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

GERSTEL

Thermo Fisher Scientific

Wasson-ECE Instrumentation

C&EN

Shimadzu Corporation

Waters Corporation

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

Sample Capture, Transport, and Introduction

GC Detectors I: PDHID and SCD

Webinars will cover the following Gas Chromatography topics: GC Detectors I: PDHID and SCD

GC Autosamplers for Gas and LPG Samples

In this session, we present an overview of the automated DEXTech Cleanup system, which offers a practical and affordable solution for detecting dioxins/furans, 209 PCB or PCNs, CPs, and PBDEs.
The importance of enhancing laboratory setups to monitor persistent organic pollutants (POPs) is emphasized, particularly in light of incidents like the East Palestine, Ohio train accident. The DEXTech Cleanup system provides several advantages, including rapid turnaround time for results, suitability for processing high sample volumes, reduced manpower requirements, and affordability.
Three versions of the system will be presented: a standard unit without heating, a heated version, and an automated system capable of processing 15 samples. Data is presented for various POPs analysis methods, such as US-EPA Method 1668C for 209 PCBs, US-EPA Method 1613 for 2,3,7,8 substituted PCDD/Fs, and Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/644 for dioxin-like PCBs and indicator PCBs.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Angelika Köpf (Head of Sales, LCTech, GmbH)
</blockquote>

Gerstel: Automated Sample Cleanup with DEXTech: A Simple and Cost-Effective Solution for the Determination of POPs in a Wide Variety of Matrices

Automated Sample Cleanup with DEXTech: A Simple and Cost-Effective Solution for the Determination of POPs in a Wide Variety of Matrices

Overview of the automated DEXTech Cleanup system.

Automated Sample Cleanup with DEXTech

This session focuses on LCTech&#39;s specialized equipment designed to optimize each step of the dioxin workflow, ensuring efficient processing, high-quality data, and safety.
Building on the success of the automated cleanup DEXTech system, LCTech has developed automated units for every stage of sample preparation, specifically tailored for PCDD/F, PCBs, PCNs, CPs, and PBDEs. These units prioritize user-friendly operation, robustness, high throughput, and prevention of cross-contamination.
The X-TRACTION unit is designed for pressurized fluid extraction (PFE) and offers exceptional ease of handling and cost efficiency while maintaining robust performance.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Angelika Köpf (Head of Sales, LCTech, GmbH)
</blockquote>

Gerstel: Introducing an Automated Solution to Enhance Efficiency and Streamline the Entire Dioxin Workflow

Introducing an Automated Solution to Enhance Efficiency and Streamline the Entire Dioxin Workflow

LCTech's specialized equipment designed to optimize each step of the dioxin workflow, ensuring efficient processing, high-quality data, and safety.

Introducing an Automated Solution to Enhance Efficiency

The calculation of signal to noise ratio is a critical parameter during method development, method validation and routine monitoring the performance of a chromatographic method. Both Limit of Detection (LOD or LDL) and Limit of Quantitation (LOQ or LQL) are based on signal to noise ratio. Empower can calculate signal to noise ratio in many ways. While we designed this functionality in Empower to comply with pharmacopeia requirements, there are alternative methods for this calculation.
Key points of discussion will be:
<ul>
<li>Calculating Signal to Noise ratio as per USP/EP/JP Requirements</li>
<li>Calculating Signal to Noise ratio using other options within the System Suitability option</li>
<li>Calculating Signal to Noise ratio without the System Suitability Option</li>
</ul>
Please join us for a live discussion. As always, don’t forget to bring your Empower questions for this exclusive opportunity to ask our experts anything about Empower Software.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Neil Lander (Principal Product Manager, 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 focusing on Informatics solutions. He provides internal support for Empower Chromatography Data System and is focused on developing laboratory software solutions that help organizations achieve their scientific and operational objectives. Prior to joining Waters, he was an analytical chemist where he gained experience in both the cosmetics and specialty chemical industries.
</blockquote>

Waters Corporation: Empower Tips: Ask Me Anything About Calculating Signal to Noise Ratio

Empower Tips: Ask Me Anything About Calculating Signal to Noise Ratio

The calculation of signal to noise ratio is a critical parameter during method development, validation and monitoring the performance.

