🎤Jessica WhitehouseHaloacetic acids (HAAs) are disinfection byproducts formed when chlorine or bromine reacts with organic matter in water—and some are linked to serious health concerns. In this episode of Concentrating on Chromatography, we sit down with Jessica Whitehouse, MSc student at the University of Calgary, to discuss how she developed a GC-MS method to detect and quantify HAAs in real-world water samples.During her undergraduate research at Thompson Rivers University, Jessica tackled a major challenge faced by many academic labs: how to analyze regulated environmental contaminants without access to GC-ECD instrumentation. &nbsp;Using dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction, derivatization, and GC-MS, she built a faster, more accessible workflow—and applied it to tap water, swimming pools, and hot tubs.<h4>In this conversation, we cover:</h4><ul><li>What haloacetic acids are and why they matter</li><li>Why standard EPA methods can be difficult for smaller or teaching-focused labs</li><li>How GC-MS can be adapted for HAA analysis</li><li>The challenges of derivatization and temperature program optimization</li><li>Unexpected findings in brominated vs. chlorinated HAAs</li><li>Why pool and hot tub water can show surprisingly high HAA levels</li><li>The excitement (and frustration) of first-time method development</li><li>Advice for undergraduate and early-career analytical chemists</li></ul>Jessica also shares how this project led directly to her current MSc research on ozone and nanobubble water disinfection, where she’s now expanding into ion chromatography.Whether you work in environmental analysis, chromatography, GC-MS, or are just starting your journey in analytical chemistry, this episode offers practical insight into real lab constraints, method development, and the joy of finding your first analyte peak.<h3>Video Transcription</h3><h4>Introduction</h4>Haloacetic acids (HAAs) are an important class of disinfectant byproducts formed when organic matter present in water reacts with chemical sanitizers. Because several HAAs are associated with adverse health effects, their determination remains relevant in environmental and public health analysis. This interview highlights the academic pathway and research experience of Jessica, whose undergraduate work focused on the development of a gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) method for the analysis of HAAs in pool and hot tub water.Her project emerged from a combination of academic interest in analytical chemistry, practical experience with water testing, and the constraints of instrument availability in an undergraduate research setting. The resulting workflow illustrates how method adaptation, critical problem-solving, and persistence can enable meaningful analytical research even when standardized methods are not directly accessible.<h4>Academic Background and Entry into Analytical Chemistry</h4>Jessica completed a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry with a minor in Physics at Thompson Rivers University in British Columbia. Her interest in analytical chemistry developed during her second year of study, when coursework revealed the quantitative and detail-oriented nature of the discipline. This emphasis on numerical interpretation, precision, and method development aligned strongly with her academic strengths and motivated her to pursue analytical research.Her specific interest in water chemistry originated even earlier through practical work in a pool and hot tub store, where she became familiar with routine water testing and the chemical factors influencing water quality. This early exposure led naturally into undergraduate research under the supervision of Dr. Sharon Brewer, whose expertise in water analysis provided an ideal foundation for the project.<h4>Haloacetic Acids as Disinfectant Byproducts</h4>Haloacetic acids are a subset of disinfectant byproducts generated when sanitizing agents react with natural organic matter in water. In treated recreational water systems such as pools and hot tubs, disinfectants are essential for microbial control, yet they can also lead to formation of unwanted chemical byproducts. Because some HAAs are considered potentially harmful, their occurrence and concentration warrant analytical attention.In this study, both chlorinated and brominated HAAs were of interest. Although the tested water systems were primarily sanitized using chlorine-based products, the occurrence of brominated HAAs emerged as a notable and somewhat unexpected finding.<h4>Analytical Challenges and Method Selection</h4>A major challenge in the project was the lack of access to the instrumentation required for the standard EPA-based method initially considered for HAA analysis. The available protocol depended on GC-ECD instrumentation, which was not accessible at the university. This limitation required the development of an alternative strategy based on the instruments available locally.GC-MS was selected as the most practical analytical platform. To support this approach, Jessica identified a literature source describing a similar method that could be adapted to her research aims. In parallel, dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction was introduced into the workflow as a means of sample preparation, providing valuable methodological experience beyond the standard undergraduate laboratory curriculum.This adaptation illustrates a common reality in academic research: analytical methodology is often shaped not only by ideal regulatory procedures, but also by local instrument access, scheduling limitations, and the practical needs of the researcher.<h4>Need for Derivatization in GC-MS Analysis</h4>A central analytical issue was that HAAs are inherently nonvolatile, which makes them poorly suited to direct GC analysis. To enable gas chromatographic separation, derivatization was required to convert the analytes into more volatile derivatives with more favorable boiling characteristics.In this method, derivatization with octanol was employed. This modification improved volatility and also generated larger fragments, which aided mass spectral interpretation by making the analyte fragmentation patterns easier to distinguish. Thus, derivatization served both chromatographic and mass spectrometric purposes.<h4>Optimization of the GC Temperature Program</h4>Considerable effort was devoted to optimization of the GC temperature program. The main difficulty did not arise solely from the analytes themselves, but from the derivatization reagent. Octanol produced a broad and persistent chromatographic feature, including a significant shoulder extending into later retention times. This complicated separation and increased pressure to keep the method sufficiently short for routine sample throughput.Among the analytes, monochloroacetic acid proved especially problematic. Because it differed only subtly in structure and produced overlapping behavior relative to the octanol-derived background, its signal was difficult to isolate confidently. Although chlorine-containing fragments could be observed, precise assignment remained challenging. This difficulty underscores how small structural differences and matrix-related interferences can complicate quantitative GC-MS workflows.