This workflow confirms and quantifies 31 drugs of abuse in oral fluid (including THC) in a 4.5‑minute LC run on the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/1149">Thermo Scientific Stellar mass spectrometer</a> using full scan + targeted MS2 (tMS2) with both HCD and CID fragmentation. With 1 µL injection and 0.1% formic acid in water/methanol mobile phases, the method supports ~13 samples/hour (up to ~320/day continuous operation) while maintaining confirmation performance via ion ratios.<blockquote><h5>Method at a glance</h5><ul><li>What matrix is tested? Oral fluid</li><li>How many drugs? 31 drugs of abuse (panel includes THC)</li><li>Run time? 4.5 minutes</li><li>Throughput? ~13 samples/hour → up to ~320 samples/day (24‑hour operation)</li><li>Injection volume? 1 µL</li><li>Mobile phases? 0.1% formic acid in water (A) and 0.1% formic acid in methanol (B)</li><li>MS acquisition? Full scan + targeted MS2 (tMS2)</li><li>Fragmentation? Compound‑optimized HCD and CID in the same targeted list</li><li>Confirmation strategy? Ion ratios with ±20% tolerance (typical confirmatory approach)</li></ul></blockquote><h3>Why oral fluid—and why speed matters</h3>Oral fluid is attractive for clinical and forensic toxicology because collection is simple and the matrix aligns well with high‑volume workflows (workplace/occupational, roadside, and other settings). The challenge is building a method that’s simultaneously:<ul><li>Broad enough for today’s drug panels</li><li>Sensitive enough to reach required cutoffs</li><li>Fast enough to keep sample queues under control</li><li>Confirmation‑ready (consistent product ions and ion ratios)</li></ul>A 4.5‑minute method is a practical lever here: compress runtime, raise throughput, and still keep confirmation quality by optimizing MS/MS conditions per compound.<h3>The LC method</h3>A short, efficient separation is the foundation of the workflow:<ul><li>UHPLC system: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/744">Thermo Scientific Vanquish Horizon UHPLC</a></li><li>Column: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/424">Thermo Scientific Accucore Biphenyl</a>, 50 × 2.1 mm, 2.6 µm</li><li>Mobile phase A: 0.1% formic acid in water</li><li>Mobile phase B: 0.1% formic acid in methanol</li><li>Injection volume: 1 µL</li><li>Gradient runtime: 4.5 minutes</li></ul><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_4_5_Minute_Oral_Fluid_LC_MS_Method_to_Detect_31_Drugs_of_Abuse_Using_Stellar_MS_fd3f3e8ea4.jpg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: 4.5-Minute Oral Fluid LC MS Method to Detect 31 Drugs of Abuse Using Stellar MS: Figure 1: Thermo Scientific Vanquish Horizon UHPLC system." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_4_5_Minute_Oral_Fluid_LC_MS_Method_to_Detect_31_Drugs_of_Abuse_Using_Stellar_MS_fd3f3e8ea4.jpg 120w," sizes="100vw" width="747" height="969"><h3>The MS method (Full scan + targeted MS2 with HCD + CID)</h3><h5>Acquisition approach</h5>This method uses a “two‑layer” strategy for quantitation + confirmation:<ol><li>Full scan (broad coverage, context, quantitative support)</li><li>Targeted MS2 (tMS2) (confirmation‑focused product ions, ion ratios)</li></ol><h5>The key differentiator: HCD and CID in one targeted list</h5>Instead of forcing every analyte into a single fragmentation style, the method uses both:<ul><li>HCD (beam‑type fragmentation)</li><li>CID (resonance‑type fragmentation)</li></ul><h5>Why that improves method development:</h5>Drugs of abuse span multiple chemistries. A single collision approach often works “okay” for most compounds—but one or two analytes can become persistent problems (weak qualifiers, unstable ion ratios, excess noise). Having both HCD and CID available in one method lets you optimize per compound and move faster.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_4_5_Minute_Oral_Fluid_LC_MS_Method_to_Detect_31_Drugs_of_Abuse_Using_Stellar_MS_3_e4a95651a2.jpg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: 4.5-Minute Oral Fluid LC MS Method to Detect 31 Drugs of Abuse Using Stellar MS: Figure 2: Thermo Scientific Stellar mass spectrometer." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_4_5_Minute_Oral_Fluid_LC_MS_Method_to_Detect_31_Drugs_of_Abuse_Using_Stellar_MS_3_e4a95651a2.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="645" height="377"><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_4_5_Minute_Oral_Fluid_LC_MS_Method_to_Detect_31_Drugs_of_Abuse_Using_Stellar_MS_5_88276eec6a.jpg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: 4.5-Minute Oral Fluid LC MS Method to Detect 31 Drugs of Abuse Using Stellar MS: Figure 3: Full scan &amp; targeted MS2 methods, HCD and collision energies used." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_4_5_Minute_Oral_Fluid_LC_MS_Method_to_Detect_31_Drugs_of_Abuse_Using_Stellar_MS_5_88276eec6a.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="768" height="279"><h3>Why CID + HCD flexibility improves confirmation</h3>In this workflow, HCD performed well for most compounds. But for buprenorphine, HCD produced one dominant product ion with additional low m/z noise and noticeable residual precursor. Using CID generated two high‑intensity product ions and delivered consistent ion ratios across the calibration range.When your confirmation hinges on stable ion ratios, the ability to switch fragmentation mode (not just collision energy) is a method‑development advantage—especially for “problem analytes.”