Empower Tips: Calculating Signal to Noise Ratio

The USP general chapter &lt;1220&gt; &quot;Analytical Procedure Life Cycle&quot; became official in May 2022. The adoption of this guideline makes your lab ready for the adoption of the ICH Q14 “Analytical Procedure Development” and Q2(R2) “Analytical Validation”, expected later in 2023.
These quality guidelines are relevant for both analytical development and QC testing at pharma companies. Empower and Waters solutions support all 3 steps of the guideline, namely: 
<ul>
<li>Development
</li>
<li>Validation
</li>
<li>On-going Verification
</li>
</ul>
In Part I we will describe how Empower supports Step 1 – Development through the integration with selected QbD software that enables the required DoE approach.
<blockquote>
Presnter: Andrea Gheduzzi (Principal Pharma Development Specialist)
</blockquote>

Waters Corporation: USP <1220> and ICH Q14/Q2(R2) using Empower / Part I - Development

USP <1220> and ICH Q14/Q2(R2) using Empower / Part I - Development

Development through the integration with selected QbD software that enables the required DoE approach.

USP <1220> and ICH Q14/Q2(R2) using Empower - Development

Effective oil and condition monitoring enables proactive maintenance strategies and minimizes unexpected failures of machinery such as turbines.
By closely monitoring the condition of lubricating oils, maintenance professionals can reduce downtime, extend equipment lifespan and identify potential issues before they escalate. Antioxidants are often added to mitigate these issues, which makes monitoring these chemicals critical for equipment performance. 
Join Paul Swan, Technical Manager, APAC at ALS Tribology, and Larry Tucker, Director of Norms and Standards at Metrohm USA, as they discuss vital aspects of oil and condition monitoring and the importance of antioxidants in tribology. Gain valuable knowledge on ASTM methods and discover the latest insights into improvements being made in these areas. 
Key Learning Objectives:
<ul>
<li>Importance of antioxidants in lubricants and their impact on equipment performance
</li>
<li>How to use voltammetry as a tool to monitor remaining useful life on antioxidants in lubricating oils
</li>
<li>Importance of oil analysis in predictive maintenance strategies
</li>
<li>Understanding the significance of condition monitoring in preventing unexpected failures
</li>
<li>Insights into developments aimed at refining ASTM methods
</li>
</ul>
Who Should Attend:
<ul>
<li>Anyone currently monitoring remaining useful life of antioxidants in lubricating oils
</li>
<li>Anyone using ASTM methods for oil and condition monitoring
</li>
<li>Laboratories, equipment manufacturers, oil and additive producers and electric utilities looking to monitor oil conditioning and antioxidant levels in use
</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Paul Swan (Technical Manager APAC, Australian Laboratory Services, Tribology)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Larry Tucker (Director of Norms and Standards, Metrohm USA)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Melissa O&#39;Meara (Forensic Science Consultant, C&amp;EN Media Group)
</blockquote>

C&EN: Exploring Methods for Antioxidants, Oil & Condition Monitoring in Tribology

Exploring Methods for Antioxidants, Oil & Condition Monitoring in Tribology

Vital aspects of oil and condition monitoring and the importance of antioxidants in tribology.

Exploring Methods for Monitoring in Tribology

Are you using Chromeleon CDS but don’t feel like an expert just yet? Are you interested in a CDS that is intuitive and user-friendly? Whether you’re a day-to-day user or just curious about a new CDS, this is the webinar for you!
What this session covers:
<ul>
<li>Fundamentals of Chromeleon CDS</li>
<li>How to create custom reports</li>
<li>New features in Chromeleon 7.3.2 CDS</li>
<li>Benefits of upgrading from workstation to enterprise with the Ardia Platform</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: Learn the secrets of Chromeleon CDS: Expert advice and tips

Learn the secrets of Chromeleon CDS: Expert advice and tips

Fundamentals of Chromeleon CDS. How to create custom reports. New features in Chromeleon 7.3.2 CDS. Benefits of upgrading from workstation to enterprise.

