Tasty beer starts with knowing what’s in your hops. Explore how online SPE makes bitter acid analysis in hops faster and more reliable.<h4>How can you detect bitter acid profiles quickly, reliably, and more sustainably?</h4>For craft brewers and beer lovers alike, a refreshing experience is all about flavor.So how can you achieve the desired bitterness in your beer? The answer is not just about the recipe. Finding the right flavor profile starts with the bitter acids present in the starting hops material.<div><div>Hops (the heart of your favorite beer) are the source of the brew’s distinctive flavor tied to bitterness and aroma.At the molecular level, bitterness is driven by <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0308814622016338">α- and β-bitter acids</a>, like humulones and lupulones, whose concentrations determine the final sensory profile of the beer (Figure 1).Accurately characterizing these compounds in each batch allows brewers to unlock the full potential of every variety of hops.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_How_Bitter_Acid_Analysis_Helps_Brewers_Better_Control_Beer_Flavors_2_6435757c03.jpeg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: How Bitter Acid Analysis Helps Brewers Better Control Beer Flavors: Figure 1. General chemical structure of hop bitter acids." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_How_Bitter_Acid_Analysis_Helps_Brewers_Better_Control_Beer_Flavors_2_6435757c03.jpeg 222w," sizes="100vw" width="700" height="493">While conventional analytical methods rely on long, manual sample preparation steps and hazardous solvents, laboratories now strive for greener and more efficient workflows.And moving from manual to online sample preparation is one of the easiest ways your lab can reduce waste and — most importantly — improve reliability with automation.<h4>Key takeaways</h4><ul><li>Online SPE reduces hands-on work, shortens turnaround time, and supports more sustainable methods by cutting solvent use and eliminating single-use cartridges.</li><li>Automated UHPLC workflows are easier for new users to execute, offering more reproducible quantifications of α- and β-bitter acids in hops.</li><li>Accurate bitter acid profiles help brewers distinguish hop varieties and control flavor with confidence.</li></ul><h4>Comparing offline vs. online solid phase extraction for bitter acid HPLC analysis</h4>If you’ve spent long hours in the lab preparing samples for hops analysis, you’re not alone.Manual sample preparation often takes the most time in hops analysis, an area where online <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/content/lifetech/global/en/home/industrial/chromatography/chromatography-learning-center/chromatography-consumables/sample-prep.html">solid phase extraction</a> (SPE) can make a real difference. Here’s why.Manual SPE has a lot of manual steps. Extraction. Cartridge loading. Washing. Elution. And sometimes solvent exchange or reduction. All before your actual analysis begins. This labor-intensive workflow can take up to an hour and depends strongly on operator skillsets, making reproducibility a challenge for new hires.<h4>Online SPE analysis provides key benefits like:</h4><ul><li>Hands-off workflow free of cartridges, manifolds, or vacuum steps.</li><li>Column washing and re-equilibration occur in parallel with separation.</li><li>SPE step is complete in just two minutes.</li><li>Minimizes operator-dependent variability.</li><li>Uses less than 8 mL of solvent.</li></ul>Let’s explore what this technique looks like in practice.<h4>Online SPE for analyzing α- and β-bitter acids in hops standard solutions.</h4>Changing your sample preparation from manual to automated isn’t complicated. With the right tools you can fully integrate online SPE with your UHPLC system (Figure 2).<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_How_Bitter_Acid_Analysis_Helps_Brewers_Better_Control_Beer_Flavors_3_4fb14243b4.jpeg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: How Bitter Acid Analysis Helps Brewers Better Control Beer Flavors: Figure 2. Schematic workflow for the determination of bitter acids in hops. The process involves clean up and instrumental analysis using the Thermo Scientific Vanquish Online SPE UHPLC System." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_How_Bitter_Acid_Analysis_Helps_Brewers_Better_Control_Beer_Flavors_3_4fb14243b4.jpeg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="700" height="323"><h4>The process for analyzing a hops standard solution is straightforward:</h4><ol><li>First, extract hop samples with ethanol (a greener alternative to toluene or diethyl ether in conventional methods).</li><li>Inject the extract directly into your instrument for analysis. Bitter acids retain<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/1970"> on the SPE column</a> while matrix interferences that can comprise quantitation are removed.