EU Regulation 396/2005: Pesticide Residue Testing and the Critical Role of QuEChERS Evaporation in Food Safety

<p><strong>Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezGCMS Library in the week of 4th May 2026? Check out new documents from the field of the gas phase, especially GC and GC/MS techniques!</strong></p><blockquote><p><span style="font-size:20px;">👉 </span><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library"><span style="font-size:20px;"><strong>SEARCH THE LARGEST REPOSITORY OF DOCUMENTS ABOUT GCMS AND RELATED TECHNIQUES</strong></span></a></p></blockquote><blockquote><p><strong>👉 Need info about different analytical techniques?</strong> Peek into <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/library"><strong>LabRulezLCMS</strong></a> or <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library"><strong>LabRulezICPMS</strong></a> libraries.</p></blockquote><p>This week we bring you application note by<strong> Shimadzu, </strong>presentation by <strong>MDCW / JEOL</strong> and technical note by <strong>Thermo Fisher Scientific!</strong></p><h3><strong>1. MDCW / JEOL: Flow-Modulated GCxGC-QMS Analysis Without Splitting Off the GC Flow</strong></h3><ul><li>Presentation</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/O_16_Jensen_11e29d5022.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><section><div><div><div><div><div><div><p>This presentation by Kirk Jensen (JEOL USA) explores the feasibility of performing <strong>flow-modulated comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography (GC×GC) coupled with quadrupole mass spectrometry (QMS)</strong> without splitting the GC flow, which is traditionally required to protect MS systems from high carrier gas flows. The core concept builds on GC×GC, where compounds are separated using a primary and secondary column connected via a modulator, significantly increasing separation power compared to one-dimensional GC. The presentation contrasts <strong>thermal modulation</strong> (offering sharper peaks and higher theoretical sensitivity but requiring cryogenic cooling) with <strong>flow modulation</strong>, which avoids cryogens, handles volatile analytes well, and is more flexible, but typically demands higher gas flows that standard MS systems cannot tolerate .</p><p>To address this limitation, the study utilizes the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=24&amp;search=JMS-Q1600GC"><strong>JEOL JMS-Q1600GC</strong></a><strong> UltraQuad quadrupole GC-MS system</strong>, which can accept unusually high carrier gas flows (up to ~20 mL/min), enabling direct coupling with a <strong>SepSolve INSIGHT flow modulator</strong> without splitting the effluent . The analytical setup includes dual GC columns (e.g., Zebron ZB-5MSplus for the first dimension and BPX50 for the second), high secondary flow rates (~25 mL/min), and electron ionization (EI) MS detection. Additional system components include optional FID detection, bleed line control, and ChromeSpace software for data processing . This configuration allows full analyte transfer into the MS, eliminating the need for flow splitting and potentially improving detection efficiency.</p><p>Experimental results demonstrate the applicability of this approach to complex mixtures, including a <strong>pesticide mixture containing over 200 compounds</strong> and real-world samples such as perfumes and fuels. The GC×GC-MS system produced detailed two-dimensional chromatograms with high spectral quality, enabling the correct identification of approximately 120 compounds despite relatively moderate spectral match factors . Comparisons at different flow rates (e.g., 25 vs. 50 mL/min) showed that spectral integrity and compound identification remain robust, indicating that higher flow operation does not significantly compromise MS performance.</p><p>In conclusion, the work demonstrates that <strong>flow-modulated GC×GC-QMS without flow splitting is feasible</strong>, provided that the MS system can tolerate high carrier gas flows. While further optimization is needed (e.g., column selection, inlet pressure, and separation conditions), the approach offers a practical alternative to thermal modulation by eliminating cryogens and simplifying operation. Future work will focus on improving sensitivity, optimizing separations, and exploring alternative carrier gases such as hydrogen to reduce costs and expand applicability</p></div></div></div></div></div></div></section><h3><strong>2. Shimadzu: Detailed Hydrocarbon Analysis by Nexis GC-2030 Using ASTM D6730</strong></h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_01_00863_en_eb633bc741.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><h5><strong>User Benefits</strong></h5><ul><li>Detailed compositional analysis of gasoline in accordance with ASTM D6730 is feasible using the Nexis GC-2030.&nbsp;</li><li>By employing PONAsolution, a PONA/DHA analysis software, laborious identification tasks can be reduced, and quantitation calculations and report generation can be performed automatically.</li></ul><p>ASTM D6730 specifies the analysis of hydrocarbons in gasoline and oxygenates such as ethanol, methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE), and ethyl tert-butyl ether (ETBE) over a boiling point range up to 225 ̊C. Identification and quantification of individual compounds in gasoline are critically important for refinery process control and product quality assurance. In this application news, we report compositional analysis of gasoline conforming to ASTM D6730 using the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=Nexis+GC-2030"><strong>Nexis GC-2030 gas chromatograph</strong></a>. Gasoline typically comprises over 100 hydrocarbons, making identification tasks highly complex; however, PONAsolution, a PONA/DHA analysissoftware,simplifies this process.