<div><p><strong>Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) represent a vast class of more than 3,000 synthetic compounds containing perfluorinated chains (with the general formula CnF₂n+₁COOH), commonly utilized in a wide range of consumer products and industrial processes.</strong></p><p>The unique structure of PFAS, characterized by multiple carbon-fluorine (C-F) bonds, contributes to their <strong>exceptional chemical stability and resistance</strong> to degradation through environmental or biological processes. This durability makes them some of the <strong>most persistent pollutants in the environment</strong>. Their resistance to water and oil has led to widespread use in diverse applications, including water- and stain-repellent coatings for textiles, paints, personal care items, firefighting foams, fluoropolymer-based lubricants and additives, as well as grease- and water-resistant food packaging. Due to their extensive use, PFAS have been found in various environmental and biological samples, such as <strong>food, drinking water, wastewater, and human blood</strong>.</p></div><div><div><div><div><h3><strong>Why PFAS Testing Is Crucial?</strong></h3></div></div></div></div><div><p>Like many other chemicals, PFAS can cause<strong> </strong>various <strong>harmful health effects</strong>, depending on factors such as the level, duration, and route of exposure, as well as individual characteristics like age, sex, ethnicity, overall health, and genetic background. PFAS exposure has been linked to various health effects in both sexes, with some impacts supported by high certainty evidence—such as <strong>thyroid disease, liver damage, kidney cancer, and testicular cancer</strong>.</p><p>In females, PFAS may also affect pregnancy outcomes and fetal development, including increased miscarriage risk, reduced birth weight, and delayed mammary gland development. Because of their toxic nature, these compounds have been classified as “persistent organic pollutants” by the<strong> Stockholm Convention</strong> (including PFOS, PFOA, PFHxS, and their salts) and by the <strong>European Commission</strong> (including PFOA, PFOS, PFNA, and PFHxA). Their durability, chemical stability, harmful effects, and tendency to build up in living organisms make them a serious risk to both environmental and human health; hence, PFAS testing is crucial for monitoring and mitigating these threats.</p></div><div><div><div><div><h3><strong>PFAS Testing Techniques</strong></h3></div></div></div></div><div><p>PFAS testing employs advanced techniques to detect, identify, and quantify both known and emerging compounds across diverse environmental matrices.</p><h5><strong>Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)</strong></h5><p>LC-MS is a <strong>commonly used PFAS testing method</strong>. Samples are first processed using suitable preparation techniques, such as <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products?category=136&amp;manufacturerItems=50"><strong>solid phase extraction </strong></a>(SPE). The resulting extracted samples are then examined using LC/MS/MS with calibration performed via standards. Target analytes are identified with help of isotopically labeled surrogate standards. . Additionally, product ion ratios are compared with those from standards to support identification. Once confirmed, the concentration of each identified target compound is determined based on the response of its main product ion using external standard calibration.</p></div><div><div><div><div><h4><strong>Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS)</strong></h4></div></div></div></div><div><p>Non targeted analysis of PFAS has largely been dominated by LC-MS methods, although GC-MS can access a complementary chemical space, especially for volatile and semivolatile PFAS. Studies show that LC‑MS covers most ionic PFAS; GC‑MS captures neutral/volatile precursors less amenable to LC, highlighting the need for GC-based approaches. GC is particularly valuable for identifying novel PFAS and transformation products from sources like manufacturing waste, incineration, wastewater, and consumer products.</p></div><div><div><div><div><h4><strong>Total Organic Fluorine (TOF)</strong></h4></div></div></div></div><div><p>Total Organic Fluorine (TOF) analysis is an indirect method used to estimate the overall burden of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and other organofluorine compounds in a sample. Instead of targeting individual PFAS molecules, TOF methods quantify the sum of organically bound fluorine.</p><p>Because this process measures the organic fluorine present within a sample, it provides a helpful bulk measurement of fluorine from all PFAS present, including those which may not be covered by targeted LC-MS/MS methods.