</li><li>Next, backflush the SPE column to transfer the analytes to the<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/423"> analytical column </a>for separation. While this separation is taking place, the SPE column is washed and re-equilibrated in parallel, keeping the total run time to 15 minutes, with the separation of all six major bitter acids in a single analysis (Figure 3).</li></ol><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_How_Bitter_Acid_Analysis_Helps_Brewers_Better_Control_Beer_Flavors_4_1e47405e3c.jpeg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: How Bitter Acid Analysis Helps Brewers Better Control Beer Flavors: Figure 3. UV chromatogram of hop bitter acids in standard solution (1-cohumulone, 2-humulone, 3-adhumulone, 4-colupulone, 5-lupulone, 6-adlupulone)." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_How_Bitter_Acid_Analysis_Helps_Brewers_Better_Control_Beer_Flavors_4_1e47405e3c.jpeg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="700" height="347"><h4>Online SPE for analyzing α- and β-bitter acids in real hops samples</h4>Analytical labs need methods that are accurate and reliable for brewers to develop distinct and reproducible flavor profiles across batches.To assess the applicability of online SPE UHPLC methods for hops analysis, we analyzed bitter acid profiles from four species — Sultana, Barbe Rouge, Azacca, and Sabro.The concentration of α-acids dominated all samples, while each hops species exhibited distinct profiles in terms of α-acid and β-acid content, making them suitable for different brewing strategies (Figure 4).<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_How_Bitter_Acid_Analysis_Helps_Brewers_Better_Control_Beer_Flavors_5_3a179217db.jpeg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: How Bitter Acid Analysis Helps Brewers Better Control Beer Flavors: Figure 4. Bitter acid profiles in four different hop species, error bars display SD (n=6). To check method consistency, we measured each hops extract six times. Variation between measurements was low, with relative standard deviation below 3.5 % across all hops species." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_How_Bitter_Acid_Analysis_Helps_Brewers_Better_Control_Beer_Flavors_5_3a179217db.jpeg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="700" height="410"><ul><li>For testing labs, this process translates into a workflow that is easy to run, fast, and delivers reliable results without added complexity.</li><li>For craft brewers, reliability means clear, trustworthy insights into hops bitter acid profiles, for better hop selection and more precise control of bitterness and flavor in your beer.</li></ul><h4>From carefully procured samples to tasty sips</h4>Efficient UHPLC workflows support faster results, less solvent use, and reliable bitterness data for brewers. And online SPE turns those advantages into practical, day-to-day benefits for brewers and labs alike.<ul><li>Less hands-on skills required for lab analysts</li><li>Faster results from labs to brewers</li><li>A more sustainable way to work</li><li>Clear insights into hops flavor</li></ul>To learn more about the method and see the full application data, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/cn_004238_hplc_vanquish_online_spe_bitter_acids_hops_cn004238_na_en_587a5d300b.pdf">check out our application note today</a>.<h4>FAQs</h4><div><div><h5>What are the key compounds in hops analyzed by HPLC?</h5>Bitter acids, namely α-acids and β-acids, especially the six major bitter acids (humulones and lupulones) that define hop bitterness and are required for quality control and brewing decisions.</div><div><h5>What column types are recommended for hop acid separations?</h5>Classical C18 Silica columns are ideal for bitter acids separation. UHPLC compatible columns with particle size ≤ 2 µm boost analysis with higher flow rate, thus shorter analysis time and solvent consumption.</div><div><h5>What’s the best workflow for hops analysis?</h5>A typical workflow for hop analysis consists of three main steps: extraction of the target compounds, clean-up of co-extracted matrix components, and instrumental analysis by HPLC or UHPLC. To keep this workflow efficient and reproducible, you should minimize manual handling and add in automation when possible. Integrating online SPE into your LC instrument allows sample clean-up to run automatically, reducing hands-on time, solvent use, and variability while delivering faster, more reliable results.</div></div><blockquote>Visit us on&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/72003132/admin/dashboard/">LinkedIn:</a>&nbsp;#UHPLC #Automation</blockquote></div></div>

