<p><strong>Concerns about injecting water into a GC system largely come from older column designs, where stationary phases were simply coated and could be affected by water exposure. Modern capillary columns are typically chemically bonded, which improves resistance to water injections and even supports water rinsing in many cases.</strong></p><p>One practical exception involves <strong>very polar polyethylene glycol </strong>(PEG / “wax”) phases. Because these phases strongly interact with water, repeated aqueous injections can allow water to accumulate and gradually shift selectivity. For many PEG-based columns, minimizing frequent water injections helps maintain consistent performance.</p><p>A separate—and often more important—issue is water’s<strong> very large vapor expansion in a hot inlet</strong>. If the vapor volume exceeds the inlet liner capacity, backflash can occur, sending sample vapor into cooler, unheated zones and increasing the risk of carryover. Using smaller injection volumes helps reduce this risk.</p><p>In workflows where water is the<strong> sample matrix </strong>(for example, volatile analysis), analytes may elute at relatively low oven temperatures while water and higher-boiling residues can linger. Periodic bake-off (high-temperature cleanup steps) is commonly used to restore column performance when water remains on the phase at low temperatures.</p><p>In summary, the biggest hesitation about water injections is rooted in legacy, coated column stories. With chemically bonded phases, the key considerations tend to be inlet expansion/backflash behavior, water retention on very polar phases, and routine maintenance practices like bake-out.</p><blockquote><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/1571"><strong>Zebron ZB-WAX</strong><i><strong>PLUS</strong></i><strong> GC Columns</strong></a></h4><ul><li>100% aqueous stable, excellent for aqueous samples; bonded and solvent rinseable</li><li>Extremely inert for acidic compounds</li><li>Enhanced selectivity for low boiling solvents; high retention of alcohols and chlorinated solvents</li><li>Increased efficiency at 20&nbsp;°C</li></ul></blockquote>

