Thermo Scientific Vanquish Fluorescence Detectors - PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

Significance of the Topic

Fluorescence detection in liquid chromatography is a cornerstone technique for trace-level analysis across pharmaceutical, environmental, and biochemical applications. Its exceptional sensitivity and selectivity enable quantification of analytes that exhibit native or derivatized fluorescence, facilitating method development, quality control, and research workflows.

Objectives and Overview

The study presents the specifications and performance highlights of Thermo Scientific Vanquish Fluorescence Detectors, designed to integrate seamlessly with Vanquish Horizon, Flex, Core, and Duo platforms. It aims to deliver unmatched detection sensitivity, fast data acquisition, and robust reproducibility to support conventional HPLC and UHPLC separations.

Methodology and Used Instrumentation

These detectors employ a dual-monochromator optical layout with concave holographic gratings and elliptic mirrors to maximize light throughput and minimize stray light. A xenon flash lamp provides the excitation source, operating in HighPower (~300 Hz), Standard (~100 Hz), or LongLife (~20 Hz) modes. Two flow cell options—standard (8 µL, 2 MPa) and micro (2 µL, 4 MPa)—feature temperature control up to 50 °C absolute.

• Detector models: Fluorescence Detector F (200–630 nm excitation, 220–650 nm emission), F Dual-PMT (200–880/220–900 nm), C (200–630/265–650 nm), C Dual-PMT (200–880/265–900 nm)
• Signal channels: up to four simultaneous excitation/emission pairs, single-channel data rates to 200 Hz, multi-channel to 4 Hz
• Wavelength accuracy ±2 nm, repeatability ±0.2 nm; internal calibration via xenon lines and water Raman shifts
• Emission filters: variable five-position turret or fixed 280 nm; wavelength switching <250 ms

Main Results and Discussion

Performance evaluations demonstrate Raman signal-to-noise ratios exceeding 550 (ASTM), rising to over 2100 when using dark signal referencing. Fast data collection supports UHPLC peaks as narrow as a few seconds in width. Temperature-controlled cells reduce baseline drift. Dual-PMT options improve dynamic range and sensitivity, while multichannel operation accelerates method optimization and peak identification.

Benefits and Practical Application

• Enhanced detection limits for trace-level compounds in pharmaceutical, environmental, and food analysis
• Flexible excitation/emission tuning and ultrafast wavelength switching streamline method development
• Low maintenance with long-life xenon lamp and Thermo Scientific Viper fittings
• Predictive GLP features in Chromeleon CDS ensure traceable performance monitoring and maintenance scheduling

Future Trends and Possibilities

Advances may include integration with machine-learning algorithms for real-time spectral deconvolution, miniaturized flow cells for microfluidic systems, and LED-based excitation sources for energy efficiency. Expanded multiplexing, automated spectral scanning, and online process monitoring are poised to further broaden fluorescence detection applications.

Conclusion

The Vanquish Fluorescence Detectors deliver unparalleled sensitivity, precision, and flexibility for modern LC workflows. Their advanced optical design, high-speed data acquisition, and comprehensive GLP integration position them as versatile tools for demanding analytical challenges across industries.