<p><strong>Join us for a free two-day LECO Separation Science Workshop on September 23–24, 2026, at the </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/companies/219"><strong>C³AL Laboratory</strong></a><strong> at Cal State LA. Registration is free, and meals and refreshments will be provided throughout the workshop.&nbsp;</strong></p><h4><strong>Registration</strong></h4><blockquote><p class="cke-user_style-important"><strong>👉</strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://forms.cloud.microsoft/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=iYeNbqIuykW7qZP4_jUEVbznDB40eK1PgjPzhHyb__9URTFTTFA5UEEzQ1A4MUtFV0o4TEJTNlZCOS4u&amp;route=shorturl"><strong>Register HERE</strong></a></p><p class="cke-user_style-important"><strong>Space is limited, register today!</strong></p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/LECO_LECO_Separation_Science_Workshop_registration_332543a18e.jpg" alt="LECO: LECO Separation Science Workshop - QR code for registration" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_LECO_LECO_Separation_Science_Workshop_registration_332543a18e.jpg 156w," sizes="100vw" width="437" height="437"></p></blockquote><h4><strong>Hand-on Experience with the LECO Complex Chemical Composition Analysis Lab C<sup>3</sup>AL</strong></h4><ul><li>Work directly with LECO instruments in the C<sup>3</sup>AL Laboratory</li><li>Learn complete analytical workflows from sample to answer</li><li>Get expert guidance from LECO application scientists</li><li>Develop methods and solve real-world challenges</li><li>Collaborate, ask questions, and build your skills</li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Cal_State_LA_The_LECO_Pegasus_BTX_system_in_Cal_State_LA_s_LECO_Complex_Chemical_Compositional_Analysis_Lab_enhances_research_and_student_training_in_advanced_chemical_analysis_cover_b739e727ca.jpg" alt="Cal State LA: The LECO Pegasus BTX system in Cal State LA’s LECO Complex Chemical Compositional Analysis Lab enhances research and student training in advanced chemical analysis" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Cal_State_LA_The_LECO_Pegasus_BTX_system_in_Cal_State_LA_s_LECO_Complex_Chemical_Compositional_Analysis_Lab_enhances_research_and_student_training_in_advanced_chemical_analysis_cover_b739e727ca.jpg 227w," sizes="100vw" width="1252" height="863"></p><p>The first day will focus on the <strong>fundamentals and theory</strong> of comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography (<strong>GC×GC</strong>), with an emphasis on understanding how GC×GC can enhance your research, solve complex analytical challenges, and support your laboratory or company goals.&nbsp;</p><p>The second day will be dedicated to <strong>hands-on activities</strong>, giving participants the opportunity to work directly with <strong>LECO instrumentation</strong>, learn <strong>practical analytical workflows</strong>, and <strong>analyze their own samples</strong> with guidance from LECO application scientists.&nbsp;</p><p>Whether you are new to GC×GC or looking to expand its use in your research or organization, this workshop offers a unique opportunity to learn, explore, and apply the technology in a practical setting. Space is limited, so register early!</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Cal_State_LA_LECO_QUADJET_G_Cx_GC_coupled_to_Pegasus_BT_4_D_TOM_MS_in_the_Complex_Chemical_Composition_Analysis_Lab_C_AL_077a14ae34/Cal-State-LA-LECO-QUADJET-GCxGC-coupled-to-Pegasus-BT-4D-TOM-MS-in-the-Complex-Chemical-Composition-Analysis-Lab-(CAL).jpg" alt="Cal State LA: LECO QUADJET GCxGC coupled to Pegasus BT 4D TOM MS in the Complex Chemical Composition Analysis Lab (C³AL)" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Cal_State_LA_LECO_QUADJET_G_Cx_GC_coupled_to_Pegasus_BT_4_D_TOM_MS_in_the_Complex_Chemical_Composition_Analysis_Lab_C_AL_077a14ae34/thumbnail_Cal-State-LA-LECO-QUADJET-GCxGC-coupled-to-Pegasus-BT-4D-TOM-MS-in-the-Complex-Chemical-Composition-Analysis-Lab-(CAL).jpg 234w," sizes="100vw" width="1949" height="1299"></p>