<h4>Method Performance and Practical Advantages</h4>Although the adapted GC-MS method was developed out of necessity, it also provided practical advantages over the more standardized workflow that had initially been considered. In particular, the derivatization step in the adapted approach required only approximately 10 minutes, whereas the more conventional procedure involved a water bath step lasting around two hours. In addition, the adapted workflow offered shorter overall preparation and analysis timing, allowing batches of samples to be prepared and placed on the autosampler within a normal working schedule.From a practical research perspective, this translated into substantially improved laboratory efficiency. The ability to complete derivatization quickly and begin automated sample analysis without extensive delays made the workflow more manageable and better suited to the demands of an undergraduate project.<h4>Unexpected Findings: Brominated HAAs in Chlorine-Sanitized Systems</h4>One of the more surprising outcomes of the study was the predominance of brominated HAAs, despite the fact that the investigated pools and hot tubs were sanitized using chlorine-based treatments. Four of the systems relied on sodium chloride electrolysis to generate chlorine species, while others used chlorine-containing puck formulations commonly applied in recreational water treatment.Given these conditions, higher levels of chlorinated HAAs might have been expected. Instead, the results suggested a greater abundance of brominated HAAs. A plausible explanation is the presence of bromine-containing impurities in commercial pool and hot tub chemicals. Although such impurities may occur at relatively low levels, they can still influence disinfectant byproduct formation. The observation highlights the importance of considering the full chemical composition of treatment products, not merely their primary declared active ingredients.<h4>Value of Practical Industry Experience</h4>Jessica’s prior work in the pool and hot tub industry provided an unusually strong contextual advantage for the project. Because the samples originated from store clients, she had access to detailed information about the chemicals used in each system, including safety data sheets and knowledge of treatment timing. This background significantly strengthened interpretation of the analytical results by linking measured byproducts to known product usage patterns.Such integration of practical field knowledge with laboratory analysis represents an important strength in applied environmental chemistry, particularly when studying real-world water systems rather than idealized laboratory samples.<h4>Scientific Development and Early Research Motivation</h4>An especially valuable element of the project was the role it played in building research confidence. Jessica described the first successful identification of an analyte peak as a memorable turning point, reflecting the emotional significance of early experimental success in scientific training. In analytical chemistry, where method optimization often involves repeated setbacks and ambiguous data, such moments can be critical in sustaining motivation and reinforcing scientific identity.This experience also informed her advice to early-stage researchers: unfavorable or unexpected outcomes still constitute valid results. Negative or imperfect findings remain analytically meaningful and contribute to scientific understanding, provided they are interpreted carefully.<h4>Connection to Current Research</h4>Jessica is now working at the University of Calgary on a different project focused on ozone and nanobubble disinfection. Although the analytical platform and immediate research questions have changed, the conceptual connection to her earlier work remains clear. Her experience with disinfectant byproducts and water chemistry directly supported her transition into this new role and helped position her as a strong candidate for research in water treatment-related systems.She also expressed interest in expanding her analytical expertise through ion chromatography, which will play a role in her current work. This transition reflects the broader development of an environmental analytical chemist whose work continues to center on water quality, disinfection chemistry, and the analytical tools needed to investigate both.<h4>Public Health Relevance</h4>A notable practical implication of the project concerns recreational water safety. Jessica emphasized that pool and hot tub water should not be ingested, a recommendation already widely understood in general terms but further reinforced by her findings. In at least one case, HAA concentrations were reported at levels far above the federal drinking water regulation threshold. While such regulations are designed for potable water rather than recreational water, the comparison nevertheless illustrates the extent to which disinfectant byproducts may accumulate in these environments.She also noted that several HAAs are classified as probable human carcinogens, with prolonged exposure linked to serious health concerns. Although occasional accidental ingestion is not equivalent to chronic exposure, the findings reinforce the importance of appropriate hygiene, safe water maintenance practices, and awareness of chemical byproduct formation in recreational systems.<h4>Conclusion</h4>This research demonstrates how meaningful analytical chemistry can emerge from a combination of scientific curiosity, practical constraints, and strong mentorship. By adapting a GC-MS workflow for the determination of haloacetic acids in pool and hot tub water, Jessica developed a method that was both workable within local instrument limitations and efficient enough to offer practical benefits over more conventional procedures.Beyond the analytical results themselves, the project highlights several broader themes: the value of undergraduate research, the importance of flexibility in method development, the benefit of practical contextual knowledge, and the relevance of environmental analytical chemistry to real-world public health questions. It also shows how early research experiences can shape a long-term scientific trajectory, leading from undergraduate investigation to continued work in water chemistry and disinfection science.<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>