Water in GC: Safe or Risky? Here’s What You Need to Know

<p><strong>Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezGCMS Library in the week of 11th 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>poster by <strong>MDCW / William &amp; Mary</strong> and brochure by <strong>Thermo Fisher Scientific!</strong></p><h3><strong>1. MDCW / William &amp; Mary: Optimizing Solvent Selection and Data Reduction Workflows for GC×GC Fire Debris Analysis</strong></h3><ul><li>Poster</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/P_14_O_Brien_63304669ee.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><section><div><div><div><div><div><div><h5><strong>What are Ignitable Liquid Residues (ILRs)?&nbsp;</strong></h5><ul><li>Chemical remains of ignitable liquids (IL) (e.g., gasoline or diesel) that did not fully burn during a fire&nbsp;</li><li>ILRs are usually petroleum-based products and contain complex mixtures of volatile chemicals, like hydrocarbons&nbsp;</li></ul><h5><strong>Forensic Analysis of ILRs&nbsp;</strong></h5><ul><li>Collection of porous materials like wood from the fire’s point of origin&nbsp;</li><li>Must be stored in airtight containers to prevent volatile ILR from evaporation&nbsp;</li><li>Passive headspace extraction onto activate charcoal strips (ACS) is used to extract ILRs from debris, and dichloromethane (DCM) is used to extracts ILRs from charcoal strips&nbsp;</li><li>Emerging is the use of two-dimensional gas chromatography – time of fight - mass spectrometry (GC×GC-TOFMS), with higher separation and resolution</li><li>Resulting chromatograms presents a pattern of peaks which can be used to identified specific type of accelerant used&nbsp;</li></ul><h5><strong>Chemometrics&nbsp;</strong></h5><ul><li>The discipline that focuses on the application of statistical and mathematical methods to analyze chemical data and extract meaningful information (Bovens, 2019)&nbsp;</li><li>Helps make sense of large datasets from analytical instruments, find pattens, and classify samples</li></ul><h4><strong>Methods</strong></h4><h5><strong>Analytical Instrumentation&nbsp;</strong></h5><ul><li>LECO corporation <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/1097"><strong>BTX4D GC×GC-TOFMS</strong></a> with <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/1289"><strong>Paradigm Shift reverse fill-flush (RFF) flow modulator</strong></a></li></ul><h5><strong>Software&nbsp;</strong></h5><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/1873"><strong>ChromaTOF Sync 2D</strong></a> (LECO corporation)&nbsp;</li><li>R Statistical Software</li></ul><h4><strong>Conclusions</strong></h4><p>This study demonstrated that the use of chemometrics can be integrated into a data processing workflow to better understand data sets and create a streamlined process. Using UMAP, patterns identified that were not originally seen in PCA lead to the preferred solvents of ILR extraction being hexane and methanol. Since UMAP allowed visualization of local and global structures, groupings of gasoline samples allowed for better analysis of solvent effect.</p><h3><strong>2. Shimadzu: Multiresidue Pesticides Analysis in Solvent Extract of Annatto (Natural Color Additive) Using </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=GCMS-TQ8050+NX"><strong>GCMSTQ8050 NX</strong></a></h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_06_sip_gc_043_en_95576a9ac4.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><h5><strong>User Benefits</strong></h5><ul><li>&nbsp;Accurate and reproducible trace level quantitation of pesticides in highly pigmented complex matrix using Ultra-fast GCMSTQ8050 NX and QuEChERS extraction</li><li>Single-laboratory partial validated method for LOQ determination meeting regulatory guidelines</li><li>Ease of instrumental method optimization using GCMS Smart Pesticides Database Ver.2 from Shimadzu Corporation</li></ul><p>Annatto is an orange-red condiment and food colorant derived from the seeds of the achiote tree (Bixa Orellana) (Fig. 1). It is often used to impart a yellow to red-orange color to foods, but sometimes also for its flavor and aroma. Similar effects can be obtained by extracting some of the color and flavor principles from the seeds, which are then added to the food. Annatto and its extracts are now widely used in an artisanal or industrial scale as a coloring agent in many processed food products, such as cheeses, butter, baked goods, potatoes, snack foods, breakfast cereals, smoked fish etc. In these uses, Annatto is a natural alternative to synthetic food coloring compounds.&nbsp;</p><p>Owing to its large culinary uses and other diverse applications, use of chemical pesticides for its production in large quantities is imperative. Dye extraction process may result in concentration of pesticides and in turn contribute to adverse impact on human health when incorporated in various preparations. Hence quantitation of residual pesticides in Annatto extract becomes very important. As the oleoresin is a complex matrix, it is required to develop a rugged, sensitive and efficient method for extraction of residual pesticide and its analysis.&nbsp;</p><p>This study reports a highly sensitive method for simultaneous quantification of multiple pesticides in highly pigmented complex matrix of Annatto using modified QuEChERS[1] with triple quadrupole gas chromatography (GC-MS/MS) system.</p><h4><strong>Materials and Methods</strong></h4><p>For this study, customized reference standard mixture of most commonly observed pesticides in Annatto seeds was procured from Restek Corporation.</p><p>The calibration standards were analyzed from 0.5 to 1000 μg/L. Linearity was plotted by external standard method and using weighted regression of 1/C2. Sample was spiked at 3 levels i.e., 10, 25 and 100 μg/kg. Recovery samples were prepared in 6 replicates at each level. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=GCMS-TQ8050+NX"><strong>GCMS-TQ8050 NX</strong></a> (Fig. 2), manufactured by Shimadzu Corporation Japan, was used for quantitation. LabSolutions InsightTM was used for data processing, which helped in evaluating validation parameters with ease.</p><h4><strong>Conclusion</strong></h4><p>This study shows that the modified QuEChERS method combined with GC-MS/MS system is a reliable and efficient tool to quantify residual pesticides in Annatto extract sample. Although Annatto extract is a highly pigmented complex matrix, the modified QuEChERS method significantly reduces interference. Also, extremely sensitive Shimadzu GC-MS/MS allows trace level detection even after multifold dilution of sample. This helps in reducing contamination and enhancing ruggednessresulting in reproducible detection of analytes.</p><h3><strong>3. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Sentinel PRO 710 environmental mass spectrometer Precise real time gas analyzer for toxic volatile organic compounds</strong></h3><ul><li>Product specification</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/sentinel_pro_710_spec_sheet_en_886523bfc2.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><p>The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=3&amp;search=Sentinel+PRO"><strong>Thermo Scientific™ Sentinel PRO Environmental Mass Spectrometer </strong></a>is a highly reliable and versatile gas analyzer ideal for reporting the presence of toxic VOCs from fugitive emissions in industrial settings to ensure worker safety.</p><h4><strong>Fugitive emissions of toxic VOCs&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>Wherever there is potential danger for fugitive emissions of toxic organic vapors from a chemical production unit, regulating authorities often require plants to keep records of ambient vapor concentrations to protect workers from exposure. Various forms of capture include evacuated vessels, organic vapor monitors, or purge and trap devices, all of which require samples to be sent for analysis. Alternatively, electrochemical sensors or open path FT-IR spectroscopy can provide more immediate results. However, none of these technologies are capable of providing the spatial and temporal resolution required to qualify as actionable information.&nbsp;</p><h4><strong>Analytical platform&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>The primary feature of the Sentinel PRO mass spectrometer is the magnetic sector analyzer. This field-proven technology has demonstrated the strongest performance for industrial on-line gas analysis. Magnetic sector technology offers precision, accuracy, long intervals between calibrations. The new touchscreen interface further enhances usability, providing intuitive in-person operation, simplified maintenance, and real-time data viewing. Multi-role user permissions ensure security and control allowing operators to customize settings based on their specific needs.&nbsp;</p><h4><strong>Comprehensive data collection&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>With speed and precision, the Sentinel PRO analyzer monitors all the critical areas for short-term exposure levels of toxic VOCs, and also provides accurate and time-weighted average exposure data. With a high number of sample points available, many can be located close to potential leak points such as valve stems, etc., enabling leak detection and correction before any toxic hazard is created.&nbsp;</p><h4><strong>Membrane inlet mass spectrometry&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>The analyzer is fitted with a membrane inlet to reduce the pressure of the sample air from atmospheric to the working pressure of the enclosed ion source. This allows a method of sample introduction that greatly enhances the system’s sensitivity to VOCs. Since the membrane is more permeable to VOCs than to major air gases, it provides enrichment by several orders of magnitude, enabling detection as low as 5 ppb (species dependent) permits easy membrane replacement during annual routine maintenance to minimize downtime and increase productivity.</p></div></div></div></div></div></div></section>