How Bitter Acid Analysis Helps Brewers Better Control Beer Flavors

In the week of June 29, the following webinars await you in the field of liquid phase and especially HPLC and LC/MS.<blockquote><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/webinars">👉 DETAILS AND REGISTRATION IN THE WEBINARS SECTION</a></h4>👉 Search and filter in the largest global database with over 5 500 GC, LC, MS and spectroscopy webinars.</blockquote><h5>1. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Insights from an IC specialist: To be suppressed or not suppressed?</h5><ul><li>Tu, 30.6.2026 09:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/webinar/6310">Registration</a></li></ul>Join Thermo Fisher’s Ask the Experts session to learn how suppressor technology impacts ion chromatography performance, sensitivity, reliability, maintenance, and troubleshooting.<h5>2. SCIEX: Advancing Proteomics with ZenoTOF: From Single-Cell Analysis to Plasma Biomarker Discovery</h5><ul><li>Tu, 30.6.2026 11:30 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/webinar/6311">Registration</a></li></ul>Discover how ZenoTOF high-resolution mass spectrometry is accelerating single-cell proteomics and plasma biomarker discovery through enhanced sensitivity, throughput, and automation.<h5>3. Agilent Technologies: Measuring Diverse Samples with UV/VIS Spectrometers and Integrating Spheres</h5><ul><li>Tu, 30.6.2026 20:30 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/webinar/6052">Registration</a></li></ul>This webinar will discuss diffuse transmission and reflection UV/VIS measurements, including how to perform measurements with Agilent’s Cary 60 UV/VIS Spectrometer.<h5>4. Waters Corporation: Informatics series #33 Tips, Tricks and Best Practices</h5><ul><li>Th, 2.7.2026 11:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/webinar/6315">Registration</a></li></ul>This interactive session revisits essential features, shortcuts, and practical techniques in Empower software that can streamline everyday laboratory work and reduce unnecessary effort.<h5>5. Waters Corporation: Unlocking Therapeutic Peptide Characterisation (GLP-1RAs) with Cyclic IMS</h5><ul><li>Th, 2.7.2026 15:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/webinar/6313">Registration</a></li></ul>Discover how cyclic ion mobility spectrometry (cyclic IMS) improves characterization of GLP-1 analogues and therapeutic peptides, supporting development, quality control, and regulatory submissions.<h5>6. Agilent Technologies: Spectral Flow Cytometry Masterclass - Session 1</h5><ul><li>Fr, 3.7.2026 07:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/webinar/6316">Registration</a></li></ul>Learn how full-spectrum flow cytometry enables high-dimensional cell analysis. Explore spectral flow technology, experimental design, and applications in immunology, oncology, and vaccine research.