</p></div><div><div><div><div><h4><strong>High Resolution Mass Spectrometry (HRMS)</strong></h4></div></div></div></div><div><p>HRMS is increasingly used to detect emerging PFAS, with two main strategies applied for identification: suspect screening (SS) and non-target screening (NTS). SS is a more direct method, particularly effective when tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) reference spectra are available. In contrast, NTS is critical for uncovering new PFAS compounds in the absence of a suspect list, using fragment-based or homologue-based techniques.</p><p>HRMS contributes significantly by offering precise mass measurements, which are essential for identifying unknown substances. Since PFAS often form homologous series, patterns in accurate mass, retention time, and common fragments (such as CF₂, C₂F₄, and CF₂O) help in their recognition.</p></div><div><div><div><div><h3><strong>Choosing the Right Testing Method</strong></h3></div></div></div></div><div><p>C-MS/MS is the primary technique used for targeted PFAS analysis due to its high sensitivity and accuracy. It is validated by the U.S. EPA through established methods such as 1633, 533, and 537.1 for detecting PFAS in various environmental and drinking water samples. For laboratories seeking reliable and compliant workflows, choosing a comprehensive <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.phenomenex.com/industries/pfas">P<strong>FAS analysis solution</strong></a> that aligns with these regulatory methods is essential for accurate detection and quantification.</p><ul><li><strong>EPA Method 1633</strong> is designed for use under the Clean Water Act (CWA) to measure the levels of 40 different PFAS in various sample types including water, soil, biosolids, sediment, and biological tissue, using <strong>LC-MS/MS</strong>. Weak anion exchange solid phase extraction (WAX-SPE) is employed for extracting various sample matrix types, and PFAS compounds are quantified through calibration with isotopically labeled internal standards.<br>&nbsp;</li><li><strong>EPA Method 533</strong> utilizes weak anion exchange solid phase extraction (WAX-SPE) followed by LC-MS/MS to detect 25 specific PFAS in drinking water, including short chain PFAs. This method employs tandem mass spectrometry and isotope dilution to improve analytical selectivity.<br>&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Method 537.1 </strong>involves extraction via SDBL reversed phase SPE combined with LC-MS/MS for detection of 18 specific PFAs compounds, including the novel GenX compound. This method involves <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.phenomenex.com/documents/pfas-in-drinking-water">PFAS detection in drinking water</a> samples.</li></ul></div>

Guide to PFAS Testing Methods

<p><span><strong>In analytical chemistry, achieving reliable results often depends on attention to seemingly minor details. One such detail is the use of micro inserts—small inserts placed inside standard HPLC vials that can significantly improve analytical performance when working with limited sample volumes. Although modest in size, these accessories help laboratories maximize sample utilization, improve reproducibility, and enhance measurement sensitivity.</strong></span></p><p><span>For laboratories handling valuable, scarce, or low-volume samples, incorporating micro inserts into daily workflows can be a simple yet highly effective way to improve chromatographic results.</span></p><h4><span><strong>Understanding Micro Inserts and Their Importance</strong></span></h4><p><span>Micro inserts are small vessels designed to fit inside conventional 1.5 mL autosampler vials. Their primary purpose is to reduce the effective sample volume required for analysis while ensuring that even very small quantities of sample remain accessible to the autosampler needle.</span></p><p><span>This capability is particularly valuable in applications where sample availability is limited. Whether working with pharmaceutical compounds, environmental extracts, forensic specimens, or food safety samples, analysts often need to obtain reliable results from only a few microliters of material.</span></p><p><span>By concentrating the sample into a smaller space, micro inserts help improve sample recovery and analytical sensitivity. As a result, laboratories can detect low-level compounds more effectively while minimizing unnecessary sample consumption.</span></p><p><span>Ultimately, micro inserts contribute to more efficient analyses, improved data quality, and better utilization of valuable samples.</span></p><h3><span><strong>Key Benefits of Using Micro Inserts in HPLC</strong></span></h3><p><span>Although simple in design, micro inserts offer several important advantages that can improve both analytical performance and laboratory productivity.</span></p><h4><span><strong>Optimized Use of Small Sample Volumes</strong></span></h4><p><span>One of the primary reasons for using micro inserts is their ability to accommodate very small sample quantities. Samples in the low-microliter range can be analyzed efficiently without dilution or excessive waste.</span></p><p><span>This is especially beneficial when dealing with expensive, rare, or difficult-to-obtain materials, as it ensures that nearly all available sample can be used for analysis rather than remaining inaccessible within the vial.