News from LabRulezGCMS Library - Week 20, 2026

<p><strong>🎤Lindsay Repka&nbsp;</strong></p><p><strong>Lindsay Repka is a chemistry professor at Middlebury College whose research explores photoredox chemistry, catalyst stability, and visible-light-driven transformations. Her lab emphasizes both mechanistic insight and hands-on student training in advanced analytical instrumentation.</strong></p><p>In this episode of Concentrating on Chromatography, we sit down with Lindsay Repka to discuss how LC-MS and GC-MS transformed her lab’s approach to photoredox chemistry.</p><p>What began as a project to develop a visible-light photocrosslinking handle unexpectedly led to a major discovery: the solvent (DMF) was reacting with the photocatalyst itself. Using high-resolution LC-MS, Lindsay’s team observed multiple solvent adducts forming — sometimes with complete catalyst consumption. That discovery reshaped their research direction.</p><p>This episode is a rare deep dive into both LC-MS and GC-MS within the same research project, showing how chromatography-driven insight can turn unexpected degradation into productive new reactivity.</p><p><strong>If you work in:</strong></p><ul><li>Photoredox chemistry</li><li>Reaction optimization</li><li>Mass spectrometry method development</li><li>Catalyst screening</li><li>Academic synthetic chemistry</li></ul><p>…this conversation will resonate.</p><h4><strong>Key Topics Covered</strong></h4><ul><li>Photocatalyst stability in DMF, DCE, and MeCN</li><li>Demethylation under mild visible-light conditions</li><li>High-resolution Q-TOF LC-MS quantitation</li><li>Internal standard methodology in GC-MS</li><li>Signal-to-noise improvement using extracted ion chromatograms</li><li>Reaction reproducibility and quality control strategy</li></ul><h3><strong>Video Transcription</strong></h3><p>In this interview, Lindsay Repka discusses the role of photoredox chemistry in method development, photocrosslinking, solvent activation, catalyst stability, and the use of LC-MS and GC-MS to understand reaction pathways.</p><h4><strong>What is photoredox chemistry?</strong></h4><p>Photoredox chemistry uses light to activate a photocatalyst, which can either donate or accept an electron from a substrate. This generates radical species that can undergo new types of reactivity.</p><p>Repka explains that one of the key advantages of photoredox chemistry is its ability to operate under mild conditions, often using visible light. This makes it attractive for sensitive molecules and biological systems, including potential applications in drug release, live-cell chemistry, and drug development.</p><h4><strong>Photocrosslinking and drug-target interactions</strong></h4><p>Repka’s group initially aimed to develop visible-light photocrosslinking methods to study drug interactions with biological targets. Photocrosslinking can covalently link a drug to its target, making it easier to identify the biological target of a compound.</p><p>Traditional photocrosslinking often uses UV light, but visible light offers milder and more biologically compatible conditions.</p><h4><strong>From photocrosslinking to solvent activation</strong></h4><p>The project shifted direction when the desired photocrosslinking reactions gave very low yields. Instead of reacting with amino acids as intended, the radical intermediate mainly reacted with itself.</p><p>The team explored different solvents to stabilize the radical, but found that some solvents, such as DMF, were not inert. Instead, the solvent reacted with the photocatalyst or radical species, revealing unexpected solvent activation chemistry.</p><h4><strong>Why LC-MS was critical</strong></h4><p>LC-MS became essential because the reaction mixtures were too complex and low-yielding for NMR or GC-MS. High-resolution LC-MS allowed the team to detect minor products, identify photocatalyst modifications, and observe solvent addition products with high confidence.</p><p>Repka emphasizes that LC-MS was both a qualitative and quantitative tool. It was used quantitatively to measure how much photocatalyst remained after light exposure, and qualitatively to identify degradation products and new reactivity pathways.</p><h4><strong>Photocatalyst stability workflow</strong></h4><p>The team developed a systematic workflow to evaluate photocatalyst stability under light exposure. Because catalyst degradation was time-sensitive, reproducibility required strict control of experimental conditions.</p><p>Key steps included using a glove box, commercial deoxygenated solvents, accurate weighing on a microbalance, controlled light exposure in a photoreactor, and temperature control with a chiller. These precautions helped reduce day-to-day variability and enabled reproducible measurements of catalyst remaining.</p><h4><strong>Quantifying catalyst remaining by LC-MS</strong></h4><p>Calibration curves were prepared using pure photocatalyst solutions and LC-MS ion areas. The team worked in the nanomolar range to maintain linearity.</p><p>Instead of relying only on total ion chromatograms, they used extracted ion chromatograms (EICs) to improve signal-to-noise for the photocatalyst signal. Baseline subtraction was also applied to reduce noise and improve quantitation at low concentrations.</p><p>Calibration curves and quality control samples were prepared and measured on the same day as the reaction samples, because LC-MS signal intensity can vary significantly from day to day.</p><h4><strong>Why GC-MS was used later</strong></h4><p>For demethylation studies, the group moved to GC-MS because the substrates and products were small and volatile enough for gas chromatography. GC-MS was better suited for rapidly screening many reaction conditions, including different photocatalysts, solvents, and oxidants.</p><p>Instead of generating full calibration curves for every experiment, the team used an internal standard to streamline analysis and determine percent conversion based on relative response factors.</p><h4><strong>Practical lessons from the project</strong></h4><p>Repka highlights the importance of careful sample preparation, especially when working with very small quantities of photocatalysts. A high-quality microbalance, stable granite platform, antistatic tools, and aluminum weigh boats improved weighing accuracy and reproducibility.</p><p>She also argues that mass spectrometry should be a standard part of photoredox method development because it can reveal minor products, support reaction optimization, and provide insights that may be difficult or impossible to obtain by NMR alone.</p><h4><strong>Final perspective</strong></h4><p>Beyond the chemistry, Repka emphasizes the importance of student training and mentoring. For her, research is not only about discovering new reactivity but also about giving students practical experience, helping them develop independence, and preparing them for future scientific careers.</p><blockquote><p><strong>This text has been automatically transcribed from a video presentation using AI technology. It may contain inaccuracies and is not guaranteed to be 100% correct.</strong></p></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>

