🎤Alex BrodyIn this episode of Concentrating on Chromatography, we sit down with Alex Brody, an organic chemist at Aqua America, to discuss the rigorous analytical methods required for regulated drinking water testing.Alex walks us through the multi-step PFAS detection process using EPA Method 537.1, including extraction, nitrogen blowdown concentration, and LC-MS analysis. He explains why sample preparation and quality control are critical for achieving trace-level detection—and why these methods can't be rushed or simplified, even with new technologies available.We also explore taste and odor investigations, disinfection byproducts, and volatile organic compounds, plus the surprising reality of why regulated labs move slowly when adopting new instrumentation. You'll learn about the quality control checkpoints, peer review processes, and the misconceptions surrounding analytical turnaround times in compliance labs.<h5>Topics Covered:</h5><ul><li>Role of organic chemistry in regulated drinking water labs</li><li>EPA compliance requirements and regulatory bodies (EPA, PA-DEP)</li><li>PFAS detection using Method 537.1 and LC-MS</li><li>The critical importance of nitrogen blowdown sample concentration</li><li>Taste and odor analysis: MIB, Geosmin, and unknown compound identification</li><li>Why regulated methods evolve slowly (validation timelines, approval processes)</li><li>Quality control procedures: calibration checks, matrix spikes, surrogate standards, internal standards</li><li>Automated sample preparation and lab efficiency</li><li>Future PFAS regulations and Method 533 expansion</li></ul><h5>Ideal For:</h5><ul><li>Analytical chemists and environmental lab professionals</li><li>Water utilities and compliance officers</li><li>Chromatography practitioners interested in regulated workflows</li><li>Anyone curious about how drinking water safety is ensured</li></ul><h2>Video Transcription</h2><h3>Ensuring Safe Drinking Water Through Advanced Analytical Chemistry</h3><h4>Insights from a Regulated Water Testing Laboratory</h4>Analytical laboratories responsible for regulated drinking water testing operate under strict compliance frameworks to ensure the delivery of safe and reliable water supplies. In this interview, Alex, an organic chemist at Aqua America, outlines the scope of analytical work conducted in a modern water quality laboratory. The team primarily focuses on the determination of taste- and odor-causing compounds, disinfection byproducts, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These analyses rely heavily on GC-MS and LC-MS instrumentation, supported by rigorous maintenance programs to ensure continuous operational performance and data reliability.<h4>Regulatory Compliance and Quality Control in Drinking Water Analysis</h4>Operating as a regulated drinking water laboratory requires adherence to stringent requirements established by agencies such as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and state-level regulatory bodies. Compliance is driven by extensive quality control protocols integrated into every analytical batch. Typical workflows include calibration verification, matrix spike recovery assessments, internal standard monitoring, and surrogate performance checks. Notably, analytical batches are often limited in sample number to accommodate a substantial proportion of quality control samples, reflecting the critical importance of data defensibility in regulatory reporting.One common misconception is the perceived speed at which results can be delivered. In reality, comprehensive sample preparation, including extraction procedures and validation steps, can extend turnaround times to a full working day or longer. Additionally, validated regulatory workflows impose limitations on the rapid adoption of new analytical technologies, as method modifications must undergo formal evaluation and approval before implementation.<h4>Analytical Strategies for Taste and Odor Investigations</h4>Taste and odor events represent a significant operational challenge for water utilities. Standard targeted methods are routinely applied for compounds such as 2-methylisoborneol (MIB) and geosmin, which are commonly associated with earthy or musty sensory characteristics. When targeted analysis does not reveal the source, laboratories employ broad-scan GC-MS screening combined with spectral library interpretation to identify potential causative compounds. In some cases, sensory evaluation panels complement instrumental analysis, providing preliminary insight into potential treatment-related or environmental influences affecting water quality.<h4>PFAS Monitoring: Methodological Complexity and Trace-Level Sensitivity</h4>PFAS determination represents a rapidly evolving priority in drinking water monitoring. The laboratory currently applies EPA Method 537.1, with efforts underway to expand capabilities through certification for Method 533, thereby broadening analyte coverage. Analytical workflows typically involve solid-phase extraction followed by solvent evaporation using nitrogen-assisted blow-down techniques to achieve the trace-level sensitivity required for regulatory compliance. This concentration step is essential because PFAS compounds remain non-volatile under controlled evaporation conditions, enabling enhanced detection performance upon reconstitution and LC-MS analysis.<h4>Future Directions in Drinking Water Analytics</h4>Looking ahead, the primary technological driver in regulated water analysis is the demand for increasingly lower detection limits and expanded compound coverage. While regulatory frameworks can slow methodological innovation, laboratories continue to pursue efficiency improvements, such as automated sample preparation systems and optimized analytical workflows. These advances support the growing need to process high sample volumes while maintaining the stringent data quality standards required for public health protection.Ultimately, the work performed in regulated drinking water laboratories represents a critical intersection of analytical chemistry, environmental monitoring, and public safety. Continuous methodological refinement, coupled with advances in mass spectrometry and sample preparation technologies, will play a central role in addressing emerging contaminants and ensuring long-term water quality assurance.<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>

