🎤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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Is it time to throw out my column? Is there anything I can do to make my columns last longer?
These are just some of the questions we receive frequently in technical support and will address in today’s webinar. We will show you some tips and tricks on how to bring your column back to life as well as when it is time to get a new one. We will also discuss some preventative measures you can take to keep your column healthy such as implementing sample preparation.
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Presenter: Ryan Birney (Application Engineer, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
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In Ryan’s current role at Agilent, he provides application assistance and technical support for GC and Spectroscopy. He has been supporting Agilent in technical and sales roles for the past seven years. Ryan came to Agilent from industry, and has an BS degree in Biochemistry.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Alex Ucci (Application Engineer, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
In his current position at Agilent, Alex provides application assistance and technical support for sample preparation products as well as GC and LC consumables. Before he joined Agilent in 2014, Alex was a graduate student at the Pennsylvania State University researching the morphology and surface properties of aerosol particles using a wide variety of analytical techniques. He has an MS degree in chemistry.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Keep your GC Column Alive: Tips and Tricks for Extending Column Lifetime

Keep your GC Column Alive: Tips and Tricks for Extending Column Lifetime

Is it time to throw out my column?  Is there anything I can do to make my columns last longer?

GC Column: Tips and Tricks for Extending Column Lifetime

Two of the biggest challenges analysts face in the analytical lab are verifying product quality and identifying unknown contaminants. It is also common to look to reverse engineer competitor products. Infrared and Raman spectroscopies are ideal tools for these analyses, as they are non-destructive and non-invasive methods. FTIR and Raman are also very highly specific, as each molecule has its own corresponding fingerprint in the region of the electromagnetic spectrum where the analyses are performed. These analyses can also be conducted most readily even in the most stringent regulatory environment. Tiered user access and a locked data pool are only a few of the features of a fully integrated and compliant platform meeting FDA and other regulatory requirements.
During this webinar, we’ll cover the theory of FTIR and Raman spectroscopies and why they work so well for even the most challenging samples. The management of regulatory requirements in the modern lab will also be discussed.
Key Webinar Take-Aways:
<ul>
<li>IR and Raman offer quick and reliable identification of unknown compounds.</li>
<li>Regulatory requirements are easy managed with Bruker hardware and software platform.</li>
<li>Quality assurance of product and raw materials is reliably performed with Raman and IR.</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Dr. Tom Tague (Applications Manager, Bruker Corporation)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Dr. Tom Tague is the Applications Manager for Bruker Optics. He is also a member of the Visiting Advisory Committee of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and the Strategic Advisory Board of Amplified Sciences. Dr. Tague received his Ph.D. from the University of Utah in Physical Chemistry and his B.S. also in Chemistry from the University of Texas at San Antonio. He also conducted his postdoctoral research at the University of Virginia working with Professor Lester Andrews. He is a member of the American Chemical Society, Society for Applied Spectroscopy, American Physical Society, and the Optical Society of America. Dr. Tague is active in developing new methods and instrumentation with the goal of improving the sensitivity and detection limits of spectroscopy related applications. Tom has more than 90 publications and 5 Patents.
</blockquote>

Pixabay/Gerd Altmann: Maximizing the Power of Spectroscopy in Your Regulated Analytical Laboratory

Maximizing the Power of Spectroscopy in Your Regulated Analytical Laboratory

Infrared and Raman spectroscopy are ideal tools for verifying product quality, identifying unknown contaminants, and reverse engineering competitive products.

