Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are a prominent class of organic compounds that have raised significant concerns due to their presence in various environmental and food matrices. These compounds are composed of multiple aromatic rings and are primarily formed during the incomplete combustion of organic matter. Sources of PAHs range from natural processes like forest fires to human activities such as vehicle emissions, tobacco combustion, and food preparation techniques like grilling or smoking.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Unveiling_the_Advanced_Workflow_for_PAH_Analysis_in_Smoke_Flavored_Foods_427c35f34b.jpg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: Unveiling the Advanced Workflow for PAH Analysis in Smoke Flavored Foods." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Unveiling_the_Advanced_Workflow_for_PAH_Analysis_in_Smoke_Flavored_Foods_427c35f34b.jpg 234w," sizes="100vw" width="1024" height="683">In the food industry, PAHs are particularly relevant in the context of smoke-flavored products. While smoke flavorings enhance the sensory properties of foods, they also pose potential risks due to the formation of PAHs during the smoking process. As such, stringent analytical methods are essential for detecting and quantifying PAHs to ensure consumer safety. In this blog, we explore a comprehensive GC-MS/MS workflow specifically designed for PAH analysis in smoke-flavored foods, with a focus on innovation in sample preparation, instrumental sensitivity, and regulatory compliance.<h3 id="h-understanding-smoke-flavors-and-pahs">Understanding smoke flavors and PAHs</h3>Smoke flavorings are derived from the controlled combustion of specific wood types, which are subsequently condensed, fractionated, and purified. These flavorings are used in foods such as fish, meat, sauces, and even snacks to replicate traditional smoking processes. The primary flavoring components include phenols and carbonyl compounds (aldehydes and ketones).However, PAHs can also be introduced during this process. Examples include naphthalene (two aromatic rings), anthracene, and phenanthrene (three aromatic rings), which are considered lower molecular weight PAHs, alongside heavier compounds such as benzo(a)pyrene and coronene. Regulatory frameworks in the European Union (e.g., Regulation (EC) No. 2065/2003) ensure that only authorized smoke flavoring products are used, with maximum allowable levels for PAHs.<h3 id="h-the-challenges-of-pah-analysis-in-food-matrices">The challenges of PAH analysis in food matrices</h3>Analyzing PAHs in food matrices, particularly those with high-fat content, presents unique challenges. These include:<ol><li>Complexity of matrices: Foods like smoked trout and tofu contain fats and proteins that can interfere with analytical detection.</li><li>Stringent detection requirements: Regulatory limits demand detection of PAHs at extremely low concentrations (picogram to femtogram levels).</li><li>Sample throughput: Laboratories need workflows that are both sensitive and efficient to handle routine analysis of multiple samples daily.</li></ol><h3 id="h-a-comprehensive-workflow-for-pah-analysis">A comprehensive workflow for PAH analysis</h3><h5>1. Sample preparation: The foundation of accurate results</h5>Sample preparation is a critical step in PAH analysis, especially for fat-containing matrices. A robust and systematic approach minimizes matrix interferences and enhances analyte recovery. The workflow includes:<ul><li>Homogenization: A 5-gram sample is weighed and homogenized in a glass tube. Internal standards are added, followed by equilibration for 10 minutes.</li><li>Liquid extraction: Samples are extracted using hexane in an ultrasonic bath. This process is repeated five times to ensure thorough extraction.</li><li>Evaporation and cleanup: Extracts are evaporated to 1 mL and subjected to Solid Phase Extraction (SPE). Two SPE steps are employed:<ul><li>Primary SPE (HyperSep Florisil): Removes major interferences.</li><li>Secondary SPE (HyperSep Phenyl): Further purifies the sample for precise GC-MS/MS analysis.</li></ul></li></ul><h5>2. Advanced instrumentation: The role of GC-MS/MS</h5>Instrumentation plays a pivotal role in achieving the sensitivity required for PAH detection. The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/485">Thermo Scientific TSQ 9610 GC-MS/MS</a> system incorporates cutting-edge technologies to address the demands of PAH analysis:<ul><li>Advanced electron ionization (AEI): This ion source provides superior sensitivity through highly efficient ionization and a tightly focused ion beam. This ensures robustness even with challenging matrices.</li><li>NeverVent technology: Unique design features allow vent-free column and ion source exchanges, maximizing instrument uptime.</li><li>Dual filament design: Extends the operational lifespan and reduces maintenance frequency.</li></ul><h5>3. Importance of glass quality in analytical accuracy</h5>The quality of glass materials used in vials and liners significantly impacts analytical outcomes. Thermo Fisher Scientific’s LinerGold technology addresses the challenges posed by active glass surfaces that can adsorb PAHs, leading to signal loss or contamination. By providing highly inert glass materials, the workflow ensures consistent and accurate results.<h3 id="h-results-and-key-findings">Results and key findings</h3>The GC-MS/MS workflow for PAH analysis has been rigorously tested on various food matrices, demonstrating its robustness and reliability. Key findings include:<ul><li>Ultra-low detection limits: The system achieves femtogram-level detection, with examples such as chrysene (150 fg in smoked trout) and coronene (320 fg in smoked trout).</li><li>Precision and reproducibility: Calibration curves for compounds like pyrene and benzo(k)fluoranthene exhibit excellent linearity, ensuring reliable quantification.</li><li>Wide applicability: The workflow performs well across diverse matrices, from smoked trout to tofu, maintaining compliance with regulatory limits.</li></ul><h3 id="h-regulatory-compliance-and-consumer-safety">Regulatory compliance and consumer safety</h3>Ensuring compliance with EU regulations is a cornerstone of PAH analysis in smoke-flavored foods. The presented workflow not only meets these standards but also provides a scalable solution for routine laboratories. By integrating advanced sample preparation, state-of-the-art instrumentation, and high-quality consumables, laboratories can confidently deliver accurate and reliable results.<h3 id="h-conclusions-and-future-perspectives">Conclusions and future perspectives</h3>The detection and quantification of PAHs in smoke-flavored foods require a synergistic approach that combines meticulous sample preparation with innovative GC-MS/MS technology. The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/485">Thermo Scientific TSQ 9610</a> system, with its AEI source and NeverVent technology, sets a new benchmark in analytical sensitivity and robustness.This workflow underscores the importance of quality at every step—from sample preparation to vial selection—to achieve the necessary detection limits and regulatory compliance. As analytical demands evolve, these advancements pave the way for safer food production and enhanced consumer protection.<blockquote><h5>Additional information:</h5><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/485">TSQ 9610 Triple Quadrupole GC-MS</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/content/lifetech/global/en/home/products-and-services/promotions/industrial/chromatography-columns-consumables-available-online.html">Chromatography Columns and Consumables Now Available Online</a></li></ul></blockquote><div><div><blockquote><h5>Join our free webinars:</h5>20.3.2025 English, 11 am CET, 1 hour <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/webinar/4756">Advanced workflow for PAH analysis of smoke flavored foods</a>25.3.2025 German, 11 am CET, 1 hour <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://event.on24.com/wcc/r/4835418/2EEB616DFE5F57C6587BA5984198FE55">Innovativer Workflow für die PAK-Analyse in Lebensmitteln mit Raucharoma</a> After the actual dates they are available on demand using the same links.</blockquote></div></div><blockquote><h5>Visit us on <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/72003132/admin/dashboard/">LinkedIn:</a> #SmokeFlavors #Pah #GCMS #Consumables</h5></blockquote><section><blockquote><h4>Petra Gerhards</h4>Petra Gerhards, Dipl-Ing, is Regional Marketing Manager of GC and GC-MS for EMEA at Thermo Fisher Scientific. She has more than 29 years of experience in the fields of GC-MS, SPE and LC-MS. Since joining the regional team she has contributed to workflow solutions combining vials and closures with SPE solutions, GC-MS and LC-MS. She works with KOL's on data for regional specific marketing campaigns, organizes in-house seminars and works on customer specific solutions. Her main expertise is in the field of doping and drugs-of-abuse analysis.</blockquote></section>