</span></p><h4><span><strong>Protection Against Sample Loss Through Evaporation</strong></span></h4><p><span>Small liquid volumes are particularly susceptible to evaporation, which can alter sample concentration and compromise analytical accuracy.</span></p><p><span>Micro inserts help minimize this risk by reducing exposed surface area and providing a more contained environment for the sample. This added protection is particularly useful when handling volatile compounds that may otherwise be lost before analysis.</span></p><h4><span><strong>Improved Sensitivity and Analytical Precision</strong></span></h4><p><span>The design of micro inserts allows the autosampler to access a greater proportion of the available sample. More efficient sample uptake often translates into improved chromatographic performance.</span></p><p><span>Benefits may include:</span></p><ul><li><span>Better peak shapes</span></li><li><span>Increased signal intensity</span></li><li><span>Enhanced signal-to-noise ratios</span></li><li><span>Improved reproducibility</span></li></ul><p><span>These advantages become especially important when quantifying trace-level analytes or working near detection limits.</span></p><h4><span><strong>Lower Risk of Carryover</strong></span></h4><p><span>Carryover remains a common concern in chromatographic analysis, particularly when highly concentrated samples are followed by low-level samples.</span></p><p><span>Because micro inserts confine the sample to a smaller and more controlled space, they can help reduce residual contamination between injections. The result is cleaner analyses and greater confidence in reported data.</span></p><h4><span><strong>Compatibility with Automated Systems</strong></span></h4><p><span>Modern laboratories increasingly rely on autosamplers and automated workflows to maximize productivity.</span></p><p><span>Micro inserts are specifically designed to function seamlessly within these systems, enabling reliable sample positioning and injection while reducing the likelihood of handling errors. This makes them particularly valuable in high-throughput environments where consistency and efficiency are critical.</span></p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/knauer_lc_lab_application_development_1920x1280_ee0a43ad6e.webp" alt="KNAUER: HPLC Lab - Application Development" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_knauer_lc_lab_application_development_1920x1280_ee0a43ad6e.webp 234w," sizes="100vw" width="1024" height="682"></p><p><span>By improving sample handling, reducing waste, and supporting automation, micro inserts can significantly enhance overall HPLC performance.</span></p><h3><span><strong>Selecting the Best Material: Glass or Plastic?</strong></span></h3><p><span>The choice of insert material can influence both analytical quality and operational costs. Selecting the appropriate insert depends largely on sample composition and solvent compatibility.</span></p><h4><span><strong>Glass Inserts</strong></span></h4><p><span>Glass inserts are often preferred for demanding analytical applications.</span></p><p><span>Their advantages include:</span></p><ul><li><span>Excellent chemical resistance</span></li><li><span>Compatibility with organic solvents</span></li><li><span>Minimal risk of analyte interaction</span></li><li><span>Reduced contamination potential</span></li></ul><p><span>For sensitive analyses and reactive samples, glass inserts typically provide the highest level of confidence in sample integrity.</span></p><h4><span><strong>Plastic Inserts</strong></span></h4><p><span>Plastic inserts offer a practical and economical alternative.</span></p><p><span>Advantages include:</span></p><ul><li><span>Lower cost</span></li><li><span>High durability</span></li><li><span>Reduced breakage risk</span></li></ul><p><span>However, certain solvents may interact with plastic materials, making them less suitable for some applications involving aggressive chemical environments.</span></p><h3><span><strong>Common Micro Insert Designs and Their Applications</strong></span></h3><p><span>Different insert geometries are available to accommodate specific analytical requirements.</span></p><h4><span><strong>Flat-Bottom Inserts</strong></span></h4><p><span>Flat-bottom inserts represent the most versatile option and are widely used for routine analyses.</span></p><p><span>Key benefits include:</span></p><ul><li><span>Excellent sample accessibility</span></li><li><span>High sample recovery</span></li><li><span>Broad autosampler compatibility</span></li></ul><p><span>These inserts are suitable for most standard HPLC workflows.</span></p><h4><span><strong>Conical Inserts</strong></span></h4><p><span>Conical inserts feature a tapered bottom that concentrates the sample into a very small area.</span></p><p><span>This design is particularly advantageous when:</span></p><ul><li><span>Sample volumes are extremely limited</span></li><li><span>Maximum recovery is required</span></li><li><span>Trace-level analysis is being performed</span></li></ul><p><span>The conical geometry helps ensure that even minute sample quantities remain accessible to the autosampler needle.