News from LabRulezLCMS Library - Week 14, 2026

<h3><strong>We're excited to announce that </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/999"><strong>Clarity Chromatography Software</strong></a><strong> version 10.1.2 is now available!</strong></h3><p><strong>This minor update expands Clarity’s portfolio with new control modules.</strong></p><h4><strong>Newly added Instrument control modules</strong></h4><ul><li>Ecom auxiliary modules</li><li>HTA ICF control modules</li><li>Spark pump</li></ul><h4><strong>Updated Instrument control modules</strong></h4><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/companies/168"><strong>Ecom</strong></a> HPLC</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/companies/328"><strong>Knauer</strong></a> HPLC</li><li>Spark ICF control modules</li><li>YoungIn Chromass HPLC</li></ul><blockquote><p>For a complete list of module changes, see the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.dataapex.com/version_history?product=1"><strong>Changelog</strong></a>. For more info about exciting new features directly in Clarity, explore what was introduced in the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/article/5622"><strong>Clarity 10.1 release highlights</strong></a>.</p><p>Clarity can control <strong>1000+ instruments</strong>; the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.dataapex.com/controls"><strong>list can be previewed here</strong></a>.</p></blockquote><h4><strong>Supported Instruments in Clarity (DataApex) — Quick Guide</strong></h4><p>Clarity Chromatography Software supports a wide range of chromatographs and peripherals via <strong>digital control (DD)</strong> and <strong>analog acquisition (A/D)</strong> using the <strong>Colibrick</strong> module.</p><h5><strong>Gas Chromatographs (GC)</strong></h5><p>Digital integration over LAN/RS232 (many via ICF):</p><ul><li><strong>Agilent</strong>: 5890, 6890, 7890, 8860, 8890, <strong>Intuvo 9000</strong></li><li><strong>Shimadzu</strong>: GC-2010/2014, <strong>Nexis GC-2030</strong></li><li><strong>Thermo Fisher</strong>: TRACE 1300/1310</li><li><strong>PerkinElmer</strong>: Clarus 400–690</li><li>Also supported: <strong>Dani</strong>, <strong>Ellutia</strong>, <strong>Young In Chromass</strong>, <strong>Apix</strong>, <strong>Fuli</strong>, <strong>GOW-MAC</strong> (selected models)</li></ul><blockquote><p>Note: Most Agilent 6890–8890 and Intuvo use <strong>LAN – ICF</strong>.</p></blockquote><h5><strong>HPLC Systems</strong></h5><p>Full system/module control:</p><ul><li><strong>Agilent</strong> 1100–<strong>1290 Infinity II</strong> (ICF)</li><li><strong>Shimadzu</strong> LC-10/20 and <strong>Nexera LC-40</strong></li><li><strong>PerkinElmer</strong> Flexar / NexSAR</li><li><strong>Knauer</strong> Azura / BlueShadow / Smartline</li><li><strong>Hitachi</strong> Chromaster / Primaide</li><li><strong>Young In Chromass</strong> ChroZen series</li><li><strong>Sykam</strong> S500–S600, <strong>Watrex</strong> Streamline, <strong>Hanon</strong> LC7000–7300</li></ul><h5><strong>HPLC Modules (Pumps, Detectors, Ovens, Fraction Collectors)</strong></h5><ul><li><strong>Pumps</strong>: Agilent 1100–1290 families, Knauer, Shimadzu, PerkinElmer, Sykam, SSI, Ecom</li><li><strong>Detectors</strong>: VWD/DAD(PDA)/RID/FLD/ELSD across Agilent, Shimadzu, Knauer, PerkinElmer, Young In Chromass, Ecom, etc.</li><li><strong>Column Ovens</strong>: Agilent G1316x / G7116x, Shimadzu CTO-20/30/40, Knauer CT2.1, PerkinElmer Flexar</li><li><strong>Fraction Collectors</strong>: Knauer FC 6.1, Teledyne FOXY series, Ecom ECF 2096, Waters Fraction Collector II</li></ul><h5><strong>Autosamplers</strong></h5><ul><li><strong>Agilent</strong> GC ALS (7673/7683/7693/8697), HPLC ALS modules (G1313A–G7167C)</li><li><strong>Shimadzu</strong> AOC-20 / AOC-5000+, SIL-10 / SIL-20 / <strong>SIL-40</strong> series</li><li><strong>CTC Analytics PAL</strong>, <strong>HTA</strong> autosamplers, <strong>Spark</strong> Alias/UHPLC, <strong>Knauer</strong> AS 6.1L</li><li><strong>PerkinElmer</strong> Flexar / NexSAR AS</li></ul><h5><strong>Other Devices</strong></h5><ul><li><strong>GC×GC modulators</strong> (e.g., Charles University GC×GC Modulator)</li><li><strong>Valves &amp; switch modules</strong> (Agilent, Knauer, Shimadzu, VICI-Valco)</li><li><strong>Degassers, flow monitors, managers, interfaces</strong></li><li><strong>LC-MS / GC-MS</strong>: Advion Expression CMS, Microsaic 4500 MiD, Markes BenchTOF (and others)</li><li><strong>Balances (EA extension)</strong>: Mettler Toledo, Sartorius</li></ul><h5><strong>Analog Acquisition (Colibrick)</strong></h5><p>A/D support for legacy or analog-output devices:</p><ul><li><strong>GC</strong>: Agilent 5880/4890A, Varian 3xxx/3800/3900, PerkinElmer Clarus series, Thermo TRACE, Shimadzu GC-14/9A, Scion 43x/45x/83xx/85xx, etc.</li><li><strong>HPLC Detectors</strong>: Waters 2487/2489, ESA Corona, Hitachi L-series, JASCO FP/UV, Ecom LCD series, many others</li><li><strong>Elemental &amp; Amino Acid Analyzers</strong>: Carlo Erba/Costech ECS, Biochrom 20/30+</li></ul><p>If you are interested in a <strong>DEMO VERSION</strong>, contact us!</p>