As concern grows over the environmental impact of tire-derived chemicals, the need for rapid and reliable analytical methods has become increasingly important.This webinar introduces a micro-furnace pyrolysis GC/MS method for the direct detection of 6PPD and 6PPD-quinone in tires and recycled rubber with minimal sample preparation. Using standards and real-world rubber samples, the presentation will demonstrate how selective ion monitoring and mass spectral interpretation enable confident compound identification and discuss the strengths and limitations of the technique for rubber research, product development, quality control, and environmental investigations.<h4>Primary Topics:</h4><ul><li>Micro-furnace Pyrolysis-GC/MS Fundamentals – Learn the principles of micro-furnace pyrolysis-GC/MS, including different operating modes and how to select the appropriate approach for rubber and polymer characterization.</li><li>Rapid Detection of 6PPD and 6PPD-Quinone – Explore how micro-furnace pyrolysis-GC/MS can be used to detect 6PPD and 6PPD-quinone in tire and recycled rubber materials with minimal sample preparation.</li><li>Real-World Applications for Rubber Analysis – Review practical examples demonstrating how this technique can support environmental research, recycled rubber analysis, and quality control.</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Heather Juzwa (Senior Field Sales Engineer, Shimadzu Scientific Instruments)Heather Juzwa is a Senior Field Sales Engineer at Shimadzu Scientific Instruments with more than 20 years of experience in analytical instrumentation sales. She earned an Honors BS in Chemistry from the University of Pittsburgh and has received numerous industry performance awards, including Platinum and President’s Club honors and the SSI President’s Award. In recognition of her professional achievements, Heather received the University of Pittsburgh Department of Chemistry Alumni Award and served as President of Pittcon in 2025.</blockquote><blockquote>Presenter: Rojin Belganeh (Technical Director, Frontier Laboratories–Americas)Rojin Belganeh is the Technical Director at Frontier Laboratories–Americas, with more than 15 years of experience in analytical instrumentation. She holds a BS in Chemistry and an MBA in Strategic Marketing, with expertise in pyrolysis GC/MS, TGA, FTIR, materials characterization, and polymer analysis. A former Frontier user, she brings a practical, application-driven perspective to supporting users, advancing technical applications, and promoting Frontier technologies.</blockquote><blockquote>Presenter: Dr. Peter Tandler (Associate Professor, Walsh University)Dr. Peter Tandler is an Associate Professor of Chemistry and Chief Scientist of the Center for Science Excellence at Walsh University. With more than three decades of experience across academic, industrial, and consulting environments, his work focuses on polymeric materials, environmental chemistry, and advanced analytical methods. His expertise includes GC-MS, LC-MS, FTIR, and other characterization techniques used to analyze complex materials and environmental samples. His doctoral research focused on plastics and plastic recycling products, providing a strong foundation for his current work examining the environmental impacts of polymer additives, degradation products, and emerging concerns such as 6PPD-quinone.</blockquote><blockquote>Presenter: Mark Waksmonski (Q&amp;A Session Panelist, Technical Support Manager, Shimadzu Scientific Instruments)Mark Waksmonski is a Regional Technical Support Manager with Shimadzu Scientific Instruments. He has 30 years of analytical chemistry experience, including 12 years supporting Shimadzu’s analytical instrument customers. His previous roles include developing applications and supporting GC customers for Alltech Associates, raw material analysis for FujiFilm Manufacturing, and serving as an analytical lab manager for Plextronics.</blockquote>

Shimadzu: From Rubber to Environment - Detecting 6PPD and 6PPD-Q Using Pyrolysis GC/MS

From Rubber to Environment: Detecting 6PPD and 6PPD-Q Using Pyrolysis GC/MS

Explore micro-furnace Py-GC/MS for detecting 6PPD and 6PPD-quinone in tires and recycled rubber. Simplify your environmental and QC workflows