<p><strong>MS/MS (Tandem) spectra can be used to identify unknowns employing library searches. This is accomplished in much the same approach as that employed for EI GC-MS with the NIST search software. The much improved NIST Search Version 2.4 is included with the 2020 library release.</strong> </p>
<p>I will attempt to introduce the user to the use of the <strong>NIST Version 2.4 search software</strong> employing NIST, Wiley, “crowd-sourced (MoNA)”, and user libraries for the <strong>identification of unknowns</strong>.</p>
<p>NIST has an ambitious program to extend their already comprehensive, high-quality MS/MS databases. </p>
<p>See the following link: <a href="https://littlemsandsailing.files.wordpress.com/2020/12/xiaoyu_yang_asms2020_presentation.pdf">NIST Pipeline for Extending MS/MS Libraries</a></p>
<p>This involves a very comprehensive process for <strong>selecting</strong> pertinent compounds for purchase and subsequent <strong>analyses</strong>. The problem with variability of the spectra is reduced by analyzing the samples on a <strong>variety of instruments</strong> at a <strong>variety of energy levels</strong> (20 steps). In addition, many different <strong>precursor ions</strong> and <strong>fragment ions</strong> are characterized (MSⁿ). This has already led to a very large high quality library of <strong>accurate mass MS/MS spectra in the 2020 release version</strong> (31K compounds/1.3 M spectra) and the effort is ongoing.</p>
<h3><strong>The Part III will cover:</strong></h3>
<p>Detailed Handouts including tables of content are available in the <a href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/library?search=lc%2Fms%20unknown%20identifications%20using%20msms%20libraries&amp;manufacturerItems=55">LabRulezLCMS library</a>.</p>
<ul>
<li>Introduction to Presenter, James Little</li>
<li>Table of Contents</li>
<li>Series of Talks: LCMS Unknown Identifications Using MSMS Libraries</li>
<li>Help Files for NIST Search</li>
<li>NIST Software in General is “Windows Compliant” </li>
<li>Presentation Topics</li>
<li>Program Description and My Personal Experience</li>
<li>Comparison to Standard versus Neutral Loss Spectrum</li>
<li>Hybrid Search Results for Example</li>
<li>Using DotProduct Instead of Score for Viewing Results</li>
<li>DeltaMass Table</li>
<li>Simple Examples Using Structures to Show DeltaMass</li>
<li>Viewing Peak Matching Results by Sorting in Hybrid Search Results</li>
<li>Merging Hybrid with Peak Matching Results</li>
<li>Detailed Explanation of Hybrid Head to Tail Display</li>
<li>Alternate Neutral Loss Comparison in Head to Tail Format</li>
<li>Other Things to Consider with Hybrid Search for Unknown Identification</li>
<li>Setting Up CriticalDefault Parameters for MS/MS Hybrid Search</li>
<li>Live Searching Demonstration YouTube Video</li>
<li>Acknowledgements</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Future parts will focus on:</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li>Part IV:   <strong>Importing MSMS Spectra</strong></li>
<li>Part V:    <strong>NIST Structure Searches</strong></li>
<li>Part VI:   <strong>MS Interpreter Correlation of Substructure to MSMS Ions</strong></li>
<li>Part VII:  <strong>Using and Creating Other MSMS Libraries</strong></li>
<li>Part VIII: <strong>Identification of Unknowns with “Spectraless” Libraries</strong></li>
</ul>


LC/MS Unknown Identifications Using MSMS Libraries Part III: More Detailed Discussion of MSMS Hybrid Search

<p><strong>In the period from March 8 to March 19, 2021, the following webinars await you in the field of GC and GCMS. More <a href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/webinars">details and registration can be found in the WEBINARS section.</a>:</strong></p>
<p><strong>Search and filter</strong> in more than <strong>600 GC and LC webinars</strong>.</p>
<h5><strong>1. Restek Corporation: Choosing a different carrier gas in GC</strong></h5>
<p>In this webinar we will discuss several options to choose from carrier gases in GC and what the implications are when moving from helium to nitrogen or to hydrogen.</p>
<h5><strong>2. Wasson-ECE Instrumentation: Technical Advances in Process GC-MS (8. - 11. 3. 2021)</strong></h5>
<p>Join us to learn how Wasson-ECE is bringing GC-MS out of the lab for real-time analysis of process streams. STOP WAITING for results to come back from the lab! </p>
<h5><strong>3. Agilent Technologies: 1st Agilent Lab Informatics Virtual Summit</strong></h5>
<p>In this 1-day Virtual Summit don’t miss the opportunity to hear and speak with Agilent Lab Informatics experts.</p>
<h5><strong>4. C&amp;EN/JEOL: A New Platform for GC-MS Analysis of Complex Samples</strong></h5>
<p>In this presentation, we will discuss a new, completely redesigned high-resolution time-of-flight mass spectrometer for GC-MS analysis that combines a new TOF analyzer with integrated software.</p>
<h5><strong>5. Agilent Technologies: Introduction to the Agilent 990 Micro GC</strong></h5>
<p>This webinar will discuss mobile gas chromatograph Agilent 990 Micro GC applications, hardware advancements, new wireless capabilities and the new industrial designed field case.</p>
<h5><strong>6. Shimadzu Scientific Instruments: Analysis of Siloxanes in Biogas using TD-GC-MS</strong></h5>
<p>In this webinar we will talk about analysis of Siloxanes in Biogas using TD-GC-MS (thermal desorption - gas chromatography - mass spectrometry).</p>
<h5><strong>7. PerkinElmer: Fundamentals of Thermal Desorption; Absorbing the Ins &amp; Outs</strong></h5>
<p>The theory and function of thermal desorption will be covered including differences between passive and active sampling.</p>