<h3>Controllable ionization</h3>Oral fluid methods often deal with limited sample volume and matrix effects. This workflow pairs low injection volume with ionization control using the Thermo Scientific OptaMax Plus HESI source.<ul><li>The OptaMax Plus HESI source supports high probe temperature capability (up to 650 °C).</li><li>In this study, a vaporizer temperature of 500 °C was used to help achieve sensitivity and improve relative peak areas across drugs of abuse.</li></ul>Why this matters: If you’re injecting only 1 µL, ionization stability and efficiency can be the difference between “meets cutoff” and “misses at LOQ.”<h3>Sample preparation</h3>Oral fluid panels become more challenging when THC is included because most drugs of abuse are basic, while THC is largely neutral, and that can stress extraction chemistry.In this workflow, oral fluid calibrators and samples were extracted using a mixed‑mode approach designed to recover THC alongside other drugs:<ul><li>Calibrators prepared across eight levels (broad dynamic range)</li><li>Extraction performed using mixed‑mode chemistry tips (SCX/WAX) in a dispersive SPE‑style workflow</li><li>Steps automated on a liquid handling platform to support high‑throughput consistency</li><li>Samples dried and reconstituted prior to LC‑MS analysis</li><li>Only 1 µL injected per run</li></ul>Even if your lab uses different automation or consumables, the method structure (fast LC + full scan + targeted MS2 with dual fragmentation) transfers well.<blockquote><h5>Throughput math</h5><ul><li>4.5 minutes per injection → 60 / 4.5 = 13.3 injections/hour</li><li>That’s ~13 samples/hour in typical phrasing</li><li>Over 24 hours: 13.3 × 24 = ~320 samples/day (continuous operation)</li></ul>If you run a single shift, just scale accordingly (e.g., ~106/day for an 8‑hour shift, excluding QC and overhead).</blockquote><h3>Performance summary</h3><h5>Sensitivity and linearity</h5><ul><li>Linearity from LOQs as low as 0.25 ng/mL up to 1,000 ng/mL (panel-dependent)</li><li>For THC specifically: LOQ at 1 ng/mL, with a dynamic range extending to 1,000 ng/mL in this evaluation</li><li>Across the panel, LOQs were reported as lower than recommended confirmation cutoffs referenced in SAMHSA guidance and NSC Tier 1 cutoffs (study-specific outcome)</li></ul><h5>Confirmation via ion ratios</h5><ul><li>Ion ratios evaluated using ±20% tolerance (typical confirmatory acceptance framework)</li><li>The workflow produced consistent ion ratios across calibrator levels for the full panel in this evaluation</li></ul><h5>Case sample comparison (real-world relevance)</h5>When compared against a validated triple quadrupole method for case study samples, the Stellar MS workflow:<ul><li>Confirmed the positive hits observed by the reference method</li><li>Reported a few additional positives for select analytes, attributed to lower LOQs</li><li>Highlighted an operational efficiency point: 1 µL injection in this method versus 20 µL injection in the compared method</li></ul><h3>FAQ</h3><div><div><ol><li>How long does the LC‑MS run take for the 31‑drug oral fluid panel? 4.5 minutes per injection using a short UHPLC gradient. &nbsp;</li><li>How many drugs of abuse can Stellar MS detect in this workflow? 31 drugs of abuse, including THC, using full scan + targeted MS2. &nbsp;</li><li>What MS/MS approach is used? A combined strategy: full scan plus targeted MS2 (tMS2) for confirmation. &nbsp;</li><li>Why use both HCD and CID? Because some analytes fragment better—and produce more stable confirmation ions/ion ratios—under one mode versus the other. Using both increases flexibility and speeds method optimization. &nbsp;</li><li>What injection volume is used? 1 µL of extracted sample. &nbsp;</li><li>What mobile phases are used? 0.1% formic acid in water (A) and 0.1% formic acid in methanol (B). &nbsp;</li><li>How many samples can you run per day? At 4.5 minutes/injection, throughput is ~13 samples/hour or up to ~320/day with continuous operation (actual throughput depends on QC and scheduling).</li></ol></div></div><h3>What makes this workflow “easy” to develop on Stellar MS</h3>Here’s the short list of features that directly reduce method‑development friction:<ul><li>HCD or CID in one method → optimize per compound, not compromise</li><li>Fast MS2 acquisition speeds (up to 140 Hz for MS2) → more data points across narrow peaks</li><li>Fast polarity switching (true 5 ms) → supports mixed panels efficiently</li><li>Adaptive RT (real‑time retention time window adjustment) → helps reduce reinjections when retention times drift (e.g., column aging) and supports method transfer from longer to shorter gradients</li><li>OptaMax Plus HESI source control → supports sensitivity at low injection volumes</li></ul>If you’re building a fast oral fluid confirmation workflow—or updating an existing DOA panel—this 4.5‑minute method shows how Stellar MS can combine speed, confirmation-ready MS2, and fragmentation flexibility (HCD + CID) in a single targeted workflow. Reach out to learn how to adapt the targeted list, collision settings, and scheduling strategy to your lab’s cutoffs and throughput goals.<blockquote>Visit us on&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/72003132/admin/dashboard/">LinkedIn:</a>&nbsp;#MassSpectrometry #OralFluid #DrugsOfAbuse #MethodDevelopment #HighThroughput</blockquote>