DataApex Clarity Chromatography software 10.1.2 just released!

<p><strong>🎤Dan Reddy </strong>(PhD candidate in the Department of Chemistry at Queen's University and a recipient of the NSERC Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship. He was recently named one of the top 35 early-career scientists globally in the 2025 CAS Future Leaders program.)</p><p><strong>In this episode, we interview Daniel Reddy, 2025 CAS Future Leader and PhD candidate at Queen's University, about his groundbreaking research on automated mass spectrometry and dried matrix spots (DMS).</strong></p><p>Dan's work combines computer vision, 3D printer automation, and laser micromachining to revolutionize sample preparation—reducing CO₂ emissions by 28-fold and organic solvent use by 21-fold compared to traditional methods.</p><h4><strong>What You'll Learn:</strong></h4><ul><li>How to give a mass spectrometer "sight" and "taste" using computer vision and the LMJ-SSP (Liquid Microjunction Surface Sampling Probe)</li><li>The breakthrough technology behind Surface Energy Traps (SETs) for confining liquid droplets on paper substrates</li><li>Why dried matrix spots eliminate the need for cold-chain shipping and enable analysis of blood, urine, and saliva samples via standard mail</li><li>How DIY chemists are hacking 3D printers to build cost-effective autosamplers (replacing $10K+ systems)</li><li>The role of green chemistry and systems thinking in modernizing analytical methods</li><li>Why interdisciplinary collaboration (chemistry + computer science) is critical to innovation</li></ul><h4><strong>Key Topics:</strong></h4><ul><li>Dried Matrix Spots (DMS) for automated sample prep</li><li>Laser-micromachined Surface Energy Traps</li><li>Direct surface sampling mass spectrometry</li><li>Sustainability in analytical chemistry</li><li>3D printer customization for laboratory automation</li><li>The importance of science communication and community outreach</li></ul><h3><strong>Video Transcription</strong></h3><h4><span><strong>Introduction</strong></span></h4><p>Recent advances in analytical chemistry increasingly focus on simplifying workflows, improving sustainability, and enabling automation. In this context, the work of <span>Dan Reddy</span> centers on the concept of <i>“bringing mass spectrometry to life”</i> through the integration of automated sampling, computer vision, and dried matrix spot (DMS) methodologies.</p><p>The primary objective is to enable efficient and reproducible analysis of biological and liquid samples—such as blood, urine, saliva, or other solutions—by depositing them onto substrates, drying them, and extracting meaningful analytical information directly via mass spectrometry.</p><h4><span><strong>Conceptual Framework: Enabling “Sight” and “Taste” in Mass Spectrometry</strong></span></h4><p>A central innovation in this work is the conceptual transformation of mass spectrometry from a passive analytical tool into an active, semi-autonomous system.</p><ul><li><strong>“Sight”</strong> is introduced through <strong>camera-based computer vision</strong>, allowing the system to identify predefined patterns on a substrate.</li><li><strong>“Taste”</strong> is implemented via a <strong>liquid microjunction surface sampling probe (LMJSSP)</strong>, which enables direct extraction of analytes from surfaces.</li></ul><p>The LMJSSP consists of two concentric capillaries forming a continuously flowing microdroplet. When brought into contact with the sample surface, this droplet facilitates localized extraction, effectively enabling direct surface analysis without traditional chromatographic separation.</p><p>Combined with an automated positioning system (adapted from 3D printer mechanics), the platform can autonomously locate sampling sites and perform reproducible measurements.