<p><strong>In this episode of Concentrating on Chromatography, we sit down with Dr. Lee Polite from Axion Training Institute to break down one of analytical chemistry's most powerful yet misunderstood techniques: gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS).</strong></p><h4><strong>What You'll Learn:</strong></h4><ul><li>Why <strong>GC and MS are the "perfect pair"</strong> – and what happens when you try to use MS alone</li><li><strong>The electron gun:</strong> how molecules get ionized and why they become positively charged (not negatively!)</li><li>The <strong>magnetic sector vs. quadrupole</strong>: from first principles to modern mass filtering</li><li>Why Dr. Lee uses the "<strong>corkscrew trajectory</strong>" analogy – and why it actually works</li><li><strong>The cars and boats analogy:</strong> how fragmentation creates a unique molecular fingerprint</li><li><strong>Scan mode vs. SIM (</strong>Selected Ion Monitoring): when to use each for identification vs. sensitivity</li><li><strong>Real-world forensics</strong>: detecting pesticides in spinach and cocaine in hair follicles</li><li><strong>Triple quad GC/MS</strong> and Multiple Reaction Monitoring (<strong>MRM)</strong>: the future of trace analysis</li></ul><h4><strong>Why This Matters:</strong></h4><p>Over 2 million chromatographs operate worldwide, yet most users don't truly understand how they work. Dr. Polite has trained more than 14,000 professional scientists at Axion Labs to move beyond "pushing buttons" to genuinely comprehending the science. This conversation is designed for undergraduate students, academic researchers, and anyone preparing for analytical chemistry roles in pharma, environmental testing, or forensics.<br>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>🎤 Dr. Lee Polite </strong>is a leading authority in analytical chromatography education and founder of Axion Training Institute, a real working laboratory where scientists come for hands-on GC and LC training. With nearly 30 years of experience and a PhD under Harold McNair (one of the grandfathers of modern chromatography), Dr. Polite is passionate about making complex instrumentation accessible to students and professionals alike.</p><h3><strong>Video Transcription</strong></h3><p>Mass spectrometry has a reputation for being one of the most intimidating analytical techniques. According to Dr. Lee Polite, however, that reputation is undeserved. During a recent interview, the founder of Axion Analytical Labs shared how decades of teaching scientists—from undergraduate students to forensic chemists and even lawyers—have convinced him that virtually anyone can understand GC/MS when the concepts are explained correctly.</p><p>His approach relies less on equations and more on analogies, transforming complex physical principles into familiar everyday experiences.</p><h4><strong>The biggest misconception about mass spectrometry</strong></h4><p>"The first obstacle isn't the science—it's the belief that you'll never understand it."</p><p>That is the misconception Dr. Polite encounters most often. Students frequently enter chromatography or mass spectrometry courses assuming the subject is too complex for them.</p><p>His advice is simple: suspend that disbelief.</p><p>Rather than viewing GC/MS as one enormous complicated system, he encourages learners to see it as a collection of simple processes connected together. Once each individual step becomes clear, the entire instrument suddenly makes sense.</p><h4><strong>Teaching more than 14,000 scientists</strong></h4><p>Dr. Polite founded Axion Analytical Labs nearly three decades ago. Although it operates as a fully functional chromatography laboratory, its primary mission is education.</p><p>Scientists spend five days in the laboratory learning chromatography hands-on—disassembling instruments, rebuilding them, troubleshooting problems, and developing a practical understanding of how the technology works.</p><p>Over the years, Axion has trained more than <strong>14,000 scientists</strong>, along with hundreds of attorneys who need to understand analytical chemistry for courtroom testimony. Dr. Polite believes curiosity matters far more than formal education.</p><h4><strong>Why every GC needs a mass spectrometer—and every mass spectrometer needs a GC</strong></h4><p>One of the interview's clearest explanations addresses a question many beginners ask:</p><h5><strong>Why do we combine gas chromatography with mass spectrometry?</strong></h5><p>The answer lies in the strengths and weaknesses of each technique.</p><p>Mass spectrometers excel at identifying pure compounds, but they struggle with complex mixtures. Real-world samples—environmental extracts, food, pharmaceuticals, forensic evidence—are almost always mixtures.</p><p>Gas chromatography solves this problem by separating the mixture into individual components before they reach the mass spectrometer.</p><p>As Dr. Polite summarizes:</p><blockquote><p>GC provides the separation power. Mass spectrometry provides the identification power.</p></blockquote><p>Without chromatographic separation, overlapping compounds generate confusing spectra that are difficult—or impossible—to interpret correctly.</p><h4><strong>Explaining chromatography with a shopping mall</strong></h4><p>Perhaps Dr. Polite's most famous teaching analogy compares chromatography to walking through a shopping mall.</p><p>Imagine two people standing on a moving walkway. One walks straight through the mall, while the other repeatedly leaves the walkway to browse clothing stores, shoe stores, and accessory shops.</p><p>Although both entered together, they exit at different times.