Dynamic Focusing: A Cryogen-Free Technique for Determining VVOCs, VOCs, and SVOCs
Cryogen-Free Dynamic Focusing for Thermal Desorption In analytical chemistry, achieving accuracy, precision, and efficiency is essential. Cutting-edge technology assists researchers and environmental scientists in accurately identifying very volatile, volatile, and semi-volatile organic compounds (VVOCs, VOCs, and SVOCs). One innovative technique that’s been making waves in this field is Cryogen-Free Dynamic Focusing for Thermal Desorption, a […]
Dynamic Headspace vs. Purge and Trap: A Comparative Insight
Dynamic Headspace vs. Purge and Trap: A Comparative Insight When it comes to volatile organic compound (VOC) determination, two techniques have historically dominated the field: Dynamic Headspace (DHS) and Purge and Trap (P&T). Both methods are designed to efficiently extract VOCs from various matrices, but they operate under different principles and offer distinct advantages. In […]
Pefluoroalkyl Substances in Air: Persistent in the Environment but Not in Analytical Instruments!
Pefluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a known issue for drinking and surface waters. PFAS have been used to make fire-fighting foams and water-resistant coatings since the 1950’s. These compounds do not break down naturally, and are persistent in the environment. Sometimes they are called ‘forever chemicals’ because they accumulate in water, fish, and animals (including […]
Plant Volatiles: Solving a Global Problem
Author: Megan Harper, Applications Scientist Solving a Global Problem Gardening is one of the most rewarding hobbies in today’s society. The process of planting from seed, watering each day, and watching a beautiful plant develop over time is rewarding, and even more gratifying when it is edible. The recent pandemic has resulted in an increased […]
Solutions for Thermal Desorption
Author: Kurt Thaxton, International Product Manager Thermal Desorption and Pyrolysis Comprehensive and flexible analysis For many types of analyses, a key objective is to determine both known (target) and unknown (non-target) analytes, for example, to help safeguard product quality and acceptance or to monitor material emissions. For volatile and semi-volatile organic compounds (VOCs and SVOCs) […]
Identification of Key Aroma Contributors Responsible for Producing Grilled Aromas of Plant-Based Burgers
Dr. LiLi Zyzak The growing trend for healthier diets that are lower in red meat, as well as the concern about the environmental impact of farmed meats has created a high demand for meat substitute products. The growth of plant-based meat substitutes is readily apparent as one can see from the number of new products […]
The Selectable 1D/2D-GC-Olfactometry/Mass Spectrometry System
Enhanced separation and identification of key odor compounds The GERSTEL Selectable 1D/2D-GC-MS system enables multidimensional GC with simultaneous olfactometry (GERSTEL ODP 4) and mass spectrometric detection for both 1D and 2D GC analysis (1D/2D-GC-O/MS), extending the odor active compound identification and separation capabilities of GC. Based on a single GC-MS instrument, this configuration provides a […]
Thin Film Solid Phase Microextraction: A Review of Benefits, Techniques, and Applications
Author: Anita Peterson, Ph.D. Enhanced Sorptive Extraction by TF-SPME Miniaturized and solventless sorptive extraction techniques like stir bar sorptive extraction (SBSE) and solid phase microextraction (SPME) have become common choices for sample extraction techniques in the past few decades. These techniques are simple to perform, do not require further concentration steps, are environmentally friendly (no […]
Thin Film SPME with the GERSTEL Thermal Desorption Unit: A Simple and Efficient Extraction and GC Introduction Technique for the Analysis of Wine for Free and Bound Smoke Taint Compounds
Author: Anita Peterson, Ph.D. The ongoing wildfires have devastated much of California and deeply impacted winegrowing regions and the surrounding communities. These immense, out-of-control fires have caused significant destruction to vineyards, wineries, residences, businesses and restaurants and upended the lives of many since their start in August. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection […]
Increasing Laboratory Productivity by Automating Sample Preparation
Author: Anita Peterson, Ph.D. Proper sample preparation is key to achieving high quality results for chemical analysis. However, this aspect of the overall analytical workflow has never received much attention. Instead, the focus is often placed on the development of instruments that can achieve lower detection limits (especially mass spectrometers) in a short amount of […]