</p><h4><span><strong>Dried Matrix Spots as an Analytical Platform</strong></span></h4><h5><span><strong>Principle and Advantages</strong></span></h5><p>Dried matrix spots involve depositing a small volume of liquid sample onto a substrate (commonly paper), followed by drying. This approach offers several advantages:</p><ul><li>Reduced need for cold-chain transport</li><li>Simplified sample handling and storage</li><li>Compatibility with remote or decentralized sampling</li><li>Lower solvent consumption</li></ul><p>These features contribute significantly to greener analytical workflows and improved logistical efficiency.</p><h5><span><strong>Sustainability Impact</strong></span></h5><p>The implementation of DMS-based workflows has demonstrated:</p><ul><li>Up to <strong>28-fold reduction in CO₂ emissions</strong></li><li>Up to <strong>21-fold reduction in organic solvent use</strong></li></ul><p>These improvements arise from eliminating cold-chain logistics and minimizing solvent-intensive preparation steps.</p><h4><span><strong>Surface Energy Traps (SCTs): Controlled Micro-Sampling Environments</strong></span></h4><h5><span><strong>Definition and Fabrication</strong></span></h5><p>Surface Energy Traps (SCTs) are microstructured regions on a substrate designed to confine liquid droplets within defined boundaries.</p><p>The fabrication process involves:</p><ol><li>Coating paper with a <strong>hydrophobic layer</strong></li><li>Using <strong>laser ablation</strong> to selectively remove the coating in defined patterns</li><li>Creating <strong>hydrophilic circular regions</strong> (typically ~0.5 mm diameter)</li></ol><p>These patterned regions act as micro-wells that confine droplets spatially and prevent lateral diffusion.</p><h5><span><strong>Analytical Benefits</strong></span></h5><p>SCTs address key limitations of traditional dried matrix spots:</p><ul><li><strong>Improved spatial confinement</strong> of analytes</li><li><strong>Reduced diffusion variability</strong></li><li><strong>Enhanced reproducibility</strong></li><li><strong>Preconcentration effects</strong> due to controlled drying</li></ul><p>Additionally, the SCT diameter is smaller than the sampling probe, enabling near-complete analyte collection during surface extraction.</p><h4><span><strong>Drying Dynamics and Analyte Distribution</strong></span></h4><p>Traditional dried matrix spots often suffer from the <strong>“coffee-ring effect”</strong>, where analytes redistribute unevenly during drying. This leads to variability depending on sampling location.</p><p>The SCT approach mitigates these effects by:</p><ul><li>Limiting diffusion area</li><li>Maintaining analytes near the surface</li><li>Producing more uniform analyte distribution</li></ul><p>Preliminary investigations (e.g., via SEM imaging) indicate improved homogeneity, although further studies are needed to fully characterize drying kinetics and their influence on signal intensity.</p><h4><span><strong>Integration with Automated Sampling Systems</strong></span></h4><h5><span><strong>3D Printer-Based Positioning</strong></span></h5><p>A key engineering innovation is the repurposing of <strong>3D printer hardware</strong> for automated sample positioning:</p><ul><li>Provides cost-effective XYZ motion control</li><li>Enables programmable sampling routines</li><li>Supports integration with analytical instrumentation</li></ul><p>Custom software—developed in collaboration with computer engineers—allows users to define coordinates, dwell times, and sampling parameters.</p><h5><span><strong>Computer Vision Integration</strong></span></h5><p>The addition of computer vision enables:</p><ul><li>Pattern recognition (e.g., alignment markers near SCTs)</li><li>Autonomous targeting of sampling locations</li><li>Reduced operator intervention</li></ul><p>This transforms the system into a semi-autonomous analytical platform.