Using LC-MS & GC-MS to Decode Photoredox Catalyst Stability

Article

Product

Application

Academy

Video

Scientists

Interview

Poster

Everything from the world of analytical chemistry in one place. We connect people in solving their problems. At Labrulez you will find all the necessary information easily, quickly and clearly. Stop searching and start finding.

LabRulez

Phenomenex is a global technology leader committed to developing novel analytical chemistry solutions that solve the separation and purification challenges of researchers in industrial, government and academic laboratories.

Phenomenex

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

Organomation

Separation Science

Merck

Agilent Technologies

Technology Networks

Restek Corporation

Peak Scientific

<p><strong>The second in this series, brought to you by our GC gas product expert, Dr. Ed Connor, will review Precision SL as a safe source of hydrogen and will cover all safety aspects of the Precision SL in your lab.</strong></p>
<p>The webinar will be followed by a live Q&amp;A session for any questions you may have about Precision SL or lab gas generators in general.</p>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter: Dr. Ed Connor (Product Manager, Peak Scientific)</strong></p>
</blockquote>


Precision SL for GC-FID (POSTPONED)

Join us for a series of webinars on the latest technology for GC-FID gas supply, the Precision SL hydrogen gas generator from PEAK Scientific.

Precision SL for GC-FID

<p><strong>Helium shortages mean that laboratories will soon need a sustainable alternative to this non-renewable resource. Also, the struggle to maintain a consistent helium supply is causing a drop in productivity in many labs and the cost of helium continues to rise.</strong></p>
<p>Progressing to a more sustainable laboratory is possible by switching to a multi-gas system. Switching to hydrogen, for example, protects laboratories against future helium shortages and is more sustainable because high-purity hydrogen can be generated from water. Hydrogen offers faster chromatographic separations, shorter thermal desorption methods and lower-temperature separations than helium, drastically increasing laboratory throughput, extending consumables’ lifetimes and extending maintenance intervals. Hydrogen also produces the same high-quality data as helium but at a greatly reduced cost.</p>
<h3><strong>By attending the presentation you’ll learn about:</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li>The current situation with the global supply of helium</li>
<li>The benefits of using hydrogen as a carrier gas</li>
<li>Configuring thermal desorption–gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analytical instrumentation to work safely with hydrogen as a carrier gas as well as with helium and nitrogen</li>
<li>The pros and cons of different hydrogen sources (bulk supply vs gas generator)</li>
<li>Common pitfalls when switching carrier gas and how to avoid them</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter: Ed Connor</strong></p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>joined PEAK Scientific in February 2013 as a GC product specialist and now functions as a Product Manager. He has been working on a number of collaborative projects with PEAK customers and the major LC-MS and GC instrument manufacturers worldwide. The main focus of these collaborations has been to look at conversion from helium to hydrogen or nitrogen carrier gas for GC applications but he has also worked on ELSD nitrogen gas solutions and nitrogen generators for LC-MS instruments.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter: Jessica Berger</strong></p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>graduated from the University of Glamorgan (now University of South Wales) with a BSc. degree in Chemistry. She joined Markes International in 2012 as an Inside Sales Specialist, before being promoted to Product Manager for the thermal desorption business unit. In this role, Jessica is responsible for both the introduction of new thermal desorption products, as well as the management of the exiting product line.</p>
</blockquote>


Pixabay/Andrew Martin: Moving Towards Sustainable Gas Chromatography Laboratories