Regulated Drinking Water Testing: PFAS Detection, Sample Prep & Real Lab Insights

This study investigates the chemical transformations of Eugenia uniflora essential oil under thermal conditions simulating gas chromatography analysis. GC–MS and NMR revealed that sesquiterpenes of the germacrene type, such as furanodiene, undergo sigmatropic rearrangement to form elemene-type compounds, including curzerene.Thermal treatment confirmed the formation of rearrangement products, indicating that bioactive properties historically attributed to curzerene may instead originate from furanodiene. The findings highlight the importance of combining complementary analytical techniques, such as NMR, to avoid misinterpretation of essential oil composition and bioactivity markers.<blockquote><h4>The original article</h4><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsomega.5c08966">Is Curzerene Responsible for the Bioactive Properties of Eugenia uniflora? A Possible Misinterpretation of Bioactive Markers</a></h4>Vinicius Monteiro Schaffka, Raphaela Pereira Guaringue, Larissa Kozan, André Luis Kerek, Cássia Gonçalves Magalhães, Andersson Barison, and Barbara Celânia Fiorin*ACS Omega 2025, 10, 48, 59425–59434<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://doi.org/10.1021/acsomega.5c08966">https://doi.org/10.1021/acsomega.5c08966</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>Essential oils are a matrix of volatile and complex compounds characterized by strong odors and significant biological activity. In plants, they play a crucial role in defense against bacteria, viruses, and predators. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(1)</a> These biological properties support the extensive use of essential oils in the food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical industries. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(1,2)</a> Eugenia uniflora L., commonly known as pitangueira, is a native Brazilian tree widely distributed across South America and is well-known for its bioactive essential oil. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(3)</a> Beyond the consumption of its fruits in natura or functional beverages, its leaves are used in infusions, decoctions, and tinctures to treat a variety of diseases, including diarrhea, stomach pain, worm infestations, fever, flu, hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and hypertension. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(4,5)</a> Studies have shown that the composition of secondary metabolites in E. uniflora can vary depending on factors such as fruit color, ripening stage, <a href="javascript:void(0);">(6)</a> and seasonal influences. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(4,7−10)</a>The essential oil of E. uniflora is predominantly composed of sesquiterpenes, mainly germacrene-type, such as curzerene, germacrene B, germacrone, germacrene D, selina-1,3,7(11)-trien-8-one, and its oxide. Additionally, Elemene-type terpenes are also reported, including furanodiene, β-Elemene, and β-Elemenone. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(11−13)</a>However, those sesquiterpenes are well-documented for their thermal instability. When heat is applied, germacrene-type sesquiterpenes undergo a [3,3]-sigmatropic rearrangement, known as Cope rearrangement, converting into Elemene-type terpenes as presented in <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsomega.5c08966#fig1">Figure 1</a>. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(14−16)</a> This reaction is widely utilized as a synthetic pathway to produce Elemenes from germacrene precursors. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(17,18)</a><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/ACS_Omega_2025_10_48_59425_59434_Figure_1_3_3_Sigmatropic_rearrangement_of_Germacrene_type_into_Elemene_type_250708e73c.jpg" alt="ACS Omega 2025, 10, 48, 59425–59434: Figure 1. [3,3]-Sigmatropic rearrangement of Germacrene-type into Elemene-type." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_ACS_Omega_2025_10_48_59425_59434_Figure_1_3_3_Sigmatropic_rearrangement_of_Germacrene_type_into_Elemene_type_250708e73c.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="3000" height="984">Gas chromatography (GC) is the main technique for characterizing essential oils, often coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and the retention index determination is used in the identification of the compounds through comparison with databases. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(21)</a> During GC analysis, essential oils are subjected to multiple heating stages. Initially, the sample is exposed to a high inlet temperature, typically around 240 °C, to ensure complete volatilization. It then enters the oven, where the temperature follows a programmed ramp starting at 60 °C, increasing at 3 °C/min, and reaching up to 240 °C. Finally, the sample encounters the elevated temperatures of the mass spectrometry (MS) detector’s source (250 °C) and interface (280 °C). Even in isocratic methods, where the oven temperature remains constant throughout the analysis, the inlet, source, and interface temperatures are maintained at high levels. Although the sample passes through these stages briefly, the elevated temperatures can induce Cope rearrangements in the essential oil, leading to possible changes in its composition. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(22,23)</a>The accurate characterization of the chemical composition of essential oils is crucial for any study employing them as a biological or analytical matrix, as it supports the interpretation of bioactivity, chemotaxonomic classification, and quality control of samples with economic value added. There are many studies attributing relevant biological activities, classifying specimens, and identifying phenotypic and genetic variations based on the chemical composition of the essential oil of E. uniflora L., which is usually characterized by GC-MS. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(8,9,11,24)</a> As an example of the study carried out by de Jesus, found acute anti-inflammatory effect of a rich in curzerene essential oil. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(5)</a> Similarly, Pascoal, reported distinct essential oil composition patterns among E. uniflora varieties─yellow, red, and purple fruits─primarily driven by variations in β-Elemene and germacrene D content. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(7)</a> These findings highlight metabolic changes during fruit ripening and underscore the influence of genetic diversity among E. uniflora varieties. Such exhibitions are unsatisfactory, because they sustain all their evidence in the characterization of their essential oil only by GC-MS analysis, without considering the Cope rearrangements, a fact that may change the outcome of their research. In this context Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy is a good alternative for essential oil analysis, since is a robust not destructive technique and able to detect and quantify simultaneously a wide range of metabolites that exceed the concentration of about 5–10 μM. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(25)</a>In order to highlight analytical concerns about the uses of only GC-MS data to access chemical relevance of E. uniflora essential oil studies, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy was employed to evaluate the chemical composition of the essential oil of Eugenia uniflora L. before and after an induced thermal treatment, compared to GC-MS data. The findings provide insights into thermolabile compounds and highlight potential misidentifications of the bioactive properties associated with the sesquiterpenes of E. uniflora present in literature.<h4>2. Results and Discussion</h4><h5>2.1. Characterization of the Essential Oil</h5>Approximately 60 compounds, mostly sesquiterpenes (Germacrene B) and oxygenated sesquiterpenes (Germacrone), were visualized in the essential oil, with the 9 compounds having a relative area above 2%, as shown in <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsomega.5c08966#tbl1">Table 1</a>. The identified and most prevalent compounds align with those reported in the literature for E. uniflora. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(4,11,12)</a> It is possible to highlight the significant proportion of Germacrene-type sesquiterpenes compared to Elemene-type, except Curzerene, which was found in high concentration.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/ACS_Omega_2025_10_48_59425_59434_Table_1_Main_Components_Identified_in_the_GC_MS_Analysis_of_the_Essential_Oil_from_Leaves_of_E_uniflora_9d59d96bef.jpg" alt="ACS Omega 2025, 10, 48, 59425–59434: Table 1. Main Components Identified in the GC–MS Analysis of the Essential Oil from Leaves of E. uniflora." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_ACS_Omega_2025_10_48_59425_59434_Table_1_Main_Components_Identified_in_the_GC_MS_Analysis_of_the_Essential_Oil_from_Leaves_of_E_uniflora_9d59d96bef.jpg 218w," sizes="100vw" width="1076" height="771">The variation in the composition of the essential oil from E. uniflora leaves was described in literature, <a href="javascript:void(0);">(9)</a> who classified the specimens into three groups: Group I, containing yellow, dark red, and purple fruits, which showed high concentrations of germacrene B, germacrone, and atractylone; Group II, consisting of light red fruit samples, with high concentrations of curzerene, germacrene D, and germacrene A; and Group III, containing orange-red fruits, with a high content of selina-1,3,7(11)-trien-8-one and oxyselina-1,3,7(11)-trien-8-one. According to this classification, this essential oil fits into Group II.Chemical transformations of many components found in the E. uniflora leaves essential oil result from the heating conditions typically applied during GC–MS analysis, which occur through Cope Rearrangement. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(12,19)</a> Cope rearrangement is a stereospecific [3,3]-sigmatropic rearrangement that proceeds via the most stable chairlike transition state of 1,5-cyclodecadiene, from germacrene-type, to give 1,2-divinylcyclohexane, known as Elemene-type. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(14)</a> Some of the Cope rearrangements found in the E. uniflora essential oil are represented in <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsomega.5c08966#fig2">Figure 2</a>. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(11,22,23,26)</a><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/ACS_Omega_2025_10_48_59425_59434_Figure_2_Cope_Rearrangements_of_sesquiterpenes_7fe9282d75.jpg" alt="ACS Omega 2025, 10, 48, 59425–59434: Figure 2. Cope Rearrangements of sesquiterpenes." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_ACS_Omega_2025_10_48_59425_59434_Figure_2_Cope_Rearrangements_of_sesquiterpenes_7fe9282d75.jpg 150w," sizes="100vw" width="1500" height="1566">The same essential oil was analyzed using NMR spectroscopy to identify its components. Although NMR identification is considerably more labor-intensive than GC-MS analysis, it offers the advantage of being a cold and nondestructive technique. Since the sample does not undergo heating during the process, its stability is preserved throughout the analysis. The conformational differences observed in germacrene-type compounds further increase the spectrum’s complexity, leading to signal broadening in the 1H NMR spectra. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(27)</a>A substantial number of signals were observed in the 1H spectrum, with the majority concentrated between 0.5 and 3.0 ppm, a region characteristic of terpene compounds. The region between 4.5 and 6.0 ppm also exhibited numerous signals attributed to vinylic protons, observed in sesquiterpenes (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsomega.5c08966#fig3">Figure 3</a>).<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/ACS_Omega_2025_10_48_59425_59434_Figure_3_1_H_NMR_400_13_M_Hz_CD_Cl3_spectra_of_the_raw_essential_oil_a46e04574e.jpg" alt="ACS Omega 2025, 10, 48, 59425–59434: Figure 3. 1H NMR (400.13 MHz, CDCl3) spectra of the raw essential oil." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_ACS_Omega_2025_10_48_59425_59434_Figure_3_1_H_NMR_400_13_M_Hz_CD_Cl3_spectra_of_the_raw_essential_oil_a46e04574e.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="4175" height="2376"><h4>3. Conclusions</h4>The investigation of the composition of E. uniflora essential oil by NMR and the thermal treatment performed proved that curzerene may come from furanodiene due to the transformations that occur in the matrix during gas chromatographic analysis. These findings have significant implications for the investigation into the chemical composition of E. uniflora essential oil and the evaluation of the biological properties of its sesquiterpenes. Since each technique has advantages and disadvantages, combining GC-MS analysis with a cold technique, such as NMR is important to guarantee the proper identification of the compound genuinely responsible for any property assigned to E. uniflora essential oil.<h4>4. Materials and Methods</h4><h5>4.2. GC-MS Analysis</h5>The gas chromatographic analyses of the essential oils (10 mg mL–1) were performed using a gas chromatography–mass spectrometry system (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=QP2020">Shimadzu GCMS-QP2020 Gas Chromatograph</a>). The analyses were conducted on an RTx-5MS capillary column (30 m × 0.25 mm internal diameter × 0.25 μm film thickness), and the analytical conditions were as follows: split ratio of 1/10, injector temperature at 250 °C, ion source at 250 °C, and interface at 280 °C. The temperature program of the oven was set at 60 °C for 5 min, followed by a temperature ramp of 3 °C/min until reaching the final temperature of 240 °C. The components were identified based on the relative retention index, calculated for each constituent by injecting a series of n-alkane standards (C8–C20) under the same sample conditions and comparing them with tabulated values as well as by comparing the obtained mass spectra with the mass spectra database and literature comparisons. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(21)</a><h5>4.4. NMR Analysis</h5>All NMR spectra were acquired at 298 K on a Bruker AVANCE III spectrometer operating at 9.4 T, observing 1H at 400.13 MHz and 13C at 100.13 MHz, equipped with a broadband probe. The essential oil was solubilized in CDCl3 with 0.05% of tetramethylsilane (TMS) used as an internal reference. The 1H NMR spectra were recorded utilizing 65k time-domain data points across a spectral width of 20.00 ppm. This setup provided a digital resolution of 0.24 Hz. The data were obtained using a single 30° excitation pulse, with a relaxation delay of 1.0 s, and an average of 128 scans. The 13C NMR spectra was carried out using the zgpg30 pulse sequence utilizing 64k time-domain data points across a spectral width of 238 ppm, with an acquisition time of 1.3631 s, providing a digital resolution of 0.7434 Hz and a relaxation delay of 2.0s and an average of 2k scans.The HSQC and HMBC experiments were conducted using standard pulse sequences from the Bruker library, with modifications to the number of acquired points to improve resolution, 2048 in F2 and 512 in F1.</div>