</p><h4><strong>PONAsolution</strong></h4><p>PONAsolution Ver.6 provides retention index libraries for each relevant standard (ASTM D6730, D6729, D5134, D6733). Identification of n-alkanes automatically corrects the retention times of the remaining several hundred components, thus streamlining the identification process. When only a specific retention region requires adjustment, the two-point identification function is useful (Fig. 1). In the two-point identification procedure, reference and sample chromatograms are compared while assigning corresponding peaks. First, click on an identified component mark in the reference data (Fig. 1, a), then click the matching sample peak (Fig. 1, b). Repeat this for a second pair of peaks. The retention times of components between these two anchor points are then automatically corrected.</p><h4><strong>Conclusion</strong></h4><p>Compositional analysis of gasoline in accordance with ASTM D6730 was performed. The combination of SH PONA Tuning Column and SH-1 PONA main column enabled separation of compounds with closely spaced retention times. Moreover, use of PONAsolution software greatly simplifies complex identification tasks.</p><h3><strong>3. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Fiber optic probes add flexibility to Raman chemical analysis</strong></h3><ul><li>Technical note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/drx3_flex_tech_note_tn54708_bebb56b870.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><p>Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Raman Spectroscopy are non-destructive analytical techniques that rely on the interaction of electromagnetic radiation with molecular vibrations to provide information about the chemical composition and structure of a sample. Despite their similarities, there are some distinct differences between the two techniques. In principle, FTIR is based on the absorption of infrared radiation by molecules and measures changes in dipole moment during molecular vibrations. Raman spectroscopy, on the other hand, is based on the inelastic scattering of monochromatic light and measures changes in polarizability during molecular vibrations.&nbsp;</p><p>When applied to bulk chemical analysis, both FTIR and Raman spectroscopy can be used to analyze solids, liquids, and gases, but the nature of Raman spectroscopy lends some unique sampling advantages. Additionally, Raman often requires little to no sample preparation. Presented herein are application examples that highlight some of the sampling advantages of Raman spectroscopy. All the spectral data in this technical note were collected using a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/2238"><strong>Thermo Scientific™ DXR3 Flex Raman Spectrometer</strong></a> equipped with a fiber optic probe. (Fiber optics are readily available for Raman spectroscopy because of the use of visible and NIR light and do not require the exotic materials associated with FTIR fiber optics.) Preliminary tests for all samples were carried out using both 532 nm and 785 nm excitations, and it was determined that the 785 nm laser set gave an overall better balance between fluorescence and Raman scattering efficiency.</p><h4><strong>Summary&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>In this technical note, the analyses of a variety of samples by Raman spectroscopy are demonstrated. All samples were analyzed without sample preparation.&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Precise and localized analysis at the focal point of the Raman-exciting laser allows sampling through glass bottles, blister packaging and plastic containers, which eliminates possible cross contamination and analyst exposure to hazardous materials. The contributions from the packaging and containers depend on the type of container material, the container thickness, and the materials’ chemical compositional complexity, but these contributions can be readily subtracted out when needed.&nbsp;</li><li>Water is a weak Raman scatterer. Raman therefore has reduced water sensitivity, making it a preferred technique for aqueous solution analysis over FTIR. As demonstrated in the analysis of an energy drink, the Raman bands from water can be subtracted from the spectrum of the aqueous solution, leading to the identification of the components of the solution.&nbsp;</li><li>Raman spectroscopy is well suited for the analysis of inorganic materials, especially in identifying the crystal phases and polymorphs, as demonstrated by the analyses of minerals and pigments in a painting.&nbsp;</li><li>Fiber optic probes provide flexibility and ease of maneuverability. This is particularly advantageous when analyzing samples that are difficult to access or manipulate, such as large containers, geological samples and paintings</li></ul><p>The DXR3 Flex has multiple sampling options available. A properly configured fiber-optic probe is arguably the most versatile accessory for the analysis of bulk solids and liquids. The advantages, both from those inherent to Raman spectroscopy and those resulting from the use of fiber optic probe, provide opportunities for a wide variety of different applications when using the DXR3 Flex Raman Spectrometer.</p>

