Analysis of characteristic flavor compounds in coffee peels subjected to different thermal processing treatments based on GC–IMS and HS-SPME–GC–MS combined with chemical pattern recognition

Combining elemental analysis and molecular techniques to characterize Ancient Egyptian mummification balms

Microplastics have emerged as one of the most widely discussed environmental contaminants of our time. Regardless of where we live, daily exposure to microplastics has become virtually unavoidable—these tiny plastic particles are present in the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the environments we inhabit. As researchers work to better understand the sources, transport pathways, and impacts of microplastics, the demand for reliable microplastic analysis methods continues to grow.While techniques such as FTIR and Raman spectroscopy have become standard tools for identifying microplastics, their utility is limited for smaller particles (i.e. nanoplastics) and in complex matrices. More advanced microplastic analysis methods can provide a deeper understanding of what these particles contain and how they may change over time in the environment.<div><h3>The Limits of Spectroscopic Microplastic Analysis Methods</h3>Fourier-Transform Infrared (FTIR) and Raman spectroscopy are widely used microplastic analysis methods because they can identify polymer types by measuring how electromagnetic radiation interacts with a material. These techniques are valuable for determining whether a particle is polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, or another common plastic. For many studies, this information is sufficient to confirm the presence of microplastics, especially in clean samples with sufficient microplastic density.However, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.leco.com/application/environmental/">environmental samples</a> are rarely clean and compositionally simple. Microplastic particles can become weathered and obscured by other materials in the environment, making their accurate identification with spectroscopy difficult. Additionally, if researchers want to understand what additives, degradation products, or pollutants are associated with the plastic, particle identification alone is not enough. Thus, FTIR and Raman spectroscopy methods alone struggle to thoroughly characterize these complex chemical components, particularly in challenging environmental matrices. As questions surrounding microplastic exposure become increasingly important, researchers require analytical techniques capable of examining the chemistry of a sample in greater detail, not simply confirming the presence of the physical particle itself.</div><div><h3>Thermal Desorption and Pyrolysis GCxGC-TOFMS For Deeper Microplastic Analysis</h3>Thermal Desorption (TD) and Pyrolysis (Py) coupled with comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography and time-of-flight mass spectrometry (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.leco.com/core-analysis/gc-and-gc-ms/">GCxGC-TOFMS</a>) offer a powerful alternative for investigating nano- and microplastics in complex samples. These techniques provide complementary information about sample composition.&nbsp;Thermal desorption releases volatile and adsorbed compounds, including environmental contaminants, degradation products, and VOCs associated with microplastic particles. This can reveal important information about chemicals present within or on the plastic.Pyrolysis thermally deconstructs the polymeric material, breaking it into GC-amenable characteristic degradation compounds. These compounds act as chemical markers that can be used to identify the various polymers present. When analyzing complex or heavily weathered microplastics that may be difficult to characterize using traditional spectroscopic techniques, pyrolysis is particularly advantageous.The most significant benefit comes from pairing these techniques with comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography. Environmental samples often contain hundreds or even thousands of compounds that coelute in 1D GC-MS, making it difficult or impossible to identify each compound. GCxGC provides significantly greater separation capability, helping analysts distinguish important polymer markers from background matrix components. This enhanced separation improves the mass spectrometer’s ability to identify characteristic polymer pyrolysis products, even in highly complex environmental samples. As a result, researchers can detect and identify challenging microplastics without the extensive purification steps often required by other analytical workflows.Another unique advantage of this approach is that thermal desorption and pyrolysis can be used in series on the same sample. Together, they create a more complete chemical profile of the sample.</div><div><h3>A Powerful Microplastics Analysis Workflow for Deeper Insight into the Effects on Our Environment</h3>FTIR and Raman spectroscopy remain valuable tools for rapid screening and flagging samples containing microplastic particles. However, by combining thermal desorption, pyrolysis, and GCxGC-TOFMS, analysts can obtain a much more comprehensive view of plastics in their samples and their environmental implications. As environmental research continues to advance and concerns surrounding microplastic contamination grow, researchers will increasingly require information that extends beyond answering the question,&nbsp;“What plastic is present?”&nbsp;&nbsp;Ultimately, this deeper level of characterization can provide new insights into the environmental fate of microplastics and help scientists better understand their potential impacts on ecosystems and human exposure.</div>