4.5-Minute Oral Fluid LC MS Method to Detect 31 Drugs of Abuse Using Stellar MS

<h2><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.isc2026.org/">ISC 2026</a></h2>The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/companies/314">International Symposium on Chromatography (ISC)</a> represents the oldest conference series on separation science. ISC symposia have been organised since 1956 in each even year. ISC is one of the premier meetings series for discussion of all modes of chromatography and separation science with a broad coverage of techniques and applications.<h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/events/644">35th International Symposium on Chromatography</a></h4>📆6. - 10. September 2026📍Prague, Czech Republic<h3>REGISTRATION</h3><blockquote>👉<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.czech-in.org/cmPortalV15/Account/Login?ReturnUrl=%2FcmPortalV15%2FPortal%2FISC26%2Fnormal">Register HERE for the ISC 2026</a>Late Registration until 25 August 2026</blockquote><h3>INDUSTRY ACTIVITIES</h3><h4>Activity 1: Discussion Session: Industry &amp; Education</h4><ul><li>Monday, 7 September 2026 | 16:30-17:50</li><li>Place: Club A</li><li>Moderators: Tony Edge and Deirdre Cabooter&nbsp;</li></ul><h5>Concept:</h5>This discussion session will explore the relationship between education in separation science in academia and the expectations of industry, focusing on how universities and companies can better collaborate to prepare graduates for successful careers in analytical laboratories and R&amp;D environments. The goal of the session is to provide perspectives from both academia and industry on how education in chromatography and related separation techniques can evolve to better reflect current technological, methodological, and regulatory challenges.<h5>Discussion Topics:</h5><ul><li>Bridging academia and industry: how both sectors perceive current cooperation and where improvements are possible&nbsp;</li><li>Graduate preparedness: which skills and competencies are often missing when entering industrial roles, and in which areas graduates typically excel&nbsp;</li><li>Approaches to teaching separation science: how chromatography and related analytical techniques are taught across different universities and regions&nbsp;</li><li>Industry support for education: examples of collaboration such as internships, industrial placements, joint teaching activities, or access to instrumentation&nbsp;</li><li>Experiences with academia–industry partnerships: what models of cooperation have proven effective in practice&nbsp;</li><li>Future perspectives: how education in separation science should adapt to emerging trends such as automation, digitalization, sustainability, and regulatory requirements&nbsp;</li></ul><h5>Format:</h5>Moderated panel discussion with short introductory remarks from invited speakers representing both academia and industry, followed by an interactive discussion with the audience.<h5>Panelists:</h5><ul><li>Shimadzu&nbsp;</li><li>Novartis&nbsp;</li><li>Jelle De Vos, RIC Group&nbsp;</li><li>Davy Guillarme, University of Geneva&nbsp;</li><li>Caterina Temporini, University of Pavia&nbsp;</li></ul><h4>Activity 2: Career Presentation&nbsp;</h4><ul><li>Monday, 7 September 2026 | 18:00-19:00</li><li>Place: Club A</li><li>Moderators: Adrian Clarke and Martina Catani</li></ul><h5>Concept:</h5>This session will provide an overview of career opportunities in separation science across industry, highlighting the wide range of professional pathways available to graduates and experienced scientists working in chromatography and related analytical disciplines.Participating companies will introduce their organizations, present typical roles involving separation techniques, and share insights into the skills and competencies they seek in candidates. The session is intended to support students, early-career researchers, and experienced professionals interested in exploring career options in industry sectors.<h5>Discussion Topics:&nbsp;</h5><ul><li>Overview of career paths involving chromatography and separation science&nbsp;</li><li>Entry-level opportunities for graduates and PhD holders&nbsp;</li><li>Positions for experienced scientists and technical specialists&nbsp;</li><li>Roles in R&amp;D, analytical development, quality control, regulatory science, application support, and instrument development&nbsp;</li><li>Skills and competencies valued by employers in separation science&nbsp;</li><li>Internships, graduate programs, and early-career development opportunities&nbsp;</li><li>Mobility between academia and industry&nbsp;</li></ul><h5>Format:</h5>Short presentation providing:<ul><li>overview of different carrier paths&nbsp;</li><li>introduction to the company and its activities related to separation science&nbsp;</li><li>examples of typical roles and career progression paths&nbsp;</li><li>information about current or expected hiring needs&nbsp;</li><li>advice for candidates interested in pursuing careers in industry&nbsp;</li><li>the session should include time for informal discussion, allowing participants to interact with company representatives and learn more about specific opportunities.&nbsp;</li></ul><h4>Activity 3: Job Fair</h4><ul><li>Monday, 7 September and Tuesday, 8 September 2026 | 12:30-14:00</li><li>Place: Club A</li><li>Main organizer: Adrian Clarke</li></ul><h5>Concept:</h5>The ISC 2026 Job Fair provides a structured opportunity for direct interaction between companies active in separation science and conference participants seeking career opportunities. The session is designed to facilitate efficient, focused conversations between employers and candidates interested in positions related to chromatography and analytical science.Participating candidates will submit their CV in advance allowing companies to review profiles prior to the event and identify potential matches based on expertise, experience, and career interests.