Unveiling the Advanced Workflow for PAH Analysis in Smoke Flavored Foods

<h3 id="h-a-stellar-way-to-overcome-barriers-for-discovery-verification-part-1" data-uw-rm-heading="level" role="heading" aria-level="2">A stellar way to overcome barriers for discovery verification – Part 1</h3>This is the first in a multi-part blog series highlighting the key pillars and impressive benefits of the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/1149">Stellar mass spectrometer</a>-the first-of-its-kind solution purpose-built for discovery verification. Stay tuned for more blog posts in the series. &nbsp;<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Why_You_Need_a_Verification_class_Mass_Spectrometer_45a584008f.jpg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: Why You Need a Verification-class Mass Spectrometer." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Why_You_Need_a_Verification_class_Mass_Spectrometer_45a584008f.jpg 207w," sizes="100vw" width="1024" height="773">If you were a handyman, you wouldn’t dream of using a wrench as a hammer, or a screwdriver as a chisel. You always need the right tool for the job. Same is true for clinical and translational researchers, who depend on having the right solution to maximize their productivity while advancing their research.<h3 id="h-the-challenge-a-missing-tool-in-the-discovery-to-validation-workflow">The challenge: A missing tool in the discovery-to-validation workflow</h3>For decades, clinical and translational researchers have struggled with biomarker verification workflows due to a technology gap. There’s no current technology that simultaneously addresses the scale, sensitivity and throughput demands without some serious drawbacks. You know this well.Triple quad technology performing multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) is challenged to keep up with limited capacity to handle massive target lists while quantifying at lower limits using faster LC gradients.HRAM MS technology performing parallel reaction monitoring (PRM) are challenged to maintain high sensitivity with high acquisition speeds to function with high throughput at experimental scale.<h3 id="h-the-breakthrough-solution-the-first-of-its-kind-verification-class-ms">The breakthrough solution: The first-of-its kind verification-class MS</h3>Researchers struggling to fill the technology gap need not struggle any more. The first-to-market <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/1149">Thermo Scientific Stellar mass spectrometer</a> expertly addresses the shortcomings of both ends of the existing verification-based mass spectrometer spectrum with its:&nbsp;<ul><li>Expanded scale – The Stellar MS expands biomarker candidate verification per unit time while covering a wider range of compound classes.&nbsp; For proteomics and metabolomics, the expanded scale enables researchers to include more stable isotope labeled standards (SIS) without having to drop endogenous targets, enabling absolute quantitation for better statistical analysis, plus method standardization.</li><li>Higher sensitivity – It generates data incredibly fast, but still maintains excellent sensitivity to enable accurate measurements and better putative biomarker stratification. With its impressive quantitative performance, this mass spectrometer minimizes the risk of false negatives. The sensitivity of quantitation extends dynamic range in association with the expanded scale to provide both breadth and depth of sample analysis.</li><li>Greater specificity – The Stellar mass spectrometer’s ability to acquire full scan MS2 and MS3 enables greater specificity by measuring all product ions associated with the precursor analyte, ensuring quantitative confidence in your targets of interest. It can detect smaller signal changes between donor groups (e.g., diseased and healthy), which ensures your measured expression levels are attributed to your target compound and not to background isomeric/isobaric interferences.</li><li>Massive throughput – It provides the capacity to process all the samples in a study faster, which increases the laboratory capacity for more projects or expand the study size which increases statistical power for more confidence. Combined with the Thermo Scientific Vanquish Neo UHPLC system that delivers chromatographic performance from 0.1 to 100 µL/min, the Stellar MS has the acquisition speed to improve throughput 3-5X compared to methods using existing QQQ and HRAM instrumentation.</li><li>Unrivaled quantitative productivity – Measuring a large number of targets is one thing, but how do researchers build these highly multiplexed methods? Traditionally, this process has been slow, painful and costly, requiring either direct infusion or many replicate injections followed by manual data evaluation. With the Stellar MS, researchers can go from building a method to completing an entire study faster while maintaining high data quality and confidence in results. &nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul><h3 id="h-bridging-the-gap-between-discovery-and-clinical-validation">Bridging the gap between discovery and clinical validation</h3>Not only does the Stellar MS represent a new class of instrument, it serves as the perfect “companion” product between the upstream HRAM instruments doing discovery and the triple-quad systems performing the downstream validation processes.After discovery, the Stellar MS becomes invaluable for the verification phase—using quantitative accuracy to narrow the broad list of candidates with the highest potential down to the best set of markers to move into clinical validation. It can process a large list of potential candidates with the added benefits of higher sensitivity and quantitative accuracy.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Why_You_Need_a_Verification_class_Mass_Spectrometer_2_891de5ae8d.jpg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: Why You Need a Verification-class Mass Spectrometer." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Why_You_Need_a_Verification_class_Mass_Spectrometer_2_891de5ae8d.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1024" height="576">Transitioning from verification to validation may deliver a narrowed set of biomarker candidates that have the greatest potential for specific and sensitive sample classification.&nbsp; Based on the Stellar mass spectrometer’s work, researchers now know the sample preparation steps, LC methods, retention times, detection range (LLOD/LLOQ) and method robustness that can be carried over to streamline validation.&nbsp;In addition, researchers also have the option to directly transition the LC-MS/MS method to&nbsp;the Thermo Scientific TSQ Altis Plus triple quadrupole mass spectrometer if expanded laboratory capacity is needed. The ESI source, ion source settings, and Thermo Scientific Xcalibur software provide direct overlap to minimize additional method refinement.&nbsp;The TSQ Altis Plus MS also has the same robustness to ensure maximum uptime to complete studies with higher throughput. &nbsp;<h3 id="h-no-longer-stuck-in-discovery-expanded-capability-across-the-entire-workflow">No longer stuck in discovery: expanded capability across the entire workflow</h3>Many translational researchers have avoided the move to targeted verification methods due to the complexity, as well as the lack of experience operating triple quadrupole systems to create, refine and implement these highly multiplexed methods. The introduction of the Stellar MS workflow streamlines the process while delivering quantitative performance.Therefore, researchers can expand their laboratory capacity and advance their research work in house, without the need to add people, learn new skills or devote months to this work. Researchers can cover more of the workflow process themselves—all the way to the validation phase—enabling them to maintain better control, reduce costs and increase confidence in the results.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<blockquote>For more information, explore the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/1149">Stellar Mass Spectrometer MS</a> web page or reach out to your Thermo Fisher sales representative.Intrigued to learn more about the Stellar mass spectrometer and how to streamline your verification process? Watch for more blogs in this series soon.</blockquote><blockquote><h5>Visit our&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/chromatography-&amp;-mass-spectrometry/posts/?feedView=all">LinkedIn page</a>: #StellarMassSpec #MassSpectrometry</h5><section><h4>Dr. Scott Peterman</h4><div itemprop="description">Scott Peterman, Ph.D., is Senior Product Marketing Manager for Life Science Mass Spectrometry of the Chromatography and Mass Spectrometry Division of Thermo Fisher Scientific.</div></section></blockquote>&nbsp;