GC and GCMS webinars - Week 10 & 11

<p><strong>In the week from March 8, 2021, the following webinars await you in the field of LC and LCMS.  More <a href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/webinars">details and registration can be found in the WEBINARS section.</a>:</strong></p>
<p><strong>Search and filter</strong> in more than <strong>600 LC and GC webinars</strong>.</p>
<h5><strong>1. Agilent Technologies: 2D or Not 2D - Agilent 2D-LC Forum</strong></h5>
<p>During this 2D-LC forum we will cover: Recent Advances in 2D-LC for Biopharmaceutical Analysis; 2D-LC: A Tutorial focusing on Best Practices - Part 1 and Part 2; Ask the Experts.</p>
<h5><strong>2. Agilent Technologies: Experts Webinar Series: Adeno Associated Viruses Characterization</strong></h5>
<p>In this webinar series, hear from mass spec experts as they pour you a cup of innovative new findings they have discovered in their field. </p>
<h5><strong>3. Agilent Technologies: Native MS and IM-MS Analyses of Large Proteins and Protein Complexes</strong></h5>
<p>We will describe simple modifications to the Agilent electrospray source to accommodate static nanoelectrospray ionization (nESI). This allow for MS and IM-MS analyses of large protein complexes (&gt;100 kDa).</p>
<h5><strong>4. Agilent Technologies/Metrohm: Haloacetic Acids Analysis by IC-TQ</strong></h5>
<p>In this webinar we will review instrumentation and method setup using a Metrohm ion chromatogram (IC) for separation and the 6470 TQ for detection. Data compliant with EPA 557 will be presented.</p>
<h5><strong>5. Agilent Technologies: Analysis of Mycotoxins in Food Matrices</strong></h5>
<p>The combination of the cleanup of matrix interferences, chromatography, and the Ultivo triple quadrupole LC/MS allows for sensitive and precise detection of mycotoxins.</p>
<h5><strong>6. Agilent Technologies: Expanded Automated Protein &amp; Peptide Sample Preparation Capabilities: New Larger Capacity Cartridges</strong></h5>
<p>This talk will provide an overview of the platform and its flex. to address a wide range of workflows, with a particular focus on the new cap. enabled by the availability of large-capacity AssayMAP cartridges.</p>


LC and LCMS webinars - Week 10

<p><strong>I presented a 5-part Wiley Webinar Series in August-September, 2020 on EI library searches.  The series demonstrates the effective use of NIST software such as MS Search, MS Interpreter, and AMDIS with the Wiley, NIST, and user-created libraries.</strong></p>
<h3><strong>The Part IV will cover:</strong></h3>
<p>Detailed Handouts including tables of content are available in the <a href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?search=spectral%20searches%20with%20nist%20ms%20search&amp;manufacturerItems=55">LabRulezGCMS library</a>.</p>
<ul>
<li>Webinar topics</li>
<li>Help Files for NIST Search </li>
<li>General Windows commands/functions</li>
<li>Program description and my personal experience </li>
<li>Hybrid generates score based on both fragments and neutral losses</li>
<li>Setting up indices for EI hybrid search for Wiley and user libraries</li>
<li>Saving configuration for EI hybrid search</li>
<li>Hybrid search results for unknown</li>
<li>Tip:  See normal EI identity search results in hybrid search list</li>
<li>“Mentally” merge information of hybrid and simple EI identity search</li>
<li>Closer look at middle display of hybrid search</li>
<li>Neutral loss display of hybrid search results </li>
<li>Use available accurate mass data to support nominal mass hybrid search </li>
<li>Hybrid search needs nominal MW of species to work properly</li>
<li>Using NIST software to obtain proposed nominal MW </li>
<li>View of hit list structure hybrid search options</li>
<li>DeltaMass table </li>
<li>Associating some simple structures with DeltaMass values</li>
<li>Other things to consider using hybrid search for unknown identification</li>
<li>NIST MSMS (tandem) hybrid searches </li>
<li>Additional NIST MSMS (tandem) hybrid search menus </li>
<li>Wiley MSMS (tandem) libraries </li>
<li>Webinar references </li>
<li>Acknowledgements</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Future parts will focus on:</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/article/1160"><strong>Part V: Creating and Sharing User EI and MS/MS Libraries</strong></a></li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>The past sections have focused on:</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><p><a href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/article/1066"><strong>Part I: Spectral Searches with NIST MS Search</strong></a></p>
</li>
<li><p><a href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/article/1086"><strong>Part II: Structure Searches with NIST MS Search and Using MS Interpreter</strong></a></p>
</li>
<li><p><a href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/article/1109"><strong>Part III: AMDIS (NIST) for Processing EI Mass Spectral Data Files</strong></a></p>
</li>
</ul>