</span></p><h4><span><strong>Spring-Fitted Inserts</strong></span></h4><p><span>Spring-fitted inserts incorporate a plastic spring mechanism that secures the insert within the vial.</span></p><p><span>Advantages include:</span></p><ul><li><span>Stable positioning</span></li><li><span>Reduced insert movement</span></li><li><span>Improved performance in automated systems</span></li></ul><p><span>These inserts are especially useful in laboratories operating high-throughput autosampler platforms.</span></p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_Fig_1_3_Flat_Bottom_Insert_left_Conical_Insert_center_Spring_fitted_Insert_right_682322556f.jpg" alt="KNAUER: Fig. 1–3  Flat Bottom Insert (left), Conical Insert (center), Spring-fitted Insert (right)" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_Fig_1_3_Flat_Bottom_Insert_left_Conical_Insert_center_Spring_fitted_Insert_right_682322556f.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1152" height="366"></p><p><span>Selecting the appropriate insert design can improve recovery, reduce variability, and enhance overall analytical reliability.</span></p><h3><span><strong>Applications Where Small Volumes Matter Most</strong></span></h3><p><span>Micro inserts are widely used in analytical fields where sample quantities are limited and measurement accuracy is critical.</span></p><h4><span><strong>Pharmaceutical Analysis</strong></span></h4><p><span>Drug development and quality control frequently involve precious samples and low-concentration impurities.</span></p><p><span>Micro inserts help maximize recovery and ensure accurate quantification, supporting reliable pharmaceutical testing and regulatory compliance.</span></p><h4><span><strong>Environmental Analysis</strong></span></h4><p><span>Environmental laboratories often work with trace contaminants present at extremely low concentrations.</span></p><p><span>Micro inserts improve sensitivity and help preserve valuable extracts, making them useful for pollutant monitoring and environmental investigations.</span></p><h4><span><strong>Forensic and Toxicological Testing</strong></span></h4><p><span>In forensic science, sample quantities are frequently limited and cannot be replaced.</span></p><p><span>Micro inserts enable efficient analysis of small biological specimens while preserving as much material as possible for potential repeat testing.</span></p><p><span>Across these disciplines, the ability to obtain high-quality results from minimal sample volumes makes micro inserts an indispensable analytical tool.</span></p><h3><span><strong>Supporting Sustainable Laboratory Practices</strong></span></h3><p><span>Sustainability has become an increasingly important consideration in analytical laboratories.</span></p><p><span>Micro inserts contribute to greener workflows by:</span></p><ul><li><span>Reducing sample consumption</span></li><li><span>Lowering solvent usage</span></li><li><span>Minimizing reagent waste</span></li><li><span>Improving overall analytical efficiency</span></li></ul><p><span>These benefits align well with laboratory initiatives aimed at reducing environmental impact and operating costs.</span></p><p><span>Future developments may introduce inserts manufactured from recyclable or biodegradable materials, further enhancing their sustainability profile. Even today, however, micro inserts represent a straightforward way to improve resource efficiency without compromising analytical performance.</span></p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_sustainability_cd6da6aab0.webp" alt="KNAUER / unsplash.com: Sustainability" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_sustainability_cd6da6aab0.webp 245w," sizes="100vw" width="720" height="412"></p><h3><span><strong>Small Components, Significant Benefits</strong></span></h3><p><span>Although micro inserts occupy only a small space inside an HPLC vial, their influence on analytical quality can be substantial.</span></p><p><span>By improving sample recovery, enhancing sensitivity, minimizing evaporation, reducing carryover, and supporting automated workflows, these simple accessories help laboratories achieve more reliable and reproducible results. Careful selection of insert material and design allows analysts to tailor performance to specific applications while making better use of valuable samples.</span></p><p><span>Micro inserts serve as a reminder that in chromatography, attention to the smallest details often delivers the greatest improvements in analytical success.</span></p>

Why Micro Inserts Are Essential for Precision in HPLC Analysis