</p><p>Chromatographic separation works in exactly the same way. Every compound enters the column simultaneously, but molecules interact differently with the stationary phase. Those with stronger interactions spend more time "shopping" and therefore elute later.</p><p>The analogy immediately illustrates retention time without requiring advanced chemistry.</p><h4><strong>How can a mass spectrometer "weigh" molecules?</strong></h4><p>Another concept that often confuses students is molecular weight determination.</p><p>Since molecules are far too small to weigh directly, mass spectrometers first convert neutral molecules into ions using electron impact ionization.</p><p>Once charged, the ions can be manipulated by electric or magnetic fields.</p><p>Dr. Polite introduces the concept by first describing the historical magnetic sector instrument before moving to the quadrupole mass filter used in most modern GC/MS systems.</p><p>His explanation replaces intimidating mathematics with a simple idea: only ions having the correct mass-to-charge ratio can successfully travel through the quadrupole and reach the detector.</p><h4><strong>Fragmentation: the molecular fingerprint</strong></h4><p>Simply measuring molecular weight rarely identifies a compound uniquely.</p><p>The real power of GC/MS comes from fragmentation.</p><p>High-energy electrons break molecules into characteristic fragments that create a unique mass spectrum—a molecular fingerprint.</p><p>To explain this process, Dr. Polite asks readers to imagine a car packed with explosives. After the explosion, investigators identify the vehicle by examining scattered components such as wheels, doors, and the steering wheel.</p><p>Mass spectrometry works the same way.</p><p>Each fragment contributes evidence that allows software libraries, such as NIST, to determine compound identity with remarkable confidence.</p><h4><strong>Scan mode versus SIM mode</strong></h4><p>The interview also explores the practical difference between scan acquisition and Selected Ion Monitoring (SIM).</p><p>Scan mode records a complete mass spectrum and is ideal for identifying unknown compounds.</p><p>SIM, on the other hand, focuses only on a few selected ions, dramatically increasing sensitivity.</p><p>Using pesticide analysis as an example, Dr. Polite demonstrates how compounds that are almost invisible in full-scan chromatograms become obvious when monitored using SIM.</p><h4><strong>Why triple quadrupoles dominate trace analysis</strong></h4><p>For laboratories measuring contaminants at parts-per-trillion concentrations, triple quadrupole instruments provide another major advantage.</p><p>Instead of monitoring only a single ion, tandem MS follows a specific fragmentation pathway—known as a transition—greatly reducing background interference.</p><p>This Multiple Reaction Monitoring (MRM) approach enables highly selective quantification of pesticides, PFAS, pharmaceutical residues, and numerous other trace contaminants in extremely complex samples.</p><h4><strong>The chromatography lesson many users forget</strong></h4><p>One message appears repeatedly throughout the interview:</p><p><strong>Most GC/MS problems are actually chromatography problems.</strong></p><p>Poor separations inevitably produce poor mass spectra.</p><p>Dr. Polite argues that successful mass spectrometry begins with understanding chromatography fundamentals rather than relying on sophisticated detectors to compensate for inadequate separations.</p><h4><strong>Looking ahead</strong></h4><p>When asked about the future of mass spectrometry, Dr. Polite predicts continued improvements in sensitivity, smarter software, and increasing use of artificial intelligence.</p><p>AI could assist laboratories by automatically recognizing problematic chromatographic peaks, identifying developing instrument issues, and simplifying interpretation of increasingly complex datasets.</p><p>Yet despite these technological advances, he believes the fundamentals remain unchanged.</p><p>Scientists who understand chromatography, ionization, fragmentation, and data analysis will continue to benefit regardless of how instrumentation evolves.</p><h4><strong>Final thoughts</strong></h4><p>After teaching analytical chemistry for more than 30 years, Dr. Lee Polite remains convinced that mass spectrometry is not inherently difficult.</p><p>The challenge is rarely the science itself—it is finding the right explanation.</p><p>By combining memorable analogies with practical laboratory experience, he demonstrates that one of analytical chemistry's most powerful techniques can also be one of its most approachable.</p><blockquote><p><strong>This text has been automatically transcribed from a video presentation using AI technology. It may contain inaccuracies and is not guaranteed to be 100% correct.</strong></p><h4><strong>Concentrating on Chromatography Podcast</strong></h4><p>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!</p><p>You can find <strong>Concentrating on Chromatography Podcast </strong>in podcast apps:</p><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://open.spotify.com/show/1wZg67rCjoGju4yhqxI3tL"><strong>Spotify</strong></a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://podcasts.apple.com/tz/podcast/concentrating-on-chromatography/id1788429185"><strong>Apple podcast</strong></a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://podscan.fm/podcasts/concentrating-on-chromatography"><strong>podscan</strong></a></li></ul><p>and on <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.youtube.com/@ChromatographyTalk/videos"><strong>YouTube channel</strong></a></p></blockquote>