Wiley Seminar - Part IV: Advanced NIST Hybrid Searchof EI and MS/MS Spectra

<p><strong>MS/MS (Tandem) spectra can be used to identify unknowns employing library searches. This is accomplished in much the same approach as that employed for EI GC-MS with the NIST search software. The much improved NIST Search Version 2.4 is included with the 2020 library release.</strong> </p>
<p>I will attempt to introduce the user to the use of the <strong>NIST Version 2.4 search software</strong> employing NIST, Wiley, “crowd-sourced (MoNA)”, and user libraries for the <strong>identification of unknowns</strong>.</p>
<p>NIST has an ambitious program to extend their already comprehensive, high-quality MS/MS databases. </p>
<p>See the following link: <a href="https://littlemsandsailing.files.wordpress.com/2020/12/xiaoyu_yang_asms2020_presentation.pdf">NIST Pipeline for Extending MS/MS Libraries</a></p>
<p>This involves a very comprehensive process for <strong>selecting</strong> pertinent compounds for purchase and subsequent <strong>analyses</strong>. The problem with variability of the spectra is reduced by analyzing the samples on a <strong>variety of instruments</strong> at a <strong>variety of energy levels</strong> (20 steps). In addition, many different <strong>precursor ions</strong> and <strong>fragment ions</strong> are characterized (MSⁿ). This has already led to a very large high quality library of <strong>accurate mass MS/MS spectra in the 2020 release version</strong> (31K compounds/1.3 M spectra) and the effort is ongoing.</p>
<h3><strong>The Part IV will cover:</strong></h3>
<p>Detailed Handouts including tables of content are available in the <a href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/library?search=lc%2Fms%20unknown%20identifications%20using%20msms%20libraries&amp;manufacturerItems=55">LabRulezLCMS library</a>.</p>
<ul>
<li>Introduction of Presenter, James Little</li>
<li>Table of Contents </li>
<li>Series Topics</li>
<li>Help Files for NIST Search</li>
<li>NIST Software in General is “Windows Compliant” </li>
<li>Abbreviations Used in Text and Useful Keyboard Sequences </li>
<li>Methods for ImportingSpectra Directlyin MSP Format to NIST</li>
<li>Mass Spec Manufactures Current Use of NIST Search</li>
<li>Example of Capability Utilized by Agilent</li>
<li>Example of Imported Agilent Spectrum</li>
<li>Example of Mult-Spectra Import of Agilent Spectra </li>
<li>Importance of Proper Settings in NIST Spectrum Import Options</li>
<li>Importing Spectra Manually Indirectlyin MSP and Other Formats </li>
<li>Exporting Spectra Manually in MSP and Other Formats </li>
<li>Example of Typical NIST Entry in *.MSP Format</li>
<li>Live YouTube Demonstration </li>
<li>References with Internet Links </li>
<li>Acknowledgements</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Future parts will focus on:</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li>Part V:    <strong>NIST Structure Searches</strong></li>
<li>Part VI:   <strong>MS Interpreter Correlation of Substructure to MSMS Ions</strong></li>
<li>Part VII:  <strong>Using and Creating Other MSMS Libraries</strong></li>
<li>Part VIII: <strong>Identification of Unknowns with “Spectraless” Libraries</strong></li>
</ul>


LC/MS Unknown Identifications Using MSMS Libraries Part IV: Importing MSMS Spectra