Why You Need a Verification-class Mass Spectrometer

We recently received a comment from a reader regarding a previous article, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/blog/metals/analyzing-304-and-321-steel-for-pmi-on-pipelines/">Analyzing 304 and 321 Steel for PMI on Piping Systems.</a> The reader wrote: “This is a really informative piece! I didn’t realize there was such a difference between 304 and 321 steel, especially in terms of resistance to corrosion at higher temperatures. How often is Positive Material Identification (PMI) testing conducted in industries like oil and gas to help ensure the correct material is used?Here’s a summary, for those readers not familiar with the article.&nbsp; Scroll below for a list of resources to learn more about PMI in the oil and gas industry.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Reader_Question_Addressed_Resources_for_PMI_in_the_Oil_and_Gas_Industry_41d08937ce.jpg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: Reader Question Addressed: Resources for PMI in the Oil and Gas Industry." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Reader_Question_Addressed_Resources_for_PMI_in_the_Oil_and_Gas_Industry_41d08937ce.jpg 235w," sizes="100vw" width="2121" height="1414"><h3>Recap</h3>Ensuring the integrity and safety of pipelines is critical, particularly in industries such as oil and gas. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/us/en/home/industrial/spectroscopy-elemental-isotope-analysis/portable-analysis-material-id/portable-metal-manufacturing-inspection-recycling-solutions/positive-material-identification-oil-gas.html">Positive Material Identification</a> (PMI) plays a crucial role in verifying that the correct materials are used, helping to prevent catastrophic failures. Two commonly used stainless steels in these applications are 304 and 321 steel.&nbsp;304 stainless steel is known for its excellent corrosion resistance and formability, making it versatile and cost-effective for various applications, including piping and heat exchangers. On the other hand, 321 stainless steel, which includes titanium, offers enhanced resistance to intergranular corrosion, making it ideal for high-temperature environments like aerospace and petrochemical industries.PMI helps ensure that materials meet the required specifications through advanced analytical techniques that help verify the chemical composition of the materials, helping to prevent the use of incorrect or substandard materials. These techniques include:<ul><li style="text-align:left;">Handheld <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/us/en/home/industrial/spectroscopy-elemental-isotope-analysis/spectroscopy-elemental-isotope-analysis-learning-center/elemental-analysis-information/xrf-technology.html?icid=CAD_blog_metals_2020April" aria-label="XRF (X-Ray Fluorescence) spectroscopy - open in a new tab" data-uw-rm-ext-link="">XRF (X-Ray Fluorescence) spectroscopy</a> is a non-destructive method that uses X-rays to determine the elemental composition of materials. It is quick and provides accurate results, making it ideal for field use.</li><li style="text-align:left;"><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/us/en/home/industrial/spectroscopy-elemental-isotope-analysis/portable-analysis-material-id/industrial-elemental-radiation-solutions/how-does-libs-work.html?icid=CAD_blog_metals_2022April">LIBS technology</a> (Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy) is an analytical technique used to determine the elemental composition of materials, and is especially used for calculating carbon equivalency.</li><li style="text-align:left;">Optical emission spectroscopy (OES) is a method that involves sparking the material and analyzing the emitted light to determine its composition. OES is highly accurate and can detect a wide range of elements, but it is a heavy instrument to use in the field.</li></ul><h3>PMI Resources</h3>To help better understand how PMI is used in the oil and gas industry, here is a collection of articles and resources:<ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/us/en/home/industrial/spectroscopy-elemental-isotope-analysis/portable-analysis-material-id/portable-metal-manufacturing-inspection-recycling-solutions/positive-material-identification-oil-gas.html?erpType=Global_E1#menu4">Portable Power Generation / Oil and Gas (PMI) Resources</a> (includes webinars, videos, application notes, etc.)</li><li>Application notes:<ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://assets.thermofisher.com/TFS-Assets/CAD/Application-Notes/niton-apollo-carbon-equivalency.pdf">Carbon equivalents in steel components</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="http://assets.thermofisher.com/TFS-Assets/CAD/Application-Notes/xl5-silicon-corrosion-app-note.pdf">Preventing sulfidic corrosion failures</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://assets.thermofisher.com/TFS-Assets/CAD/Application-Notes/Analysis-of-Residual-Elements-in-Steel-Pipe.pdf">Identifying residual elements in steel piping</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="http://assets.thermofisher.com/TFS-Assets/CAD/Application-Notes/xl5-power-plant-fac-app-note.pdf">Power plant FAC inspection protocol</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://tools.thermofisher.com/content/sfs/brochures/XL5-MicroalloySteels-App-Note-2016-FINAL.pdf">Analysis of microalloying elements in steel</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://assets.thermofisher.com/TFS-Assets/CAD/Application-Notes/IJ-Custom-PDF-Brian-Wilson-ThermoFisher-JulyAug-2016.pdf">Conducting retroactive PMI</a></li></ul></li><li>Free Webinars and Videos:<ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://players.brightcove.net/665001591001/I9XluuSon_default/index.html?videoId=6024330156001">API 578 (3rd edition)</a> – Guidelines for a material verification program</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/4821">Why Is analyzing carbon important?</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/4822">Latest developments in PMI technologies</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://players.brightcove.net/665001591001/default_default/index.html?videoId=6340816364112">Geothermal Power Generation&nbsp;</a></li></ul></li><li>eBooks:<ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/us/en/home/global/forms/industrial/xrf-ebook-download-request.html?icid=CAD_FSI_XRFeBook_ScrapRecycling">XRF technology for non-scientists</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/us/en/home/global/forms/industrial/fsi-libs-ebook-download-request.html?icid=CAD_blog_metals_2021Jan">LIBS technology for non-scientists</a></li></ul></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/blog/metals/positive-material-identification/">Additional PMI blog articles</a></li></ul>And if you want to see workers in action conducting PMI, check out the photos in this article: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/blog/mining/oil-and-gas-pmi-crews-in-action-photo-gallery/">Oil and Gas PMI Crews in Action – Photo Gallery.</a>