How Mass Spectrometry Actually Works: The Quadrupole Explained

<p><strong>In the weeks of August 3 and 10, the following webinars await you in the field of gas / solid phase and especially Raman, FTIR, GC and GC/MS.</strong></p><blockquote><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/webinars"><strong>👉 DETAILS AND REGISTRATION IN THE WEBINARS SECTION</strong></a></h4><p><strong>👉 Search and filter in the largest global database</strong> with over <strong>5 500 GC, LC, MS and spectroscopy webinars</strong>.</p></blockquote><h5><span><strong>1. Agilent Technologies: Essential Techniques for Gas Chromatography Troubleshooting</strong></span></h5><ul><li>We, 5.8.2026 17:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/webinar/6354">Registration</a></li></ul><p>Master GC troubleshooting with a logical, systematic approach to diagnosing changing peak shapes and system issues by efficiently eliminating unlikely causes.</p><h5><span><strong>2. Agilent Technologies: Characterising Advanced Materials with the Agilent UV-Vis-NIR: From Thin Films and Solar Cells to Glass and Optical Coatings</strong></span></h5><ul><li>Th, 6.8.2026 07:30 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/webinar/6396">Registration</a></li></ul><p>Discover how Agilent UV-Vis-NIR spectrophotometers support the characterization of thin films, solar cells, glass, optical coatings, and other advanced materials.</p><h5><span><strong>3. Thermo Fisher Scientific: From Spectra to Mechanism: Using DRIFTS to Understand CO₂ Catalysis</strong></span></h5><ul><li>We, 12.8.2026 17:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/webinar/6404">Registration</a></li></ul><p>Learn how in situ DRIFTS can reveal surface species and reaction mechanisms during dry reforming of methane over ceria-supported catalysts.</p>