</p><h4><span><strong>Comparison with Conventional Workflows</strong></span></h4><p>Compared to traditional LC-MS or GC-MS workflows, the presented approach offers:</p><div><div><figure class="table"><table><thead><tr><th>Aspect</th><th>Conventional Methods</th><th>SCT + LMJSSP Approach</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Sample prep</td><td>Multi-step, solvent-intensive</td><td>Minimal, direct surface sampling</td></tr><tr><td>Chromatography</td><td>Required</td><td>Potentially bypassed</td></tr><tr><td>Throughput</td><td>Moderate</td><td>High (automated)</td></tr><tr><td>Sustainability</td><td>Limited</td><td>Significantly improved</td></tr></tbody></table></figure></div></div><p>While chromatographic methods remain essential for many applications, this approach provides a complementary pathway for rapid screening and targeted analyses.</p><h4><span><strong>Green Chemistry and Systems Thinking</strong></span></h4><p>A notable aspect of this work is the integration of <strong>systems thinking</strong> into analytical chemistry. Inspired by engagement with organizations such as the <span>American Chemical Society</span> and green chemistry initiatives, the research emphasizes:</p><ul><li>Environmental impact reduction</li><li>Resource efficiency</li><li>Lifecycle considerations</li></ul><p>This perspective expands the role of analytical chemists beyond method performance to broader societal and environmental implications.</p><h4><span><strong>Future Outlook and Applications</strong></span></h4><p>The research is currently at an early stage but shows strong potential for:</p><ul><li><strong>Decentralized diagnostics</strong> (e.g., remote blood sampling)</li><li><strong>Environmental monitoring</strong></li><li><strong>High-throughput screening workflows</strong></li><li><strong>Field-deployable analytical systems</strong></li></ul><p>Further advancements are expected in:</p><ul><li>Substrate engineering</li><li>Automation robustness</li><li>Integration with advanced MS platforms (e.g., triple quadrupole systems)</li></ul><h4><span><strong>Conclusion</strong></span></h4><p>The integration of dried matrix spots, surface energy traps, and automated surface sampling represents a significant step toward more sustainable, efficient, and accessible analytical workflows.</p><p>By combining innovations in microfabrication, computer vision, and mass spectrometry, the work of <span>Dan Reddy</span> demonstrates how analytical chemistry can evolve toward smarter, greener, and more autonomous systems.</p><blockquote><p><strong>This text has been automatically transcribed from a video presentation using AI technology. It may contain inaccuracies and is not guaranteed to be 100% correct.</strong></p></blockquote><blockquote><h4><strong>Concentrating on Chromatography Podcast</strong></h4><p>Dive into the frontiers of chromatography, mass spectrometry, and sample preparation with host David Oliva. Each episode features candid conversations with leading researchers, industry innovators, and passionate scientists who are shaping the future of analytical chemistry. From decoding PFAS detection challenges to exploring the latest in AI-assisted liquid chromatography, this show uncovers practical workflows, sustainability breakthroughs, and the real-world impact of separation science. Whether you’re a chromatographer, lab professional, or researcher you'll discover inspiring content!</p><p>You can find <strong>Concentrating on Chromatography Podcast </strong>in podcast apps:</p><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://open.spotify.com/show/1wZg67rCjoGju4yhqxI3tL"><strong>Spotify</strong></a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://podcasts.apple.com/tz/podcast/concentrating-on-chromatography/id1788429185"><strong>Apple podcast</strong></a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://podscan.fm/podcasts/concentrating-on-chromatography"><strong>podscan</strong></a></li></ul><p>and on <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.youtube.com/@ChromatographyTalk/videos"><strong>YouTube channel</strong></a></p></blockquote>