Reader Question Addressed: Resources for PMI in the Oil and Gas Industry

<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/companies/60">DataApex</a> is pleased to announce that Clarity 10 now supports the ECDM2000 conductivity and pH monitor from <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/companies/168">Ecom</a>! This new driver enhances Ecom instrumentation support, with <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products?manufacturerItems=217&amp;search=LED20M+LED20G">LED20 UV detector compatibility</a> coming in the next software update (10.1.).But this update is more than just about technology—it's about partnership. Our collaboration with Ecom goes way back. Both companies are at home in the Czech Republic, with offices nearby. Ecom purchased their first Clarity software licenses back in 1992!We deeply value our strong relationships—not just with Ecom, but with all our partners worldwide. Behind Clarity Chromatography Software stands a long history shaped by dedicated people and business partners.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Data_Apex_Clarity_10_now_supports_ECOM_systems_36cd266637.jfif" alt="DataApex: Clarity 10 now supports the ECDM2000 conductivity and pH monitor from Ecom" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Data_Apex_Clarity_10_now_supports_ECOM_systems_36cd266637.jfif 222w," sizes="100vw" width="1280" height="900"><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/999">DataApex Clarity Chromatography Software</a></h4>Optional control modules provide integrated control of selected instruments such as GCs, LCs, pumps, detectors, autosamplers, etc. Extensions provide functions for specific separation techniques or calculations such as PDA, GPC analysis, Mass spectrometry, or SST. Clarity can run in English, French, German, Russian, Spanish, and Chinese language. Support technicians and developers are close to their users and ready to provide extensive Support from DataApex.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Data_Apex_Clarity_Chromatograficky_Software_f77d0405d2/DataApex-Clarity-Chromatograficky-Software.jpg" alt="DataApex: Clarity Chromatography Software" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Data_Apex_Clarity_Chromatograficky_Software_f77d0405d2/thumbnail_DataApex-Clarity-Chromatograficky-Software.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="800" height="487"><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/1480">ECOM ECDM2100 conductivity and pH monitor</a></h4>ECDM 2100 are conductivity and pH monitors suited for preparative and flash chromatography. Thanks to the unique ECOM design of the conductivity cell, it radically improves chromatography process monitoring.The monitor cell had been developed for high-pressure applications, which means it can be used in CaptureSMB applications. These applications utilize a twin-column periodic countercurrent (PCC) process used for the continuous purification of monoclonal antibodies.The unit is controlled by a printed board, which measures the conductivity of liquid passing through both the cell and the pH value.Main features and benefits<ul><li>High-pressure cell up to 17 MPa (for 1/16” version)</li><li>Simple conductivity calibration</li><li>Compact size</li><li>Powered by 12 – 24 V DC</li><li>Sophisticated diagnostic software</li></ul><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/ECOM_ECDM_2100_Conductivity_and_p_H_Monitors_1_03ebfb31de.jpg" alt="ECOM: ECDM2100 Conductivity and pH Monitors" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_ECOM_ECDM_2100_Conductivity_and_p_H_Monitors_1_03ebfb31de.jpg 156w," sizes="100vw" width="700" height="700"><h3>ECOM LED20 UV detectors</h3><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/1465">LED20M FIX Dual UV Detector with display</a></h4>Why choose LED20M FIX detectors for your application<ul><li>The LED detectors allow easy and convenient detection in the UV-VIS range. They are manufactured in single or dual channel models with fixed wavelength setup.</li><li>The detectors are widely used in chromatography techniques using gravity glass columns for purification and isolation of organic small molecules and other compounds of interest. Long-lasting and reliable light source is provided by LED.</li><li>The optical flow cell is easily accessible and replaceable, this feature allows flexible choice of detection sensitivity if required. Low cell heating due to low power dissipation of LEDs makes this detector ideal for applications where analytes may be susceptible to degradation due to elevated temperatures. Absorbance information is displayed in detail on the integrated OLED display in numerical and graphical formats.</li><li>The units have convenient USB-C connectivity and power. When the detector is connected to a PC, the recorded data can be stored and processed using the ECOMAC software. ECOMAC basic software license is available with the price of the product without any additional fees. All these features and capabilities allow LED20M FIX to be an affordable, cost-effective, reliable and robust choice of an UV-VIS detector.</li></ul><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/ECOM_LED_20_M_FIX_Dual_UV_Detector_with_display_2_e79b6687c9.jpg" alt="ECOM - LED20M FIX - UV Detector with display - 2.jpg" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_ECOM_LED_20_M_FIX_Dual_UV_Detector_with_display_2_e79b6687c9.jpg 217w," sizes="100vw" width="700" height="505"><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/1467">LED20M FIX Single UV Detector with display</a></h4>The LED20M FIX Single UV Detector with a display uses Light Emitting Diodes (LED) as the light source. It is used for flash chromatography.<h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/1469">ECOM LED20G Dual UV Detector</a></h4>LED20G Dual UV LED detector for preparative and flash liquid chromatography. LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) are used as the light source. A unique and patented ECOM technology radically improves the detector characteristics.The LEDs themselves typically have a peak wavelength with a tolerance of +/- 5 nm and a spectral half-width of 10-20 nm, which is unacceptable for some applications, as e.g. for FPLC. This ECOM solution, however, allows the spectral width to be narrowed and, thanks to our patented technology, the exact wavelength to be selected from the LED spectrum.This version of the dual UV detector measures at two fixed wavelengths given by the installed LEDs. The default wavelengths are 254 and 280 nm. Optionally, the customer can select a wavelength in the range 254-600 nm in 1 nm steps.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/ECOM_ECOM_LED_20_G_Dual_UV_Detector_e95e74b3cf.jpg" alt="ECOM: LED20G Dual UV Detector" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_ECOM_ECOM_LED_20_G_Dual_UV_Detector_e95e74b3cf.jpg 156w," sizes="100vw" width="700" height="700"><h3>Webinars related to Clarity chromatography software from our LabRulez portal:</h3><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/webinar/4696">Clarity 10 Webinar</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/webinar/3999">Clarity Chromatography Software live demo</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/webinar/3350">Clarity Tips &amp; Tricks Webinar</a></li></ul><h3>A selection of DataApex literature focusing on Clarity software <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/library?from=2022&amp;manufacturerItems=58&amp;search=Clarity+software&amp;to=2025">in the LabRulezLCMS library</a>:</h3><ul><li>Why Clarity Chromatography Software? (Presentations | 2023)</li><li>Clarity Software REFERENCE GUIDE (Manuals | 2023)</li><li>Clarity Software USER GUIDE (Manuals | 2022)</li><li>INTRODUCTION TO CLARITY CHROMATOGRAPHY SOFTWARE (Presentations | 2022)</li><li>Clarity DISTRIBUTOR TRAINING Installation &amp; Configuration (Presentations | 2022 )</li><li>Clarity Software + Hardware VALIDATION KIT (Manuals | 2023)</li><li>Clarity Lite Software GETTING STARTED (Manuals | 2022)</li><li>Clarity Control Module SHIMADZU NEXERA (Manuals | 2022)</li><li>Clarity VALIDATION (Presentations | 2023)</li></ul>

Clarity 10 now supports the ECDM2000 conductivity and pH monitor from Ecom

In the week from March 3, the following webinars await you in the field of gas / solid phase and especially Raman, FTIR, GC and GC/MS.<blockquote><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/webinars">👉 DETAILS AND REGISTRATION IN THE WEBINARS SECTION</a>👉 Search and filter in the largest global database with over 4 000 GC, LC, MS and spectroscopy webinars.</blockquote><h5>1. Agilent Technologies: Application of GC/MS for the Analysis of Poly-Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) and Pesticides in Drinking Water According to the Directive EU 2020/2184</h5><div><div><ul><li><div>We, 5.3.2025 14:00 CET</div></li><li><div><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/webinar/4712">Registration</a></div></li></ul></div>The main analytical techniques for the analysis of PAHs and pesticides in GC/MS in drinking water, with particular attention to the Solid Phase Micro-Extraction (SPME) technique.</div>