<p><strong>In the week from March 15, 2021, the following webinars await you in the field of GC and GCMS. More <a href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/webinars">details and registration can be found in the WEBINARS section.</a>:</strong></p>
<p><strong>Search and filter</strong> in more than <strong>600 GC and LC webinars</strong>.</p>
<h5><strong>1. Agilent Technologies: 1st Agilent Lab Informatics Virtual Summit</strong></h5>
<p>In this 1-day Virtual Summit don’t miss the opportunity to hear and speak with Agilent Lab Informatics experts.</p>
<h5><strong>2. Shimadzu Scientific Instruments: Pyrolysis Ask an Expert</strong></h5>
<p>Join us for the final webinar in a three-part series about PY-GC/MS. In this webinar presented by Shimadzu, you will have the opportunity to speak with the experts! </p>
<h5><strong>3. C&amp;EN/JEOL: A New Platform for GC-MS Analysis of Complex Samples</strong></h5>
<p>In this presentation, we will discuss a new, completely redesigned high-resolution time-of-flight mass spectrometer for GC-MS analysis that combines a new TOF analyzer with integrated software.</p>
<h5><strong>4. Anatune: The Progression of SIFT-MS Through Breath and Clinical Applications - Day 1</strong></h5>
<p>Topics Day 1: An introduction; Oral malodour and its diagnosis and measurement; Validation of Electronic Nose with the SIFT-MS; Identify Differences in The Breath Volatile Profiles.</p>
<h5><strong>5. Agilent Technologies: Introduction to the Agilent 990 Micro GC</strong></h5>
<p>This webinar will discuss mobile gas chromatograph Agilent 990 Micro GC applications, hardware advancements, new wireless capabilities and the new industrial designed field case.</p>
<h5><strong>6. Anatune: The Progression of SIFT-MS Through Breath and Clinical Applications - Day 2</strong></h5>
<p>Topics Day 2: Testing Viral Filters by SIFT-MS; VOCs analysis by SIFT-MS following treatment of meat by Cold Atmospheric Plasma; Exhaled Breath Analysis Using Full-Scan SIFT-MS Data</p>
<h5><strong>7. Restek Corporation: Restek’s Workflows and Products for the Cannabis Market</strong></h5>
<p>Don’t reinvent the wheel! Join us to learn more about our testing solutions, literature and resources, and some of our first-hand experiences in this market. </p>
<h5><strong>8. Shimadzu Scientific Instruments: Analysis of Siloxanes in Biogas using TD-GC-MS</strong></h5>
<p>In this webinar we will talk about analysis of Siloxanes in Biogas using TD-GC-MS (thermal desorption - gas chromatography - mass spectrometry).</p>
<h5><strong>9. PerkinElmer: Fundamentals of Thermal Desorption; Absorbing the Ins &amp; Outs</strong></h5>
<p>The theory and function of thermal desorption will be covered including differences between passive and active sampling.</p>


GC and GCMS webinars - Week 11

<p><strong>In the week from March 15, 2021, the following webinars await you in the field of LC and LCMS.  More <a href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/webinars">details and registration can be found in the WEBINARS section.</a>:</strong></p>
<p><strong>Search and filter</strong> in more than <strong>600 LC and GC webinars</strong>.</p>
<h5><strong>1. Agilent Technologies: Native Mode Analysis of Biologics- Charge Variant Profiling Protein Therapeutics Using Ion Exchange Chromatography (IEX) Solutions</strong></h5>
<p>In this webinar, speakers will discuss the importance of charge variant analysis and Ion-Exchange (IEX) methods for intact analysis of biotherapeutics with the utilization of some specific case studies.</p>
<h5><strong>2. Agilent Technologies: 1st Agilent Lab Informatics Virtual Summit</strong></h5>
<p>In this 1-day Virtual Summit don’t miss the opportunity to hear and speak with Agilent Lab Informatics experts.</p>
<h5><strong>3. PerkinElmer: Analysis of Polar contaminants and Glyphosate with Qsight LC-MS/MS</strong></h5>
<p>In this webinar we present a series of solutions with optimized sample preparation and LC coupled with laminar flow MS/MS for the detection and quantitation of several polar water contaminants.</p>
<h5><strong>4. Technology Networks/SCIEX: Bioanalysis of Therapeutic Oligonucleotides by HRMS</strong></h5>
<p>A pharmacokinetics assessment strategy for siRNA modalities will be presented, featuring ion-pairing reverse phase chromatography and quantitation by QTOF HRMS.</p>
<h5><strong>5. Agilent Technologies: High Throughput Native MS With Robust Ion Source Operation For The Analysis Of Proteins And Protein Complexes</strong></h5>
<p>Here we explore the feasibility of high flow approaches for native mode analysis of non-covalent complexes.</p>
<h5><strong>6. Agilent Technologies: Fully automated 2D-LC/MS for biotherapeutics charge variant characterization using Ion Exchange (IEX) and Reversed-Phase (RP) Chromatography</strong></h5>
<p>In this webinar we will discuss the importance of charge variants analysis of therapeutic mAbs and a fully automated multiple heart-cutting 2D-LC/MS workflow solution for charge variant characterization.</p>
<h5><strong>7. Restek Corporation: Restek’s Workflows and Products for the Cannabis Market</strong></h5>
<p>Don’t reinvent the wheel! Join us to learn more about our testing solutions, literature and resources, and some of our first-hand experiences in this market. </p>
<h5><strong>8. C&amp;EN/PerkinElmer: Advancing Research, Technology and Detection of PFAS in Our Environment</strong></h5>
<p>This webinar will provide updates on the latest research and technologies related to these contaminants of emerging concern and their detection, impact, and management.</p>
<h5><strong>9. Agilent Technologies: Cracking Cellular Metabolism</strong></h5>
<p>In this webinar, we will demonstrate a complete untargeted metabolomics workflow from sample prep to data analysis, within the context of cancer cell biology. </p>
<h5><strong>10. Agilent Technologies: Charge variants analysis of biotherapeutics by fully automated Capillary Isoelectric Focusing (cIEF) and High Res Mass Spectrometry</strong></h5>
<p>In this Webinar, speakers will discuss the fully automated on-line charge variants analysis of biotherapeutics (mAbs and other molecules) using online cIEF/MS workflows.</p>
<h5><strong>11. Agilent Technologies: Experts Webinar Series: Oligonucleotide Analysis</strong></h5>
<p>In this webinar series, hear from mass spec experts as they pour you a cup of innovative new findings they have discovered in their field.</p>