<p><strong>Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezLCMS Library in the week of 15th June 2026? Check out new documents from the field of liquid phase, especially HPLC and LC/MS techniques!</strong></p><blockquote><p><span style="font-size:20px;">👉 </span><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/library"><span style="font-size:20px;"><strong>SEARCH THE LARGEST REPOSITORY OF DOCUMENTS ABOUT LCMS 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://gcms.labrulez.com/library"><strong>LabRulezGCMS</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, Shimadzu </strong>and<strong> Thermo Fisher Scientific, </strong>technical note by<strong> KNAUER </strong>and brochure by <strong>Waters Corporation!</strong></p><h3><strong>1. Agilent Technologies: Large-Volume Dilute-and-Shoot Analysis of PFAS in Drinking Water Using the Altura PFAS Column</strong></h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_analysis_pfas_drinking_water_altura_5994_9186en_agilent_a66334e5b0.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><p>Per‑ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are synthetic fluorinated compounds valued for their oil‑ and water‑repellent properties, but their environmental persistence and mobility have driven the development of increasingly stringent regulations for drinking water monitoring. Existing dilute-and-shoot methods, such as EPA 8327 and ASTM D7979, were originally designed for screening PFAS in nonpotable water. These methods typically rely on 10 to 30&nbsp;µL injection volumes, setting practical quantitation limits appropriately 10 ng/L.<sup>1,2&nbsp;</sup></p><p>We present a large‑volume injection workflow that extends the capabilities of these methods toward trace PFAS quantitation in drinking water. Using the Agilent 6495D triple quadrupole LC/MS (LC/TQ) coupled with a 1290 Infinity II LC, we achieved injections of 200 µL of methanol‑diluted water on the Altura PFAS column without requiring SPE concentration. The Altura PFAS column maintained peak symmetry and retention stability under these injection conditions. This configuration enabled a working calibration range of 0.25 to 25 ng/L, extending the low-end sensitivity substantially relative to published dilute-and shoot methods.<sup>1,2&nbsp;</sup></p><p>This performance enhancement simplifies operations by removing labor‑intensive extraction steps, while maintaining sensitivity required for regulatory guidelines thereby supporting high‑throughput PFAS workflows suitable for routine drinking water analysis. The PFAS compounds analyzed were PFBS, HFPO-DA, PFHpA, PFHxA, PFHxS, PFOA, PFOS, PFNA, and PFDA. These compounds were selected due to their relevance to ongoing regulatory actions and proposed maximum contaminant level (MCL) considerations for drinking water.&nbsp;</p><p>Specific highlights of this experiment include:&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Minimized peak tailing and solvent effects with 200 µL injections water/methanol (1:1) injections.</li><li>Increased throughput by elimination of solid phase extraction (SPE).&nbsp;</li><li>Enhanced sensitivity of 6495D LC/TQ at low end (0.25&nbsp;ng/L) for the dilute-and-shoot method in drinking&nbsp;water.</li></ul><h4><strong>Experimental&nbsp;</strong></h4><h5><strong>Instrumentation&nbsp;</strong></h5><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=+1290+Infinity+II"><strong>Agilent 1290 Infinity II LC</strong></a> coupled to <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=6495D"><strong>Agilent 6495D LC/TQ system</strong></a> was utilized for the LC/MS/MS analysis. An Infinity&nbsp;II multisampler with an extended multidraw capillary tube (G7137-68307) was connected to the needle seat and injection valve with a union for large volume injection (200&nbsp;µL). The data were acquired with MassHunter acquisition software version 12.2. All LC/MS parameters are shown in Table 1 and 2. PFAS multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) transition methods were imported from the PFAS MRM database (G1736AA) while labelled homologues were optimized to obtain correct MRM transitions (Table 3).</p><h4><strong>Conclusion&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>This study demonstrates a practical large‑volume dilute-and-shoot workflow for the determination of PFAS in drinking water using the Agilent 1290 Infinity II LC coupled to the 6495D triple quadrupole LC/MS, and Agilent Altura Poroshell PFAS column. With 200 µL water samples diluted in methanol can be injected directly, eliminating the need for SPE concentration and significantly reducing sample preparation time. This method exhibits good sensitivity, accuracy, and reproducibility. The Altura PFAS column maintained consistent peak performance and retention stability even at low sub‑ppt concentrations, supporting long‑term reliability for trace‑level PFAS monitoring. Overall, the findings highlight the method potential to support routine, high‑sensitivity PFAS monitoring in drinking water laboratories.</p><h3><strong>2. KNAUER: Size matters - How to perform narrow calibration using the ClarityChrom® GPC Extension</strong></h3><ul><li>Technical note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/VTN_0049_knauer_size_matters_how_to_perform_narrow_calibration_using_the_claritychrom_gpc_extension_3cfdc7a45b.