Moving Towards Sustainable Gas Chromatography Laboratories

<p><strong>Don’t miss this opportunity to attend the Virtual Dioxins Summit.</strong></p>
<p>This one-day interactive online summit offers you valuable information for keeping up-to-date on the latest dioxin trends and developments in the field.</p>
<h5><strong>The Agilent Virtual Dioxins Summit offers:</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li>An exciting meeting in a virtual environment, conducive to business, scientific, and social exchange</li>
<li>Access to both the fundamental and practical aspects of dioxin separation science, with the main focus on new and highly relevant trends emerging in this field for improvingd ioxin analysis</li>
<li>The opportunity to focus on the newest scientific trends and professional developments in dioxin analysis.</li>
</ul>
<h5><strong>During the summit you will have the opportunity to:</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li>Listen to top leaders and application experts from the comfort of your home or office</li>
<li>Ask each speaker questions in the real-time Q&amp;A session following each broadcast</li>
<li>Visit our exhibition booths virtually through the online platform</li>
<li>Virtually meet, chat, and exchange ideas with all participants, as well as with Agilent experts</li>
</ul>
<p>We are pleased to share that the first talks and speakers have been confirmed for the Agilent Virtual Dioxins Summit.</p>
<p>More talks from top leaders will be confirmed soon- stay tuned.</p>
<p>This is a meeting for you – feel free to get involved, ask questions, make suggestions and be a part of the Agilent Dioxin Community.</p>
<p>Register today and stay up-to-date on the program.</p>
<p>We look forward to “seeing” you at this virtual event.</p>
<h3><strong>Program</strong></h3>
<h5><strong>09:55 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. CEST Welcome and introduction</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li><strong>Juan Aybar</strong> (EMEA Business Team Manager GC/GCMS, Agilent Technologies)</li>
</ul>
<h5><strong>10:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. CEST Introducing the Agilent Dioxin Workflow Kit for the Determination of PCDD and PCDF in Foods and Feeds</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li><strong>Jörg Riener</strong> (GC and GC/MS Product Specialist, Agilent Technologies)</li>
</ul>
<h5><strong>10:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. CEST Implementation and Evaluation of Hydrogen as a GC carrier gas for the rapid analysis of PCDD/Fs using the novel High Efficiency Ion Source of the 7010 GC/QQQ</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li><strong>Frank Neugebauer</strong> (Senior Scientist, Head of Special Parameter Unit, Eurofins GfA Lab Service, Hamburg, Germany)</li>
</ul>
<h5><strong>11:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. CEST Helium – Global supply and viable alternatives for GC-MS analysis</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li><strong>Ed Connor</strong> (Product Manager, PEAK Scientific)</li>
</ul>
<h5><strong>11:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. CEST Biomagnification and Temporal Trends of Legacy, New and Emerging POPs and Transformation Products in Baltic Sea Biota</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li><strong>Peter Haglund</strong> (Professor of Environmental Analytical Chemistry, Umeå University)</li>
</ul>
<h5><strong>12:00 p.m. – 12:30 p.m. CEST Recent advances in the routine analysis of Dioxins in food and environmental samples</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li><strong>Robert (Bob) Symons</strong> (Regional Technical Manager, Eurofins Environment Testing Australia)</li>
</ul>
<h5><strong>12:30 p.m. – 01:30 p.m. CEST Break</strong></h5>
<h5><strong>01:30 p.m. – 02:00 p.m. CEST Introducing LCTech sample preparation workflow for optimal Dioxin sample handling from extraction to injection</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li><strong>Angelika Köpf</strong> (LCTech GmbH)</li>
</ul>
<h5><strong>02:00 p.m. – 02:30 a.m. CEST Dioxin and furans analysis in GC-QTOF according with EPA Method 1613B/1994</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li><strong>Nicole Canfora</strong> (LABORATORI CHIMICI “STANTE” SRL)</li>
</ul>
<h5><strong>02:30 a.m. – 03:00 p.m. CEST Agilent GC-QTOF workflow for EPA Method 1613B</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li><strong>Marica Beggio</strong> (Product Specialist GC-GC/MS, Agilent Technologies)</li>
</ul>
<h5><strong>03:00 p.m. – 03:30 p.m. CEST Development of an Alternate Testing Protocol (ATP) to EPA1613B for Analysis of Dioxins in Wastewater using EI-GC/MS/MS</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li><strong>Tarun Anumol</strong> (Director Global Environment &amp; Food Applied Markets, Agilent Technologies)</li>
</ul>
<h5><strong>03:30 p.m. CEST Thank you and Good Bye</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li><strong>Lorenzo Gaddoni</strong> (EMEA Marketing Program Manager, Agilent Technologies)</li>
</ul>


Agilent Technologies: Agilent Virtual Dioxins Summit

Agilent Virtual Dioxins Summit

This one-day interactive online summit offers you valuable information for keeping up-to-date on the latest dioxin trends and developments in the field.