Webinars LabRulezLCMS Week 27/2026

The international standard ISO/IEC 17025 [1] clause 7.7.2 with regards to ensuring the validity of results, requires a laboratory to participate in proficiency testing (PT) and/or to participate in interlaboratory comparisons (ILCs) other than PT. However, no guidance as to what these other ILCs might be, or indeed how they might compare in relation to PT, is provided. This leaflet aims to outline other ILCs available, pointing out some of the limitations as compared to PT.&nbsp;There are three major types of ILCs in which a group of laboratories analyses identical portions from a homogeneous, stable test sample, with each type being characterized by its intended purpose [2,3]:<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Eurachem_Interlaboratory_comparisons_other_than_proficiency_testing_2_d9263807fb.jpg" alt="Eurachem: Interlaboratory comparisons other than proficiency testing" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Eurachem_Interlaboratory_comparisons_other_than_proficiency_testing_2_d9263807fb.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1507" height="607">A key point is that PT is an ILC that is designed to specifically evaluate the performance of participants, providing them with an infrastructure to monitor and assess the validity of their results. This is not the key purpose of the two other ILCs, and thus depending on their intended purpose they have a number of limitations that laboratories need to be aware of when using them rather than PT. Only proficiency testing should have been conducted in full compliance to the competency standard ISO/IEC 17043 [4].&nbsp;<h4>Evaluation of measurement procedure performance&nbsp;</h4>These ILCs, are designed to assess how a particular measurement procedure performs and whether it is fit for its intended purpose. These ILCs are often referred to as a ‘method performance study’ or a ‘collaborative study’ [2]. Some limitations of using such ILCs for monitoring laboratory performance as an alternative to PT are:&nbsp;<ul><li>All participants use the same measurement procedure i.e. the measurement procedure that is being validated. Unless the measurement procedure is being routinely used by the participating laboratory such an ILC will not assess the routine performance of the laboratory using their own routine measurement procedure. Nor does it enable them to compare their performance with other laboratories using alternative measurement procedures.&nbsp;</li><li>The measurement procedure is likely to be new, so participants may not have established stable procedures and quality control, so performance may not reflect routine use.&nbsp;</li><li>The report from such an ILC would not provide information on the performance of the participant, if the statistical model used makes the assumption that all laboratories perform with equal variability.</li><li>The design of the study may require the participants to assess multiple samples and/or to undertake multiple replicate analysis on the test materials. This may not be representative of the routine measurements or tests undertaken by the laboratory.&nbsp;</li><li>The conclusion of the ILC might be that the measurement procedure being assessed is not valid.&nbsp;</li></ul><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Eurachem_Interlaboratory_comparisons_other_than_proficiency_testing_3_a53ecd2f5d.jpg" alt="Eurachem: Interlaboratory comparisons other than proficiency testing" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Eurachem_Interlaboratory_comparisons_other_than_proficiency_testing_3_a53ecd2f5d.jpg 157w," sizes="100vw" width="570" height="566"><h4>Characterisation of candidate reference materials&nbsp;</h4>These are ILCs that assign a property value to a candidate reference material, usually with a stated measurement uncertainty. These are often referred to as a ‘material certification study’ [2]. Limitations of using such ILCs as an alternative to PT are:&nbsp;<ul><li>The analysis of the candidate reference material is likely to require additional care in exercising the routine measurement procedure, such as substantially more replication, and/or may require quite different reporting formats (e.g. all valid replicates instead of a mean result). Thus, such an ILC will not necessarily provide an evaluation of the performance of the laboratory based on the routine use of their measurement procedures.&nbsp;</li><li>The report from such an ILC may include the results from the participating laboratories but would not provide information on the performance of each laboratory.&nbsp;</li><li>Participating laboratories may be required to assess multiple samples and/or to undertake multiple replicate analysis on the candidate reference materials. Thus this may not be representative of the routine measurements or tests undertaken by the laboratory.&nbsp;</li></ul><h4>Other ILCs&nbsp;</h4>Some other ILCs, whilst not being conducted in full compliance of the requirements of ISO/IEC 17043, may be designed to evaluate participant performance. These would include small ILCs as defined by EA‑2/21 [5] or split sample ILCs i.e. where a portion of a single sample is sent to two or three laboratories. Whilst these ILCs are specifically designed to evaluate participant performance, they may not provide a comprehensive comparison that a PT might provide. In such cases the laboratory needs to evaluate carefully the competence of the organization managing the ILC and the suitability of the service externally provided (ISO/IEC 17025 clause 6.6).

Interlaboratory comparisons other than proficiency testing

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Phenomenex

Waters Corporation

<h4>European Free Educational Webinar Series</h4>
Let&#39;s go back to the basics of Chromatography, Mass Spectrometry, Data Analysis and Trouble-shooting: understanding the importance of the basics will enable you to be more effective in your daily laboratory life.
<h4>EPISODE 1</h4>
Sample Preparation - Theory and Overview
What will you learn?
<ul>
<li>Goals and available Techniques</li>
<li>Intro to Solid Phase Extraction (SPE)</li>
</ul>
<h4>What&#39;s next?</h4>
Full Webinar Series Episodes List is available <a href="https://event.on24.com/wcc/r/4551012/F69479929A905500D8B21508527807E5/5385652">here</a>
Back to Basics - Sample Preparation: Theory and Overview
<ul>
<li>Tuesday, May 07, 2024, 11:00 AM CEST</li>
</ul>
Back to Basics - Sample Preparation: Tips &amp; Tricks to make it simple
<ul>
<li>Wednesday, June 05, 2024, 11:00 AM CEST</li>
</ul>
Back to Basics - Theory of Liquid Chromatography
<ul>
<li>Wednesday, July 03, 2024, 11:00 AM CEST</li>
</ul>
Back to Basics - Basics of Liquid Chromatography
<ul>
<li>Tuesday, September 10, 2024, 11:00 AM CEST</li>
</ul>
Back to Basics - Analytical Method Development
<ul>
<li>Wednesday, October 02, 2024, 11:00 AM CEST</li>
</ul>
Back to Basics - The importance of Compliance
<ul>
<li>Tuesday, October 22, 2024, 11:00 AM CEST</li>
</ul>
Back to Basics - Introduction to Mass Spectrometry
<ul>
<li>Wednesday, November 13, 2024, 11:00 AM CET</li>
</ul>
Back to Basics - Troubleshooting your LC and MS Systems
<ul>
<li>Tuesday, December 10, 2024, 11:00 AM CET</li>
</ul>
Not sure to be able to attend live sessions?
Register today and watch the webinars on-demand
<blockquote>
Presenter: Xavier Rodriguez (Principal Sales Application Specialist, Waters)
</blockquote>

Waters Corporation: Back to Bacisc Free Educational Webinar Serries

Sample Preparation: Theory and Overview

The first episode will introduce you into goals and available techniques of Solid Phase Extraction (SPE).