LECO Separation Science Workshop

<p><strong>Taťána Gazárková is currently a&nbsp;postdoctoral fellow in the Laboratory of Antibiotic Resistance and Microbial Metabolomics. During her doctoral studies, she focused on chromatography and mass spectrometry. Recently, she was awarded second place in the “Sanofi Prize for Pharmacy 2026” competition.</strong></p><p><strong>Taťána Gazárková </strong>is currently a&nbsp;postdoctoral fellow in the <strong>Laboratory of Antibiotic Resistance and Microbial Metabolomics</strong>. During her doctoral studies, she focused on chromatography and mass spectrometry. Recently, she was awarded second place in the <strong>“Sanofi Prize for Pharmacy 2026” </strong>competition, which is awarded by the<strong> French Embassy in the Czech Republic</strong> for her dissertation – Steroid Analysis Using Modern Chromatographic and Mass Spectrometry Techniques: From Fundamental Studies to Targeted Bioanalytical Applications (supervisor: <strong>Lucie Nováková, Charles University</strong>).&nbsp;</p><h5><strong>What makes this field particularly exciting or unique in your view?</strong></h5><p>What I&nbsp;enjoy about analytical chemistry is that, to a&nbsp;certain extent, it is a&nbsp;kind of detective work. You are often looking for ways to “make the invisible visible”. In other words, extract the information you are interested in from a&nbsp;complex sample and then interpret it correctly. What also appeals to me about bioanalytical chemistry is its interdisciplinary nature. It brings together analytical chemistry, biochemistry, biology and medicine, which means that you need to be able not only to translate a&nbsp;biological or clinical question into a&nbsp;measurable analytical experiment, but also to place the resulting data back into a&nbsp;broader biological context. This combination of different perspectives is probably what I&nbsp;enjoy most about the field. At the same time, there is still plenty of room for fundamental research, ranging from studying analytical techniques themselves and improving them to developing new methodological approaches.</p><h5><strong>How did you end up at the </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://mbu.cas.cz/en/research/laboratory-of-antibiotic-resistance-and-microbial-metabolomics"><strong>Laboratory of Antibiotic Resistance and Microbial Metabolomics</strong></a><strong>, and what project are you currently working on?</strong></h5><p>I came to the Institute of Microbiology through a&nbsp;joint project between<strong> Dr Zdeněk Kameník and Assoc. Prof. Jan Bobek from the First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University</strong>. For me, it was also an opportunity to move from targeted analysis and the study of chromatographic techniques towards untargeted metabolomics and new biological questions.</p><p>In the project, we are trying to identify new biologically active compounds that would be effective, particularly against pathogenic fungi. As a&nbsp;potential source of such compounds, we study streptomycetes, bacteria known for their ability to produce a&nbsp;wide range of biologically active compounds, including many antibiotics that are currently in clinical use. We focus on less-explored host-associated streptomycetes, in which we had already observed antifungal activity in previous experiments. We are especially interested in strains active against Candida albicans whose activity cannot be explained by the presence of a&nbsp;known bioactive compound. These strains may represent an interesting source of novel compounds. We then integrate the results of untargeted metabolomic analyses with genomic analyses, which allows us to obtain a&nbsp;more comprehensive view of the biosynthetic potential of selected strains.</p><h5><strong>You also took part in this year’s Vědafest, a&nbsp;science outreach event for the public. What was it like?</strong></h5><p>I already had some experience with science outreach through events such as Researchers’ Night and the Science Fair at my previous institution, but this year’s Vědafest was still new to me in some ways. This time, I&nbsp;was presenting a&nbsp;field that I&nbsp;myself had entered only relatively recently. It was therefore more challenging to find the right analogies and explain the essence of the topic in a&nbsp;way that was simple, yet precise and scientifically accurate. At the same time, that was exactly what made it inspiring. It forces you to look at your own work from a&nbsp;different perspective. What I&nbsp;enjoyed most was the spontaneity and curiosity of the children, who often came up with questions that would never even occur to an adult.</p><h5><strong>What are the biggest challenges you face on your scientific journey, and what helps you overcome them?</strong></h5><p>One of the greatest, but at the same time most interesting, challenges is, in my view, the uncertainty that is inseparably linked to research. For a&nbsp;long time, you often do not know whether you have taken the right direction in addressing a&nbsp;particular question or whether you will ultimately manage to find that figurative final piece of the puzzle. At the same time, this uncertainty is precisely what makes science exciting for me.</p><p>Another major challenge, particularly in interdisciplinary projects, is communication. It is important from the very formulation of a&nbsp;hypothesis and the planning of experiments through to the interpretation of results, including negative ones, and placing them in a&nbsp;broader context. To some extent, every field has its own language, and finding a&nbsp;common understanding is not always straightforward. Personally, I&nbsp;find it very helpful to be able to discuss problems with colleagues on an ongoing basis, whether individually or during regular laboratory seminars. One of the major strengths of our current group is its interdisciplinary nature, which allows me to look at the same problem from several different perspectives. It is also important for me not to lose my curiosity, because that is ultimately what leads us to ask further questions.</p><h5><strong>What are your plans after completing your PhD?</strong></h5><p>After finishing my PhD, I&nbsp;decided that I&nbsp;do not need to have everything that comes next precisely mapped out straight away. I&nbsp;would like to keep different options open for a&nbsp;while and continue building on my experience in analytical chemistry, while at the same time connecting it with other areas that have a&nbsp;biological or medical relevance. I&nbsp;believe that we can keep learning throughout our lives, so I&nbsp;am quite curious to see where the next stage of my journey will take me.</p><p><i>Thank you for the interview!</i></p>