<p><strong>Recent technological advancements have greatly expanded the options for high-quality mass spectrometry equipment. With significant progress in GC-MS, LC-MS, and gas generators, critical analyses can now be conducted with enhanced effectiveness and efficiency.</strong></p>
<p>Join our technical webinar to gain a comprehensive overview of cutting-edge MS equipment and the latest innovations in utilizing hydrogen as a carrier gas. Discover the advancements, including Agilent&#39;s quadrupole time-of-flight LC-MS and PEAK Scientific&#39;s nitrogen gas generator, designed to optimize competitiveness and productivity in your analytical workflows.</p>
<h5>Attend this webinar to:</h5>
<ul>
<li><strong>Learn about why there is a huge drive to switch to hydrogen as a carrier gas for GC</strong></li>
<li><strong>Discover how to achieve time-saving efficiencies and meet future challenges with instrument intelligence using the latest quadrupole time-of-flight LC-MS</strong></li>
<li><strong>Understand how a gas generator can save you time and money as well as improve your lab’s sustainability</strong></li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>1. Novel Mass Spectrometry Technologies Expand Future of Biomarker Discovery Research</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li>Diane Turner (Director and Senior Consultant, Anthias Consulting Ltd)</li>
</ul>
<p>Gas chromatography - mass spectrometry (GC-MS) instruments are used for a wide variety of critical analyses and presents a topic of growing importance as the industry collectively moves away from helium as a carrier gas due to availability and pricing to suitable alternatives such as hydrogen.</p>
<p>In this webinar, Dr. Diane Turner from Anthias Consulting Ltd will focus on the innovations around using hydrogen as a carrier gas and explore the associated benefits as well as address the challenges involved.</p>
<h5>In his talk, she will cover:</h5>
<ul>
<li><strong>Why there is a huge drive to switch to hydrogen as a carrier gas for GC</strong></li>
<li><strong>The associated benefits and negatives of using hydrogen</strong></li>
<li><strong>A ‘to do’ list of parameters to re-optimize when switching to hydrogen</strong></li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>2. Be Ready for Future Challenges With an Intelligent LC-MS Solution</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li>Christian Klein (Product Manager LC/Q-TOF and IM-QTOF, Agilent Technologies)</li>
</ul>
<p>Many labs are faced with an ever-increasing sample load, while instrumentation and resources remain at a steady level. As a consequence, instrument throughput and uptime are critical factors to maintain competitiveness and productivity.</p>
<p>In this webinar, Dr. Christian Klein will show how you can meet these challenges with the newest time-of-flight LC-MS from Agilent. See examples of complete workflows demonstrating performance, robustness and throughput for food safety screening applications.</p>
<h5>In his talk, he will cover:</h5>
<ul>
<li><strong>Time-saving efficiencies and meeting future challenges with instrument intelligence</strong></li>
<li><strong>How to implement end-to-end workflows for food safety to produce meaningful results</strong></li>
<li><strong>How to identify and quickly assess compounds in question</strong></li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>3. How Can a Gas Generator Benefit Your Lab?</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li>Petra Gierga (Product Manager, PEAK Scientific)</li>
</ul>
<p>Labs face challenges every day and lab gas should not be one of these problems. On-site gas generators play a pivotal role in helping labs to streamline workflows while providing high-quality gas for LC-MS analysis.</p>
<p>In this webinar, Petra Gierga from PEAK Scientific will be discussing the benefits a gas generator can provide your lab over cylinders, dewars or bulk supply. Removing the need for repeated cylinder deliveries, cylinder contracts, manual handling and changing of cylinders – an in-house gas generator can reduce costs, increase productivity and improve your lab’s sustainability efforts.</p>
<h5>In this talk, she will cover:</h5>
<ul>
<li><strong>How a gas generator can save you time</strong></li>
<li><strong>The economic benefits of using a gas generator</strong></li>
<li><strong>The advantages a gas generator has for your labs workflows and long-term sustainability goals</strong></li>
</ul>


Technology Networks: Breaking the Boundaries: The Latest Innovations in Mass Spectrometry

Breaking the Boundaries: The Latest Innovations in Mass Spectrometry

Technical webinar: overview of cutting-edge MS equipment and the latest innovations in utilizing H2 as a carrier gas, LC/Q-TOF or N2 gas generators.

The Latest Innovations in Mass Spectrometry

<p><strong>Join this webinar to explore the utility of hydrogen in chemical research, its associated risks, and a safer laboratory solution: H-Genie® Lite. This innovative, compact hydrogen generator employs unique patented cell technology to convert water into high-purity hydrogen gas, reaching pressures up to 50 bar (725 psi). As an ideal replacement for conventional hydrogen cylinders, it not only boosts lab safety but is also perfect for filling autoclaves and pressured containers.</strong></p>
<p>Subsequently, we will delve into metal-catalyzed hydrogenation reactions. Heterogeneous catalysts like Pd/C are commonly employed for nitro group reductions and hydrogenation of carbon-carbon and carbon-heteroatom double bonds. These catalysts also aid in O- and N- deprotection, yielding respective alcohols or amines, and in asymmetric hydrogenation reactions.</p>
<p>We’ll discuss the core principles of hydrogenation, featuring both heterogeneous and homogeneous catalysts, and highlight their significance in industrial applications. H-Genie® Lite seamlessly integrates with both batch and continuous flow chemistry hydrogenation processes.</p>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Nándor Kánya, PhD (Head of Experimental Chemistry, ThalesNano)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Nándor graduated from Budapest University of Technology and Economics as a Pharmaceutical Engineer in 2016, followed by a PhD degree in synthetic organic chemistry from the University of Debrecen in 2021. He joined ThalesNano in 2021 as an Application Scientist and became the leader of Experimental Chemistry in 2022.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Thomas Colacot, PhD (R&amp;D Fellow and Director of Global Technology Innovation, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Thomas J. Colacot holds a Ph.D. in chemistry and an MBA. He joined MilliporeSigma in 2018 and currently serves as an R&amp;D Fellow and Director of Global Technology Innovation in the Life Science Business division. He is an expert in organometallics and homogeneous catalysis and has a strong track record of commercializing innovative products. Colacot has published over 120 peer-reviewed articles and holds 67 international patents. He has been recognized with various awards, including a lifetime achievement award from the Chairman and CEO of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany. From 1995 to 2018, he was instrumental in establishing a successful homogeneous catalysis program at Johnson Matthey.</p>
</blockquote>