<h5>Format:</h5>The Job Fair will follow a structured rotation format:<ul><li>Each participating company will be assigned a dedicated table&nbsp;</li><li>One company representative will meet candidates individually&nbsp;</li><li>Each candidate will have 5 minutes per meeting to introduce their background and interests&nbsp;</li><li>Participants will rotate between companies at timed intervals&nbsp;</li><li>Session timing will be managed by the organizer, with a signal indicating when to move to the next meeting&nbsp;</li></ul><h5>Candidates:</h5>Participants interested in joining the Job Fair are asked to:<ul><li>submit their CV before August 23rd &nbsp;</li><li>indicate areas of expertise and career interests&nbsp;</li><li>specify whether they are seeking internships, entry-level roles, or experienced positions&nbsp;</li><li>specify if you cannot be available on a certain day e.g. owing to poster presentation&nbsp;</li><li>send these materials to: <a href="mailto:careers@isc2026.org">careers@isc2026.org</a>&nbsp;</li></ul><h5>Companies:</h5>Confirmed participating companies to date include:<ul><li>Novartis&nbsp;</li><li>RIC Group&nbsp;</li><li>Shimadzu&nbsp;</li><li>further companies to be added&nbsp;</li></ul>Potential employers please register your interest to <a href="mailto:careers@isc2026.org">careers@isc2026.org</a> to participate in the speed-dating (first come first served basis).“Jobs position” board will be available in the Careers fair in the foyer in the symposium venue and attendees can visit the company booths in the exhibition hall or discuss with recruiting companies during the conference.<blockquote>Recruiters please send an email with your open positions to <a href="careers@isc2026.org">careers@isc2026.org</a> by the 23rd August and bring the job adverts to post on the jobs board (there will also be the possibility to upload the open positions to the Symposium app).</blockquote><h4>Activity 4: Discussion Session: Artificial Intelligence in Separation Science: From Concept to Practice</h4><ul><li>Tuesday, 8 September 2026 | 16:30-18:00</li><li>Place: Club A</li><li>Moderators: Bob Pirok</li></ul><h5>Concept:</h5>Artificial intelligence (AI) and data-driven approaches are increasingly influencing analytical chemistry, offering new possibilities for method development, data interpretation, process optimization, and decision support. This discussion session will explore how AI is currently being applied in separation science, with a particular focus on practical implementation in industry environments.The session aims to provide a realistic overview of the current state of AI adoption, highlighting both successful applications and remaining challenges. Contributions from industry and academia will help clarify where AI already delivers value, where expectations may exceed current capabilities, and what developments are needed to enable broader implementation.<h5>Discussion Topics:&nbsp;</h5><ul><li>Current applications of AI and machine learning in separation science&nbsp;</li><li>Use of AI in chromatographic method development and optimization&nbsp;</li><li>Data analysis, peak detection, and automated interpretation of complex datasets&nbsp;</li><li>AI-supported troubleshooting and predictive maintenance of analytical instruments&nbsp;</li><li>Integration of AI into regulated environments (e.g., pharmaceutical industry)&nbsp;</li><li>Data requirements, data quality, and standardization challenges&nbsp;</li><li>Comparison between academic developments and real-world industrial implementation&nbsp;</li><li>Barriers to adoption, including regulatory considerations, validation requirements, and transparency of models&nbsp;</li><li>Future outlook: digital laboratories, autonomous method development, and AI-assisted decision-making in analytical workflows&nbsp;</li></ul><h5>Format:</h5>Moderated panel discussion with short introductory remarks from invited speakers representing both academia and industry, followed by an interactive discussion with the audience.<h4>Activity 5: Discussion Session: Sustainability in Separation Science</h4><ul><li>Wednesday, 9 September 2026 | 16:30-18:00</li><li>Place: Club A</li><li>Moderators: Gertrud Morlock</li></ul><h5>Concept:</h5>Sustainability has become an increasingly important priority in analytical science, driving the development of greener methods, reduced solvent consumption, improved energy efficiency, and more responsible laboratory practices. While academic research frequently proposes innovative sustainable approaches, their implementation in industry is often influenced by additional considerations such as robustness, regulatory compliance, cost efficiency, scalability, and long-term reliability.This discussion session aims to explore how sustainability principles are applied in real industrial environments and how collaboration between academia and industry can help translate promising research concepts into practical, validated solutions.By bringing together perspectives from both sectors, the session will highlight opportunities to better align research priorities with industrial needs and identify realistic pathways toward more sustainable separation workflows.<h5>Discussion Topics:&nbsp;</h5><ul><li>Reduction of solvent consumption and the transition to more environmentally friendly mobile phases&nbsp;</li><li>Miniaturized and more efficient separation and extraction techniques&nbsp;</li><li>Energy consumption and efficiency of laboratory processes and analytical instrumentation&nbsp;</li><li>Lifecycle considerations for columns, consumables, and laboratory waste&nbsp;</li><li>Metrics and approaches for measuring and evaluating the “greenness” of analytical methods&nbsp;</li><li>Regulatory constraints and requirements that may limit the implementation of greener analytical workflows&nbsp;</li></ul><h5>Format:</h5>Moderated panel discussion with short introductory contributions from invited speakers representing industry, academia, and technology providers, followed by interactive discussion with the audience.<h5>Panelists:</h5><ul><li>Sébastien Rolle, Shimadzu&nbsp;</li><li>Ken Cook, Thermo Fisher Scientific&nbsp;</li><li>Andreas Otto, Agilent&nbsp;</li><li>Janusz Pawliszyn, University of Waterloo&nbsp;</li><li>Giorgia Purcaro, University of Liège&nbsp;</li></ul>