LC and LCMS webinars - Week 11

<h3><strong>1. Gas Source</strong></h3>
<p><strong>Helium</strong> is becoming increasingly expensive with reports of its price having doubled in some regions between 2013 and 2015. Added to its increased price, supply cannot be ensured in certain regions which is increasing the number of labs looking to change to hydrogen.</p>
<p><strong>Hydrogen generator:</strong> A hydrogen generator providing carrier grade hydrogen (99.9999%) such as the Peak Scientific <a href="https://www.peakscientific.com/products/hydrogen/"><strong>Precision Hydrogen Trace</strong></a> is recommended as a safe source of hydrogen that will ensure prolonged column life and the highest quality of analysis.</p>
<p><strong>Supply tubing:</strong> Supply of hydrogen should be provided through new stainless steel or analytical grade copper tubing. It is important to change the tubing that was previously used to supply helium to the GC, since over time, deposits can build up on the inside of the tubing which hydrogen will strip out, causing higher background signal for a longer period of time.</p>
<h3><strong>2. Hydrogen Safety</strong></h3>
<p>Safe use of hydrogen: Since Hydrogen is an explosive gas, it is essential that health and safety in the lab is not compromised and many labs will have restrictions on the use of hydrogen cylinders in the lab.</p>
<p><strong>LEL:</strong> The lower explosive level (LEL) of hydrogen is 4% in air. Therefore a leak of hydrogen from a cylinder containing around 8000L hydrogen into a well vented laboratory has the potential to reach the LEL very quickly without warning and could create an explosive atmosphere. Added to concerns about large gas leaks, is the cumbersome nature of cylinders which must be moved when replaced, again posing a potential health and safety hazard.</p>
<p><strong>Gas Generator:</strong> A Peak Scientific Precision hydrogen generator is an ideal source of hydrogen gas, capable of supplying multiple GCs with UHP hydrogen for carrier gas and detector gas, whilst containing a very low volume of gas (less than 0.3L) at a low pressure. Precision hydrogen generators have a number of safety features that will detect any internal or external leaks between the generator and GC and will shut down the generator accordingly.</p>
<p><strong>Leak detector:</strong> Peak also offer an in-oven hydrogen detector that will shut down the generator if a significant hydrogen leak is detected within the GC oven.</p>
<h3><strong>3. Hardware</strong></h3>
<p>It is important to check the recommendations from  your  GC  manufacturer  regarding  use  of  hydrogen  carrier  gas  in  your  GC.  Each  manufacturer  will  have  tested  their  GCs  for  use  with  hydrogen  and  may  have  specific  recommendations  depending  on  the  model  that   you   are   using.   Hardware   changes,   if   required,  are  most  likely  to  need  to  be  made  on GC-MS systems.</p>
<p><strong>Vacuum Pump:</strong> If you are using a GC-MS, it is important  to  ensure  that  your  vacuum  pump  is  efficient  enough  to  maintain  the  vacuum  in  the  source.  Pumping  efficiency  is  reduced  for  lighter  molecules,  so  check  the  guidelines  from  your  GC  manufacturer  to  ensure  that  your pumping system can cope with hydrogen carrier  gas.  If  you  are  purchasing  a  new  GC-MS system, make your supplier aware that you plan  to  use  hydrogen  carrier  gas  so  that  the  correct vacuum pump is supplied.</p>
<p><strong>Ion  Source:</strong>  Depending  on  the  manufacturer  of your GC-MS, it is possible to get hydrogen upgrade kits, or replacement components for the  ion  source  which  will  improve  sensitivity  when  using  hydrogen  carrier  gas  for  analysis  of  certain  compounds.  If  you  are  purchasing  a  new  GC-MS  system,  consult  your  supplier  regarding  which  ion  source  will  be  supplied  with   the   GC-MS   to   avoid   extra   cost   and   downtime at a later date.</p>
<h3><strong>4. Consumables</strong></h3>
<p><strong>Column:</strong>  For  standard  GC,  there  is  very  little  that  needs  to  be  changed  when  switching  from  helium  to  hydrogen.  By  using  a  method  translation  software,  you  can  simulate  the  effect  of  changing  carrier  gas  on  carrier  gas  pressure and oven ramp rates so that you can produce   a   revalidated   method.   Depending   on  your  GC  method  parameters,  it  may  not  be  necessary  to  change  to  a  narrower  bore  column,  unless  the  inlet  pressure  becomes very  low  in  the  translated  method,  however  there  are  benefits  to  using  a  narrow  bore  column,  which  the  properties  of  hydrogen  carrier gas facilitates. By moving to a narrower bore column, the number of theoretical plates is  increased,  giving  potential  for  improved  efficiency and better sample separation.</p>