Webinars LabRulezGCMS Week 10/2025

In the week of March 3, the following webinars await you in the field of liquid phase and especially HPLC and LC/MS.<blockquote><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/webinars">👉 DETAILS AND REGISTRATION IN THE WEBINARS SECTION</a>👉 Search and filter in the largest global database with over&nbsp;4 000 GC, LC, MS and spectroscopy webinars.</blockquote><h5 data-start="90" data-end="254">1. Waters Corporation: Enhancing Bioprocess Development through Spent Media Analysis by LC-MS: Automated and Rapid Workflow with Data Connectivity via JMP</h5><ul data-start="256" data-end="350"><li data-start="256" data-end="293">Wednesday, March 5, 2025, 11:00 CET</li><li data-start="294" data-end="350"><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/webinar/4720">Registration</a></li></ul>The new Bioprocessing Monitor App enables routine monitoring of protein titer, spent media metabolites, and protein quality from a single LC-MS experiment.​<h5 data-start="435" data-end="523">2. Agilent Technologies: Navigating the Challenges of Released Glycan Analysis</h5><ul data-start="525" data-end="619"><li data-start="525" data-end="562">Wednesday, March 5, 2025, 15:30 CET</li><li data-start="563" data-end="619"><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/webinar/4759">Registration</a></li></ul>Join a panel of Agilent experts in the field of glycobiology to help you make the right choices and overcome common troubleshooting hurdles.<h5 data-start="704" data-end="809">3. Waters Corporation: Unlocking the Mysteries of Liquid Chromatography: Monitoring Your Method</h5><ul data-start="811" data-end="905"><li data-start="811" data-end="848">Wednesday, March 5, 2025, 19:00 CET</li><li data-start="849" data-end="905"><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/webinar/4757">Registration</a></li></ul>Explore best practices, including using reference standards and control charts to ensure accuracy and consistency in liquid chromatography methods.<h5 data-start="990" data-end="1148">4. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Biomarker Breakdown: Combatting Global Fungal Virulence, Diagnostics, and Resistance with Dr. Jennifer Geddes-McAlister</h5><ul data-start="1150" data-end="1243"><li data-start="1150" data-end="1186">Thursday, March 6, 2025, 17:00 CET</li><li data-start="1187" data-end="1243"><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/webinar/4791">Registration</a></li></ul>Join Dr. Jennifer Geddes-McAlister as she delves into her pioneering research, sharing invaluable lessons learned in combating global fungal virulence, diagnostics, and resistance.

Webinars LabRulezLCMS Week 10/2025

In the week from March 3, the following webinars await you in the field of atomic and molecular spectroscopy and spectrometry<blockquote><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinars">👉 DETAILS AND REGISTRATION IN THE WEBINARS SECTION</a>👉 Search and filter in the largest global database with over 4 000 GC, LC, MS and spectroscopy webinars.</blockquote><h5>1. Anton Paar: Battery Materials</h5><ul data-start="2653" data-end="2689"><li data-start="2653" data-end="2676">Tu, 4.3.2025 19:00 CET</li><li data-start="2677" data-end="2689"><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/4453">Registration</a></li></ul>This webinar highlights the critical role of mechanical property testing in evaluating the performance and reliability of battery materials.<h5>2. Agilent Technologies: Lithium-Ion Battery Industry Chain: Quality Control Insights from Elemental Analysis of High TDS Raw Materials and More by ICP-OES</h5><ul data-start="2653" data-end="2689"><li data-start="2653" data-end="2676">Tu, 4.3.2025 21:30 (CET)</li><li data-start="2677" data-end="2689"><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/2441">Registration</a></li></ul>During this talk, a review of data collected from ICP-OES on various battery materials will be discussed with special emphasis on high TDS samples.