Interview: What Drew Postdoc Taťána Gazárková to Analytical Chemistry

<p><strong>Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezGCMS Library in the week of 31st August 2026? Check out new documents from the field of the gas phase, especially GC and GC/MS techniques!</strong></p><blockquote><p><span style="font-size:20px;">👉 </span><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library"><span style="font-size:20px;"><strong>SEARCH THE LARGEST REPOSITORY OF DOCUMENTS ABOUT GCMS AND RELATED TECHNIQUES</strong></span></a></p></blockquote><blockquote><p><strong>👉 Need info about different analytical techniques?</strong> Peek into <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/library"><strong>LabRulezLCMS</strong></a> or <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library"><strong>LabRulezICPMS</strong></a> libraries.</p></blockquote><p>This week we bring you application notes by <strong>Agilent Technologies</strong>, <strong>Shimadzu, Thermo Fisher Scientific </strong>and presentation by<strong> MDCW / Liège University!</strong></p><h3><strong>1. Agilent Technologies: Extend the time window for the detection of low level anabolic‑androgenic steroids and their metabolites</strong></h3><p><strong>Steroid profiling, screening, and confirmatory analysis using the </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/gcms/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=7010"><strong>Agilent&nbsp;7010 GC/MS mass spectrometer</strong></a></p><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/pdf/5991_9045_EN_Doping_Control_App_Note_1_13dde5f053.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><section><div><div><div><div><div><div><p>Doping laboratories want to have lower detection limits to be able to identify and quantitate illegal drugs for a longer time window between doping and urine sample collection. This Application Note describes how the doping control lab in Kreischa, Germany used the Agilent 7010 Triple Quadrupole GC/MS System (TQ) for enhanced targeted detection of anabolic‑androgenic steroids in urine samples. The 7010 TQ enabled higher sensitivity, longer maintenance-free intervals, and more stable operation than earlier models, and satisfied all measurement specifications required by the World Anti‑Doping Agency (WADA). The 7010 TQ GC/MS ion source produces more ions, and provides exceptional sensitivity for the detection of low intensity metabolites weeks after drug ingestion. However, this higher sensitivity may lead to saturation of endogenous components naturally present at higher concentrations. This method provides a sensitive and robust operation over a wide concentration range, permitting the detection of low-concentration exogenous species in the presence of high‑concentration endogenous species, which can vary with ethnicity.</p><h4><strong>Experimental</strong></h4><p>The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/gcms/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=7010"><strong>Agilent 7010 GC/TQ system</strong></a> consists of an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/gcms/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=7890"><strong>Agilent 7890 GC</strong></a> with multimode inlet and backflush, an<strong> Agilent 7993A</strong>, and the Agilent 7010 TQ mass spectrometer.</p><h4><strong>Conclusions&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>Based on the method optimization and thorough testing at the Kreischa lab, an Agilent 7010 GC/MS-based protocol was developed. This protocol fulfills the screening and confirmation requirements of steroid measurements in doping control labs. With this method, it is possible to detect traces of exogenous anabolic steroid metabolites while quantifying small concentrations of testosterone and epitestosterone typical in Asian populations. It permits the measurement of high‑abundance endogenous steroids such as androsterone and etiocholanolone in the same injection, while analyzing testosterone/epitestosterone and androsterone/etiocholanolone ratios without suppression.&nbsp;</p><p>The backflush capability of the system protects the analytical column, and consequently the mass spectrometer, by removing heavy matrix components. This allowed more than 6,000 samples to be analyzed on the same column without requiring ion source cleaning or filament change. It also demonstrated that the higher, 130&nbsp;eV electron energy did not sacrifice the filament lifetime. It performed reliable measurements of both trace (0.2&nbsp;pg on‑column) and high (10,000&nbsp;pg on‑column) concentration analytes in the same run.&nbsp;</p><p>The method validation revealed that the exceptional sensitivity offered by the 7010 GC/MS can be used to:&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Improve the trace detection ability of the method&nbsp;</li><li>Reduce the amount of sample&nbsp;injected&nbsp;</li><li>Extend maintenance-free intervals</li></ul><h3><strong>2. MDCW / Liège University: The Century Mix: updates and cool projects</strong></h3><ul><li>Presentation</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/pdf/DG_1_Dimandja_Stefanuto_34c4a66c3d.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><section><div><div><div><div><div><div><p>The presentation <strong>“The Century Mix: updates and cool projects”</strong> introduces the Century Mix, a standardized reference mixture developed for comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography (GC×GC). The mixture contains <strong>100 compounds representing a broad range of chemical classes</strong>, including alkanes, alcohols, ketones, esters, lactones, phthalates, and aromatic compounds. Stability was a key criterion in compound selection, and the mixture was developed through cross-laboratory collaboration for <strong>column characterization, method assessment, and quality control</strong>. Its structured chromatographic behavior also makes it useful for studying how different compound classes behave in GC×GC separations.