Safe Hydrogenation in the Lab

Safe Hydrogenation in the Lab with H-Genie® Lite

Safe Hydrogenation in the Lab H-Genie® Lite

<p><strong>Laboratories rely on efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness to optimize their workflows. One of the most significant factors in achieving these goals is ensuring a reliable supply of nitrogen gas. Organomation’s latest webinar, Improving Laboratory Workflows through Nitrogen Generation, explores how nitrogen generators can revolutionize lab operations by eliminating the need for gas cylinders.</strong></p><h4><strong>The Challenge: Gas Cylinders vs. On-Site Nitrogen Generation</strong></h4><p>Traditionally, many laboratories depend on nitrogen cylinders, which come with hidden costs and logistical challenges.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>These include:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Rental Fees:</strong> The recurring costs of renting cylinders add up over time.</li><li><strong>Refill and Delivery Charges:</strong> Market fluctuations and scheduling conflicts can delay deliveries, leading to downtime.</li><li><strong>Safety Concerns: </strong>Handling and transporting high-pressure cylinders can pose workplace hazards.</li><li><strong>Space Limitations: </strong>Storing multiple bulky cylinders takes up valuable lab space.</li></ul><p>Organomation’s David Oliva shared a real-world example of a lab located in a multi-floor building without an elevator. Employees were forced to carry heavy gas cylinders up and down staircases, creating an unnecessary safety risk. Another lab experienced a several-week delay in research due to a miscommunication in their cylinder delivery. Situations like these highlight the need for a more reliable and efficient solution.</p><h4><strong>The Solution: On-Site Nitrogen Generation</strong></h4><p>Nitrogen generators provide labs with a cost-effective, continuous nitrogen supply while addressing many of the pain points associated with gas cylinders.</p><p><strong>Key benefits include:</strong></p><ul><li>Significant Cost Savings: Eliminates rental, refill, and delivery fees.</li><li>Operational Efficiency: Reduces workflow disruptions by ensuring an uninterrupted nitrogen supply.</li><li>Enhanced Safety &amp; Convenience: Removes the need to store and handle high-pressure cylinders.</li><li>Space Optimization: Compact generators free up valuable lab space.</li><li>Sustainability: Reduces the environmental impact associated with nitrogen gas transportation.</li></ul><p>To help labs assess whether a nitrogen generator is a worthwhile investment, Organomation has developed a payback calculator. Many labs find that they achieve a full return on investment within 1-2 years.</p><h3><strong>Real-World Success Stories</strong></h3><p>Several laboratories have already made the switch to nitrogen generators, experiencing improved efficiency and cost savings.</p><h4><strong>Temple University’s McKenzie Environmental Engineering Research Group</strong></h4><p>Temple University’s research group, which concentrates PFAS sample extracts for mass spectrometry, made the transition to nitrogen generation to combat rising costs associated with tank rentals, delivery, and surcharges. Their investment in the NITRO-GEN generator allowed them to meet growing sample throughput requirements without the logistical headaches of cylinder replacements. With a compact design and plug-and-play functionality, the generator seamlessly integrated into their workflow.</p><h4><strong>Moyo Lab at Louisiana State University</strong></h4><p>The Moyo Lab, which studies nutrient movement across habitats, relies on nitrogen evaporation to remove excess chloroform from their extraction samples. Dissatisfied with nitrogen cylinders, they opted for the NITRO-GEN+ generator to streamline their operations.</p><p>Lab Manager and Assistant Professor of Biology Sydney Moyo shared his experience:</p><p>"<i>I love the NITRO-GEN+ for many reasons. First, a vital benefit is that I can move the generator around the department because it has wheels. When I used cylinders, I had difficulty moving them around the lab. Second, when the NITRO-GEN+ is not in use, I can safely store it in a corner in my lab because it only takes up a little space. Third, the NITRO-GEN+ is also very quiet and is one of the quietest generators we have used in the lab. Fourth, I love that there is less risk of running out of nitrogen as I always have a 24/7 supply when needed. Lastly, the NITRO-GEN+ is so easy to use that students in the Moyo Lab can use it with little training.</i>”</p><p>With user-friendly features and portability, the NITRO-GEN+ has proven to be a game-changer for the Moyo Lab, ensuring they never run out of nitrogen while simplifying lab operations.</p><h4><strong>Making the Right Choice for Your Lab</strong></h4><p>To assist labs in selecting the best nitrogen generator for their needs, Organomation offers a generator recommendation chart that matches evaporator models with the most suitable generator options. Additionally, their customer service team is always available to help labs find the best solution for their workflow requirements.</p><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>David Oliva (General Manager of Organomation)</p><p>One of Oliva’s favorite responsibilities is visiting academic institutions and environmental laboratories around the world. He was named to the 40 Under Forty Class of 2022 from the Worcester Business Journal and is a winner of a B2B Innovator Award from Demand Gen Report.</p></blockquote>

Organomation: Why Laboratories are Switching to Nitrogen Generators

Why Laboratories are Switching to Nitrogen Generators

Explore how nitrogen generators enhance lab safety and efficiency. Learn how to cut costs and ditch gas cylinders in Organomation's latest webinar.