Detecting Haloacetic Acids in Water with GC-MS

This study presents a one-year assessment of microplastic concentrations in the River Rhine, analyzing samples from three locations and across multiple size fractions using TED-GC/MS. Dominant polymers included polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, styrene–butadiene rubber, and natural rubber.Statistical analysis revealed size-dependent distributions, minor seasonal variation, and spatial differences, highlighting the role of sources such as tire abrasion. The findings provide valuable data for environmental monitoring, ecotoxicological research, and regulatory frameworks related to water quality.<blockquote><h4>The original article</h4><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsestwater.5c00530">One Year Observation of Microplastic Concentrations in the River Rhine</a></h4>Yosri Wiesner, Paul Eisentraut, and Korinna Altmann*ACS EST Water 2026, 6, 2, 639–648<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://doi.org/10.1021/acsestwater.5c00530">https://doi.org/10.1021/acsestwater.5c00530</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>As microplastics (MPs) are found all over the world and no comprehensive knowledge is available yet, extensive monitoring campaigns are required to gain a full understanding of their occurrence, transportation and fate. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(1,2)</a> In particular, MP abundance in freshwater systems has still not been sufficiently investigated. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(3,4)</a> Additionally, the question of the toxicological potential of MPs has been the subject of numerous studies for many years, <a href="javascript:void(0);">(5,6)</a> leading to more precise and complex experimental set-ups and results. However, there is still a need for more acurate data on environmental MP concentrations in order to make ecotoxicological tests even more detailed and realistic. The lack of certainty for exposure concentrations in the risk assessment frame of MPs leads to the precautionary principle being applied by politicians and regulators worldwide. Both the EU drinking water directive and the wastewater directive call for monitoring of MPs within the next few years. It is important to establish suitable analytical methods for sampling, sample preparation and detection that must now be fast, robust and fit for purpose in order to obtain representative and valid results depending on mass or particle number. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(7−9)</a>MPs are solid particles with a size of 1–1000 μm mainly consisting of polymers (ISO/TR 21960, 2020) and can, for example, result from industrial production in the form of small particles that are designed as additives and change the properties of products, or from plastic parts that have been released into the environment. Major sources of MPs today are paints, tires, packaging materials, pellet waste and textiles. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(10−12)</a> These macroplastic products can form MP particles as a result of degradation factors such as photooxidation, hydrolysis and mechanical abrasion. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(13,14)</a>The River Rhine has its origin in Switzerland and then flows through Liechtenstein, Austria, Germany and France until it discharges into the North Sea in The Netherlands. At 1233 km and a catchment area of about 185&nbsp;000 km2, the Rhine is one of the largest river systems in Europe and, due to its expanse, forms the ecological basis for a large number of animal species. Around 30 million people in Germany are supplied with drinking water from the Rhine.It is hardly possible to assess the occurrence of MPs if either a limited sampling volume is used or only individual samples are taken. It is therefore essential that different volumes are sampled depending on whether the water to be sampled contains many or few MP particles. It is recommended to sample at least 5 m3 for drinking water samples and 1 m3 for surface water, whereas raw wastewater contains so many particles that only a few liters need to be sampled. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(15)</a> Although sampling of these water volumes leads to a representative sample from the analytic point of view, it is questionable, if the result measured is representative for the location. Previous studies have shown that the composition in terms of MP masses in a water body can change at one location with each individual sample independently whether several samples are analyzed in 1 day or spread over several days. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(16)</a> Fractionated filtration and sedimentation boxes as active and passive sampling methods have proven themselves in the sampling of freshwater systems. In active sampling, water is fractionally filtered using a pump and a sieve tower with different mesh sizes. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(17)</a> Passive sampling can be carried out using sedimentation boxes. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(18)</a> In a sedimentation box, the flow velocity of the medium flowing through is reduced by using several baffle plates. Due to the reduced velocity and energy, particles up to a certain size are forced to sediment by the now predominant gravitational force. Such boxes can remain in the water for several weeks and therefore collect a cross-section of the suspended particles including MP over a certain period of time.Mass and number-based methods have emerged as suitable detection methods for MPs. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(19)</a> Number-based methods such as μ-Raman, μ-FTIR or LDIR are well advanced to evaluate the polymer identity, particle number concentration and shape, <a href="javascript:void(0);">(20,21)</a> but are still time-consuming in terms of sample preparation. In regulatory approaches or for simulations, usually the MP mass is needed. MP polymer identity and masses can be detected by thermoanalytical methods like pyrolysis-GC/MS (Py-GC/MS) or thermal extraction desorption-GC/MS (TED-GC/MS). Especially TED-GC/MS seems to be suitable for monitoring purses of suspended particulate matter, because there is no need for additional sample preparation others than filtration and homogenization. Up to 50 mg of suspended particulate matter can be directly measured in one run, giving representative subsamples for precise measurements exceeding the limit of quantification. Furthermore, styrene–butadiene rubber (SBR) and natural rubber (NR) as indication for tire wear can be detected in the same sample run next to thermoplastics such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polystyrene (PS), polyamide 6 or polyacrylates.This work provides a comprehensive data set of MP concentrations of the River Rhine over one year sampling at three different locations starting near the source in Weil via Koblenz and Emmerich. Sampling was done with sedimentation boxes with monthly withdrawal and fractioned filtration of the collected particles afterward. The size fractions 10–50 μm, 50–100 μm and 100–500 μm were provided by the Federal Institute of Hydrology (BfG, Germany) and analyzed at the Federal Institute of Material Research and Testing (BAM, Germany) funded by a national project from the Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection (BMUV, Germany, 3719 22301 0). Detection was performed with TED-GC/MS in routine mode, proven as a fast and robust detection method. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(2,16,22)</a> Data can be used, for example, for water monitoring or as reference values for future risk assessment scenarios and experiments.<h4>2. Materials and Methods</h4><h5>2.2. TED-GC/MS</h5>TED-GC/MS is a multistage detection technique combining the thermal sample extraction by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) with chromatographic separation of the individual decomposition gases and detection by trace analysis with gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Sample material in 150 μL alumina crucibles was pyrolyzed in a TGA2 thermobalance (MettlerToledo, Gieβen, Germany) under a nitrogen flow of 30 mL/min from 200 to 500 °C with a heating rate of 10 K/min. Typical sample intake was between 10 to 50 mg depending on the organic content. The decomposition gases were collected on a solid phase (SorbStar, Envea, Vohenstrauβ, Germany) in the typical polymer decomposition temperature range between 200 and 500 °C via a heated coupling module (240 °C, Gerstel, Mülheim an der Ruhr, Germany). The loaded solid phase was transported to the thermodesorption unit (TDU)-GC/MS by an autosampler (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=8&amp;search=MultiPurposeSampler+2">MultiPurposeSampler 2</a> (MPS2), Gerstel, Mühlheim an der Ruhr). The desorption of the decomposition products took place in the TDU (50–200 °C, 5 min isothermal, He gas, Gerstel), the cryofocusing in the cold injection system (−100 °C, Gerstel). Injection was carried out from there by rapid heating (−100–270 °C, 12 K/s) onto the separation column (HP5 ms, 1 mL/min He, 40–300 °C, Agilent, Palo Alto, USA) in the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=1&amp;search=7890B">GC system (7890 B Agilent)</a>. After chromatographic separation, detection was performed in a mass spectrometer (EI, 70 eV, scan-mode, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=1&amp;search=5977B">5977 B, Agilen</a>t).