</p><p>A major part of the work examined the <strong>factors influencing retention indices (RI) in GC×GC systems</strong>, which are important for reliable compound annotation in non-targeted analysis. An inter-laboratory study involved <strong>11 GC×GC systems</strong> using cryogenic, Peltier, and flow modulation, different detectors, and both normal and reversed column configurations. Principal component analysis showed clear grouping according to normal versus reversed orthogonality, confirming the strong influence of stationary-phase configuration. A subsequent design-of-experiments study evaluated <strong>140 combinations</strong> of temperature ramp rate, carrier-gas flow rate, modulation period, and secondary-oven temperature offset.</p><p>The results showed that the influence of experimental conditions is strongly <strong>compound dependent</strong>. Of the compounds evaluated in the statistical model, 33 showed RI variation that could be linked to the investigated parameters, whereas 43 did not follow the model well. Compounds such as quinoline, phthalates, lactones, terpenes, and some aromatic compounds showed particularly pronounced effects. For quinoline, for example, the model explained about <strong>93% of RI variability</strong>, with differences of approximately 75 RI units across the tested conditions, while 2-hexanone showed considerably weaker dependence. Overall, <strong>temperature ramp rate and flow rate emerged as particularly important parameters</strong>, although the magnitude of their effect depended on compound chemistry and column configuration.</p><p>The Century Mix is therefore being developed not only as a characterization mixture but also as a tool for <strong>system quality control and more reliable retention-index prediction</strong>. Repeated standardized QC measurements demonstrated very low RI variability and can be used to monitor system stability, experimental effects, and potential instrument drift. The broader goal is to better understand the fundamental chemistry governing GC×GC retention and ultimately improve method development, data processing, and identification of unknown compounds by combining high-quality separations, mass spectra, and predicted retention information.</p><h3><strong>3. Shimadzu: Determination of Free and Total Glycerol and Mono-, Di-, and Triglyceride Contents in Biodiesel According to EN 14105</strong></h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/pdf/an_05_sca_180_055_en_9b8677ed6a.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><h4><strong>User benefits</strong></h4><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/gcms/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=2060"><strong>Nexis GC-2060</strong></a> offers reliable analysis of biodiesel samples regarding their free and total glycerol and mono-, di-, and triglyceride contents, using hydrogen as a cost-effective carrier gas&nbsp;</li><li>Hydrogen carrier gas can be used safely through built-in safety measures</li><li>The multi-mode injection unit (MMI) allows selection of the preferred injection mode – direct (simple OCI) or convenient splitless PTV mode – both delivering excellent instrument performance in line with the standard’s requirements</li></ul><p>Playing a vital part in countries’ efforts to lower greenhouse gas emissions, biofuels can be manufactured from various feedstocks such as vegetable oils, animal-derived fats, and recycled cooking oils. Biodiesel production predominantly uses rapeseed, soybean, and palm oils. Because feedstocks are so varied, ongoing quality monitoring is essential - since the raw material’s quality greatly influencesthe final biodiesel quality.&nbsp;</p><p>The EN 14105:2024 describes the determination of free and total glycerol contents and mono-, di-, and triglyceride contents in biodiesel by means of gas chromatography with flame ionization detection (GC-FID). Injection shall be performed via on-column injector or an equivalent device<sup>1</sup>.&nbsp;</p><p>This study shows the analysis of biodiesel originating from rapeseed, soybean, and palm oil using the Nexis GC-2060 gas chromatograph and its multi-mode injection unit (MMI).</p><h4><strong>Configuration and Analysis Conditions</strong></h4><p>Gas chromatograph <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/gcms/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=2060"><strong>Nexis GC-2060</strong></a> with multi-mode injection unit (MMI), flame-ionization detector (FID) and autosampler <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/gcms/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=AOC+-30i"><strong>AOC -30i</strong></a>.</p><h4><strong>Conclusion&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>Nexis and AOC are trademarks of Shimadzu Corporation or its affiliated companies in Japan and/or other countries.. Nexis GC-2060 provides reliable analysis of biodiesel samples for glycerol and glyceride contents according to EN 14105:2024 across the commonly used feedstocks. It supports hydrogen as a cost-effective carrier gas, while the multi-mode injection unit (MMI) offers selection of the injection mode based on user preference: direct mode representing simple on-column (OCI) analysis or splitless programmed temperature vaporization (PTV) mode as a convenient alternative that delivers comparable performance.