Industry program at ISC 2026

We are delighted to invite food scientists from academia and industry, representatives of (inter)national agencies, control authorities, governmental and commercial laboratories to attend <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/events/928">RAFA 2026</a> (12th Symposium on Recent Advances in Food Analysis), that takes place 3–6 November 2026 in Prague..<blockquote>👉<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://rafa.easyevent.eu/tickets/">SUBMIT ABSTRACT</a> FOR POSTER PRESENTATION by August 31, 2026Do not miss the opportunity to present your latest results at RAFA 2026.</blockquote><h5>Next deadlines:</h5><ul><li>August 31, 2026: 2nd window – &nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.rafa2026.eu/sponsors_exhibitors_media_partners_info.html">Application for participation as a Sponsor or Exhibitor</a></li><li>September 30, 2026:&nbsp;<ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.rafa2026.eu/registration.html">Registration at the regular rate</a></li><li>Abstract submission – Last minute posters (May not appear in the RAFA 2026 program)</li></ul></li></ul>Since its first edition in 2003, RAFA has grown into a prestigious international event, typically welcoming up to 850 participants from more than 60 countries worldwide, with the support of more than 50 sponsors, exhibitors, media and supporting partners.RAFA 2026 will provide an overview of contemporary trends in the ANALYTICAL &amp; BIOANALYTICAL STRATEGIES IN FOOD QUALITY AND SAFETY CONTROL and discuss the CHALLENGES AND NOVEL APPROACHES IN FOOD AND NATURAL PRODUCTS ANALYSIS.View the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.rafa2026.eu/invited_speakers.html">list of distinguished speakers</a> who have accepted our invitation to RAFA 2026 and will present current hot topics and future perspectives in food analysis!<blockquote>👉More details on the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.rafa2026.eu/scientific_programme.html">RAFA 2026 preliminary program</a> can be found HERE.👉OUR <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.rafa2026.eu/about_sponsors_exhibitors_partners.html">SPONSORS, EXHIBITORS, MEDIA and SUPPORTING PARTNERS</a></blockquote>You are kindly invited to join and contribute to our exciting scientific program and unforgettable social events!We look forward to meeting you again in Prague!<ul><li>Prof. Jana Pulkrabova &amp; Dr. Stefan van Leeuwen, Symposium Chairs</li><li>Prof. Michele Suman, Symposium Co-chair</li><li>Prof. Jana Hajslova &amp; Prof. Michel Nielen, Symposium Honorary Chairs</li></ul>

RAFA 2026 - Deadline for Abstract Submission for poster presentation is coming

Article

Product

Events

Application

Food

Video

RAFA provides an overview of contemporary trends in ANALYTICAL & BIOANALYTICAL STRATEGIES IN FOOD QUALITY AND SAFETY CONTROL and discusses CHALLENGES / NOVEL APPROACHES IN FOOD AND NATURAL PRODUCTS ANALYSIS.

Recent Advances in Food Analysis (RAFA)

A unique company dedicated to serving science helping our customers drive productivity and accelerate results. Through our premier brands – Thermo Scientific, Applied Biosystems, Invitrogen, Fisher Scientific and Unity Lab Services.

Thermo Fisher Scientific

The International Symposium on Chromatography (ISC) represents the oldest conference series focussing on separation science. ISC symposia have been organised since 1956 in each even year. ISC is internationally recognised as one of the premier meeting series for discussion of all modes of chromatography and separation science with a broad coverage of techniques and applications.