<div><p><strong>As gas chromatography instruments demand ever higher hydrogen purity, many labs are also under pressure to reduce environmental impact and operating costs.</strong></p><p>This webinar explores how recent advances in hydrogen gas generation are addressing both challenges at once. Dr. Ed Connor and Ian Cameron will discuss the current limitations of traditional gas supply methods and how modern on-site generation is reshaping laboratory workflows.</p><p>As an attendee, you will gain insight into how today’s technologies can support consistent performance, greater reliability and more sustainable lab operations without compromising analytical quality.</p><h4><strong>Attend this webinar to:</strong></h4><ul><li>Learn how a gas generator can improve your lab’s uptime</li><li>Understand the operational efficiencies and cost savings you can get from an in-house gas generator</li><li>Gain insights into the sustainable, energy efficient benefits of on-site gas generation&nbsp;</li></ul><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Ian Cameron (Hydrogen Design Team Lead at PEAK Scientific)</p><p>As the Design Team Lead at PEAK Scientific Instruments, Ian guides a multidisciplinary team of engineers and designers in creating advanced scientific equipment for laboratory and analytical applications. With a background in mechanical engineering and physics and 15 years in the manufacturing and design industry, Ian brings a strong understanding of the scientific principles and engineering practices that underpin high performance instrumentation.</p><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Ed Connor, PhD (Product Manager at PEAK Scientific)</p><p>Dr. Ed Connor joined PEAK in 2013 as a gas chromatography (GC) product specialist before moving on to product management. He’s been working on many collaborative projects with PEAK customers and major instrument manufacturers worldwide. The main focus of these collaborations has been looking at conversion from helium to hydrogen carrier gas for GC applications. Ed completed his doctor of science degree at ETH Zurich in 2007 using GC-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) to look at herbivore induced plant volatiles and their interaction with beneficial insects. He then joined the University of Zurich where his work focused primarily on floral volatiles analysis using a variety of volatile collection methods, GC-MS and GC-Flame Ionization Detection.</p></blockquote></div>

Technology Networks: Advances in Hydrogen Gas Generation for Sustainable Laboratories

Advances in Hydrogen Gas Generation for Sustainable Laboratories

Webinar on hydrogen gas generation for GC, covering uptime improvement, cost savings, sustainability, and helium-to-hydrogen conversion strategies.

Hydrogen Gas Generation for Sustainable Laboratories

<p><strong>Anti-doping control laboratories operate within a highly competitive field, where efficiency plays a key role. In this webinar, we’re proud to feature two experts and share their insights with you.</strong></p><p>Dr. Aðalheiður Dóra Albertsdóttir and Wim van Gansbeke will be providing a window into the operations of a lab that analyses up to 16.000 samples per year with only 21 staff members.</p><p>A method for quantifying endogenous anabolic androgenic steroids in urine using hydrogen as the carrier gas has been further optimized through the implementation of a Deans switch. In this configuration, the column flow is directed to the MS only during the elution of the target compounds.</p><p>Join us and explore lowering costs and maintenance with hydrogen carrier gas and Deans switch technology in steroid analysis.</p><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Dr. Aðalheiður Dóra Albertsdóttir (Deputy Head of the GC-MS Department, DoCoLab, University of Gent, Belgium)</p><p><strong>Presenter:&nbsp;</strong>Wim van Gansbeke (Head of the GC-MS Department, DoCoLab, University of Gent, Belgium)</p></blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Cost And Maintenance Reduction Through The Use Of Hydrogen Carrier Gas And The Deans Switch When Analysing Silylated Steroids

Cost And Maintenance Reduction Through The Use Of Hydrogen Carrier Gas And The Deans Switch When Analysing Silylated Steroids

Join us and explore lowering costs and maintenance with hydrogen carrier gas and Deans switch technology in steroid analysis.

Cost & Maintenance Reduction by Use Of Hydrogen Carrier Gas

<p><strong>This presentation will give an overview of the selection of air sampling media, covering both whole air and sorbent sampling techniques. The advantages and disadvantages of each will be addressed, as well as proper techniques for cleaning, sampling, and sample introduction. Common applications and analytical techniques will be covered as well, giving a comprehensive overview from air sampling to analysis.</strong></p><h4><strong>Key Learnings:&nbsp;</strong></h4><ul><li>Learn how to choose the right air sampling approach by understanding the strengths and limitations of whole air vs. sorbent techniques</li><li>Learn how proper handling - from cleaning to sample introduction - directly impacts data quality and analytical outcomes</li></ul>

RESTEK: Air Sampling Media Selection and Analysis

Air Sampling Media Selection and Analysis

This presentation will give an overview of the selection of air sampling media, covering both whole air and sorbent sampling techniques. 

<h4><strong>Choosing a different carrier gas in GC: Hydrogen or Nitrogen?</strong></h4><p><strong>Rising costs and supply concerns are pushing labs to explore alternatives to helium. This webinar covers the key considerations when switching to hydrogen or nitrogen — including on-site generation, separation performance, and practical tips for a smooth transition.</strong></p><h4><strong>Why do GC liners need to be deactivated?</strong></h4><p>From injection technique to matrix complexity, liner selection directly impacts chromatographic performance. This webinar explores modern deactivation technologies, testing protocols, and best practices to maximize inertness and extend liner lifetime.</p><h5><strong>Key learnings:</strong></h5><ul><li>Evaluate when and how to switch from helium to nitrogen or hydrogen</li><li>Understand key criteria for selecting the right GC liner</li><li>Learn how advanced deactivation improves performance and liner lifetime</li></ul>

Restek Corporation: Choosing a Different Carrier Gas in GC and Why are Liners Deactivated

Choosing a Different Carrier Gas in GC and Why are Liners Deactivated

This webinar covers the key considerations when switching to hydrogen or nitrogen

GCMS webinars focusing on Gas Generators - page 1