<h4>3. Results and Discussion</h4>A summary of the identified polymer types and their corresponding mass concentrations per sampling location is provided in <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsestwater.5c00530#fig1">Figure 1</a>. All individual results are presented in <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/suppl/10.1021/acsestwater.5c00530/suppl_file/ew5c00530_si_001.pdf">Table S1</a> of the Supporting Information. With a few exceptions, the polymers PE, PP, PS, SBR and NR were detected. To cope with the large amount of measurement data and to obtain an overview of possible correlations, the data was evaluated using statistical and mathematical algorithms. Only the five polymers named above provide enough input data and are therefore used as the basis for the data analysis. The individual results were sorted according to various aspects that are included in the data set as independent variables:(I)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Particle size fractions(II)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Temporal variation(III)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Spatial variation due to the sampling locations<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/ACS_EST_Water_2026_6_2_639_648_Figure_1_Overview_of_sampling_locations_along_the_German_part_of_the_River_Rhine_and_sum_of_identified_median_mass_concentrations_fe570f51b5.jpg" alt="ACS EST Water 2026, 6, 2, 639–648: Figure 1. Overview of sampling locations along the German part of the River Rhine and sum of identified median mass concentrations." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_ACS_EST_Water_2026_6_2_639_648_Figure_1_Overview_of_sampling_locations_along_the_German_part_of_the_River_Rhine_and_sum_of_identified_median_mass_concentrations_fe570f51b5.jpg 158w," sizes="100vw" width="1883" height="1860">The concentrations of the various polymers in the suspended matter serve as input values. The riverine balancing and material transport based on the total masses (polymer mass in total suspended solids mass) is carried out explicitly and will be published at Umweltbundesamt as part of the project report by the BfG (Ternes, final project report, 2023).<h5>3.1. Particle Size Fractions</h5>This section describes the possible correlation of the polymer mass concentration with the size of the measured particles regardless of the sampling location. Therefore, the generated samples were sorted by sieving into different size fractions of 10–50, 50–100 and 100–500 μm. The relative mean values of the individual fractions are calculated (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/suppl/10.1021/acsestwater.5c00530/suppl_file/ew5c00530_si_001.pdf">Figure S2</a>) to obtain the shares of the different polymer types in the total amount of MP. PE is the dominant polymer in all size fractions with 68–76%, followed by PS (10–15%), SBR (4–13%), PP (2–5%) and NR (2–4%). Obviously, all polymer types are approximately evenly distributed across the size fractions, with SBR being less present in the 100–500 μm fraction.In general, it can be determined that PE accounts for the highest proportion of MP. PS makes up the second highest proportion, followed by SBR. Next in line are PP and NR. The polymer findings are in good agreement with previous MP studies of the Rhine. PE, PP and PS in particular are the most frequently detected polymers. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(3)</a> The relative abundance of PE, PP and PS is also relatively similar to Skalska et al., even when the particle number was considered here. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(26)</a> Especially in comparison with the results of Mani et al. significant similarities to the ratios of PE, PP and PS can be found. Data on SBR from tire abrasion in the Rhine is difficult to find in existing studies, as such particles cannot easily be identified using vibrational methods due to the IR absorbing properties and the intense fluorescence of the accompanying soot. However, a comparison with suspended particulate matter samples from the Danube is possible, as here the detection was also carried out using TED-GC/MS. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(2)</a> The relative ratios of PE, PP, PS, SBR and NR are comparable and support the plausibility of the results.Total MP mass concentrations are presented in <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/suppl/10.1021/acsestwater.5c00530/suppl_file/ew5c00530_si_001.pdf">Figure S3</a> for individual polymer types, showing highest mass concentrations in the size fraction 100–500 μm. The median varies from 0.17 to 6.80 μg/mg depending on the polymer type. In absolute terms, the PE mass concentrations are significantly higher than those of all other polymers. PP and PS show a strong mass increase in the 100–500 μm fraction, together with higher uncertainty compared to 10–50 μm and 50–100 μm. With a variation of 0.27–0.32 μg/mg across all particle size fractions, the mass contents of SBR are relatively constant, while NR mass concentration seems to increase more linearly. The high mass concentrations and the strong scattering of the 100–500 μm fractions could be due to the presence or absence of large but few particles. Basically, the larger a particle is, the higher its contribution to the mass concentration. In contrast, the larger a particle is, the lower the probability of an equal distribution in all samples.If other regions associated with the Rhine are considered, comparable ratios of mass concentration in the various particle size fractions are found in Rhine floodplains. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(27)</a>At the beginning of the data analysis, a Principal Component Analysis (PCA) is carried out to identify parameters that have a high influence on the mass content. This analysis identified that the particle size has the greatest influence on the mass concentration (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsestwater.5c00530#fig2">Figure 2</a>). The first principal component (PC 1) was identified as the particle size fraction and explains over 50% of the differences in the data.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/ACS_EST_Water_2026_6_2_639_648_Figure_2_PCA_Score_plot_of_mass_concentrations_of_the_different_polymers_be94ae16c4.jpg" alt="ACS EST Water 2026, 6, 2, 639–648: Figure 2. PCA Score plot of mass concentrations of the different polymers." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_ACS_EST_Water_2026_6_2_639_648_Figure_2_PCA_Score_plot_of_mass_concentrations_of_the_different_polymers_be94ae16c4.jpg 184w," sizes="100vw" width="747" height="635"><h4>4. Conclusion</h4>This study demonstrated that long-term sampling of the Rhine is possible and provides plausible results, which is important for future MP monitoring campaigns, as required by the Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive for the EU. Although the MP concentrations in the Rhine are relatively constant, seasonal and downstream differences were observed. In order to confirm these possible trends, further sampling campaigns are needed to identify possible differences on an annual scale. Furthermore, the influences of urban proximity and land use must be examined in greater detail by increasing the number of measuring points. Additional sample sites are needed to identify possible sources of input. This would be particularly important to clarify the PS concentrations, which show a high correlation between the different particle size fractions in almost all seasons and could indicate a possible common source. SBR is the only polymer to show a relatively constant concentration across all particle sizes and seasons, independent of the river course. Since it is a tire component, constant road traffic could be part of the explanation. However, a different particle ratio must be assumed here compared to the other polymers. The fragmentation mechanism and/or another transport mechanism needs to be clarified.Although PE constitutes the majority of the total MP concentration, there may be an overestimation due to false positive signals. To exclude or confirm this, further studies must be conducted to analyze the organic components of the riverine suspended matter in detail.A comparison with other studies reveals similar occurrences of the same polymer types and in parts also similar seasonal fluctuations and a slight downstream increase. The differentiated presentation of results in polymer type, particle size fraction and range of mass concentrations can provide a valuable basis for more complex and realistic exposure tests for ecotoxicological studies on freshwater organisms. In particular, the large database for SBR as a tire component could be of special interest, as the toxicity of tire particles due to their chemical composition has already been shown in other studies. In studies using FTIR-based detection methods, these values are usually missing due to the high absorbance of the black tire particles.</div>