<p><strong>Inlet:</strong> Inlet liners should be changed regularly to   ensure   that   the   system   stays   free   of   contaminants.  When  running  samples  with  hydrogen   carrier   gas,   tapered   liners   are   recommended  since  these  minimise  contact  with  the  gold  seal  in  GC  systems  that  have  a  gold seal.</p>
<p><strong>Septa:</strong>  Changing  inlet  septa  is  a  routine  part  of GC maintenance and should be conducted regularly  to  avoid  leaks  in  the  system  and  prevent contamination.</p>
<h3><strong>5. Method</strong></h3>
<p>It is essential to confirm that your method can be  used  with  hydrogen  carrier  gas.  If  you  are  using any regulated methods (eg. EPA, ASTM), first  check  what  carrier  gases  are  permitted.  If  hydrogen  is  permitted,  then  research  your  method(s) of interest to see whether there are any application notes on this method?</p>
<p><strong>Method     translation     software:</strong>    Method     translation software is available from a variety of  sources  and  can  be  used  to  calculate  GC  settings  when  using  hydrogen  carrier  gas.  This will enable you to optimise your method and  explore  column  options  prior  to  actually  setting  the  system  up  with  hydrogen  carrier  gas.</p>
<p><strong>Use  of  chlorinated  solvents:</strong>  Formation  of  hydrochloric acid (HCl) through reaction of Cl and  H₂  is  often  cited  as  a  potential  problem  for  GC  and  GC-MS  when  using  hydrogen  carrier  gas  since  HCl  will  damage  the  GC  system.  Reactions  between  H₂  carrier  gas  and  analytes  or  solvent  will  normally  occur  in the inlet, so reducing the residence time of your  sample  in  the  inlet  is  key.  Use  of  pulsed  splitless or pulsed split injection can help with reducing residence time of sample in the inlet, reducing the opportunity for formation of HCl or  reactions  between  hydrogen  and  analytes  occurring.</p>
<p><strong>Inlet   temperature:</strong>   Using   the   lowest   inlet   temperature   possible   for   the   method   will   reduce  the  potential  for  reactions  between  solvents, analytes and hydrogen.</p>
<h3><strong>6. System setup</strong></h3>
<p><strong>Column conditioning:</strong> When setting up a new GC system with hydrogen carrier gas, you will need  to  condition  the  column.  Ensure  that  the end of the column is outside the GC oven when  you  condition  the  column  to  prevent  a  build-up  of  hydrogen  within  the  GC  oven  as  this could present a risk of explosion.</p>
<p><strong>Ion source bakeout:</strong> If you are setting up a GC-MS, it is common to see performance problems when  tuning  the  system,  or  running  samples  shortly after setting up with hydrogen carrier gas. This can be seen as high hydrocarbon-like background  and  a  high  m/z  29  peak.  Baking  out  the  ion  source  can  quickly  resolve  these  issues, with background settling down after an overnight back-out. Details of how to bake out your MSD can be found manufacturers’ guides and webinars covering use of GC-MS systems with hydrogen carrier gas.</p>
<h3><strong>7. Performance checkout</strong></h3>
<p><strong>Signal to noise:</strong> Signal to noise is often reduced when  comparing  results  of  samples  run  with  helium  compared  with  hydrogen  (2-5  times  depending  on  the  system).  The  reduction  in  signal to noise can be improved by using SIM detection on a single quadrupole system.</p>
<p><strong>Fragmentation patterns:</strong> If ion ratios change, it is likely that too much Hydrogen is present in the ion source. This problem can be mitigated by   reducing   the   column   ID   and   therefore   reducing   the   carrier   gas   flow   rate,   thus   reducing the volume of Hydrogen entering the ion source.</p>
<p><strong>Peak  tailing:</strong>  Polar  components  may  suffer  more   significantly   from   Peak   tailing   when   using  hydrogen  carrier  gas.  After  baking  out  the ion source, peak tailing should reduce and will normally reduce for most compounds after a few days.</p>
<p><strong>Background:</strong> A  few  days  following  changing  carrier gas, the background signal should drop to a consistent level.</p>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Ed Connor Dr.Sc.</strong> is a GC Product Specialist, Peak Scientific, Inchinnan Business Park, Scotland, UK . Prior to joining Peak, Ed  completed  his  Dr.Sc.  at  ETH  Zurich  in  Switzerland  using  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  volatile  collection methods and analyses using GC-MS and GC-FID.</p>
</blockquote>