Webinars LabRulezGCMS Weeks 32-33/2026

<p><span><strong>This study evaluates the translation of helium-based methods to hydrogen carrier gas in cryogenically modulated comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC×GC-MS). Three translated methods were assessed using standard mixtures and validated with authentic fingermark residues for forensic nontargeted analysis.</strong></span></p><p><span>A method combining flow and temperature adjustments maintained comparable peak capacity, signal-to-noise ratio, peak shape, and resolution. Hydrogen also allowed the modulation period to be reduced by 50% and shortened total analysis time by up to 60%, improving sample throughput, energy efficiency, and the overall sustainability of GC×GC-MS workflows.</span></p><blockquote><h4><strong>The original article</strong></h4><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/ancham/article/doi/10.1021/acs.analchem.6c03350/5214748/Hydrogen-Carrier-Gas-Method-Translation-in"><strong>Hydrogen Carrier Gas Method Translation in Comprehensive Two-Dimensional Gas Chromatography for Sustainable Nontargeted Analysis</strong></a></h4><p>Kira M. Fisher; Emma L. Macturk; Katelynn A. Perrault Uptmor*</p><p>Anal. Chem. (2026)</p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.analchem.6c03350">https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.analchem.6c03350</a></p><h6>licensed under <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"><strong>CC-BY 4.0</strong></a></h6></blockquote><p><strong>Selected sections from the article follow. Formats and hyperlinks were adapted from the original.</strong></p><div><div><p>Carrier gas serves as the mobile phase that transports analytes through the column for separation in one-dimensional gas chromatography (1D GC) and comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography (GC×GC). Helium is traditionally used due to its inertness, but it is a finite resource obtained from natural gas with associated environmental impacts, including CO<sub>2</sub> emissions and potential water contamination. (<a href="javascript:;">1, 2</a>) Additional costs arise from extraction, transport, and handling of pressurized cylinders. As helium reserves decline and demand increases, prices have risen, limiting accessibility, particularly for routine or remote laboratory operations, and creating disparities across applications. (<a href="javascript:;">1, 3</a>) Although experienced users can translate methods from helium to hydrogen using advanced knowledge and tools, there is a growing need for simplified workflows to support end users in this transition.</p></div><div><p>Hydrogen carrier gas offers distinct advantages for GC compared to helium. As described by the van Deemter equation, hydrogen enables comparable efficiency to helium at a faster optimal linear velocity due to its lower viscosity and higher diffusivity. (<a href="javascript:;">4, 5</a>) This allows shorter analysis times without the loss of efficiency typically accompanied by increased helium flow rates, as observed by a flatter van Deemter curve for hydrogen than helium. For GC systems that use mass spectrometry (MS) detection, hydrogen is considered to be the most practical alternative to helium. Although nitrogen can be used in some specialized GC-MS applications, it is typically accompanied by a substantial decrease in S/N for conventional electron ionization. (<a href="javascript:;">6</a>) Hydrogen is increasingly recognized as a critical alternative to helium for GC and GC×GC, mitigating challenges associated with helium’s limited availability and escalating cost. (<a href="javascript:;">7</a>)</p></div><div><p>The flammability risk associated with hydrogen can be minimized through generation in a laboratory rather than obtaining it in compressed cylinders. Cylinders of hydrogen are typically produced through the process of steam-methane reforming. Hydrogen generators typically use electrolysis, where water is split into oxygen gas and hydrogen gas using an electric current. (<a href="javascript:;">8, 9</a>) This generation process is more sustainable compared to nonrenewable, fossil fuel-derived alternatives for hydrogen gas production. (<a href="javascript:;">8</a>) Gas transportation costs are eliminated with in-house generation since the gas is produced and subsequently consumed in real time. The flammability risk is lower with in-house generation due to the reduced storage in pressurized cylinders avoiding the accumulation of flammable gas. (<a href="javascript:;">9</a>) Additionally, hydrogen poses a higher risk of reactivity with analytes in the sample. While analyte conversion is not well documented in the literature with hydrogen carrier gas, chemical reactivity considerations dictate that there could be a possible risk of reduction of oxygen-containing groups or hydrogenation of double bonds in aromatic or vinyl groups. Especially for nontargeted analyses performed using GC×GC, monitoring analyte identification during the translation process can help characterize challenges for the annotation of components.</p></div><div><p>While tools exist for translating 1D GC methods to hydrogen carrier gas, no established approaches are available for GC×GC. (<a href="javascript:;">10−12</a>) One study compared key GC parameters for helium and hydrogen but did not provide translation guidance. (<a href="javascript:;">13</a>) Existing 1D translation approaches do not account for the additional programmable parameters of GC×GC separations. The modulator and fast secondary separation introduce zones with parameters not addressed in 1D GC studies converting helium to hydrogen carrier gas, leaving a gap in understanding how to optimize hydrogen carrier gas for GC×GC-MS separations.