One Year Observation of Microplastic Concentrations in the River Rhine

In the week of April 6, 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><div><div><div><div><div><div><h5>1. Bruker: Advances in AFM for the Characterization of 2D Materials</h5><ul><li>We, 8.4.2026 17:00 CET</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/webinar/6054">Registration</a></li></ul>Explore how AFM enables comprehensive nanoscale characterization of 2D materials. Learn about structural, electrical, and chemical mapping, AFM-IR, and nanomanipulation for device fabrication.<h5>2. Agilent Technologies: Mastering Gas Sampling: Valve Fundamentals to ASTM Ready RGA &amp; TOGA Analysis</h5><ul><li>Th, 9.4.2026 08:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/webinar/6056">Registration</a></li></ul>In this session, learn how to achieve reliable permanent gas analysis, starting from proper valve selection and sampling fundamentals.</div></div></div></div></div></div>

Webinars LabRulezGCMS Week 15/2026

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Columns, run conditions, and temperature programs are critical to good chromatography, but so is a well-maintained gas chromatography (GC) instrument. GCs depend on regular maintenance to keep seals tight and pathways inert if you want to consistently produce the best data.
In this webinar, Dr. Mark Badger, Senior Product Manager GC Accessories at Restek Corporation, will cover three critical GC maintenance topics: reducing contamination, best practices for replacing parts, and key steps to optimize your applications.
<h5>Key learning objectives</h5>
<ul>
<li>Discover how to take a comprehensive approach to routine GC maintenance</li>
<li>Learn how to identify and prevent sources of contamination</li>
<li>Discover how to identify best practices for the installation and replacement of parts</li>
<li>Explore steps to optimize your applications</li>
</ul>
<h5>Who should attend?</h5>
Lab directors, scientists, method developers, analysts, and technicians interested in the maintenance, troubleshooting, and optimal performance of GC systems.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Dr. Mark Badger (Restek Corporation)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Dr. Mark Badger, the Senior Product Manager GC Accessories, has been with Restek Corporation since 2002. He has had several roles within the organization: R&amp;D, new product development and technical support, and domestic and international sales. An analytical chemist by training, his academic career was focused on applied hydrocarbon process technology. After obtaining his PhD from Staffordshire University, UK, Mark worked for the Energy Institute at The Pennsylvania State University for six years.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Ellen Simms (Assistant Editor, SelectScience)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Ellen studied biological sciences at the University of the West of England, UK, before completing a master&#39;s in epidemiology from the University of Bristol. As a member of the Editorial team, she now plays an integral role in shaping the content on SelectScience.
</blockquote>

Restek Corporation: An ounce of prevention: How good laboratory practice minimizes GC downtime

An ounce of prevention: How good laboratory practice minimizes GC downtime

We will cover three critical GC maintenance topics: reducing contamination, best practices for replacing parts, and key steps to optimize your applications.

How good laboratory practice minimizes GC downtime

On the surface, this would appear to be a simple separation—however, there are several challenges related to the analysis of permanent gases.
We will discuss typical techniques for resolving and detecting permanent gases, including carbon dioxide and hydrogen. Other topics will include cryogenic techniques, column isolation, and the use of the Agilent J&amp;W Select Permanent Gases/CO2 GC column.
<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). 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 Twin Falls Idaho.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Analysis of Permanent Gases: More Challenging Than You Might Think

Analysis of Permanent Gases: More Challenging Than You Might Think

We will discuss typical techniques for resolving and detecting permanent gases, including carbon dioxide and hydrogen.

Permanent Gases: More Challenging Than You Might Think

Join Agilent and GERSTEL for our annual virtual seminar discussing how you can assure safety, authenticity, and quality of alcoholic beverages. Sharing the latest in technology developments and capabilities, new applications, and customer stories. Topics include distilled beverages, wine and beer. There is something for everyone in this seminar series and we hope to see you there.
Attend live and receive an Agilent GC wine glass!
<h3>Presentation 1: Evolution of malt, hop and fermentation-derived flavor compounds throughout the brewing of a single malt, single hop (SMaSH) ale</h3>
Beer is a complex mixture of volatile and nonvolatile compounds that arise from malt, hops and fermentation by yeast. Some compounds are extracted from malt and hops during mashing and boiling, respectively. Others are products of reactions that occur throughout the brewing process, such as Maillard reactions, Strecker degradation reactions, the isomerization of alpha-acids and the Ehrlich pathway in yeast. The integration of GC/MS and LC/MS data affords the ability to monitor these reactions in real time. Targeted metabolomic techniques were used to show formation of volatile flavor compounds from their nonvolatile precursors, (e.g. amino acids) and the transformation of non-volatile hop-derived compounds, thus providing a detailed picture of flavor development throughout brewing of a single malt, single hop beer.
Key Learning Objectives/What attendees will learn:
<ul>
<li>Integration of SPME GC/MS, HILIC LC/MS and RP LC/MS data to monitor the production of flavor compounds from nonvolatile precursors throughout the beer brewing process</li>
<li>Utilization of targeted metabolomic techniques to identify reaction intermediates produced from nonvolatile precursors en route to volatile flavor compounds</li>
</ul>
Who Should Attend:
<ul>
<li>Those interested in the comprehensive mass spectrometric characterization of precursors and metabolites produced during beer brewing and fermentation</li>
<li>Brewers, brewery chemists, food chemists</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Christine Hughey (Professor of Chemistry, Department of Chemistry &amp; Biochemistry, James Madison University) 
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Dr. Hughey is a Professor at James Madison University in Harrisonburg, VA. She is an analytical chemist with expertise in mass spectrometry who has collaborated with food chemists and brewers for over two decades. Her most recent collaboration with the Madison Academic Brewery, housed within the Engineering Department at JMU, has focused on the integration of GC/MS and LC/MS techniques to monitor reactions that produce flavor compounds during brewing and fermentation.
</blockquote>
<h3>Presentation 2: Beer Soluble Hop Compounds: Translating Raw Hop Aroma to Finished Beer</h3>
Translating hop aroma to finished beer aroma has been a brewing challenge for years. Hops have been a primary ingredient in beer for over a thousand years for preservation as well as bittering because of their humulone compounds. That is not the only reason that hops are used in beer the Craft beer industry brought back the use of hops for flavor and aroma to create floral, citrus and fruity beers. Instead of utilizing hops early in the kettle boil for bitterness the brewers utilize hops in late kettle additions, and after primary fermentation to extract the aroma from hops. The goal is to extract the pleasant aroma that one can smell in hops and capture it into the final beer. 
Utilizing an Agilent GC/MS that was outfitted with a Gerstel MPS for the use of Twister stir bars in conjunction with a Thermal Desorption Unit (TDU) for raw hop and beer analysis it was determined that a select handful of hop derived compounds were consistently present in beer samples contributing to the overall flavor and aroma. A second Agilent GC was purchased that was outfitted with a Quadrupole Time-of-Flight (Q-ToF) and a Sulfur Chemiluminescence Detector (SCD). This instrument was also set up with a Gerstel robotic MPS and TDU/CIS. With the addition of the SCD, sulfur-containing compounds became an area of focus along with the select handful of compounds present in beer which are collectively known as the ‘survivables’. These compounds are isobutyl isobutyrate, isoamyl isobutyrate, 2-methylbutyl isobutyrate, methyl geranate, 2-nonanone, geraniol, linalool and 3-mercaptohexanol. The concentrations of these select compounds were determined across the hop varieties YCH supplies and utilize that data to help brewers make more informed decisions about when and what varieties to add during the brewing process to provide the strongest impact to their final beer. This data was to create pellet blends where hop varietals are blended to maximize the ‘survivable’ compounds content, which was released as a new product. 
Most recently, YCH has acquired two more GC/MS systems for quantitative analysis of these ‘survivable’ compounds for all hop products. The new systems are equipped with carousel-style autosamplers with a syringe for liquid injection samples. The aromatics are extracted by steam distillation and the hop oil sample diluted in hexane and injected with the syringe into a high-temperature inlet followed by introduction in the analytical column. With these new systems and developed analytical method, we can offer the analytical data for ‘survivables’ to brewers on all product types. 
Key Learning Objectives/What attendees will learn:
<ul>
<li>A description of the research conducted that started as exploratory research to a final QC analytical methodology.</li>
<li>Methods for using beer soluble hop compound research to design efficient recipes and a blended hop product that targets these compounds.</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Patrick Jensen (Director of R&amp;D, Yakima Chief Hops LLC)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Patrick Jensen has been with YCH for more than five years. He was born in Yakima, Washington and knew nothing of hops and beer until he graduated from Central Washington University with a B.S. in chemistry in 2004. He owned a Thai restaurant where he was the head chef, but soon after graduation ended up in the hop industry. He has managed several hop quality laboratories since and is the Director of Research and Development for Yakima Chiefs Hops. He works to develop analytical methods for hop and brewing research, develops new products and provides technical expertise to our growers, production processes, quality control and sales team. Pat believes all beer is great, because…can you believe I get paid me to do what I love? He lives in Yakima, Washington with his wife, daughter, and twin autistic sons. 
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Jacqueline Brummett (R&amp;D Laboratory Supervisor, Yakima Chief Hops LLC)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Jacqueline Brummett is a born and raised Washington resident who graduated from Central Washington University with a BS in Biological Sciences. After working in clinical lab in Seattle, Jacqueline relocated to Yakima and now supervises the Research and Development Lab at YCH. Jacqueline coordinates the analysis to support sensory team and pilot brewery projects in addition to conducting trials to further explore the many facets of hops. Her current area of focus has been on GC/MS method development for hop oil analysis.
</blockquote>