Mass Spectrometry, Surface Sampling and Dried Matrix Spots - Greener Chemistry and 3D Printing

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Since 1991 DataApex develops and manufactures chromatography data stations. DataApex is constantly striving to provide users with efficient and up-to-date tools for chromatography data processing.

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Organomation, founded in 1959, designs and manufactures high-quality nitrogen evaporators and extraction systems. Known for innovation and durability, their lab instruments are used globally for efficient sample preparation with strong customer support.

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Thermo Scientific ISQ™ EC/EM Single Quadrupole Mass Spectrometer

Enhance your IC or LC analysis with ISQ EC/EM mass spectrometers. Enjoy fast setup, high sensitivity, and reliable quantification—even in complex samples—with easy, seamless system integration.

<h4><strong>Thermo Scientific™ ISQ™ EC Single Quadrupole Mass Spectrometer</strong></h4><p><strong>Add mass spectrometry (MS) to your IC and LC analyses for access to the valuable data that only MS can provide. The new, easy-to-use Thermo Scientific™ ISQ™ EC Single Quadrupole Mass Spectrometer seamlessly integrates with ion chromatography (IC) and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) systems. Both novices and experts alike can quickly master MS to gain more insights from every sample.</strong></p><h5><strong>Gain more insights</strong></h5><ul><li>Higher sensitivity and more accurate quantitation</li><li>Chromatographic peak mass confirmation, eliminating false negatives and false positives</li></ul><h5><strong>Resolve complexity</strong></h5><ul><li>Improved resolution of analytes in complex matrices</li><li>Better selectivity</li><li>Resolve co-eluting peaks using their mass-to-charge ratio</li></ul><h5><strong>Easily mastered</strong></h5><ul><li>Save time spent on user training with integrated tools to help master MS</li><li>Experience hassle-free, seamless integration with your IC or LC system</li><li>Save time using the Thermo Scientific™ <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/76"><strong>Chromeleon™ Chromatography Data System (CDS) software</strong></a> for data analysis, which also has embedded control of the ISQ EC mass spectrometer</li></ul><h4><strong>Thermo Scientific™ ISQ™ EM Single Quadrupole Mass Spectrometer</strong></h4><p>Adding mass spectrometry (MS) to your liquid chromatography (LC) analyses gives you access to the valuable data that only MS can provide. The new, easy-to-use ISQ™ EM Single Quadrupole Mass Spectrometer seamlessly integrates with LC systems for reliable, robust, and easy LC-MS routine analysis with an extended mass range for more flexibility. Detect and quantify a variety of analytes by choosing to use either heated electrospray ionization (HESI) or atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI). Integrated software allows both novices and experts to quickly master MS to gain more insights from every sample.</p><h5><strong>Gain more insights</strong></h5><ul><li>Extended mass range enables you to detect and quantify small and large molecules</li><li>Durable atmospheric pressure ionization (API) source with two interchangeable probes included, enabling HESI or dual HESI/APCI</li><li>Sensitive and accurate quantitation of more samples</li><li>Chromatographic peak mass confirmation to eliminate false negatives and false positives</li></ul><h5><strong>Resolve complexity</strong></h5><ul><li>Consistent response even with complex matrices</li><li>Better selectivity and sensitivity with chromatographic peak mass confirmation</li><li>Resolution of co-eluting peaks via mass-to-charge ratio</li></ul><h5><strong>Easy mastery</strong></h5><ul><li>Reduce time spent on user training with integrated tools to help master MS</li><li>Unique software translates analyte physical properties into optimal method parameters, helping novice and experts develop methods and improve productivity</li><li>Hassle-free, seamless integration with existing LC systems</li><li>Facilitate data analysis with Thermo Scientific™ <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/76"><strong>Chromeleon™ Chromatography Data System (CDS) software</strong></a>, which features embedded control of the ISQ EM mass spectrometer</li></ul><h4><strong>Key Features ISQ™ EC/EM Single Quadrupole Mass Spectrometers:</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Mass Range:</strong>&nbsp;<ul><li><strong>EC:</strong> 10–1250 m/z with unit mass resolution</li><li><strong>EM:</strong> 10–2000 m/z with unit mass resolution</li></ul></li><li><strong>Polarity Switching:</strong> 25 ms (in HESI mode)</li><li><strong>Scan Rate:</strong> Up to 20,000 Da/sec</li><li><strong>Sensitivity:</strong><ul><li><i>HESI Positive:</i> 10 pg Reserpine, 400:1 RMS at 400 μL/min</li><li><i>HESI Negative:</i> 20 pg p-Nitrophenol, 500:1 RMS at 400 μL/min</li></ul></li><li><strong>Gas Requirements:</strong> Nitrogen (≥ 99% purity), 30 L/min @ 90–110 psig</li><li><strong>Power Supply:</strong> 100–240 V, 50/60 Hz</li><li><strong>Dimensions:</strong> 52 (H) × 42 (W) × 91 (D) cm</li><li><strong>Weight:</strong> Approx. 71 kg (157 lb)</li><li><strong>Unit Size:</strong> Each</li></ul>

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