Webinars LabRulezICPMS Week 10/2025

Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezGCMS Library in the week of 3rd March 2025? Check out new documents from the field of the gas phase, especially GC and GC/MS techniques!<blockquote>👉 <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library">SEARCH THE LARGEST REPOSITORY OF DOCUMENTS ABOUT GCMS AND RELATED TECHNIQUES</a></blockquote><blockquote>👉 Need info about different analytical techniques? Peek into <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/library">LabRulezLCMS</a> or <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library">LabRulezICPMS</a> libraries.</blockquote>This week we bring you poster by Agilent Technologies and application notes by Knauer, Shimadzu and Thermo Fisher Scientific!<h4>1. Agilent Technologies: GC/MS Approach for Analysis of Extractables and Leachables (E&amp;L) in Complex Matrices Using Spectral Deconvolution and Retention Indices</h4><ul><li>Poster</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/po_7250_5977c_extractable_leachable_asms_2024_mp208_en_agilent_71b19d3b16.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Modern drug delivery systems are meant to protect a drug from environmental contamination, but they may also be a source of contamination. It is necessary to identify those compounds that can extract, leach, or migrate from the package or device. Extractables and leachables analysis presents a challenge for GC/MS because of the complexity of the various sample matrices and a diverse range of compounds to be identified. This study demonstrates how unit resolution GC/MS workflow is employed for identifying GC-amenable E&amp;L compounds by leveraging spectral deconvolution in combination with retention index-based time filtering. An addition of the accurate mass high-resolution GC/Q-TOF into the workflow provided extra confidence in compound identification, sensitivity and capability of structural elucidation.&nbsp;Operating in the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=1&amp;search=OpenLab+ECM">OpenLab Electronic Content Management </a>(ECM) XT configuration enabled tools that help facilitate compliance with various national and EU electronic record regulations, including audit trails, and remote data storage.<h5>Experimental</h5>Rubber syringe gaskets were extracted using tetrahydrofuran (THF) solvent at room temperature for six months. An aliquot of the extracts was analyzed using both <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=1&amp;search=GC%2FMSD">GC/MSD</a> and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=1&amp;search=GC%2Fq-TOF">GC/Q-TOF</a> systems. The acquisition software operated under a unified compliance environment. The instrumental parameters are shown in Table 1. The chromatographic deconvolution and library search were performed in the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=1&amp;search=MassHunter">MassHunter</a> Unknowns Analysis 12.1. The NIST23 library was used to perform initial compound identification. Structural elucidation was performed using Molecular Structure Correlator (MSC) software 8.2.&nbsp;Retention time locking was used to achieve the same retention times between multiple GC/MSD and GC/Q-TOF systems allowing for using both retention index and retention time matching.<h5>Conclusions</h5><ul><li>The optimized GC/MSD and GC/Q-TOF approach for analysis of extractables and leachables allowed for identifying over 150 compounds in a complex E&amp;L extract&nbsp;</li><li>High-resolution GC/MS enabled identification of over 60 additional components with increased confidence and structure elucidation of the unknowns&nbsp;</li><li>The novel ultra low bleed Agilent <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=1&amp;search=J%26W+DB-5Q">J&amp;W DB-5Q</a> GC column resulted in significant decrease in background, that could potentially yield higher number of identifications of late eluting compounds.</li></ul><h4>2. Knauer: GPC cleanup method for soil samples before PAHs analysis</h4><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/VEV_0082_GPC_Cleanup_of_soil_samples_FINAL_web_5260b86091.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>GPC (Gel Permeation Chromatography) is a size-exclusion clean-up procedure that readily separates high molecular weight interferents from sample extracts using organic solvents and a porous hydrophobic gel (primarily a crosslinked divinylbenzene-styrene copolymer) [1]. It is possible to distinguish between different types of Bio-Beads resin based on the type of cross-linkage. In this application Bio-Beads S-X3 with 200–400 mesh was used according to EPA method 3640 [1]. GPC clean-up can be used extensively in numerous environmental analysis especially for preparing sample extracts prior to semivolatile compounds determination, such as pesticide, and PAHs analysis by GC/MS or HPLC-UV-DAD. Sample cleanup is particularly important for analytical separations such as GC, HPLC, and electrophoresis because high-boiling materials can cause a variety of problems in analytical systems, like analyte adsorption in the injection port or in front of a GC or LC column [2]. GPC cleanup protects GC and HPLC columns, reduces analytical maintenance costs, improves accuracy, and allows lower detection limits.