Pixabay/Marcelo Ikeda Tchelão: 3rd Annual Alcoholic Beverages Virtual Symposium - Beer

3rd Annual Alcoholic Beverages Virtual Symposium - Beer

Evolution of malt, hop and fermentation-derived flavor compounds throughout the brewing. Beer Soluble Hop Compounds: Translating Raw Hop Aroma to Finished Beer

Solving Problems That Matter: Nitrosamine Analysis
Expert Insight 3-Part Webinar Series: Upskilling Your Analytical Strategies for Nitrosamine Detection and Control to Proactively Address Safety in Pharmaceutical Product Development.
Unacceptable levels of N-nitrosamine impurities, which may increase the risk of cancer, have been found in some medications resulting in drug recalls, warning letters, and therapeutic shortages. To ensure that the residual level of nitrosamines in your drug products related to your drug development and manufacturing processes is within safe amounts, highly sensitive and specific analytical methods need to be used for the detection, characterization, and quantification of such impurities. Learn how your colleagues have upskilled their lab capabilities and technologies to elucidate the nature of unknown materials in complex drug substances, using a variety of analytical techniques.
In this timely virtual webinar series, pharmaceutical scientific experts discuss key analytical strategies on how to improve methods for nitrosamine impurity detection and characterization, and how sharing this expertise can help your pharmaceutical scientists support your product quality, safety, and efficacy
<h3>PART 2 | Nitrosamine Impurities: USP’s Compendial Response - Tools &amp; Resources</h3>
Harmful impurities in medicines must be detected and controlled due to the potentially serious risk to public health. Operationally, impurities in drug ingredients or finished drug products can delay product approvals and trigger product recalls, introducing challenges including disruption of business operations, regulatory investigations, and remediation.
The nitrosamine impurities crisis prompted regulators worldwide to increase their scrutiny of drug manufacturing processes even further. This greater scrutiny led to the discovery of nitrosamine impurities in other medicines and later Nitrosamines-Drug-Substance-related-Impurities (NDSRIs). For this reason, manufacturers must understand which medicines are likely to form nitrosamines, how and at what levels nitrosamine impurities are forming, and how to control nitrosamines.
In the following seminar, we will explore how USP responded to the nitrosamine impurities crisis with a proposed general chapter on nitrosamine impurities that provides a risk assessment strategy, methods for detecting and measuring nitrosamine impurities, along with physical reference standards against which manufacturers can compare their test results. Additionally, USP has created a whole suite of resources and tools for stakeholders to face the challenges of Nitrosamine Impurities effectively.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Naiffer Romero, MSc, MPH (Principal Scientist, Regulatory Affairs, US Pharmacopeia)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Naiffer has more than 18+ years of pharmaceutical industry experience. In his 10 years tenure with USP, he has served several roles: Lead scientist in performance testing compendial reference standards development, Manager in charge of LATAM Compendial engagement and education with stakeholders and national regulatory bodies. Naiffer is also a certified USP Education instructor.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Most recently, Naiffer joined USP’s Scientific Affair performance cell where he leads scientific outreach and engagement for LATAM &amp; US region on key national health priority topics. His combined pharmaceutical expertise includes Analytical development, salt and polymorph selection, Development of dissolution methods, IVIVC modeling, and impurity analytical strategy. Naiffer also serves as a member of USP’s Nitrosamine Steering Committee and community host to ‘Nitrosamine Exchange’, a knowledge community on All-things Nitrosamine. Naiffer also liaises technical discussions on pharmacopeial collaboration including the International meeting of World Pharmacopeias (part of WHO).
</blockquote>

Pixabay/Michal Jarmoluk: Nitrosamine Impurities: USP’s Compendial Response - Tools & Resources

Nitrosamine Impurities: USP’s Compendial Response - Tools & Resources

We will explore how USP responded to the nitrosamine impurities crisis with a proposed general chapter on nitrosamine impurities.