Surpassing the Limits of Traditional Microplastic Analysis Methods with Thermal Desorption and Pyrolysis GCxGC-TOFMS

Article

Environment

Food

Scientific article

Science and research

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

Agilent Technologies

Phenomenex

Thermo Fisher Scientific

Wasson-ECE Instrumentation

SelectScience

Shimadzu Corporation

Waters Corporation

There are many column choices for GC and GC/MS, but which one is right for your method? Choosing the correct column type is paramount in being successful with your analysis. Understanding the stationary phase chemistry and the role it plays in column selectivity, as well as the dimensions of the capillary column itself, will result in a more robust and efficient analysis.
This talk will discuss how the various stationary phases influence selectivity, as well as how column dimensions affect peak behavior and resolution. 
Join us as we match you with the right column for your analysis!
<blockquote>
Presenter: Mark Sinnott (Application Engineer, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Mark Sinnott works for Agilent Technologies as a Technical Support Engineer in the Consumables and Supplies Division (CSD). In his position at Agilent, Mark performs technical support and applications assistance to gas chromatographers worldwide. He has more than 22 years of experience in gas chromatography, including environmental analysis of compounds in air, soil and water matrices, including dissolved gas analysis for the electrical industry. Mark holds a Master’s Degree in Chemistry from California State University, Sacramento, and currently resides in Twin Falls Idaho.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Overwhelmed with Too Many GC Column Options? Let Us Help

Overwhelmed with Too Many GC Column Options? Let Us Help

This talk will discuss how the various stationary phases influence selectivity, as well as how column dimensions affect peak behavior and resolution.

Webinars will cover the following Gas Chromatography topics:
<ul>
<li>6/27 - Vaporizers for LPG Samples</li>
<li>7/11 - Dynamic Blending for Linearity and LDL</li>
<li>7/18 - GC Valves: Purposes and Service</li>
<li>7/25 - Calibration Techniques for Accurate Data</li>
<li>8/1 - Sample Capture, Transport, and Introduction</li>
<li>8/8 - GC Detectors I: PDHID and SCD</li>
<li>8/15 - GC Autosamplers for Gas and LPG Samples</li>
<li>8/22 - GC Detectors II: The Strengths of Mass Spectrometry</li>
<li>8/29 - Methanizers for Trace CO &amp; CO2</li>
<li>9/5 - Training Program for GC Operators</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: John Wasson (President, Wasson-ECE Instrumentation, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
John Wasson has over 40 years of experience in Gas Chromatography and Chemical Instrumentation.
</blockquote>

Wasson-ECE Instrumentation: Free GC Webinar Series

GC Detectors II: The Strengths of Mass Spectrometry

Methanizers for Trace CO & CO2

Training Program for GC Operators

Agglomeration of ingredients in tablets is a concern for formulators.
It is typically observed using Raman spectroscopy, an extremely time-consuming technique. This presentation will discuss an alternative to Raman, i.e., &quot;Laser Direct Infrared Imaging&quot;, which provides rapid imaging of content distribution in tablets.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Louis Tisinger (Application Engineer, Molecular Spectroscopy, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Louis (Lou) Tisinger has a Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry from Miami University in Oxford Ohio, where his graduate research involved the study of ATR imaging and microscope performance in vibrational spectroscopy. Most of his career has been related to pre- and post-sales support of FTIR spectrometers, microscopes, imaging systems, and thermal analytical instruments, focusing on analyzing customer samples, demonstrations, post-sales training, troubleshooting, and R&amp;D.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Convenient Way to Evaluate Content Distribution in Solid Dosage Forms

Convenient Way to Evaluate Content Distribution in Solid Dosage Forms

An alternative to Raman, i.e., "Laser Direct Infrared Imaging", which provides rapid imaging of content distribution in tablets.