Power of Spectroscopy in Regulated Analytical Laboratory

A key aspect of durable data is staying current with technologies and underlying platforms. With each new release of Empower Software, you have the opportunity to explore new functionality that will support your operations, as you strive to increase productivity and efficiency while also reducing risk across your entire organization. Whether you are a system administrator, scientist, or in quality, the release of Empower 3.8.0 brings you a new set of tools to support your goals.
Key points of discussion will be:
<ul>
<li>Updates to System Suitability</li>
<li>New features to simplify work and streamline workflows</li>
<li>Compliance and quality enhancements</li>
</ul>
Join us for a live discussion as we explore Empower 3.8.0. As always, don’t forget to bring your questions for this exclusive opportunity to ask our experts anything about Empower Software
<blockquote>
Presenter: Neil Lander (Principal Product Manager, Waters Corporation)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Neil has worked for Waters Corporation since 1994 and has held a variety of positions including Technical Support Specialist, Technical Trainer, Manager Customer Education and currently, Principal Marketing Manager focusing on Informatics solutions. He provides internal support for Empower Chromatography Data System and is focused on developing laboratory software solutions that help organizations achieve their scientific and operational objectives. Prior to joining Waters, he was an analytical chemist where he gained experience in both the cosmetics and specialty chemical industries.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Sukhdev Bangar (Principal Product Manager – HPLC, Waters Corporation)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Sukhdev Bangar is a Principal Product Manager at Waters Corporation in Waters QA/QC Divison. He has over 15 years’ experience in the area of LC and LC-MS applications. Starting life in industry at GSK working with OTC treatments of Dermatological ailments, Inhalation drug testing at 3M, followed by DMPK at AstraZeneca. In 2005 he joined Waters in the Global MS product management group working with R&amp;D to evaluate new MS hardware and software features from an end user perspective. In 2010 he joined the Americas MS demo lab and after a few years became the Team Leader for the Pharma group, leading the efforts in Quan/Qual application Demo’s. Since 2019 Sukhdev has held his current role working out of Waters HQ. His responsibilities include Waters next generation HPLC product line.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Lauren Wood (Empower Customer Success Manager, Waters Corporation)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Lauren is the Empower Customer Success Manager and is an Empower subject matter expert (SME). Lauren’s concentration is customer success through focus on the support process and defect resolution process for issues pertaining to Empower and/or third-party instrument drivers. Lauren liaises between customers and Marketing, Support, Engineering and CXKM to understand impact and to work with internal teams to prioritize, document, communicate, and resolve software issues. Lauren’s previous roles at Waters during her 30-year tenure have included phone support in Technical Service, Empower training in Customer Education, and Empower product management.
</blockquote>

Waters Corporation: Empower Tips Special Edition: Ask Me Anything About Our Newest Empower Release - Empower 3.8.0

Empower Tips Special Edition: Ask Me Anything About Our Newest Empower Release - Empower 3.8.0

Join us for a live discussion as we explore Empower 3.8.0. As always, don’t forget to bring your questions about Empower Software.

Waters Empower Tips: Newest Release - Empower 3.8.0

Recurring helium shortages and increased prices boost the demand for performing GC/MS analysis with alternative carrier gasses. While helium is the best carrier gas for GC/MS, hydrogen is the second-best alternative. However, unlike helium, hydrogen is not an inert gas. Hence, it can cause peak tailing, distorted ion ratios in the mass spectrum, poor library matching, and sensitivity loss.
Pesticides analysis can be challenging even with helium carrier gas given their diverse and labile nature. This presentation discusses the key strategies for analyzing pesticides with hydrogen carrier gas while delivering high-quality uncompromised results. To achieve the required detection limits with hydrogen carrier gas, the injection conditions were optimized. Further, the EI source optimized for use with hydrogen carrier gas allowed for preventing undesirable in-source reactions. Finally, method translation, and retention time locking techniques allowed the use of the MRM transitions and retention times from the database created with helium carrier gas. 
<h5>Key Learning Objectives:</h5>
<ul>
<li>Optimization of GC conditions essential when using hydrogen carrier gas</li>
<li>Appropriate MS hardware selection, including the EI source optimized for use with hydrogen carrier gas</li>
<li>Method translation technique for maintaining the same retention times as the original method with helium carrier gas or to scale the analysis speed with accurate retention time prediction</li>
</ul>
<h5>Who Should Attend:</h5>
<ul>
<li>Laboratory Managers </li>
<li>Chromatographers </li>
<li>Product Developers</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Anastasia Andrianova (GC/MS Applications Scientist, Agilent Technologies)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Melissa O&#39;Meara (Forensic Science Consultant, C&amp;EN Media Group)
</blockquote>

C&EN: Achieving the Pesticide MRLs with GC/MS/MS Using Hydrogen Carrier Gas

Achieving the Pesticide MRLs with GC/MS/MS Using Hydrogen Carrier Gas

This presentation discusses the key strategies for analyzing pesticides with hydrogen carrier gas while delivering high-quality uncompromised results.