International Symposium on Chromatography - (ISC)

Technology Networks

Wiley

C&EN

Attend our panel discussion and raise your questions with four of our Applications Specialists who are experts in their respective fields of instrumental analysis.
Whatever challenges you face with running environmental samples on your ion chromatography (IC), trace elemental analysis (TEA), GC-MS or LC-MS instruments, the panelists will be able to provide answers, advice and recommendations to help you advance your analytical capabilities.
This webinar-based discussion provides you with the opportunity to pose your questions to our experts. 
<h3>Attend this webinar to gain invaluable advice on:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Solving analytical issues such as contamination, poor calibration linearity, QC failures and irreproducible results</li>
<li>The variety of accessories available to help you improve your analysis workflows</li>
<li>Software queries and troubleshooting</li>
<li>How to optimize the performance of your instruments</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: James Hannan (European Applications Expert, Trace Elemental Analysis, Thermo Fisher Scientific)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Detlef Jensen (Senior European Applications Expert, Ion Chromatography and Sample Preparation, Thermo Fisher Scientific)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Aaron Lamb (Senior Marketing Application Specialist, GC-MS, Thermo Fisher Scientific)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Neville Llewellyn (LC-MS Applications Scientist - Environmental, Food Safety and Industrial Analysis, Thermo Fisher Scientific)
</blockquote>

Pixabay/Waqutiar Rahaman: Environmental Analysis Application Experts Panel Discussion

Environmental Analysis Application Experts Panel Discussion

Part 1. Explore the latest innovations in environmental analysis and uncover new solutions for conventional water analysis. The presentation will focus on the major applications for water analysis: anions, cations, disinfection byproducts, bromate, perchlorate, and hexavalent chromium. We will discuss EPA and ASTM methods as well as explore some new column and instrument technologies that provide better reproducibility, resolution, and most importantly, confidence in your results.
Part 2. Haloacetic acids (HAAs) are among the disinfection byproducts (DBP) produced during chlorination of water containing natural organic matter and bromide. Determination of HAAs by EPA method 552.3 using GC-ECD is challenging and time-consuming, requiring extraction and derivatization that can take up to four hours. Ion chromatography-mass spectrometry (IC-MS/MS), per EPA Method 557, offers a fast, sensitive, and selective alternative that does not require sample preparation. Results show the amount of HAA5 (MCAA, DCAA, TCAA, MBAA, and MCAA) is less than the maximum contaminant level of 60 ppb. Results show HAA9, bromate, and Dalapon can be analyzed in 35 minutes using the new Thermo Scientific™ Dionex™ IonPac™ AS31 anion exchange column.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Joachim Weiss (Technical Director, Thermo Fisher Scientific)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Dr. Joachim Weiss started his professional career in 1982 as an applications chemist at Dionex Corporation in Germany. He currently holds the position of International Technical Director for the chromatography commercial organization at Thermo Fisher Scientific. He is renowned for his exceptional knowledge in separation science and is a recognized authority on Thermo Scientific™ IC and HPLC instrumentation and applications. In 2015, he was awarded the Maria Sklodowska Curie Medal of the Polish Chemical Society for his achievements in separation science. The 4th edition of his Handbook of Ion Chromatography was published in 2016.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Paul Voelker (Product Marketing Manager, Thermo Fisher Scientific)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Paul has more than 25 years of experience in business, marketing, and product marketing management in Environmental, Industrial, and Pharma/Biopharma markets. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry from California State University at Hayward, and a Master of Science in Chemistry from the University of California at Davis, and has eight publications and seven patents to his credit.
</blockquote>

Thermo Scientific - Environmental Webinar Week

Advanced Ion Chromatography Solutions for Environmental Analysis including Fast, Direct Injection of HAAs in Drinking Water with IC-MS/MS

Thermo Fisher Scientific has a unique Ion Chromatography portfolio that provides a full range of applications to support analysis within the adult beverage industry. We have applications with easy workflows that can help you save time and resources.
During this webinar, we will discuss how our newest instruments can detect and quantify analytes such as organic acids, biogenic amines, carbohydrates, and alcohols and glycols in fermented media. This can help scientists produce the best products with the best setup from research to manufacturing.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Wai-Chi Man (Product Marketing Manager, Thermo Fisher Scientific)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Wai has been with Thermo Fisher Scientific for more than eight years working with a wide range of customers in various industries. She provides ion chromatography (IC) support in method development, troubleshooting, sample preparation, training, seminars, events, and workshops. During this time, she has gained deep knowledge, skill, and understanding in areas such as IC-MS, IC-ICP-MS, carbohydrate analysis, metabolomics, and polar pesticides. Prior to joining the company, she worked for Wellcome Research and GlaxoSmithKline. Wai is passionate about promoting STEM to future scientists by encouraging, nurturing, and supporting them.
</blockquote>