Evaluate Content Distribution in Solid Dosage Forms

<h5>Solving Problems that Matter: Risk Mitigation in the Pharma QC Laboratory</h5>
Expert Insights 3-Part Webinar Series: Risk Assessment, Control Strategies, and Intuitive Innovation to Improve Data Quality, Data Integrity and Lab Productivity. 
Pharma QC labs are facing increasing pressure on the cost of quality while maintaining compliance and assuring patient safety. From the harmonization of USP &lt;621&gt; to Empower™ workflows supporting data integrity to improving method transfer outcomes, you will learn from subject matter experts how to reduce errors and mitigate risk for reproducible data and enhanced productivity. 
Who should attend
<ul>
<li>Pharma QC Lab directors, managers and senior scientists with a drive to reduce errors, improve lab productivity and enhance data quality &amp; integrity.</li>
</ul>
<h3>PART 3 l Creating Efficiency in Your Routine Workflow with Simple Automation Steps in Empower</h3>
<ul>
<li>Wednesday, August 30th, 11:30-12:30 ET</li>
</ul>
According to the PIC/S guidance, complex or open-ended processes that lead to subjective interpretation can result in an increase in data failures. One way to reduce this risk is with a simplified, well-defined process. Empower software enables you with tools to create structure in your chromatographic processes and workflow.
In this presentation we will define a chromatographic workflow with Empower software to support data integrity goals - starting with method development, method validation, and routine usage to data acquisition, data processing, reporting results, and using control charts to track and trend data. This presentation will also introduce new features coming to Empower 3.8.0 such as safeguards to prevent common errors, enhanced column tracking &amp; history and more detailed audit trails.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Neil Lander (Principal Product Manager - Informatics Group, Waters Corporation)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Neil has worked for Waters Corporation since 1994 and has held a variety of positions including Technical Support Specialist, Technical Trainer, Manager Customer Education and currently, Principal Marketing Manager in Waters in the Informatics group. Neil provides internal support for Empower CDS software and is focused on developing laboratory software solutions that help organizations achieve their scientific and operational objectives. Prior to joining Waters Corporation, he was an analytical chemist where he gained experience in both the cosmetics and specialty chemical industries.
</blockquote>

Waters Corporation: Creating Efficiency in Your Routine Workflow with Simple Automation Steps in Empower

Creating Efficiency in Your Routine Workflow with Simple Automation Steps in Empower

Chromatographic workflow with Empower software to support data integrity goals.

Creating Efficiency in Your Routine Workflow

Chromeleon CDS is built for IT and compliance without compromising on user friendliness. Join this webinar to learn how easy it is to ensure data integrity, compliance, and future-proof your lab using Chromeleon CDS.
What this session covers:
<ul>
<li>Learn how Chromeleon CDS can simplify audit trail reviews</li>
<li>How to implement administrator-controlled user access to ensure data integrity and compliance with GxP and 21 CFR Part 11</li>
<li>Learn how Chromeleon CDS supports business continuity through network failure protection with 24/7 uptime</li>
<li>Understand the seamless scalability from workstation to enterprise</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Seth Sheridan (Product Specialist III, Enterprise CDS, Americas, Thermo Fisher Scientific)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Seth is an Enterprise CDS technical specialist who has supported Thermo Fisher’s Chromeleon software for over 3 years. Prior to this, he used Chromeleon and other CDS systems in labs at DuPont, DOW, and Eurofins. He holds a B.S. in Chemistry and Biochemistry and enjoys working closely with chromatographers to solve their software issues and improve their processes.
</blockquote>

Thermo Scientific: Data integrity, compliance and IT efficiency made easy

Data integrity, compliance and IT efficiency made easy

Learn how Chromeleon CDS can simplify audit trail reviews. Understand the seamless scalability from workstation to enterprise...

In this session, explore the operation and latest developments of automated SPME for VOCs and SVOCs by headspace, direct immersion, and derivatization techniques.
Furthermore, discover how SPME has key applications for food, water, environmental and forensic samples for use in laboratories for GC-MS and LC-MS and direct MS analysis.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Hans-Joachim Huebschmann (Consultant, VP Sample Preparation, CTC Analytics)
</blockquote>

SelectScience: Solid phase microextraction – How does it work for my samples?