Is Curzerene Responsible for the Bioactive Properties of Eugenia uniflora? A Possible Misinterpretation of Bioactive Markers

Quantitative Assessment of Chemical Modifications of Macromolecules through Counterion Measurement

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Food testing regulatory methods around the world require separation of fatty acid and its isomers when determining fatty acid composition by GC/FID. This is, perhaps, one of the oldest and most popular gas chromatography analyses.While many other GC methods have adopted new trends such as shorter, high-efficiency GC columns, or moved to more selective detectors, such as mass spectrometers, the GC/FID method for analysis of free fatty acids or cis-trans fatty acids isomers has seen little change in the last few decades. This is in part because the set of analytes that needs to be resolved is challenging.In this webinar, we will discuss innovative technologies in GC column chemistries that can be applied for fast and accurate analysis of fatty acids and fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs).<blockquote>Presenter: Gustavo Serrano-Izaguirre (Global Product Manager - GC Columns, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)Gustavo Serrano is the GC Columns Product Manager at Agilent Technologies in Wilmington, Delaware, USA. Gustavo has a broad background in GC technologies, including experience as an R&amp;D scientist and Product Manager at Sigma-Aldrich/Supelco, where he worked on the development and commercialization of novel GC stationary phases. He has also published extensively in the fields of portable micro GC systems, GC columns and micro thermal modulators for GC×GC applications. Gustavo holds a PhD in Environmental Health Sciences from the University of Michigan, and an MBA from the University of Indiana – Bloomington.</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Becoming a Better Chromatographer - Educational Webinar Series

An Overview of GC Column Selection for Traditional and New Methods for the Analysis of Fatty Acid Methyl Esters (FAMEs)

We will discuss innovative technologies in GC column chemistries that can be applied for fast and accurate analysis of fatty acids and FAMEs.

GC Column Selection for the Analysis of FAMEs

The Analytical Scientist is proud to announce a new digital event featuring Power List champions that will explore current trends and challenges facing analytical science.From bringing about a new era of precision medicine, to helping to detect, monitor, and even remove emerging contaminants such as PFAS from our environment, to the ongoing resolution revolution opening doors across a plethora of fields, it is certainly an exciting time to be an analytical scientist. But what roadblocks does the field face? How can we overcome them? And as we approach 2025, what does the immediate path forward look like?Join us on December 12 at 4:00 PM GMT as three leaders in the field take stock of the current state of the field and cast their eyes to the future.Key discussion points include:<ul><li>Analytical science’s biggest accomplishments over the past 5-10 years</li><li>A look back at the year’s conference themes, published papers, and new innovations launched</li><li>The biggest challenges facing the field today</li><li>How societal trends are impacting analytical science</li><li>The biggest society-wide problems that analytical science could help solve in the next 5-10 years – and how to make it happen</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Ron Heeren (Distinguished Professor, Maastricht University; Director, M4i, The Maastricht MultiModal Molecular Imaging institute; Member of the Dutch Academy of Arts and Sciences, The Netherlands)Presenter:&nbsp;Koen Sandra (CEO &amp; Co-owner, RIC Group, Kortrijk, Belgium; and Visiting Professor, Ghent University, Belgium)Presenter:&nbsp;Deirdre Cabooter (Professor, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Leuven, Belgium)</blockquote>

The Analytical Scientist: Power List Perspectives on The Future of Analy

Power List Perspectives on The Future of Analytical Science

The Analytical Scientist announces a new digital event featuring Power List champions that will explore current trends and challenges facing analytical science

By attending this webinar, you will learn:<ul><li>The impact of GC column performance on MS sensitivity and data quality.</li><li>How to optimize your workflow with GC columns that complement advanced MS technologies.</li><li>Best practices for achieving reproducible and reliable results in trace-level analyses.</li><li>The role of novel ion sources in maximizing the potential of GCMS systems.</li></ul>Event OverviewThe evolution of MS continues to push the limits of detection in GC. As source technologies advance, column technology must advance as well. For example, increased detection of analytes also results in increased detection of background, such as column bleed. Therefore, GC column technology that lowers bleed can enhance your sensitivity and data accuracy. In this webinar, we’ll examine how column attributes like bleed, thermal stability, and inertness can translate into practical data quality improvements. When used in conjunction with a novel ion source, we’ll illustrate achievable data parameters like sensitivity limits at trace levels, retention time consistencies, and data accuracy for active analytes when combining both column and source technologies.&nbsp;What will be covered:<ul><li>The interplay between GC columns and MS technologies: How advancements in column chemistry support modern MS systems.</li><li>Key attributes of GC columns that drive data quality: bleed reduction, thermal stability, and inertness.</li><li>How reduced bleed improves sensitivity and data accuracy.</li><li>Achievable data outcomes with combined column and novel ion source technologies, including:<ul><li>Sensitivity limits for trace-level analytes</li><li>Retention time consistency across runs</li><li>Enhanced accuracy for active analytes</li></ul></li><li>Applications highlighting the benefits of these new technologies.</li></ul>Who should attend:<ul><li>Analytical chemists and lab managers working on GCMS</li><li>Researchers and scientists conducting trace-level analyses in industries such as pharmaceuticals, environmental testing, food safety, and petrochemicals</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Anshu Kumari Singh (Technical Support Manager - India, Columns and Supplies Division, Agilent)Dr. Anshu Kumari Singh is the Technical Support Manager for India in the Chemistries and Supplies Division. She has more than 20 years of experience in this industry. She leads a team of highly qualified Individuals responsible for providing technical support to customers. She provides support to customers on queries related to applications, products, and troubleshooting for GC and LC columns and supplies. She also conducts workshops, training, and seminars for the customers helping them to understand the chemistry behind GC and HPLC columns and sample preparation products. Dr. Anshu holds a Doctorate degree from the Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, and is based out of Delhi.</blockquote>