7 Steps to changing carrier gas from Helium to Hydrogen

<p><strong>Covid-19 has had a major impact on how a lab operates. Personnel well-being as well as safe access to a reliable gas supply are now even greater priorities for analytical facilities and institutions. Labs supplying their instruments using bulk gas methods, such as cylinders or dewars, need to take extra precautions to minimize covid-19 exposure risks from outside third party contact and manual handling of cylinders. Ensuring the lab facility has contingency storage of gas in the event of lockdown transport restrictions is an additional stressor for laboratory staff.</strong></p>
<p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Peak_Scientific_Generatory_plynu_a_bezpecnost_laboratore_behem_Covid_19_2_7a5a032e9c/Peak-Scientific-Generatory-plynu-a-bezpecnost-laboratore-behem-Covid-19-2.jpg" alt="Peak Scientific: Reduce risks of Covid-19 contact transmission"/></p>
<h3><strong>Safety - Reduce risks of Covid-19 contact transmission</strong></h3>
<p>Having strict outside contact policies in place, labs must limit third party contact to protect their members of staff, which can make regular cylinder deliveries and installations daunting tasks due to the risks of Covid-19 contact transmission.</p>
<p>Among the other safety benefits an in-house gas generation has to offer, including advanced fail-safe technology and minimal gas storage, labs operating with a gas generator for applications such as LC-MS or GC, can eliminate the Covid-19 infection vector of recurring material delivery to site and manual handling of cylinders, with the additional contact touchpoints that incurs.</p>
<p>A Peak in-house gas generator only requires a one-time delivery, granting lab personnel the independence to operate the unit by themselves without the assistance or supply provision from third parties, thereby limiting contact to their employees. What is more, as an equipment fully integrated in a closed lab environment, an in-house gas generator is easier to sanitize, making sure all your lab equipment maintains the adequate hygiene standard required for all employees to be able to use safely.</p>
<p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Peak_Scientific_Generatory_plynu_a_bezpecnost_laboratore_behem_Covid_19_3_22ada1a7b8/Peak-Scientific-Generatory-plynu-a-bezpecnost-laboratore-behem-Covid-19-3.jpg" alt="Peak Scientific: Gas supply access on-demand, 24/7"/></p>
<h3><strong>Reliability – Gas supply access on-demand, 24/7</strong></h3>
<p>The Covid-19 pandemic has caused supply chain disruption across a number of industries, heightening the uncertainty over future gas delivery capability in the event of potential future lockdowns imposing logistics infrastructure restrictions.</p>
<p>Performing LC-MS or GC analysis with a Peak <a href="https://www.peakscientific.com/nitrogen-generators/"><strong>nitrogen</strong></a>, <a href="https://www.peakscientific.com/products/hydrogen/"><strong>hydrogen</strong></a> or <a href="https://www.peakscientific.com/products/air/"><strong>zero air</strong></a> gas generator provides a continuous supply of gas available on-demand, 24/7. Labs can have peace of mind knowing they have the independence which allows them to be in control of their own gas source without having to rely on the availability of third party suppliers.</p>
<p>Free of touchpoints and outside contact through deliveries and installation, running your LC-MS or GC instrument with a Peak gas generator is a step towards a safer and more independent lab. Producing your own laboratory-grade gas means you can focus on what’s important without any concerns over safety or supply shortages.</p>
<h3><strong>Peak Protected - World class generator care</strong></h3>
<p>At Peak Scientific, we understand that a reliable and consistent gas supply is essential to the critical nature of your work. That&#39;s why we have developed <a href="https://www.peakscientific.com/service/about-peak-protected/"><strong>Peak Protected</strong></a> first-class after-sales care allowing you to have peace of mind knowing our support keeps your generator in great condition, with optimized performance throughout the product life span. Should you require a service or in the unlikely event of a breakdown, one of our Field Service Engineers will be on your site within 24-72 hours (Note), thanks to our global rapid call-out response. With <strong>Peak Protected</strong>, your lab is our priority. For further enquiries on our after-sales care, contact us today on protected@peakscientific.com</p>
<p>Note: Response time is dependent on region and service plan. Monday to Friday working days only.</p>