Thermo Scientific: Ion Chromatography Analysis for Adult beverages

Ion Chromatography Analysis for Adult beverages

The IC Symposium will kick off with a plenary lecture by Dr. Joachim Weiss on 45 years of ion chromatography and its impact on industries. There will also be presentations from fellow scientists in Asia Pacific as well as an interactive forum forum with industry experts to answer your questions on IC in pharma and biopharma topics and IC applications and technology. Access technical resources and explore IC offerings.
The future begins with innovation. For 45 years, innovative Thermo Scientific Dionex Ion Chromatography (IC) systems have enabled extraordinary breakthroughs and discoveries. Laboratory professionals like you have been propelling science forward with reliable, reproducible analyses based on Dionex solutions. Confidence drives your passion for excellence and exploration every day.
Your scientific talent, combined with our exceptional IC innovations, continues to deliver impact for the world’s scientific community, empowering health and safety in society and spearheading positive environmental developments.
Together, let us advance IC science for greater future impact. Because we can’t meet in person, we’re meeting virtually – with events happening over three days to conveniently engage all global regions and time zones. One day for Asia, one for Europe and one for the Americas (although you’re welcome to join the symposium any day to post questions and view sessions of interest).
<h3>Attend the virtual event to:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Hear from industry experts about the impact of ion chromatography on applied sciences</li>
<li>Learn how IC is helping your colleagues achieve new advancements</li>
<li>Raise topics pertaining to ion chromatography and its application, which will be addressed by a panel of IC experts in the forum</li>
<li>Browse resources to see how IC can be applied in your lab</li>
</ul>
<h3>20th October 2020 (Tuesday) Agenda - Ideal for Asia, Australia, India</h3>
<ul>
<li>10:30am IST (7:00am CEST): Plenary - Topic: 45 years of ion chromatography and its impact on industries (PD Dr. Joachim Weiss | Technical Director Dionex Products | Thermo Fisher Scientific GmbH)
</li>
<li>11:15am IST (7:45am CEST): The advantage of using IC In treated sewage water analysis compared to photometric method (Mr. Ang Eng Loo | Business Manager Analytical Div. | CLMO Technology Sdn Bhd)
</li>
<li>11:30am IST (8:00am CEST): IC capabilities for analysis of plating bath (Mr. Nandkumar | V.P. QA | Grauer &amp; Weil (India) Ltd, Mumbai, India)
</li>
<li>11:45am IST (8:15am CEST): Ion-chromatography coupled with (QQQ) mass spectrometry: A powerful solution for trace analysis and speciation in environmental and industrial (Professor Brett Paull | Associate Dean (Research) – College of Sciences and Engineering | University of Tasmania)
</li>
<li>12:00pm IST (8:30am CEST): Q&amp;A Session
</li>
<li>12:15pm IST (8:45am CEST): Forum (Facilitator: Dr. Ruby Ong)
</li>
<li>Panelists: PD Dr. Joachim Weiss (Technical Director, Thermo Fisher Scientific GmbH)
</li>
<li>Panelists: Professor Paul Haddad (Emeritus Distinguished Professor, University of Tasmania)
</li>
<li>Panelists: Dr. Wai-Chi Man (IC Product Marketing Manager, Thermo Fisher Scientific)
</li>
<li>1:00pm IST (9:30am CEST): End of Day 1
</li>
</ul>

Thermo Fisher Scientific: Global IC Virtual Symposium - Day 1

Global IC Virtual Symposium - Day 1

This day will build on the first day’s content, covering the future of ion chromatography. It also features tips and tricks, presentations from our Academic researchers from University of Oxford and University College Cork, a facilitated forum with industry experts to answer your questions on IC in food and beverage topics and IC applications and technology and access to technical resources and IC offerings.
The future begins with innovation. For 45 years, innovative Thermo Scientific Dionex Ion Chromatography (IC) systems have enabled extraordinary breakthroughs and discoveries. Laboratory professionals like you have been propelling science forward with reliable, reproducible analyses based on Dionex solutions. Confidence drives your passion for excellence and exploration every day.
Your scientific talent, combined with our exceptional IC innovations, continues to deliver impact for the world’s scientific community, empowering health and safety in society and spearheading positive environmental developments.
Together, let us advance IC science for greater future impact. Because we can’t meet in person, we’re meeting virtually – with events happening over three days to conveniently engage all global regions and time zones. One day for Asia, one for Europe and one for the Americas (although you’re welcome to join the symposium any day to post questions and view sessions of interest).
<h3>Attend the virtual event to:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Hear from industry experts about the impact of ion chromatography on applied sciences</li>
<li>Learn how IC is helping your colleagues achieve new advancements</li>
<li>Raise topics pertaining to ion chromatography and its application, which will be addressed by a panel of IC experts in the forum</li>
<li>Browse resources to see how IC can be applied in your lab</li>
</ul>
<h3>21st October 2020 (Wednesday) Agenda - Ideal for Europe, Middle East &amp; Africa</h3>
<ul>
<li>9:30 am BST (10:30 am CEST): Plenary Talk: What Does the Future Hold for Ion Chromatography? (Dr. Jeffrey Rohrer | Director of Applications Development | Thermo Fisher Scientific)
</li>
<li>10:00 am BST (11:00 am CEST): Exploring IC-MS for the analysis of metabolites in cells, tissues and bio-fluids (Prof. James McCullagh| Director of the Mass Spectrometry Research Facility | University of Oxford, UK)
</li>
<li>10:15 am BST (11:15 am CEST): A HPAEC-PAD method for the analysis of FODMAPs in cereals and cereal-based products (Lilit Ispiryan | PhD Candidate at University College Cork, Ireland)
</li>
<li>10:30 am BST (11:30 am CEST): Q&amp;A with Prof James McCullagh &amp; Lilet Ispiryan
</li>
<li>10:45 am BST (11:45 am CEST): End of morning session
</li>
<li>1:00 pm BST (2:00 pm CEST): IC in Forensics (Dr. Elizabeth Gilchrist | School of Chemistry &amp; Environmental Research Institute | University College Cork, Ireland)
</li>
<li>1:20 pm BST (2:20 pm CEST): The Ultimate Tips and Tricks Guide - From Start Up to Software (Daniel Talbot | UK IC Support Specialist | Thermo Fisher Scientific)
</li>
<li>1:50 pm BST (2:50 pm CEST): Forum - Q&amp;A with our panel of IC &amp; Food &amp; Beverage experts (Timothy Lumb, ALS Laboratories | Lilit Ispiryan, University College Cork | Dr. Jeff Rohrer, Thermo Fisher Scientific | Dr. Detlef Jensen, Thermo Fisher Scientific)
</li>
<li>2:30 pm BST (3:30 pm CEST): End of Day 2
</li>
</ul>