Separation Science: Get the Most Out of Your MS: Novel Column Chemistry Raises the Bar on Sensitivity and Data Accuracy

Get the Most Out of Your MS: Novel Column Chemistry Raises the Bar on Sensitivity and Data Accuracy

We’ll examine how column attributes like bleed, thermal stability, and inertness can translate into practical data quality improvements

Novel Column Chemistry Raises Sensitivity and Data Accuracy

By attending this webinar, you will learn:<ul><li>Options for completing instrument performance checks in SW-846 gas chromatography/mass spectrometry-based analytical methods, and</li><li>A streamlined process for completing tune checks that demonstrate electron impact mass spectrometer settings are optimized and the system is ready for analysis.</li></ul>Event OverviewAttendees will learn about the intent of tune evaluation criteria in gas chromatography/mass spectrometry analytical methods to align with modern performance standards. They will gain an understanding about how these criteria have changed over time, and they will learn how to apply Agilent’s proposed acceptance criteria for ion abundances and ion ratios for perfluorotributylamine, a reference compound that is commonly used to optimize mass spectrometer settings in electron impact ionization mode.<blockquote>Presenter: Troy Strock (Chemist, US Environmental Protection Agency)Troy Strock works in EPA’s Office of Resource Conservation and Recovery and manages the SW-846 methods program. Troy has worked at EPA for the past 20 years, and he has also worked in EPA’s Office of Superfund Remediation and Technology Innovation as part of the Contract Laboratory Program and in the EPA Region 5 Laboratory as an organic analytical chemist.</blockquote>

Separation Science: Implementing Manufacturer’s GC/MS Tune Verification Acceptance Criteria for SW-846 Methods 8260 and 8270

Implementing Manufacturer’s GC/MS Tune Verification Acceptance Criteria for SW-846 Methods 8260 and 8270

Attendees will learn about the intent of tune evaluation criteria in GC/MS analytical methods to align with modern performance standards.

GC/MS Tune Verification for SW-846 Methods 8260 and 8270

Learn how the Agilent 4300 can deliver an actionable result for the level of surface contamination in less than 30 seconds.Efficient adhesive bonding of surfaces requires a high level of cleanliness of the surfaces. The 4300 handheld FTIR fitted with a grazing angle, 45 reflectance or diffuse sample interface enables identification and quantification of surface cleanliness in the field. After the surface has been cleaned, the analyzer can be used to detect the presence of contaminants.Even very low levels of contamination can severely decrease the ultimate bond strength, learn how the 4300 can be used to generate an actionable result for surface contamination in less than 30 seconds.Who should attend:<ul><li>Material scientists, coating manufacturers, manufacturers who use coatings within their manufacturing process. Any manufacturing company may be interested in surface contamination.</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Donald Inglis (Product Specialist EMEAI for FTIR, Agilent Technologies)Donald has worked in analytical instrumentation for over 30 years starting his career as a field service engineer in chromatography and mass spectroscopy before moving into commercial sales. Becoming a product specialist in portable, handheld FTIR and Raman systems over a decade ago at Agilent Technologies.</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Agilent 4300 Handheld Webinar Series

Surface Contamination Measurement by Handheld FTIR

Learn how the Agilent 4300 can deliver an actionable result for the level of surface contamination in less than 30 seconds.