News from LabRulezGCMS Library - Week 19, 2026

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

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

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


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

3rd Annual Alcoholic Beverages Virtual Symposium - Beer

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

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

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

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

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

Novel Column Chemistry Raises Sensitivity and Data Accuracy

<h3><strong>Presentation Highlights:</strong></h3>
<h5><strong>How are Zebron™ GC Columns Made?</strong></h5>
<p><em>Jim Archer (Subsidiary Manager, Phenomenex)</em></p>
<h5><strong>Exploring Fast GC Solutions for Priority Pollutants like PAH and PCB Analysis in Food and Environmental Samples</strong></h5>
<p><em>Dr. Ramkumar Dhandapani (Global Product Manager, Gas Chromatography- Phenomenex)</em></p>
<h5><strong>Expanding the Analysis of Petroleum Samples Measured by GCxGC-HRTOFMS</strong></h5>
<p><em>Dr. John Dane (Senior MS Applications Chemist, JEOL USA, Inc.)</em></p>
<h5><strong>Pesticide Analysis in Cannabis and Hemp Matrices Using GC-MS/MS</strong></h5>
<p><em>Dr. Kirk Jensen (MS Applications Chemist, JEOL USA, Inc.)</em></p>
<h5><strong>Advances in Gas Chromatography for Separation of Challenging Analytes in the Pharmaceutical, Environmental, Cannabis, and Food Industries</strong></h5>
<p><em>Dr. Ramkumar Dhandapani (Global Product Manager, Gas Chromatography- Phenomenex)</em></p>
<h5><strong>Improved data quality in cannabis terpene profiling through GCxGC-TOFMS</strong></h5>
<p><em>Matthew Edwards (Business Development Manager, Americas , SepSolve Analytical)</em></p>
<h5><strong>An Introduction to Gas Chromatography-Vacuum Ultraviolet Spectroscopy</strong></h5>
<p><em>Alex Hodgson (Applications Manager, VUV Analytics)</em></p>
<h5><strong>A more efficient approach for the analysis of 1,4-Dioxane by solid phase micro extraction (SMPE)</strong></h5>
<p><em>Eduardo Morales (Supervisor - Organic Department, Weck Labs)</em></p>
<h5><strong>When to say good bye to a GC column?</strong></h5>
<p><em>Zachary Woodwards (Technical Specialist - Phenomenex)</em></p>


First Virtual GC Symposium

<p><strong>Sharing the latest in Agilent&#39;s latest technology developments and capabilities, new applications and some customer stories.</strong></p>
<p>Topics include safety, taste profiling, quality and general safety of raw materials and final products. </p>
<p>The meeting is a mix of live presentations and on-demand content you can join and view, wherever you are and whenever you can.</p>
<h5><strong>14:00 CEST Botanicals by headspace-SPME arrow-GCxGC-MSD/FID</strong></h5>
<p><em>Speaker: Andrew Ward (JSB, UK)</em></p>
<p><strong>Abstract:</strong> Gins are a neutral spirit flavoured with various botanicals. Hundreds of botanicals are used to flavour gin, most commonly juniper with other seeds, herbs, roots and fruits.  The large numbers of compounds contributing to the aroma and flavour of gins coupled with the fact that flavour- and fragrance-key components can be present at very low concentrations makes chemical profiling challenging.</p>
<p>GCxGC-MS is the ideal analytical technique to accommodate the complexity of the samples due to its enhanced peak capacity and sensitivity. Sample preparation and sample introduction introduce further challenges due to the complex nature of the samples. Headspace-SPME Arrow is a fully automated sample preparation technique with the ability to extract targeted key compounds present a low concentrations whilst avoiding matrix compounds present at high concentrations. The combination of HSSPME Arrow with GCxGC-MSD/FID is a very powerful tool in the comparative analysis of samples with complex matrices.</p>
<h5><strong>15:00 CEST Scotch Whisky profiling by accurate mass GCMS and differential analysis using Mass Profiler</strong></h5>
<p><em>Speaker: Praveen Kutty (Application Chemist, Agilent Technologies, UK)</em></p>
<p><strong>Abstract:</strong> Scotch whisky has been distilled since at least the 15th century from malted barley and water.  Two type of whisky are commonly found; blended and single malt, from a single distillery.</p>
<p>Single Malt Scotch can be classified by its region such as Highland, Speyside, Island, Lowland and the taste is influenced by the water, the grain, the fuel source to toast the grain and the barrel the spirit is aged in.  The presentation will demonstrate an untargeted analysis of variety of  whisky samples using Agilent 7250 GC/Q-TOF and differential analysis workflow using MPP to identify unique features of different whisky classes to determine if a blind sample can be identified by this approach.</p>