</p><h3><strong>4. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Streamlined static headspace GC–MS approach for detection of impurities in recycled PET</strong></h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/pdf/an_004458_gc_ms_impurities_recycled_pet_an004458_na_en_6cb2435671.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><p>Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is a widely used thermoplastic polymer valued for its strength, low weight, durability, and adaptability. Owing to these properties, it is extensively applied in packaging, textile fibers, and electronic components. PET is particularly suitable for recycling because it can be melted and reshaped multiple times with minimal loss of performance, and it is easily recognizable by the recycling code “1” (♳). The recycling of PET involves several stages, including collection, sorting, transport, processing, washing, pelletizing, and remanufacturing into new products [1]. However, during these steps, contaminants such as plasticizers, residual monomers, and degradation byproducts may be introduced.&nbsp;</p><p>The presence of such substances can pose potential risks to both environmental and human health, making the identification and characterization of contaminants in recycled PET essential for evaluating material quality and safety. Among the non-intentionally added substances (NIAS), benzene, acetaldehyde, and limonene are of particular relevance. Benzene is a recognized carcinogen and represents a serious health concern if present in PET. It may form as a degradation product of PET, with the reaction catalyzed by acidic compounds released at high temperatures by polymer impurities such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Poor temperature control or overheating can increase benzene formation as a degradation byproduct. Acetaldehyde, another degradation product of PET generated during bottle manufacturing, can alter the sensory properties of bottled beverages. Limonene, a flavor compound commonly present in soft drinks, may be absorbed into recycled PET and subsequently migrate into packaged beverages, potentially affecting product quality.&nbsp;</p><p>Gas chromatography coupled to headspace sampling is a fast and simple technique that enables the extraction of volatile and semivolatile compounds from solid and liquid samples without the need for time-consuming sample preparation.&nbsp;</p><p>In this study, headspace sampling coupled to single quadrupole mass spectrometry was used to assess the overall quantitative performance for analysis of acetaldehyde, benzene, and limonene in recycled PET packaging.&nbsp;</p><p>The capability of the Thermo Scientific™ ISQ™ 7610 single quadrupole GC–MS of combining the simultaneous acquisition of both single ion monitoring (SIM) and full scan (FS) allowed for sensitive targeted analysis as well as screening of unknown contaminants possibly present in recycled PET bottles.</p><h4><strong>Experimental&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>In all experiments, a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/products/64"><strong>TriPlus 500 HS autosampler</strong></a> was coupled to a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/products/486"><strong>Thermo Scientific™ TRACE™ 1610 Gas Chromatograph (GC)</strong></a>, configured with a Thermo Scientific™ iConnect™ Split/splitless Injector Module (iConnect-SSL), and connected to an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/products/484"><strong>ISQ 7610 single quadrupole mass spectrometer</strong></a>.&nbsp;</p><p>The separation of the target analytes was achieved using a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/products/1751"><strong>Thermo Scientific™ Trace GOLD™ TG-624 SILMS capillary column</strong></a>, 60 m x 0.25 mm x 1.4 µm (Part No. 26059-3330). This column provides a low to mid polarity phase with high thermal stability (maximum operating temperatures up to 320 °C) and high inertness, enabling Gaussian peak shapes for analysis of volatile organics. The TriPlus 500 HS autosampler is connected directly to the analytical column, removing the use of a long external transfer line. In this configuration, the SSL injector module is used only for the pneumatic control of the carrier gas and split flow.</p><h4><strong>Conclusions&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>The results presented in this work demonstrate that headspace coupled to GC–MS provides a suitable and simple solution for analysis of contaminants in rPET, with no complex sample preparation required.&nbsp;</p><ul><li>The capability of combining FS with SIM acquisition allows for qualitative and quantitative analysis, increasing confidence in compound identification through spectral comparison with NIST library and allowing for the detection of possible analyte co-elution.&nbsp;</li><li>The TriPlus 500 HS autosampler provides highly repeatable solventless extraction from solid samples with absolute area counts RSD &lt; 5%, permitting reliable and consistent quantitative data.&nbsp;</li><li>The ISQ 7610 single quadrupole GC–MS demonstrates an extended linear response (≥ 4–5 orders of magnitude) with R2 ≥ 0.997, calculated amounts within ± 20% the expected value, and ion ratio deviation ≤ 15% across the calibration curve.&nbsp;</li><li>Sensitivity was demonstrated with overall calculated LOD ≤ 0.03 ng/µL.</li><li>Chromeleon CDS helps ensure data integrity, traceability, and effective data management from instrument control to the final report streamlining analysis and data review processes.</li></ul></div></div></div></div></div></div></section></div></div></div></div></div></div></section>