Pesticide MRLs with GC/MS/MS Using Hydrogen Carrier Gas

Complement your Empower CDS with sample management, equipment inventory and data archiving.
<ul>
<li>How isolated is your Empower CDS network?</li>
<li>Do you manually transcribe sample information?</li>
<li>Do maintain paper logbooks for your system usage?</li>
<li>Do you deal with the life of your data after processing and reporting?</li>
</ul>

Waters Corporation: CDS and LMS integrated to single product

CDS and LMS integrated to single product

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

Free webinar. We will show you how to work with sequences in Clarity Chromatography Software and answer your questions.
We all know the importance of getting work done quickly and efficiently, but sometimes we struggle.
If you&#39;re a user of Clarity Chromatography Software, we&#39;ve got some great news for you!
Our upcoming FREE WEBINAR will show you how to use sequences smartly. We&#39;ll cover everything from setting up sequences to optimizing them for maximum efficiency.
This is a great opportunity to learn about the software&#39;s advanced capabilities and gain valuable insights into how you can improve your workflows.
Don&#39;t miss this chance to improve your skills and knowledge of Clarity Chromatography Software.

DataApex: Ask the Expert: Effective work with sequences in Clarity

Ask the Expert: Effective work with sequences in Clarity

Free webinar. We will show you how to work with sequences in Clarity Chromatography Software and answer your questions.

No company can afford releasing out-of-spec products these days, so it is of utmost importance to prevent this from happening. Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) can be a fast and simple solution for manufacturers to make sure the quality of their products meets the defined specifications: Take a sample from any stage in your manufacturing process, and NIRS will give you an accurate, reproducible result for multiple physical and chemical parameters within 30 seconds. As NIRS does not require either sample preparation or any chemicals or solvents, it can be used even by non-chemists.
In our educational webinar, Dave van Staveren and Wim Guns from Metrohm International Headquarters explain how NIRS works. They present several application examples from the chemical, petrochemical, polymer, pharmaceutical, and food &amp; beverage industries illustrating the advantages of this technology for fast and reliable QC testing. 
In the second part of their webinar, they will demonstrate how this technology is implemented focusing on the potential of NIRS to help manufacturing companies save time and reduce the costs of their routine analytics.
<h5>Key learnings of this webinar:</h5>
<ul>
<li>Current trends in QA and QC in the manufacturing industries</li>
<li>The principles of NIRS - how does this technology work?</li>
<li>Where NIRS can help your quality control become more efficient</li>
<li>Applications from various industries exemplifying possible time and cost savings</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Wim Guns (International Sales Support, Metrohm International Headquarters)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Wim Guns is based in The Netherlands and has a degree in chemical engineering. After 20 years of involvement with NIRS for FOSS, Wim joined the Metrohm organization in 2013. Wim is responsible for NIRS sales support and second line support for all Metrohm affiliates and distributors.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Dr. Dave van Staveren (Head of Competence Center Spectroscopy, Metrohm International Headquarters)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Dr. Dave van Staveren completed his university graduate work in the area of bio-inorganic chemistry with a strong focus on various spectroscopic methods. He has held several positions in Product Management and has been in charge of NIR Product Management and Application Development at Metrohm since 2016.
</blockquote>

Metrohm: How Near-Infrared Spectroscopy can make your QA/QC faster and reduce costs

How Near-Infrared Spectroscopy can make your QA/QC faster and reduce costs

We will explain how NIRS works, present several application examples and demonstrate how this technology is implemented to help manufacturing companies.