Solid phase microextraction – How does it work for my samples?

Explore the operation and latest developments of automated SPME for VOCs and SVOCs.

Solid phase microextraction–How does it work for my samples?

Key Learning Points:
<ul>
<li>Learn different sample preparation techniques, including solid support liquid extraction, Quechers and SPE
</li>
<li>How to develop a SPE method based on sample matrix and compound properties
</li>
<li>The challenge and workflow in the food Industry
</li>
</ul>
Who Should Attend:
<ul>
<li>Any beginner or intermediate scientists looking to learn more about sample preparation</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Grace Guo (Senior Technical Specialist, Phenomenex)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Grace graduated from the Johns Hopkins University with a Master’s degree in Material Science and Engineering in 2014. In her graduate study, she developed a low-voltage organic phototransistor with an organic small molecule. After her graduation she moved from the east coast to west coast because she loves the all year long sunshine in South California.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
She spent 3 years in a start-up company as Device Scientist doing single walled carbon nanotube separation and making thin film transistor with them. Most of her experience with Flash system are gained from there. In 2017, she joined Phenomenex as a Technical Specialist supporting globally, especially the Asia-Pacific area. Bilingual in Chinese and English makes it easy for her to communicate with customers in both US and China.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
At Phenomenex she has more opportunity to have hands-on experience in HPLC, GC and SPE. Discussing the crazy troubleshooting cases with other technical members improves her chromatographic skills every day!
</blockquote>

Phenomenex: Sample Prep for Crude Extraction Removal & SPE Method and Development

Sample Prep for Crude Extraction Removal & SPE Method and Development

Learn different sample preparation techniques, including solid support liquid extraction, Quechers and SPE.

Sample Prep for Crude Extraction Removal & SPE Method

Join us and our partners as we co-host a webinar introducing how you can boost the performance of your analytical workflows for VOCs and SVOCs analysis and future-proof them for emerging challenges impacting environmental laboratories.
In this webinar, you will learn the latest advancements in GC/MS and GC-MS/MS technology and how they will help your lab to:
<ul>
<li>Accelerate method’s update or optimization during routine operations or when switching to alternative carrier gases by using Automatic Adjustment of Retention Time and LabSolutions.
</li>
<li>Minimize rework by employing an enhanced tuning algorithm and hardware for prolonged stability and ruggedness.
</li>
<li>Reduce costs for sample shipping and preparation while becoming a more sustainable and safer environmental lab.
</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Ruth Marfil-Vega, PhD (Sr Market Manager – Environmental, Shimadzu Scientific Instruments)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Dr. Ruth Marfil-Vega has 20 years of expertise in environmental chemistry and engineering in the US and Europe. She has worked with the EPA and the utilities industry to design and execute comprehensive solutions for addressing new environmental and water quality issues, including PFAS, regulated and unregulated DBPs, and other emerging contaminants. Since Ruth joined Shimadzu five years ago, she has continued to work with environmental stakeholders to ensure that analytical instrumentation and workflows support their success. She earned a BSc in Chemistry from the University of Valladolid (Spain) and a PhD in Environmental Science and Engineering from the University of Cincinnati.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Alan Owens (GC &amp; GCMS Product Manager, Shimadzu Scientific Instruments)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Alan Owens is the GC and GCMS Product Manager at Shimadzu Scientific Instruments. Alan received his B.S. degree in Biology and Chemistry from Hampden-Sydney college. He then joined Shimadzu as a GCMS Product Specialist at the corporate headquarters in Columbia, MD. Before his time with Shimadzu, he comes from a flavor and fragrance background with expertise in advanced sample introduction techniques such as SPME and Dynamic headspace. He has since expanded into all sample introduction techniques specifically tailored towards Pyrolysis with a heavy influence of plastics and polymers.
</blockquote>

Shimadzu: How you can boost the performance of your analytical workflows for VOCs and SVOCs

How you can boost the performance of your analytical workflows for VOCs and SVOCs

How you can boost the performance of your analytical workflows for VOCs and SVOCs analysis and future-proof them.