News from LabRulezGCMS Library - Week 36, 2026

Article

Events

Application

Scientists

Presentation

Interview

The Czech Academy of Sciences (CAS) was established by Act No. 283/1992 Coll. as the Czech successor of the former Czechoslovak Academy of Sciences. It is set up as a complex of 54 public research institutions.

Czech Academy of Sciences

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

LabRulez

In 1936, the Laboratory Equipment Company introduced the first rapid carbon determinator for the American iron and steel industry.  Today, almost 80 years later, LECO is recognized globally as a leader in the development of high-quality analytical instrumentation, mass spectrometers, comprehensive two-dimensional chromatography, metallography & optical equipment as well as consumables.

LECO

Thermo Scientific QuEChERS Sample Preparation Kits

QuEChERS is a versatile sample preparation method for analyzing pesticides, veterinary drugs, and other residues in various sample types before GC-MS or LC-MS analysis.

<div><div><div><h3><strong>QuEChERS sample preparation—now easier, more convenient, and affordable</strong></h3><p><strong>QuEChERS</strong> (<strong><u>Q</u></strong><u>u</u>ick, <strong><u>E</u></strong>asy, <strong><u>C</u></strong>heap, <strong><u>E</u></strong>ffective, <strong><u>R</u></strong>ugged, and <strong><u>S</u></strong>afe)is a <strong>sample preparation method</strong> that was initially developed in 2003 for <strong>analyzing veterinary drugs in food</strong>. The method was also tested for <strong>pesticide residue analysis in plant material</strong> with great success. In 2003, the <strong>detailed method was published</strong> in the journal AOAC International. Since then, the QuEChERS method has evolved into a <strong>sample preparation technique used on a variety of analytes</strong> in an <strong>expanding number of sample types</strong> before analysis by <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/cz/en/home/industrial/mass-spectrometry/gas-chromatography-mass-spectrometry-gc-ms.html"><strong>GC-MS</strong></a><strong> or </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/cz/en/home/industrial/mass-spectrometry/liquid-chromatography-mass-spectrometry-lc-ms.html"><strong>LC-MS</strong></a>.</p><p><strong>Thermo Scientific QuEChERS kits</strong> contain <strong>pre-packaged, ready-weighed salts, sorbents, and buffers</strong> to <strong>streamline your workflow</strong> and <strong>minimize the potential for error</strong>. The kits are grouped according to your <strong>analytes of interest</strong>, <strong>sample matrix</strong>, and <strong>preferred QuEChERS method</strong>:</p><ul><li><strong>Original 2003 Method</strong></li><li><strong>AOAC 2007.01 Method</strong></li><li><strong>EN 15662 Method</strong></li><li><strong>NY/T 1380-2007 Method</strong></li></ul><p><strong>Complete packages</strong>—including both <strong>extraction and clean-up kits</strong>—are available. <strong>Extraction-only and cleanup-only kits</strong> are also offered to suit your laboratory’s sample preparation needs. These <strong>pre-packaged kits save time and money</strong>, make QuEChERS procedures <strong>easier and more convenient</strong>, and ensure <strong>quality to yield reproducible results</strong> and <strong>excellent recoveries</strong> for a wide variety of analytes.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Scientific_Qu_E_Ch_ERS_Sample_Preparation_Kits_2_1e99f0c81b.