Agilent Technologies: Alcoholic Beverages Virtual Seminar 

Alcoholic Beverages Virtual Seminar - Distilled Spirits

<p><strong>Sharing the latest in Agilent&#39;s latest technology developments and capabilities, new applications and some customer stories.</strong></p>
<p>Topics include safety, taste profiling, quality and general safety of raw materials and final products. </p>
<p>The meeting is a mix of live presentations and on-demand content you can join and view, wherever you are and whenever you can.</p>
<h5><strong>An Overview of Beer Chemistry and the Analysis of Yeast Metabolites and Fermentation Byproducts by HS-GC-μECD and HS-SPME-GC-MS</strong></h5>
<p><em>Speaker: Carly Mondek (New Belgium, USA)</em></p>
<p><strong>Abstract:</strong> The brewing process and specific beer style produced hinges on four main traditional ingredients: water, malt, hops, and yeast. The amount, type, and method in which these raw materials are combined create unique and defined flavor attributes that contribute to the overall profile of a beer. To successfully produce a consistent quality product, analytical tests and analyses are implemented throughout each stage of the brewing process. Vicinal Diketones (VDKs) and yeast volatile metabolites, such as aldehydes, esters, and alcohols, are critical components in determining fermentation health, completion, and yeast performance, as well as establishing a flavor profile. Headspace Gas Chromatography paired with Micro-electron Capture Detection (HS-GC-μECD) was used to quantify the production of VDKs while Headspace Solid Phase Microextraction Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS) analysis measured selected volatile compounds throughout fermentation. Comparative analysis was performed to determine the effects of varying fermentation parameters in different beer styles on the concentration of yeast metabolites and fermentation byproducts.</p>
<h5><strong>An Undergraduate Research Project using HS-SPME-GC-MS: How Apple Variety, Yeast Strain, and Dry Hopping Shape the Aroma of Cider</strong></h5>
<p><em>Speaker: Callie Cole (Fort Lewis College, USA)</em></p>
<p><strong>Abstract:</strong> Headspace Solid Phase Microextraction Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS) Analysis has been previously employed as an efficient and robust method for the detection of trace analytes in a wide variety of foods and beverages. However, the many variables that influence the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released by cider beverages remain to be thoroughly examined. These include apple variety, yeast strain, and maturation techniques such as dry hopping. Undergraduate research students at Fort Lewis College have collaborated with local orchards and cideries in Montezuma County Colorado to prepare ciders controlling for and sequentially altering all of these variables to better understand their impact on final cider quality. Our HS-SPME-GC-MS analyses of these ciders reveal the specific esters, higher alcohols, and terpenes that comprise cider aroma.</p>
<h3><strong>On-demand presentation available from 25 May 2021</strong></h3>
<h5><strong>The Good and the Bad Influence of Polyfunctional Thiols in Beer Hops; Is it Grapefruit or a Cat Box?</strong></h5>
<p><em>Speaker: Matthew Curtis, Ph.D (Agilent GC/MS Applications Scientist, Santa Clara, CA, USA)</em></p>
<p><strong>Abstract:</strong> This presentation will discuss the analysis of beer hop fragrance using low energy electron ionization (EI) to identify low level polyfunctional thiols.  Thiols are normally perceived as an off odor or undesirable characteristic, but in the right concentration positive perceived aroma can be achieved.  Several beer hops were analyzed in two different forms: whole cone and pellets, to correlate any difference of the volatile compounds if the processing of the hop can change the composition.  The ability to ionize and detect these low-level compounds and how the increased degrees of confirmation can provide higher confidence in these identifications.  The low energy EI, high resolving power, and data analysis tools provided high confidence in the finding the compounds as well as identifications.</p>


GCMS webinars focusing on GC, GC/MS/MS, GC/TOF - page 1