<h5>Materials and Methods</h5>Extraction of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons was carried out using Accelerated Solvent Extraction (ASE), according to the 3545A EPA method [3]. Bio-Beads S-X are supplied dry and must be swollen prior to pack into a chromatographic column. A mixture of cyclohexane and dichloromethane (70:30, v:v) is suitable for clean-up of soil samples. As a general rule, the beads should be swollen in the same solvent chosen as mobile phase, so 10 g of Bio-Beads S-X3 were swelled with 50 mL of cyclohexane and dichloromethane mixture (70:30, v:v) overnight. After the beads were fully swollen, they were packed into a chromatographic column. Before sample cleanup, GPC column was equilibrated with the desired solvent mixture, flushing it almost three times the column volume at 1 mL/min. Cleanup method was performed with AZURA® GPC Cleanup System, which is operated with the Mobile Control Chrom® Software running on a tablet directly mounted on the system. The identification and quantification of PAHs was carried out by GC-MS/MS analysis. Calibration curves were constructed in the concentration range from 10 μg/L to 130 μg/L. To perform GC separation and MRM acquisition, optimization of the best chromatographic and detection conditions was necessary.<h5>Conclusion</h5>This application shows how to perform GPC cleanup with KNAUER AZURA® GPC Cleanup System for the analysis of PAHs in soil samples. This report is very detailed to ensure good performance in GPC cleanup for application in environmental area. We can conclude that AZURA GPC Cleanup System is an helpful tool for sample preparation before instrumental analysis because, unlike other techniques, is very useful for the removal of high boiling materials which would contaminate injection ports and column heads, prolonging column life, stabilizing the instrument, and reducing column reactivity. It could be considered an universal cleanup technique for a broad range of semivolatile organics and pesticides. Moreover, AZURA GPC Cleanup System allows the customer to process many extracted samples, with a reduction in time for the cleanup procedures.<h4>3. Shimadzu: Blood alcohol content (BAC) analysis using a liquid injection approach</h4><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/AP_Blood_alcohol_content_via_liquid_injection_SCA_180_051_294d6843f8.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul><h5>User Benefits</h5><ul><li>Blood alcohol analysis using liquid injection is an alternative to the headspace</li><li>analysis of blood samples for clinical purposes</li><li>It provides reliable results for whole blood and plasma samples without adverse matrix effects&nbsp;</li></ul>Blood alcohol content (BAC) is relevant for legal regulations regarding driving limits, but also investigated for forensic and clinical purposes with respect to poisoning. Blood alcohol analysis does not only focus on ethanol, which is the classical drinking alcohol, but also investigates other alcoholic substances like methanol and isopropanol as well as metabolites like acetone. Ethanol is present in alcoholic beverages, but also used for antiseptics, various daily life products, and pharmaceuticals. Being a central nervous system depressant, consumption can cause severe intoxication with toxic levels at above 100 mg/dL blood [1]. Methanol intoxication could originate from the consumption of counterfeit alcohol, with as few as 30 mL pure methanol consumed being potentially lethal [2]. Isopropanol is widely used as solvent or antiseptic in households and sometimes used as cheap substitute for ethanol by alcohol abusers. It is metabolized by alcohol dehydrogenase to acetone, which alike isopropanol is a central nervous depressant [3].Blood alcohol analysis can be performed using gas chromatography (GC) with flame-ionization detection (FID). Due to the complexity of blood as matrix, headspace analysis is a widely used technique for simple sample transfer onto the GC column, which is especially valuable in forensics, where the matrix states investigated can drastically vary depending on the time the sample is taken. For clinical analysis, fresh blood is used, making the sample more uniform. In this approach, the analysis of BAC using a liquid injection technique as alternative to headspace sampling is presented.<h5>The Package</h5>The recommended analytical hardware and software configuration is listed below.<ul><li>Main Unit<ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=3&amp;search=nEXIS+gc-2030+%28fid%29">Nexis GC-2030 with FID-2030</a>: Gas chromatograph with flame ionization detector</li></ul></li><li>Accessory<ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=3&amp;search=AOC-30i+">AOC-30i </a>autosampler: Liquid autosampler with 30 vials capacity</li></ul></li><li>Main Consumables<ul><li>SH-BAC1 column (30 m x 0.32 mm x 1.8 µm;</li><li>P/N 221-76135-30)</li></ul></li><li>Software<ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=3&amp;search=LabSolutions+LCGC">LabSolutions LCGC</a></li></ul></li></ul><h4>Conclusion</h4>Liquid sample injection presents a reliable alternative to headspace injection when analyzing blood samples for clinical purposes. Ethanol and methanol can be determined from whole blood, isopropanol and acetone from plasma samples without adverse matrix effects. Both whole blood and plasma analysis can be done using the same analytical method and one data processing approach, facilitating data evaluation and routine work.<h4>4. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Trace analysis of volatile organic compounds in wastewater according to U.S. EPA Method 624.1&nbsp;</h4><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.cz/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_003068_gc_gc_ms_isq_7610_epa_624_1_an003068_na_en_2297d596f3.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>It is crucial that analytical testing laboratories monitor wastewater for the presence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). VOCs are human-made contaminants used and produced in the processing of paints, adhesives, petroleum products, pharmaceuticals, and refrigerants. If they are released into wastewater from industrial activities, they can have an adverse effect on the natural environment and, ultimately, the public.1 U.S. EPA Method 624.1 is an approved test method under the Clean Water Act2 for determination of purgeable organic pollutants in industrial discharges and other environmental samples. The accurate detection and quantitation of VOCs via this method help ensure wastewater is not contaminated. Due to technological advances in analytical instrumentation and techniques, U.S. EPA Method 624.1 allows the analyst to modify P&amp;T parameters and GC/MS conditions. This can result in reduced sample run time and increased laboratory throughput in a 12-hour period.&nbsp;To perform U.S. EPA Method 624.1, method acceptance criteria must be achieved. These criteria include creating a working calibration curve, method detection limits (MDLs), and Initial Demonstration of Capability (IDC) of accuracy and precision for target compounds. As the sample matrix is water, it is essential that moisture is reduced, limiting the impact on the analytical column as this could damage the column and affect the results.&nbsp;The following evaluation describes the use of the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=2&amp;search=ISQ+7610">ISQ 7610</a> GC-MS system coupled with a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=2&amp;search=TRACE+1610">TRACE 1610 GC</a> equipped with the Thermo Scientific™ HeSaver-H2 Safer™ split/splitless injector and a Teledyne LABS Tekmar Lumin P&amp;T concentrator paired with the AQUATek LVA autosampler for U.S. EPA Method 624.1 for the analysis of wastewater.<h5>Experimental</h5><h5>GC-MS parameters&nbsp;</h5>A TRACE 1610 GC was coupled to the ISQ 7610 MS equipped with a Thermo Scientific™ <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=2&amp;search=NeverVent">NeverVent™ </a>vacuum probe interlock (VPI) and a Thermo Scientific™ ExtractaBrite™ ion source. A Thermo Scientific™ <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=2&amp;search=TraceGOLD">TraceGOLD™ TG-VMS</a>, 30 m × 0.25 mm, 1.4 µm film column (P/N 26080-3320) was used for compound separation. The HeSaver-H2 Safer injector was utilized which reduces the carrier gas consumption by decoupling the gas used for the chromatographic separation from the gas used to pressurize the inlet and maintain split and purge flows. The critical separations were maintained with a run time of under 13 minutes.&nbsp;For this analysis, the ISQ 7610 MS was operated in full scan mode, ensuring the sensitivity needed for required the method detection limits. Nevertheless, the instrument could operate in Selected Ion Monitoring (SIM) mode for increased selectivity, if needed. Extended method parameters for the ISQ 7610 MS are shown in Table 2.<h5>Conclusion</h5>The ISQ 7610 MS system with the VPI coupled with the Teledyne LABS Tekmar Lumin P&amp;T concentrator paired with the AQUATek LVA autosampler exceeds all the requirements outlined in U.S. EPA Method 624.1 for analysis of VOCs in wastewater:<ul><li>MDLs calculated from n=7 repeat injections of 0.5 ppb water standards showed no interference from unwanted water entering the system and resulted in values &lt;0.15 ppb for most compounds.</li><li>Precision and accuracy for n=7 20 ppb water standards showed excellent results with %RSD &lt;20% and mean recovery of 93% for the compounds.</li><li>System robustness was tested by continuously acquiring 209 injections of water samples over two days with no user intervention at all. The average %RSD of the calculated concentration was 6.5% over this robustness study.</li><li>Utilizing the HeSaver-H2 Safer technology reduced helium consumption for the method by 4 times, reducing laboratory overheads.&nbsp;</li></ul>Further information on VOC analysis using the ISQ 7610 system and the Tekmar Lumin P&amp;T paired with the AQUATek LVA can be found in the Thermo Fisher Scientific AppsLab library.3 &nbsp;

News from LabRulezGCMS Library - Week 10, 2025

News from LabRulezICPMS Library - Week 10, 2025

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Since 1991 DataApex develops and manufactures chromatography data stations. DataApex is constantly striving to provide users with efficient and up-to-date tools for chromatography data processing.

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LECO Separation Science Workshop

Thermo Fisher Scientific at SOFT/TIAFT 2026

Bruker at SOFT-TIAFT 2026

The Next Frontier in Nitrosamines Testing: Detection and Risk Assessment in Packaging and IV Infusion Bags

From Cleared Tissue to Quantitative 3D Insights: Integrated Bruker and Translucence Biosystems Workflows for Whole-Organ Imaging

Membrane Technologies for Water and Food Sustainability