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific QuEChERS Sample Preparation Kits" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Scientific_Qu_E_Ch_ERS_Sample_Preparation_Kits_2_1e99f0c81b.jpg 217w," sizes="100vw" width="891" height="640"></p><h3><strong>Typical QuEChERS workflow</strong></h3><div><div><div><div><div><p>As shown in the workflow diagram below, the <strong>QuEChERS method has four basic steps</strong>:</p><ol><li><strong>Homogenize sample</strong> (fruit or vegetable)</li><li><strong>Extract analytes of interest</strong> from a sample using <strong>extraction salts</strong> (pesticide residues, veterinary drugs, and/or mycotoxins)</li><li><strong>Clean-up the resulting supernatant</strong> using <strong>dispersive solid phase extraction (dSPE)</strong></li><li><strong>Analyze by GC-MS or LC-MS</strong></li></ol><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Scientific_Qu_E_Ch_ERS_Sample_Preparation_Kits_496491ceff.jpeg" alt="Thermo Scientific QuEChERS Sample Preparation Kits" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Scientific_Qu_E_Ch_ERS_Sample_Preparation_Kits_496491ceff.jpeg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1170" height="706"></p><div><h3><strong>QuEChERS products</strong></h3></div><div><h4><strong>QuEChERS extraction kits for original 2003 method</strong></h4></div><div><p>The <strong>original QuEChERS method</strong> (Anastassiades et al, 2003) was developed by <strong>Steven J. Lehotay and Michelangelo Anastassiades</strong> in 2003 for the <strong>determination of pesticide residues in fruits and vegetables</strong>. The original method was created to <strong>analyze non-base-sensitive compounds</strong> and uses a <strong>sodium chloride buffer</strong> to <strong>reduce polar interferences</strong> and <strong>enhance extraction</strong>. <strong>Buffering</strong> is an important part of the QuEChERS procedure because it <strong>allows for analysis of pesticides and other residues</strong> that display <strong>pH dependence in their recoveries</strong>, depending on the <strong>sample matrix</strong>. <strong>Three different extraction kits</strong> are available to support the <strong>original 2003 QuEChERS method</strong>.</p><h5><strong>Chemicals used in the original 2003 method</strong></h5></div><ul><li><strong>Acetonitrile:</strong> Used to perform single-phase extraction (SPE) on a sample</li><li><strong>Anhydrous MgSO₄:</strong> Induces phase separation between water content in sample and acetonitrile layer during liquid-liquid partitioning step; removes remaining water from sample during dispersive solid phase extraction (dSPE) step</li><li><strong>NaCl:</strong> Induces phase separation between water content in sample and acetonitrile layer during liquid-liquid partitioning step; removes residual water from sample; reduces polar interference and enhances extraction</li><li><strong>PSA:</strong> Primary secondary amine, used to remove polar matrix components, citric co-extractives, and free fatty acids, from sample during dispersive solid phase extraction (dSPE) step</li></ul><div><h4><strong>QuEChERS extraction and clean-up kits for AOAC 2007.01 method</strong></h4><p>The <strong>AOAC 2007.01 QuEChERS Method</strong> was developed by <strong>Steven J. Lehotay and his co-workers</strong>, who <strong>modified the original 2003 method</strong> to accommodate the use of <strong>acetate buffering at higher concentration</strong> for <strong>greater buffering strength</strong>. <strong>Buffering</strong> is an important part of the QuEChERS procedure because it <strong>allows for analysis of pesticides and other residues</strong> that display <strong>pH dependence in their recoveries</strong>, depending on the <strong>sample matrix</strong>. These <strong>extraction and clean-up products</strong> here support the <strong>AOAC 2007.01 method</strong>.</p><div><h5><strong>Chemicals used in the AOAC 2007.01 method</strong></h5><ul><li><strong>Acetonitrile:</strong> Used to perform single-phase extraction on a sample</li><li><strong>Anhydrous MgSO₄:</strong> Induces phase separation between water content in sample and acetonitrile layer during liquid-liquid partitioning step; removes remaining water from sample during dispersive solid phase extraction (dSPE) step</li><li><strong>NaOAc:</strong> Buffers the sample to stabilize pH</li><li><strong>PSA:</strong> Primary secondary amine, used to remove polar matrix components, citric co-extractives, and free fatty acids, from sample during dispersive solid phase extraction (dSPE) step</li><li><strong>C18:</strong> Removes fats, sterols, and other non-polar interferences from sample</li><li><strong>GCB:</strong> Graphitized carbon black, removes pigment (<i>not recommended for use with planar pesticides</i>)</li></ul><div><h4><strong>QuEChERS extraction and clean-up kits for EN 15662 method</strong></h4><p>The <strong>extraction and clean-up products</strong> here support the <strong>EN 15662 method</strong>. <strong>Widely used in Europe</strong>, the EN 15662 method was developed by <strong>Michelangelo Anastassiades and co-workers</strong>, who <strong>modified the original 2003 method</strong> to accommodate the use of <strong>citrate buffering at a relatively low buffering capacity</strong>. This variation uses a <strong>sodium chloride buffer</strong> to <strong>minimize polar interferences</strong> in addition to <strong>sodium citrate dihydrate</strong> and <strong>disodium citrate sesquihydrate buffers</strong>. <strong>Buffering</strong> is an important part of the QuEChERS procedure because it <strong>allows for analysis of pesticides and other residues</strong> that display <strong>pH dependence in their recoveries</strong>, depending on the <strong>sample matrix</strong>.</p><h5><strong>Chemicals used in the EN 15662 method</strong></h5><ul><li><strong>Acetonitrile:</strong> Used to perform single-phase extraction on a sample</li><li><strong>Anhydrous MgSO₄:</strong> Induces phase separation between water content in sample and acetonitrile layer during liquid-liquid partitioning step; removes remaining water from sample during dispersive solid phase extraction (dSPE) step</li><li><strong>NaCl:</strong> Induces phase separation between water content in sample and acetonitrile layer during liquid-liquid partitioning step; removes residual water from sample</li><li><strong>Trisodium Citrate:</strong> Buffers the sample to stabilize pH</li><li><strong>Disodium Citrate Sesquihydrate:</strong> Buffers the sample to stabilize pH</li><li><strong>PSA:</strong> Primary secondary amine, used to remove polar matrix components, citric co-extractives, and free fatty acids, from sample during dispersive solid phase extraction (dSPE) step</li><li><strong>C18:</strong> Removes fats, sterols, and other non-polar interferences from sample</li><li><strong>GCB:</strong> Graphitized carbon black, removes pigment (<i>not recommended for use with planar pesticides</i>)</li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Scientific_Qu_E_Ch_ERS_Sample_Preparation_Kits_3_721562526f.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific QuEChERS Sample Preparation Kits" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Scientific_Qu_E_Ch_ERS_Sample_Preparation_Kits_3_721562526f.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1471" height="488"></p><div><h4><strong>QuEChERS clean-up kit for NY/T 1380-2007 method</strong></h4></div><div><p>The <strong>NY/T 1380-2007 method</strong> is <strong>recommended by China Ministry of Agriculture</strong> for the <strong>QuEChERS Method sample preparation</strong> of <strong>51 specific pesticide residues</strong> in <strong>fruits and vegetables</strong> with <strong>analysis by GC-MS</strong>.</p><h5><strong>Chemicals used in the NY/T 1380-2007 method</strong></h5><ul><li><strong>Anhydrous MgSO₄:</strong> Induces phase separation between water content in sample and acetonitrile layer during liquid-liquid partitioning step; removes remaining water from sample during dispersive solid phase extraction (dSPE) step</li><li><strong>PSA:</strong> Primary secondary amine, used to remove polar matrix components, citric co-extractives, and free fatty acids, from sample during dSPE step</li><li><strong>C18:</strong> Removes fats, sterols, and other non-polar interferences from sample</li></ul></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>

Products from category SPE sample preparation distributed by Thermo Fisher Scientific (EMEA) - page 1

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