepts to Speed up Pesticides Residue Analysis

The discussion on mineral oil hydrocarbons (MOH; divided into mineral oil saturated hydrocarbons (MOSH) and mineral oil aromatic hydrocarbons (MOAH) started already in the 1990’s when publications reported the possible migration from a food contact material into the packed good. The debate on those findings broadened afterwards and is continuing till today, dealing with the still remaining knowledge gaps of analysis, exposure assessment, hazard characterisation and risk assessment (1,2).
This talk will focus on mainly on the still present pitfalls of the analysis. Although there had been significant advancements, the analysis is still a huge challenge. There is a lack of validated and standardized analytical methods for the whole sample preparation procedure to allow generation of reliable occurrence data for the complex and highly variable matrix “food”. State-of-the-art analysis is done using the online-coupling of LC-GC-FID, but analysis reveals only unresolved humps with unknown origin. Therefore, confirmatory techniques using multi-dimensional chromatography, e.g. 2D-Comprehensvie GC×GC with various detector types, are used to allow for an adequate substance class identification, recognition of false-positive values and therefore correct quantification of the generated humps. Furthermore, toxicological studies on the identified individual substance classes are needed to fully understand and allow for the health risk assessment for consumers (3).
<blockquote>
Presenter: Andrea Hochegger (TU Graz, Institute of Analytical Chemistry and Food Chemistry, Graz, Austria)
</blockquote>

RAFA 2021: Pitfalls in the Analysis of Mineral Oil Residues in Food

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

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

GCMS webinars focusing on GC - page 26

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