Nitrosamine Impurities: USP’s Compendial Response

Solid phase extraction (SPE) is an effective technique for cleaning up and concentrating samples prior to high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) or gas chromatography (GC) analysis. The technique offers targeted selectivity for analytes of interest. SPE is versatile for a wide range of sample volumes, can be easily automated for high-throughput, and is performed by following quick and simple methods (condition, equilibrate, load, wash, and elute). In this webinar, learn more about an effective sample cleanup method for steroid analysis that targets 19 analytes utilizing a Polymeric Reversed Phase Strata™-X 96-well plate.
Mackenzie Freige, a Clinical Application Scientist at Phenomenex, will explain the foundation of SPE and offer method development insight to a frequently tested clinical application.
<h5>Key learning objectives</h5>
<ul>
<li>Understand the fundamentals of solid phase extraction (SPE)</li>
<li>Discover the common difficulties of steroid analysis</li>
<li>Learn tips for approaching SPE method development</li>
<li>Explore a review of SPE data</li>
</ul>
<h5>Who should attend?</h5>
<ul>
<li>Scientists working in the field of clinical, forensics and/or toxicology.</li>
<li>Scientists looking to improve their sample preparation techniques.</li>
<li>Scientists who want to learn more about steroids.</li>
</ul>
<h5>Certificate of attendance</h5>
All webinar participants can request a certificate of attendance, including a learning outcomes summary, for continuing education purposes.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Mackenzie Freige (Phenomenex)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Mackenzie Freige received a Bachelor of Science degree in Life Sciences from Kansas State University and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Chemistry from Wichita State University, USA. She has six years’ experience in LC-MS/MS, GC-MS, and sample preparation. She has previously worked in toxicology, environmental chemistry, food science industries, and the pharmaceutical industry.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
She joined Phenomenex in 2021 as an Application Scientist, specializing in developing applications for clinical research. She has experience in method development and instrumentation, which she uses to help customers solve problems regarding sample preparation, HPLC, and MS methods.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Jemima Arnold (Editorial Team, SelectScience)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Jemima studied Cellular and Molecular Medicine at the University of Bristol, UK, and as a member of the Editorial team, she now plays an integral role in shaping the content on SelectScience.
</blockquote>

SelectScience: Method development for solid phase extraction with steroid analytes

Method development for solid phase extraction with steroid analytes

We will explain the foundation of SPE and offer method development insight to a frequently tested clinical application.

Method development solid phase extraction steroid analytes

Join the expert panel discussion as they address trends and audience submitted questions regarding the movement of tandem quadrupole mass spectrometry as the replacement for traditional magnetic sector instruments for a variety of persistent organic pollutants (POP’s).
The assembled experts have well in excess of 100 years of combined experience with dioxins, furans, PCB’s, pesticides and related compound analysis as well as sample preparation techniques and regulatory requirements.
Subjects planned for discussion include:
1. The current landscape of regulatory acceptance for MS/MS for these analyses
2. Performance advantages
3. Combining analytes into a single analysis
4. Instrument configuration
5. Alternative carrier gasses
6. Reference materials and more
<blockquote>
Presenter: Coreen Hamilton (Analytical Chemist, SGS Analytical Services)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Coreen is an Analytical Chemist with a BSC from McGill Universityand aPhD from the University of Alberta.She has worked atAxysAnalytical (now SGSAXYSAnalytical Services) since 1984, specializing in trace organic analysis and analytical method development. She and her team have developed many methods, several of which have turned into EPA methods, e.g., 1614 (brominated diphenyl ethers), 1668 (PCB congeners by HRMS), 1699 (chlorinated pesticides by HRMS), and 1694PPCP by LC-MS/MS.The AXYS method for PFAS analysis is currently being validated for use as a DoD and EPA method. She recentlysubmitted an applicationto the US EPA ATP program for use of GC-MS/MS for chlorinated dioxin analysis.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Frank Dorman (Resident Scholar and Senior Global Market Manager, Dartmouth College and Waters Corporation)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Frank Dorman is currently Senior Business Development Manager for Waters focusing on their global environmental business and, concurrently, a Resident Scholar in the Chemistry Department at Dartmouth College in Hanover, NH where he is active in teaching analytical chemistry to undergraduates and graduate students. In his role at Waters, Frank manages the research-focused environmental market, external collaborations, and interfaces with R&amp;D for new product development. Prior to this, Frank was an Associate Professor in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (BMB) sat Penn State University in University Park, PA. At Penn State, Frank served as a member of the Graduate Faculty in: Biochemistry, Microbiology and Molecular Biology (BMMB), Chemistry (CHEM), Biogeochemistry (BGC) and the Forensic Science Program (FRNSC) and the Center for Molecular Toxicology and Carcinogenesis. Franks scientific interests are in gas and liquid chromatography and fundamental characterization, instrumentation and column development, as well as mass spectrometry and atomic spectroscopy as applied to trace analysis in complex sample matrices.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Jordan Stubleski (Research Scientist, Wellington Laboratories Inc)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Jordan Stubleski obtained her PhD in Analytical Chemistry from Orebro University in Sweden following the completion of a Master’s degree in Forensic Chemistry from Penn State University, under the supervision of Dr. Frank Dorman. She is currently a Research Scientist at Wellington Laboratories Inc. using Waters instrumentation to develop and validate quantitative methods for the analysis of environmental contaminants in real samples by HRGC/QTOF-MS and HRGC/QQQ. During this process she is also examining the strengths and limitations of the instrument platforms with respect to the production of reliable and robust environmental data. Her ultimate goal is to produce validated analytical methods that incorporate adequate quality control measures as per Wellington’s ISO 17025 accreditation requirements.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Chris English (Laboratory Manager, Restek Corporation)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Chris English has managed a team of chemists in Restek’s innovations laboratory since 2004. Before taking the reins of the laboratory, he spent seven years as an environmental applications chemist and was critical to the development of Restek’s current line of volatile GC columns. Prior to joining Restek, he operated a variety of gas chromatographic systems, conducting method development and sample analysis for a global laboratory testing network. Chris holds a B.S. in environmental science from Saint Michael’s College, USA.
</blockquote>

Waters Corporation: Expert Panel Discussion – Continued movement towards tandem quadrupole mass spectrometry as replacement for traditional high-resolution magnetic sector instruments for POPs analyses

Continued movement towards tandem quadrupole mass spectrometry as replacement for traditional high-resolution magnetic sector instruments for POPs analyses

The assembled experts have well in excess of 100 years of combined experience with dioxins, furans, PCB’s, pesticides and related compound analysis.