</p></div><div><p>The purpose of this work was to develop and evaluate an approach for converting cryogenically modulated GC×GC-MS systems from helium to hydrogen carrier gas. Chemical standards and a 1D translation tool were used to investigate parameters governing second dimension separations and chromatographic performance. The approach was subsequently tested on authentic fingermark samples as a forensic nontargeted profiling application.</p><h4><strong>Materials and Methods</strong></h4><h5><strong>Method Translation</strong></h5><p>Compound reactivity, resolution values for peak pairs, and other component metrics (e.g., peak area, S/N, tailing factor) were compared. The Pro EZGC Method Translator (Restek Corporation, Bellefonte, PA, USA) was implemented to provide three options: translate, efficiency, and speed. Standards were analyzed using helium and all three hydrogen method options. The helium method and its three respective hydrogen methods are shown below for the indoor air standard (<a href="javascript:;">Table 1</a>) and in the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/ancham/article-supplement/5214748/pdf/ac6c03350_si_001/">Supporting Information</a> for Grob and linear alkane standards (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/ancham/article-supplement/5214748/pdf/ac6c03350_si_001/">Tables S1–S2</a>). Resulting parameters from the tool were entered as whole values into ChromaTOF software 5.58. The first-dimension peak capacity, second-dimension peak capacity, and net peak capacity of the method were calculated using the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/83"><strong>Simply GC×GC software</strong></a> (LECO Corporation).</p><p>Analysis was performed on a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/37"><strong>Pegasus BT 4D GC×GC</strong></a> with time-of-flight MS (TOFMS) and dual-stage quad-jet cryogenic modulation (LECO Corporation, Saint Joseph, MI) using liquid injection. The syringe was rinsed with solvent and sample twice, and 1 μL of sample was injected, followed by five rinses. The inlet split ratio was 20:1, and the inlet temperature was 250 <span>°</span>C. Helium was of ultra high purity at 99.999% (Airgas, Radnor, PA, USA). Hydrogen was supplied at the specified flow rate and was generated by an NM Plus 600 Hydrogen Generator with a purity of 99.9996% (VICI DBS, Houston, TX) connected to the GC with stainless steel tubing, which is highly recommended for employing hydrogen carrier gas to reduce flammability risk.</p><p>Samples were analyzed by using <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/41"><strong>ChromaTOF</strong></a> version 5.58 (LECO Corporation). Spectra were searched in the NIST MS Library Version 3.0, 2023. Samples were processed with a minimum S/N of 400 and a stick count of 3. The minimum spectral similarity was 700, and the relative abundance threshold was 10. Putative identifications were compared between methods to check the reactivity of components.</p><h4><strong>Results and Discussion</strong></h4><h5><strong>Fingermark Residue Application</strong></h5><div><p>Seven analytes (fatty acids and esters) were used to form an artificial fingermark residue and assess peak shape and reproducibility. These compounds were selected due to their known variability in the peak shape. Although acids often exhibit tailing without derivatization, derivatization was not used to reflect nontargeted workflows.</p></div><div><p>The analytes (<a href="javascript:;">Figure 5</a>A–C) showed mixed trends for tailing factor, exhibiting both improved and worsened tailing across methods (<a href="javascript:;">Figure 5</a>). Increased peak tailing was found in the analysis of adulterated drugs in traditional Chinese medicines using hydrogen carrier gas compared to helium. (<a href="javascript:;">9</a>) Conversely, hydrogen produced the best peak shape among the three tested carrier gases in another study on permanent gas detection in human blood. (<a href="javascript:;">21</a>) The results of this study demonstrated comparable tailing factors relative to helium depending on analyte chemistry.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Anal_Chem_2026_Figure_5_Analytical_ion_current_AIC_contour_plots_of_fingermark_standards_run_using_hydrogen_carrier_gas_fac4cf91e8.jpg" alt="Anal. Chem. (2026): Figure 5. Analytical ion current (AIC) contour plots of fingermark standards run using hydrogen carrier gas: (A) H2 translate, (B) H2 efficiency, (C) H2 speed. D) Peak areas normalized to seven analytes (n = 9). 1) myristic acid, 2) octisalate, 3) palmitoleic acid, 4) palmitic acid, 5) oleic acid, 6) stearic acid, and 7) methyl nonadecanoate." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Anal_Chem_2026_Figure_5_Analytical_ion_current_AIC_contour_plots_of_fingermark_standards_run_using_hydrogen_carrier_gas_fac4cf91e8.