Thermo Fisher Scientific: Global IC Virtual Symposium - Day 2

Global IC Virtual Symposium - Day 2

For food and beverage analysis, HPLC is a known and established analysis technique, whereas ion chromatography is typically known for ion analysis in water samples.
But is this classification correct? Which analyses can be done with ion chromatography for food and beverage samples? What are the benefits of working with Metrohm IC? And what other Metrohm instrumentation is available for food and beverage analysis?
This webinar will answer these questions and provide insights into how to optimize your IC analysis. 
<h3>Who should attend the webinar:</h3>
The webinar provides valuable input for chemists as well as for lab technicians, lab staff or students who handle food and beverage analysis. It provides practical tips for correct and time-saving analysis.
<h3>By attending this webinar you will:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Get a better understanding of the differences between the two techniques, IC and HPLC</li>
<li>Learn how you can save time in daily routine work using Metrohm Inline Sample Preparation Techniques</li>
<li>Get an understanding of the applications that can be done with IC or other Metrohm instrumentation for food and beverage analysis</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Dr. Gabriele Zierfels (Sr. Product Specialist IC, Metrohm International Headquarters)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Dr. Gabriele Zierfels studied food chemistry and developed HPLC methods for the determination of antibiotics in animal food matrices for her PhD. As a laboratory manager, she worked for almost 14 years in the field of chemical analysis for textile and leather testing in a contract lab. During this time, she gained extensive practical knowledge in sample preparation techniques and the operation of HPLC, GC-MS, and LC-MS. Gabriele has worked in the Competence Center Ion Chromatography at Metrohm for more than 10 years. As a Sr. Product Specialist, she is responsible for method development – especially for the food industry – as well as customer support and training.
</blockquote>

Pixabay/Peggy cci: Solutions for Analysis in Food and Beverages Save Time by using IC

Solutions for Analysis in Food and Beverages Save Time by using IC

Controlling water chemistry is a critical part of preventing corrosion, and companies will spend billions of dollars every year to preserve valuable water system infrastructure and win the battle against corrosion. A comprehensive corrosion program includes monitoring and managing three key parameters: corrosion inducing ions, corrosion preventing chemicals and corrosion products. Monitoring and controlling these three parameters is crucial to maintaining production and increasing safety. While corrosion is inevitable, the damage caused by corrosion can be monitored, treated and controlled.
In this webinar, Lindsey Linn, chemist at Duke Energy Central Lab will share her experience using ion chromatography for corrosion monitoring at various Duke Energy plants. Using actual application examples, she&#39;ll show us how her lab overcame challenges caused by the difficult matrices often found in the energy sector. Following her presentation, Shibu Paul will discuss the instrument hardware used to conquer these challenging matrices. He will also address variation in corrosion monitoring across different industries, including chemical, polymer and refining. Stay until the end of our webinar and get your specific questions answered by our experts during a live Q&amp;A session.
<h3>Key Learning Objectives</h3>
<ul>
<li>Understand how to conduct risk assessment of corrosive ions</li>
<li>Learn how to automate your trace level calibrations</li>
<li>Learn techniques to optimize the method for challenging matrices</li>
</ul>
<h3>Who Should Attend</h3>
<ul>
<li>Lab managers, Plant Managers and EH&amp;S officers from refineries and power plants</li>
<li>Commercial utility managers from municipal water organizations and waste water treatment sites</li>
<li>Lab managers, QA/QC managers, production managers from automotive manufacturing, mining, pulp and paper</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Lindsey Linn (Chemist, Duke Energy Central Lab)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Shibu Paul, Ph.D. (Product Specialist, Ion Chromatography, Metrohm USA)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Melissa O&#39;Meara (Forensic Science Consultant, C&amp;EN Media Group)
</blockquote>

Pixabay/S. Hermann & F. Richter: Establishing a Corrosion Control Program That Overpowers Difficult Samples

LCMS webinars focusing on IC - page 13