On-site Gas Generators & Lab Safety During Covid-19

<p><strong>In the week from March 22, 2021, the following webinars await you in the field of GC and GCMS. More <a href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/webinars">details and registration can be found in the WEBINARS section.</a>:</strong></p>
<p><strong>Search and filter</strong> in more than <strong>700 GC and LC webinars</strong>.</p>
<h5><strong>1. Restek Corporation: Analysis of Amines in GC</strong></h5>
<p>In this webinar we will discuss several solutions for amine analysis focusing on volatile amines as well as for amine/alcohol/water mixtures.</p>
<h5><strong>2. Separation Science/Markes International: Introducing the POD Sampler: The Latest Development in Radial Diffusive Sampling for VOCs</strong></h5>
<p>Separation Science, in collaboration with Markes International, offers a presentation covering the next generation in radial diffusive sampler – the POD Sampler.</p>
<h5><strong>3. Phenomenex: Getting Low With Sample Preparation: How to Achieve Less Background Interference and Lower Limits of Detection</strong></h5>
<p>This webinar will focus on how to develop an easy sample preparation method using solid supported liquid extraction (SLE) to achieve a fast clean-up solution from biological matrices.</p>
<h5><strong>4. GERSTEL: Enhanced Extraction using a Combination of Stir Bar Sorptive Extraction and Thin Film Solid Phase Microextraction</strong></h5>
<p>Enhanced Extraction using a Combination of SBSE and Thin Film SPME.</p>
<h5><strong>5. Quantum Analytics/Frontier Lab: Deformulation and Failure Analysis of Polymers using Pyrolysis-GC/MS</strong></h5>
<p>Learn how pyrolysis-GC/MS can deliver better efficiency and accuracy in polymer deformulation and failure analysis applications.</p>
<h5><strong>6. Anatune/GERSTEL: Aroma Analysis: Finding Flexibility in Flavour and Fragrance</strong></h5>
<p>Aroma and flavour analysis is a complex tasks and requires multiple approaches to get the most data on yours products. GERSTEL automation enables many different techniques to be used on one platform at one time.</p>
<h5><strong>7. Agilent Technologies: WAX Column Technology Update and Recent Applications</strong></h5>
<p>In this webinar, we will discuss the advances in WAX column technology, the benefits of each of these columns, and what applications they may be able to help. </p>
<h5><strong>8. VWR/Avantor: How to double your sample capacity in less time with an existing autosampler!</strong></h5>
<p>Join us to review sample handling efficiencies for LC and GC autosamplers that you can implement into your workflow.</p>
<h5><strong>9. SGS: Chemical Characterization of Medical Device Materials According to ISO 10993-18:2020</strong></h5>
<p>This presentation will focus on the analytical considerations of medical device extractable and leachable (E&amp;L) studies as per the new ISO 10993-18 chapter.</p>
<h5><strong>10. Technology Networks/Victus Capital Ventures: Uncovering the Lineage of Extraction and the Future of the Craft</strong></h5>
<p>During this webinar we will discuss the history of extraction, the most common methodologies of extraction and the technical developments of each and the future of cannabis extraction and innovations.</p>


GC and GCMS webinars - Week 12

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GC and GCMS webinars - Week 12

On-site Gas Generators & Lab Safety During Covid-19

7 Steps to changing carrier gas from Helium to Hydrogen

LC and LCMS webinars - Week 11

GC and GCMS webinars - Week 11

LC/MS Unknown Identifications Using MSMS Libraries Part IV: Importing MSMS Spectra

Wiley Seminar - Part IV: Advanced NIST Hybrid Searchof EI and MS/MS Spectra

LC and LCMS webinars - Week 10

GC and GCMS webinars - Week 10 & 11

LC/MS Unknown Identifications Using MSMS Libraries Part III: More Detailed Discussion of MSMS Hybrid Search

Upcoming events

Thermo Fisher Scientific Mass Spectrometry Users’ Meetings 2026

Bruker at HUPO 2026

Thermo Fisher Scientific at HUPO 2026 World Congress

Webinars

Scalable HPLC workflows for linking antibody productivity, titer, and CQAs

Vial Selection, Qualification, and the Evidence Behind the Decision

What LC‑UV/MS can reveal about GLP‑1 impurities