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="794"></p><div><p>A key difference between the three hydrogen methods was the flow rate of the carrier gas. The helium flow rate of 1.00 mL/min was translated to 1.25 mL/min of gas flow for hydrogen. The speed method resulted in a flow of 2.50 mL/min, while the efficiency method resulted in a flow rate of 1.75 mL/min. The translate, efficiency, and speed method options had the same improved respective chromatographic run times as the standards reported above (<a href="javascript:;">Table 2</a>). Studies using GC-MS that investigated drug samples found that switching to hydrogen carrier gas from helium decreased run time by more than half, thereby benefiting throughput. (<a href="javascript:;">2, 9</a>) Decreased first-dimension retention times (faster elution) were expected with higher flow rates and provided similar results as above.</p></div><div><p>Significant differences were observed across methods for squalene, cholesterol, octisalate, myristic acid, palmitic acid, and methyl nonadecanoate using a one-way ANOVA test (<i>p</i> &lt; 0.05) (<a href="javascript:;">Figure 5</a>D). The translate method generally indicated a stronger response for many analytes and improved reproducibility for some analytes (<a href="javascript:;">Figure 5</a>D). These trends align with previous 1D GC-MS studies reporting comparable reproducibility between hydrogen and helium for pesticide analysis. (<a href="javascript:;">20</a>) The translate method was selected for the analysis of authentic fingermark samples.</p></div><div><p>Fingermark residue from five volunteers was analyzed using all three hydrogen methods to confirm method selection. The translate method showed the least peak tailing (<a href="javascript:;">Figure 6</a>A–C) and improved suitability for quantitative analysis. Several analytes exhibited significant first-dimension tailing with the efficiency method (<a href="javascript:;">Figure 6</a>B). The proposed modulation period avoided wraparound based on second-dimension retention times (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/ancham/article-supplement/5214748/pdf/ac6c03350_si_001/">Figure S6</a>). Wraparound peaks that do not reflect true first or second dimension retention times should be avoided in GC×GC analysis to avoid retention index challenges and second-dimension broadening. (<a href="javascript:;">22</a>) The modulation period was reduced by 50%, similar to the standards tested above (<a href="javascript:;">Table 3</a>, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/ancham/article-supplement/5214748/pdf/ac6c03350_si_001/">Figure S6</a>). The same metrics used for standards were also applied to authentic fingermark samples, yielding consistent results.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Anal_Chem_2026_Figure_6_Analytical_ion_current_AIC_contour_plots_of_fingermark_residue_analytes_6da2b89241.jpg" alt="Anal. Chem. (2026): Figure 6. Analytical ion current (AIC) contour plots of fingermark residue analytes using A) hydrogen translate, B) hydrogen efficiency, and C) hydrogen speed methods." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Anal_Chem_2026_Figure_6_Analytical_ion_current_AIC_contour_plots_of_fingermark_residue_analytes_6da2b89241.jpg 119w," sizes="100vw" width="1000" height="1318"></p></div></div><h4><strong>Conclusion</strong></h4><div><p>Helium has long been the standard carrier gas for GC-MS due to its inertness but has become increasingly expensive and challenging to acquire. Hydrogen is an attractive alternative carrier gas because of its lower viscosity and higher diffusivity relative to helium, allowing comparable chromatographic efficiency to be maintained over a wider range of linear velocities. Consequently, hydrogen can support faster separations with reduced loss of efficiency than helium at elevated flow rates. This characteristic has made hydrogen an increasingly viable carrier gas for GC and GC×GC applications. This study used analytical standards to develop a translation workflow from helium to three hydrogen methods using GC×GC-TOFMS with a cryogenic modulator and existing 1D GC translation tools. The translate option displayed the best peak shape and reproducibility over the speed or efficiency options. The run time was reduced by 60% using hydrogen compared to helium, and the modulation period could be reduced by 50%. This translation was performed with fingermark standards and authentic fingermark samples to verify the workflow. This study is the first to propose a retention time reduction ratio for translating a GC×GC-TOFMS helium method to hydrogen in cryogenically modulated systems.</p></div><div><p>Faster analyses using hydrogen carrier gas align with the green chemistry principle of energy efficiency. Shorter run times reduce electricity use per sample and increase overall throughput. The hydrogen method was comparable to its helium counterpart while reducing per-run energy consumption and nearly doubling hourly sample throughput. This provides clear advantages for routine, high-throughput laboratories. Hydrogen also offers potential sustainability benefits through on-site generation via electrolysis, in contrast to the nonrenewable sourcing of helium. The overall sustainability impact reflects a balance of factors including energy use, gas sourcing, safety considerations, and operational efficiencies. Hydrogen presents a compelling option when evaluated through this broader lens. The findings from this study were found to be replicated in real fingermark samples, making this applicable to other authentic samples analyzed using GC×GC-TOFMS.</p></div></div></div>