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><p>Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC), also known as Size Exclusion Chromatography (SEC), is a separation technique that separates molecules based on their hydrodynamic size rather than chemical interactions. In a GPC column, separation is based on the ability of molecules to access the pores of the stationary phase. Smaller molecules can penetrate these pores and therefore spend more time inside the column, resulting in a delayed elution. Larger molecules, on the other hand, cannot enter the pores and pass through the column more quickly, leading to earlier elution.&nbsp;</p><p>As a result, molecules are separated by size in solution, providing the basis for the determination of molecular weight and molecular weight distributions. Calibration is therefore a fundamental requirement for ensuring the accuracy and reliability of the results. The ClarityChrom® GPC Extension enables users to efficiently create and apply different calibration models for precise analysis. The workflow presented here focuses on narrow calibration using standards with defined molecular weights and low polydispersity (PD ≈ 1).</p><h4><strong>Material and Methods</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Software&nbsp;</strong><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=503&amp;search=ClarityChrom"><strong>ClarityChrom</strong></a>® 10.1 - station single instrument license one time base</li><li>ClarityChrom® 10.1 - GPC license for GPC data processing &nbsp;</li></ul></li><li><strong>Pump: </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/2372"><strong>AZURA P 6.1L isocratic HPLC pump</strong></a> with 10 ml pump head for normal phase applications, stainless steel&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Degasser: </strong>Analytical 2 channel GPC degasser&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Autosampler:</strong> <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/2375"><strong>AZURA® AS 6.1L</strong></a>, analytical HPLC autosampler, 862 bar&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Detector:</strong> <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/2429"><strong>AZURA® RID 2.1L</strong></a>, analytical refractive index detector&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Thermostat: </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/2376"><strong>AZURA® CT 2.1</strong></a> ATC00 Capillaries Start-Up Kit with flexible, precut capillaries for analytical HPLC systems with 1/16" connections</li></ul><h4><strong>Conclusion</strong></h4><p>This technical note demonstrates how to successfully create and apply a narrow calibration using the ClarityChrom® GPC Extension. By following the outlined workflow, users can ensure reliable calibration and determination of molecular weight and molecular weight distributions. The described approach supports consistent and reproducible results, making it a valuable tool for routine GPC/SEC analysis. For further optimization and advanced applications, additional related technical and application notes can be consulted.</p><h3><strong>3. Shimadzu: UHPLC Method for Sensitive Automatic Analysis of Thirty-Seven D/L-Amino Acids and for Liquor Profiling</strong></h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_01_01169_en_2dab331398.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><h5><strong>User Benefits</strong></h5><ul><li>Enables high-sensitivity simultaneous fast analysis of thirty-seven D/L-amino acids using simple operations.</li><li>Good reproducibility of analytical results can be achieved by keeping the derivatization reaction time constant.</li><li>Statistical analysis software enables easy multivariate analysis of multiple samples.</li></ul><p>Recent advances in analytical techniques have revealed the presence of D-amino acids in fermented foods and biological samples and clarified their role in the taste, preservation, and aroma of foods , and as potential disease biomarkers. Therefore, the demand for D/L separation of amino acids is increasing. Because D-amino acids are only present in trace amounts in fermented foods and biological systems, unlike L-amino acids, it is necessary to determine the concentration of each D-amino acid by separating them from the high concentrations of Lamino acids.&nbsp;</p><p>A comprehensive method for quantitating the thirty-seven D/Lamino acids was previously reported1), in which two chiral derivatizing reagents were employed to provide different diastereomers for each amino acid, with the instrument automatically switching between two separation methods to analyze each sample twice.&nbsp;</p><p>This article introduces an improved method that employs a single chiral derivatizing reagent to enable simultaneous analysis of D/L-amino acidsin a shorter time.</p><h4><strong>D/L-Amino Acid Analysis by UHPLC&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>In general, LC/MS or multi-dimensional LC is used to analyze D/L-amino acids by HPLC, because it is difficult to separate proteinogenic D/L-amino acids with a single separation mode. However, it is known that LC/MS is susceptible to matrix effects and less quantitative than HPLC. It is also known that the multidimensional LC method requires a long analysis time and very complicated HPLC setup. Therefore, a simple operational method that provides good separation for D/L-amino acids in a short time is needed.