Agilent 4300 Handheld FTIR-Surface Contamination Measurement

As analytical workloads have increased, labs analyzing Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) in soils and water by purge and trap with a gas chromatograph mass spectrometer (P&amp;T and GC/MS) according to EPA Method 8260 are facing challenges in maintaining efficiency, productivity, and profitability. Autosampler reliability, moisture management, carryover, contamination, and linearity over a dynamic range combined with high cost of helium and supply chain, are a few of the causes affecting labs’ operational efficiency.Discover how the Teledyne Tekmar Atomx XYZ P&amp;T System and the PerkinElmer GCMS 2400 System can help labs performing VOC analysis, according to EPA 8260, with helium gas savings and with efficient sample prep including improved water management, reduced peak interference, increased column lifespan, and reduced carryover and contamination from sample to sample. With the intuitive PerkinElmer SimplicityChrom CDS Software, fast data processing and review enable even more productivity, with any expertise level lab staff.Join our 30-minute presentation, where you will discover strategies to conquer the typical analytical challenges posed by P&amp;T with GC/MS while optimizing results and maximizing uptime. The latest technologies compliant with EPA 8260 will be presented, ensuring you stay at the forefront of environmental analysis.

PerkinElmer: When Productivity Meets Challenging Matrices: Tips and Tricks for GC/MS and Purge and Trap for EPA 8260 Compliance

When Productivity Meets Challenging Matrices: Tips and Tricks for GC/MS and Purge and Trap for EPA 8260 Compliance

Discover strategies to conquer the typical analytical challenges posed by P&T with GC/MS while optimizing results and maximizing uptime.

Productivity Tips for GC/MS and EPA 8260 

<div><div container-id="cq-colctrl-lt0" comp-id="A1"><div>Join us for an in‑depth exploration of GC‑LUMA technology as we blend the strengths of fast universal detection and enhanced selectivity with next‑generation, trace‑level sensitivity. You’ll discover how spectroscopy‑based detection paired with gas chromatography unlocks new possibilities across process control, pharmaceutical quality, and beyond.<h4>Why Attend?</h4><ul><li>See how “light” drives insight: Understand the absorption spectroscopy detection principle that gives GC‑LUMA its speed, selctivity and sensitivity.</li><li>Go beyond parts‑per‑million: Learn strategies to achieve ppb–ppt detection limits for the most challenging analytes.</li><li>Bridge theory and practice: Hear real‑world success stories on rapid screening and trace-level quantitation.</li></ul>Whether you’re a laboratory scientist, process engineer, or a QA/QC lab manager, this webinar will equip you with the knowledge to leverage GC‑LUMA’s unique capabilities—and stay ahead in GC analysis innovation.<blockquote>Presenter: Rafael Acosta (LUMA Product Marketing Manager, VUV Analytics Inc.)Rafael Acosta is an Analytical Chemist specializing in chromatography and associated detection techniques. With a career spanning over 17 years, Rafael has been at the forefront of analytical instrument and application development since 2006. His extensive experience has enabled him to collaborate with scientists and engineers across the globe, delivering innovative analytical solutions to clients in the food, pharmaceutical, environmental, petrochemical, and applied markets.Presenter:&nbsp;Sam Whitmarsh (Director of Analytical Science and Digital Transformation, CatSci Ltd)Sam has 20 years of R&amp;D experience at AstraZeneca, BP, and CatSci. After completing his PhD at the University of Bristol, he held roles in analytical science at AstraZeneca, founded BP's UK mass spectrometry facility, and led the BP Global Analytical Science Network. Sam joined CatSci as head of scientific operations in 2020 and became Director of Analytical Science and Digital Transformation in 2022. Sam is a Royal Society of Chemistry Fellow serving with the Separation Science (SSG) and Chemical Information and Computer Applications (CICAG) interest groups.Presenter:&nbsp;Sean Jameson (Sr VP Business Development, VUV Analytics)Sean Jameson has more than 35 years of measurement science experience, specializing in optical and x-ray based technologies used for material characterization, yield engineering, process control and diagnostics.He previously held technical and executive positions for capital equipment companies in the semiconductor industry including Jordan Valley Semiconductors, Metrosol and KLA-Tencor. In 2009, he co-founded VUV Analytics, Inc. to pioneer the use of lab-scale vacuum ultraviolet based technologies for the general analytical sciences. He was CEO of the firm from 2009 to 2015 and now serves as the Senior VP of Business Development. Sean received his BS degree in Physics from Texas State University in 1989 and remains an active member of the College of Science and Engineering Technology Advisory Committee.Moderator: Daniela Cavagnino (Product Marketing Manager, Thermo Fisher Scientific)</blockquote></div></div></div>

Thermo Fisher Scientific: Shedding Light on GC‑LUMA: Revolutionizing Trace Level Impurities Detection

Shedding Light on GC‑LUMA: Revolutionizing Trace Level Impurities Detection

Discover GC-LUMA: fast, selective, trace-level GC detection using absorption spectroscopy—ideal for QA, R&D, and process control.