Hydrogen Carrier Gas Method Translation in Comprehensive Two-Dimensional Gas Chromatography for Sustainable Nontargeted Analysis

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

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New Food magazine

The Analytical Scientist

LECO

Spectroscopy & Separation Science

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


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

High Temp GCxGC of Light Crude Oil and High Boilers

<p><strong>Routine testing laboratories continue to strive for efficient and reliable sample throughput. Multiresidue pesticides is an example of this, where the generic extraction offered by QuEChERS has streamlined sample preparation. However, for comprehensive pesticide testing, both liquid and gas chromatography are typically required.</strong></p>
<h3><strong>Join us to learn about:</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li>Fit-for-purpose, comprehensive analysis of pesticides in a selection of foodstuffs, by LC- and GC-MS/MS</li>
<li>Key considerations and easy-to-use tools to maximise your method performance</li>
<li>Testing in compliance with the relevant guidelines of SANTE 11813/2017</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter: Kari Organtini, Ph.D. (Senior Scientist, Waters Corporation)</strong></p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Kari received her Ph.D. from Penn State studying the occurrence of dioxins and furans in fire debris. Since 2015 she has been a Senior Scientist at Waters focusing on food and environmental sample analysis.</p>
</blockquote>


Pixabay/Jerzy Górecki: Maximizing Mass Spectrometry Capabilities in Food Analyses for Multiresidues

Maximizing Mass Spectrometry Capabilities in Food Analyses for Multiresidues

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


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

Discovery OMICS and Progenesis QI for Food Authenticity Testing

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


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

Novel Techniques and New Advances in the Analyses of Fat species in Foods

<p>To obtain a univocal identification we need three independent pieces of analytical information. Flavor and fragrance components are usually separated by gas chromatography and identified with MS spectral comparison and linear retention indices (LRI). However, diastereomeric or positional isomers can present identical retention behavior and MS spectra, and can cause misidentification. The development of a unique condensed-phase FTIR provides the solution - a simple post-column split combines it with a GC-MS instrument, using the GC to separate the components and MS (TOF) and FTIR spectrometers to give structural elucidation in a single analysis.</p>
<h3><strong>Learning Objectives of Webinar</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li>When GC-MS in not enough: unique condensed phase GC-FTIR.</li>
<li>Importance of the linear retention index (LRI) in the identification procedure.</li>
<li>Comprehensive flavor and fragrance MS (TOF) / FTIR library: application for real essential oil and perfume samples.</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter: William W. Carson, PE, Chief Technology officer, DANI Instruments INC</strong></p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Developer of scientific and biotech separation, analysis and purification systems. He has led highly successful start-up through Fortune 500 groups developing and commercializing chromatography, membrane and hyphenated spectroscopy systems. Bill’s 30+ issued US Patents have generated over $1 Billion in sales. In 1986 he received the Millipore Prize for Innovation. In 2008 he was the winner of the R&amp;D 100 Award for the development of the DiscovIR LC a direct deposition, desolvation system which hyphenated HPLC to FTIR.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter: Margita Utczás, PhD, Product manager Libraries, Chromaleont srl</strong></p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Margita Utczás graduated in 2007 in Chemical engineering, then in 2009 in Biomedical engineering and in 2013 she received a PhD in Chemical Sciences at the Budapest University of Technology and Economics. She was a post doctoral fellow at the University of Messina and later worked at Chromaleont as a GC-MS specialist. She has just become the responsible of the analytical department of the Center of Sports Nutrition Science at the University of Physical Education of Budapest and currently she is an external consultant of her former workplace, Chromaleont. Her main research interests include: supercritical extraction and enzymatic resolution techniques, gas chromatographic techniques coupled to mass spectrometry and FTIR and their applications to the study of bioactive and flavor and fragrance compounds.</p>
</blockquote>


Pixabay/djedj: Univocal Identification of Flavor and Fragrance Compounds Using GC-MS (TOF) / Condensed Phase FTIR with an Extensive Library

GCMS webinars focusing on GC/MS - page 78