&nbsp;</p><p>For food analysis, a small particle column is used to achieve appropriate separation of the small amounts of D-amino acids from the large amounts of L-amino acids and co-existing contaminants. A <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=X3"><strong>UHPLC system (Nexera X3</strong></a>) was employed in this study due to the increased system pressure caused by the use of a small particle column.</p><h4><strong>Conclusion&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>A method was developed for simultaneous separation of OPA/NIBC diastereomers for thirty-seven D/L-amino acids using a simple UHPLC system in approximately half the time of the conventional methods. By optimizing the derivatization reaction, all compounds were determined sensitively, accurately, and precisely. Separation of the target compounds from the contaminants was good in the liquor samples when evaluated using real liquor samples. It is expected to be easily applicable to D/L-amino acid profiling in food and beverage samples without using expensive MS detection or complicated multidimensional HPLC configurations as long as samples are prepared properly. Moreover, D/L-amino acid profiling could be used to research and develop foods containing D-amino acids intended to help to maintain and improve the intestinal environment, and could help in the early detection of diseases and determining optimal treatment strategies through biomarker discovery</p><h3><strong>4. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Screening of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in cosmetics: Utilizing a new combustion-ion chromatography system for total organic fluorine (TOF) analysis</strong></h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/ap_004098_ic_systems_combustion_ic_environmental_ap004098_na_en_a3a1d33a24.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><p>This application note describes a method for <strong>screening per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in textiles</strong> using total organic fluorine (TOF) analysis by combustion-ion chromatography (C-IC). PFAS are widely used in textiles to provide water, oil, and stain resistance, but increasing concerns about their environmental persistence and potential health effects have led to stricter regulations worldwide. California’s AB 1817 legislation, for example, limits TOF concentrations in textiles to 100 ppm beginning in 2025 and 50 ppm by 2027, creating a need for reliable analytical methods capable of assessing PFAS content in textile products.</p><p>The study evaluates a new <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/2150"><strong>Thermo Scientific Cindion Combustion Ion Chromatography System</strong></a>, which combines a Dionex Inuvion IC system with a Cindion combustion/absorption module. The system features an optimized Z-fold combustion tube design that improves combustion efficiency, shortens analysis time, reduces instrument footprint, and allows complete control through Chromeleon software. Unlike surface-sensitive techniques such as PIGE, the combustion-IC approach analyzes the entire sample, providing results that are independent of sample thickness. The method measures total fluorine (TF) after combustion and total inorganic fluorine (TIF) by direct IC analysis, with TOF calculated as the difference between TF and TIF.</p><p>To validate the approach, six textile samples representing waterproof and stain-resistant consumer products were analyzed and compared with results previously obtained using a Nittoseiko combustion-IC system. TOF concentrations ranged from approximately 1 ppm in one nylon fabric to nearly 375 ppm in a polyester baby bib. The values generated by the new Cindion system showed excellent agreement with the reference system, achieving between 100% and 105% of the previously reported results. Reproducibility was also strong, with relative standard deviations below 8% for all samples.</p><p>The authors conclude that the new Cindion C-IC platform provides an accurate, reliable, and efficient solution for PFAS screening in textiles. In addition to matching the performance of the established combustion-IC method, the enhanced system offers a flexible “2-in-1” configuration that allows seamless switching between combustion-IC and standalone IC operation. This improves workflow efficiency, reduces manual intervention, and provides manufacturers and testing laboratories with a practical tool for monitoring compliance with evolving PFAS regulations in textile products.</p><h3><strong>5. Waters Corporation: Advanced Acquisition Modes for the </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/2433"><strong>Xevo MRT P10 Mass Spectrometer</strong></a></h3><ul><li>Brochure</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/720009362_9baa39e7de.