GC‑LUMA: Revolutionizing Trace Level Impurities Detection

Micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) are increasingly entering the food chain through air, water, and soil – posing serious challenges for health and safety.In this compact 30-minute webinar, Eric Zytowski from the University of Potsdam presents a practical case study on the uptake and detection of MNPs in pak choi.The focus is on the TED-GC/MS technique, which enables reliable identification and quantification of even the smallest plastic particles in plant material.<h4>You will learn:</h4><ul><li>how MNPs enter vegetables through roots and leaves</li><li>why washing offers only limited protection</li><li>and how TED-GC/MS provides a precise analytical solution for your laboratory.</li></ul>Research meets real-world application – a must for anyone involved in contaminant analysis.Note: This webinar will be held in English only!On Demand Webinar will be here soon!<blockquote>Presenter: Eric Zytowski (University of Potsdam)</blockquote>

GERSTEL: Micro- and Nanoplastics in Vegetables: Detection Using TED-GC/MS

Micro- and Nanoplastics in Vegetables: Detection Using TED-GC/MS

Learn how TED-GC/MS detects microplastics in pak choi. Explore plant uptake pathways and analytical solutions in this 30-min case study webinar.

Micro and Nanoplastics detection using TED-GC/MS

Watch our on-demand webinar to learn how Sanofi utilizes online process mass spectrometry to improve process insight and drive better outcomes for continuous respiratory gas analysis.<h5>About this on-demand webinar</h5>Respiratory gas analysis is a non-invasive way of characterizing a fermentation or cell culture process.Over many years Thermo Scientific™ Gas Analysis Mass Spectrometers have proven effective in monitoring bacterial and microbial processes. More recently, there has been increasing interest in mammalian cell cultures because they offer the prospect of radical advances in vaccines, monoclonal antibodies, and gene therapy. Analysis of the respiratory gases being fed into and produced from fermentations and cell cultures is an ideal way of characterizing the behavior and productivity of the cells during the process.Hear from Marie Izac, Vaccine Drug Substance Unit Head at Sanofi, and Dan Merriman of Thermo Fisher Scientific, who discusses how Sanofi utilizes online mass spectrometry for continuous respiratory gas analysis to improve process insight and drive better outcomes.<h5>Key takeways will include:</h5><ul><li>The simplicity of implementing high-quality respiratory gas analysis by MS</li><li>How MS is a flexible and reliable method for determining critical process parameters</li><li>Discover how MS has moved into the mainstream for process analytics</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Marie Izac (Vaccine Drug Substance Unit Head, Sanofi Pasteur)Marie graduated from a French Engineering school in Industrial Microbiology and completed it with a PhD in pathogenic bacteria physiology and metabolism. She joined Sanofi in 2016 and progressed from Upstream Scientist to an Upstream/Downstream manager position. She has strong expertise in bioprocess.Presenter: Daniel Merriman (Strategic Marketing, Thermo Fisher Scientific)Daniel Merriman has worked in the field of process analytics since joining the former VG Instruments business in 1988 now a part of Thermo Fisher Scientific. After holding many positions in technical, sales and marketing, Daniel is now supporting the strategic marketing group within the Environmental and Process Monitoring business of Thermo Fisher Scientific.</blockquote>

Thermo Fisher Scientific: Optimize fermentation processes by implementing respiratory gas analysis PAT

Optimize fermentation processes by implementing respiratory gas analysis PAT

Discover how Sanofi applies mass spectrometry for continuous respiratory gas analysis to boost bioprocess understanding and outcomes. Watch on demand.

Optimize Fermentation with Gas Analysis PAT

<div><div container-id="cq-colctrl-lt0" comp-id="A1"><div>Join us for an insightful session on Vaya Method Development Tips and Tricks! Dive into the world of Spatially Offset Raman Spectroscopy (SORS) and the Agilent Vaya Handheld Raman. We'll explore the unique value proposition of SORS and provide guidance on developing robust methods on the Vaya for ID testing in a manufacturing environment. Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your understanding and skills!<h5>Key learning objectives:</h5><ul><li>What is spatially offset Raman spectroscopy?</li><li>How to interpret the information supplied by the Vaya?</li><li>How to develop robust methods on the Vaya?</li><li>What is a custom method on Vaya?</li></ul><h5>Who should attend?</h5>All Vaya user or any pharma/biopharma customers interested to know more on through-packaging raw materials identification.<blockquote>Presenter: Frederic Prulliere (Product Manager Raman ID, Agilent Technologies)Frederic Prulliere is the Product Manager for the Raman ID product line at Agilent Technologies. Prulliere leads the product development of spatially offset Raman spectroscopy-based solutions, particularly for verifying raw materials at reception. He joined Agilent Technologies in 2012 as a business development manager for mobile Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR).</blockquote></div></div></div>

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