MS/MS as replacement for HR magnetic sector for POPs

Welcome to the &quot;Ultra-Fast Bites&quot; series - where you can get ultra-fast insights about the latest trends and hottest topics in bite-sized content to stay at the forefront of science.
In our previous For the Love of Food! series, we have previously discussed the use of LC-GC-FID, which is the industry standard for monitoring mineral oil pollutants in edible oils and food contact materials.
These pollutants are frequently encountered as saturated (MOSH) and aromatic hydrocarbons (MOAH), making it essential to analyze for food safety. However, with the analytical challenges, additional sample clean-up procedures (AlOx and Epox) must be used to improve the method&#39;s robustness and sensitivity.
In this presentation, join us as Dr. Andreas, Managing Director of Axel Semrau GmbH &amp; Co KG, introduces a fast and efficient analysis of MOSH/MOAH using a new automated saponification workflow that can save your time and effort while maximizing the results.
For the love of food!
Learning Objectives:
<ul>
<li>Learn more about LC-GC-FID, which is the standard instrumentation to monitor the levels of MOSH/MOAH</li>
<li>Understand automated clean-up techniques for the analysis of MOSH/MOAH samples</li>
<li>Discover how the new automated saponification workflow can help save your time and effort in analysis</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Dr Andreas Bruchmann (Managing Director, Axel Semrau GmbH &amp; Co KG)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
After studying Analytical Chemistry at the University of Bochum, Andreas Bruchmann joined Axel Semrau in 1992. He worked in different departments before becoming Managing Director in 2010. Now he is responsible for the Chromatography business unit, which supplies automated application solutions for the food and pharmaceutical industry worldwide. He was also involved in the development of the CHRONECT MOSH/MOAH Workstation from the beginning in 2010.
</blockquote>

Shimadzu Corporation: Ultra-Fast Bites - For the Love of Food! Latest Update on the Analysis of MOSH/MOAH Contamination

Latest Update on the Analysis of MOSH/MOAH Contamination

A fast and efficient analysis of MOSH/MOAH using a new automated saponification workflow that can save your time and effort while maximizing the results.

IR spectroscopy is a ubiquitous analytical technique that was first used during World War II. Since that time it has undergone significant development, providing a means for the analysis of many types of samples both in the laboratory and in the field.
This session will focus on the theory of Infrared and will discuss some modern infrared analytical techniques.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Louis Tisinger, PhD (Application Engineer, Molecular Spectroscopy, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Louis (Lou) Tisinger has a Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry from Miami University in Oxford Ohio, where his graduate research involved the study of ATR imaging and microscope performance in vibrational spectroscopy. Most of his career has been related to pre- and post-sales support of FTIR spectrometers, microscopes, imaging systems, and thermal analytical instruments, focusing on analyzing customer samples, demonstrations, post-sales training, troubleshooting, and R&amp;D.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: A discussion on the Theory of FTIR

A discussion on the Theory of FTIR

This session will focus on the theory of Infrared and will discuss some modern infrared analytical techniques.

This webinar will guide you on the best practices, tools, and techniques needed to get the most reliable, verifiable insights into your optical components. Appropriate choice of technique and methodology is critical to getting the information you need to improve design, verify product performance, and accelerate manufacturing.
We will explore the subtleties of reflection and transmission measurements at normal incidence and at oblique angles, emphasizing high absorbance, optical density, linearity, and effects of incident beam collimation. We will discuss diffuse scattering measurements and automation/robotics to broaden quality assurance programs and speed up analysis. 
The webinar is relevant to developers of optics, photonics, and electro-optical or semiconductor devices such as visual displays, laser-based range detection (LiDAR), optical communications systems and light-based scientific instrumentation. Improve your understanding of the link between your desired outcomes and the spectrophotometric approaches needed to achieve those insights. 
Key Learning Objectives:
<ul>
<li>The best spectrophotometric practices to extract deeper insights into the characteristics of optical samples.</li>
<li>How to overcome the limitations of traditional spectrophotometric tools and verify outcomes.</li>
<li>Accelerating QA/QC of optics in a production environment.</li>
</ul>
Who Should Attend:
<ul>
<li>Commercial or Academic organizations in the fields of optics, photonics, electro-optical, or semiconductors</li>
<li>Laboratory Managers </li>
<li>Scientist/Staff Scientists</li>
<li>Lab Technician/Technologist</li>
<li>Analyst</li>
<li>Project Manager</li>
<li>SME Directors, Core Lab/ Facility Managers </li>
<li>Under/Post Graduate Researchers</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Travis Burt (Global Product Manager – Cary UV-Vis-NIR Spectrophotometers, Agilent Technologies)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Catherine Dold (Health &amp; Environment Writer, C&amp;EN Media Group)
</blockquote>

C&EN: Optimizing Optics Using Advanced Spectrophotometry

Optimizing Optics Using Advanced Spectrophotometry

This webinar will guide you on the best practices, tools, and techniques needed to get the most reliable, verifiable insights into your optical components.

How about a 20 minute coffee break along with a bite of Empower? Here you go!
Increase the resilience of your lab operations with the Empower™ Business Continuity (BC) LAC/E™ &amp; SecureSync™.
Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity are theoretical exercises…until they aren’t.
Prepare a coffee and join!
<blockquote>
Presenter: Carsten Fischer (Informatics Product Marketing Manager·Waters Corporation)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Experienced Business Development Manager with a demonstrated history of working in the Research Industry. Skilled in Chemistry, Life Sciences, Strategic Planning, and Laboratory Informatics. 
</blockquote>

Waters Corporation: Empower Business Continuity (BC) LAC/E & SecureSync

Empower Business Continuity (BC) LAC/E & SecureSync

Complement your #Empower CDS with sample management, equipment inventory and data archiving.