Near-Infrared Spectroscopy for faster QA/QC and reduce costs

There is a continued need across forensic science disciplines for the development of rapid screening methods that produce high-quality, specific results to address case backlogs and lengthy case analysis protocols. The need for new technologies, however, must be balanced with the time and manpower required to implement and validate such new techniques. One way to lower the barriers of time and manpower is to rethink existing methodologies or implement techniques that are similar to existing technologies, thereby reducing the time required for familiarization.
For forensic chemistry disciplines, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) is a major workhorse, but analyses require tens of minutes per sample. Using a GC-MS system capable of heating at much faster rates than conventional systems could provide a rapid screening approach with low barriers for implementation. 
This webinar will provide attendees with an overview into some of the technological advances that have enabled rapid (≈1 min) GC-MS analysis and discuss the development of rapid GC-MS methods for two forensic chemistry applications: seized drug analysis and ignitable liquid analysis. For both applications, information on method optimization, method validation, sampling, and data interpretation will be provided. Important lessons that were learned in the investigation of these two applications will also be conveyed.
This webinar will also demonstrate how rapid GC-MS can be incorporated into existing instrumentation and discuss ongoing research efforts into alternative sample introduction techniques, such as solid-phase microextraction (SPME).
<blockquote>
Presenter: Dr. Edward Sisco (Research Chemist, NIST)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Edward Sisco is a research chemist at NIST whose focus is on the development of tools and methodologies to address forensic chemistry measurement challenges. His research in the field of seized drugs includes development of new methods and tools, rethinking approaches to traditional drug analysis, visualizing and measuring drug background and particulate spread, and assisting practicing laboratories with implementation of new technology.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Briana Capistran (Research Chemist, NIST)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Briana Capistran is a research chemist in the Surface and Trace Chemical Analysis Group at NIST. Her research focuses on the application of new and existing analytical techniques for forensic analysis. Her current work focuses on the development and implementation of screening methods for forensic applications, specifically in the areas of fire debris analysis and seized drug analysis.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Lakshmi Krishnan (Product Manager, GC/MSD and QuickProbe, Agilent Technologies)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Lakshmi Krishnan is the GCMS Single Quadrupole Product Manager in the Mass Spectrometry division of Agilent Technologies, located in Santa Clara, California. Lakshmi obtained her M.S. in Biotechnology with a focus on Business Administration, from San Jose State University. At Agilent, she works on new product introductions, marketing and commercialization of GC/MSD platforms.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Dr. Birgit Foltas (Editor Wiley Analytical Science, Wiley)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Dr. Birgit Foltas is the editor-in-chief of Imaging &amp; Microscopy. She has worked at Wiley for more than 20 years as a scientific editor. She studied biology at the Technical University of Darmstadt, Germany, and received her Ph.D. in cellular immunology from the German Cancer Research Center in Heidelberg, Germany.
</blockquote>

Wiley Analytical Science: Forensic Applications of Rapid GC-MS: Seized Drug and Ignitable Liquid Screening

Forensic Applications of Rapid GC-MS: Seized Drug and Ignitable Liquid Screening

This webinar will provide attendees with an overview into some of the technological advances that have enabled rapid (≈1 min) GC-MS analysis.

Forensic Applications of Rapid GC-MS: Drug and Liquid

The easy-to-use 8700 LDIR has undergone a performance enhancements with the addition of automated on-filter analysis. This improvement will be described in this webinar and the results of analyses will be presented.
<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: New LDIR Enhancements to Streamline Microplastics Analysis

New LDIR Enhancements to Streamline Microplastics Analysis

The easy-to-use 8700 LDIR has undergone a performance enhancements with the addition of automated on-filter analysis.

Contamination is one of the most common causes of deteriorated product quality and equipment performance in industrial environment. FTIR has been proven to be a valuable tool to characterize the contamination rapidly and economically.
Agilent’s compact and portable FTIR spectrometers provide a complete product portfolio with versatile sampling interfaces and spectral process capabilities, which can offer great convenience, stability and high-throughput solution to the contamination-related applications.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Yanqia Wang, PhD (Application Engineer, Molecular Spectroscopy, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Dr. Yanqia Wang started working for Agilent Technologies Inc. as a FTIR application Engineer in 2013, providing pre-&amp;post-sale application support. The products he covers from Bench-top FTIR microscopes to various Mobile FTIR spectrometers. Dr. Wang received his PhD of analytical chemistry from Duke University in 2004, doing dynamic IR spectroscopy research. Then he joined Fitzpatrick Center for Photonics at Duke University, doing Tissue Raman spectrometer instrumentation. Since 2007, Dr. Wang worked for Avery Dennison Corp. as a spectroscopist, providing molecular analytical support to the research &amp; development.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Concerned of Contamination and Poor Product Quality? Learn how Convenient and Friendly FTIR is for these common issues

Concerned of Contamination and Poor Product Quality? Learn how Convenient and Friendly FTIR is for these common issues

FTIR has been proven to be a valuable tool to characterize the contamination rapidly and economically.