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><div><div><section><div><div><div><div><div><div><p>The Waters solution sheet introduces the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/2433"><strong>Xevo MRT P10 Mass Spectrometer</strong>,</a> a next-generation high-resolution mass spectrometer designed to provide significantly greater analytical depth, sensitivity, and flexibility for modern omics workflows. Compared with the previous Xevo MRT platform, the instrument delivers a reported <strong>20-fold increase in MS/MS sensitivity</strong>, incorporates Wideband Enhanced Duty Cycle (WB EDC) technology, and supports ultrafast acquisition rates of up to <strong>100 Hz for MS data</strong> and <strong>200 Hz for MS/MS data</strong>. These performance improvements are intended to enhance the detection of low-abundance compounds while maintaining high-quality spectral information across complex biological samples.</p><p>A major focus of the document is the introduction of the new <strong>SONAR Pulse Acquisition Mode</strong>, an advanced data-independent acquisition (DIA) approach. SONAR Pulse improves selectivity by rapidly stepping a quadrupole isolation window across a defined precursor mass range, allowing fragment ions to be associated with narrower precursor windows than in conventional DIA experiments. This strategy reduces spectral complexity, improves confidence in compound identification, and increases the likelihood of detecting low-level analytes that might be missed by traditional data-dependent acquisition (DDA) methods. The method supports precursor and product ion scans up to m/z 2000, multiple quadrupole isolation window sizes, acquisition speeds up to 200 Hz, and full compatibility with WB EDC technology.</p><p>The second major innovation described is <strong>Mixed Mode Acquisition</strong>, a hybrid workflow that combines targeted and untargeted analysis within a single injection. In this approach, high-sensitivity <strong>Tof MRM</strong> quantification is performed simultaneously with untargeted DIA (MSE) acquisition. This enables users to obtain quantitative data for predefined targets while also collecting comprehensive full-scan information for discovery and screening purposes. The workflow integrates seamlessly with Waters software tools, allowing targeted quantification through the MS Quan application and untargeted analysis through UNIFI or export to open data formats such as mzML for processing in third-party software packages including MZmine, MS-DIAL, DIA-NN, PEAKS, and Progenesis QI.</p><p>According to Waters, both acquisition strategies are designed to maximize information obtained from each sample injection. SONAR Pulse emphasizes deeper molecular coverage, improved selectivity, and simplified interpretation of complex DIA datasets, while Mixed Mode provides a unified quantitative–qualitative workflow that combines targeted measurement and discovery screening without compromising sensitivity or acquisition speed. Together, these capabilities position the Xevo MRT P10 as a versatile platform for metabolomics, lipidomics, proteomics, and other multiomics applications where both comprehensive characterization and accurate quantification are required.</p></div></div></div></div></div></div></section></div></div>

News from LabRulezLCMS Library - Week 25, 2026

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Phenomenex is a global technology leader committed to developing novel analytical chemistry solutions that solve the separation and purification challenges of researchers in industrial, government and academic laboratories.

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Based in Berlin, KNAUER is a medium-sized, owner-managed company that has been serving the sciences since 1962. We develop and manufacture scientific instruments of superior quality for liquid chromatography, including: Analytical HPLC/UHPLC, Preparative HPLC, Fast protein liquid chromatography (FPLC), Multi-column chromatography/Simulated moving bed (SMB) chromatography. High pressure dosing, in-line detection systems, and osmometry are additional business areas.

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Agilent 6550 LC/Q-TOF Mass Detector (Refurbished)

The Agilent 6550 LC/Q-TOF mass detector represents the pinnacle of mass spectrometry. This instrument is designed for precise and rapid analysis of complex mixtures, offering outstanding sensitivity, high resolution, and reliable quantitative results.

Agilent 6490 Series (G6490A) LC/QQQ (Refurbished)

The Agilent 6490 Triple Quadrupole LC/MS System sets new standards for sensitivity and detection limits. With innovative iFunnel technology, it delivers zeptomole-level sensitivity at conventional flow rates, making it the ideal choice for complex matrices and trace-level quantification. 

Agilent 6230B LC/TOF Time of Flight System (Refurbished)

The Agilent 6230 time-of-flight LC/MS system provides accurate, high-mass resolution mass measurements for confident compound identification beyond conventional HPLC detection.

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