<h4>European Free Educational Webinar Series</h4>
Let&#39;s go back to the basics of Chromatography, Mass Spectrometry, Data Analysis and Trouble-shooting: understanding the importance of the basics will enable you to be more effective in your daily laboratory life.
<h4>EPISODE 2</h4>
Sample Preparation - Tips &amp; Tricks to make it simple
What will you learn?
<ul>
<li>Advantage of water-wettable Sorbents</li>
<li>Path to successful SPE</li>
</ul>
<h4>What&#39;s next?</h4>
Full Webinar Series Episodes List is available <a href="https://event.on24.com/wcc/r/4551012/F69479929A905500D8B21508527807E5/5385652">here</a>
Back to Basics - Sample Preparation: Theory and Overview
<ul>
<li>Tuesday, May 07, 2024, 11:00 AM CEST</li>
</ul>
Back to Basics - Sample Preparation: Tips &amp; Tricks to make it simple
<ul>
<li>Wednesday, June 05, 2024, 11:00 AM CEST</li>
</ul>
Back to Basics - Theory of Liquid Chromatography
<ul>
<li>Wednesday, July 03, 2024, 11:00 AM CEST</li>
</ul>
Back to Basics - Basics of Liquid Chromatography
<ul>
<li>Tuesday, September 10, 2024, 11:00 AM CEST</li>
</ul>
Back to Basics - Analytical Method Development
<ul>
<li>Wednesday, October 02, 2024, 11:00 AM CEST</li>
</ul>
Back to Basics - The importance of Compliance
<ul>
<li>Tuesday, October 22, 2024, 11:00 AM CEST</li>
</ul>
Back to Basics - Introduction to Mass Spectrometry
<ul>
<li>Wednesday, November 13, 2024, 11:00 AM CET</li>
</ul>
Back to Basics - Troubleshooting your LC and MS Systems
<ul>
<li>Tuesday, December 10, 2024, 11:00 AM CET</li>
</ul>
Not sure to be able to attend live sessions?
Register today and watch the webinars on-demand

Sample Preparation: Tips & Tricks to make it simple

The first episode will explain the advantage of water-wettable sorbents and path to successful SPE.

Effective sample preparation is crucial for accurate PFAS analysis, especially as PFAS testing becomes more widespread and regulated, particularly in complex matrices like food, non-potable water samples, soils, and tissue. This webinar will focus on the importance of method robustness and recent advances and the importance of solid-phase extraction to ensure acceptable recoveries and reproducibility for PFAS analysis.
This webinar will highlight three applications for PFAS determination from food and environmental matrices including:
<ul>
<li>Analysis of 28 EU regulated and recommended PFAS from vegetable, fruit, and baby food samples</li>
<li>An automated approach using the Andrew+ robot for analysis of PFAS from milk matrices</li>
<li>Analysis of PFAS in accordance with EPA 1633 for aqueous, soil, and tissue samples</li>
</ul>
Additionally, we will demonstrate the use of new Oasis WAX/GCB and GCB/WAX for PFAS Analysis cartridges for EPA Method 1633 and food applications and the cartridges’ benefits. Join us to learn more about ways to enhance your PFAS analysis.
Key Learnings:
<ul>
<li>Understand importance of robust sample preparation in PFAS analysis </li>
<li>Examine specific food and environmental applications and methods for PFAS determinate from a wide variety of matrices</li>
<li>Learn about recent advances in sample preparation products and automation to enhance efficiency, cleanliness, and accuracy for PFAS workflows</li>
</ul>

Waters Corporation: PFAS Sample Preparation Approaches for Complex Food and Environmental Matrices AM EU

PFAS Sample Preparation Approaches for Complex Food and Environmental Matrices

 Importance of method robustness and the solid-phase extraction to ensure acceptable recoveries and reproducibility for PFAS analysis.

PFAS Sample Preparation for Food and Environmental Matrices

Forensic Toxicology laboratories analyze a variety of samples which contain impurities. These impurities can lead to puzzling data, dirty instrumentation and interferences if not removed properly. Waters has a series of sample preparation materials to ensure that your samples are clean for injection into your LCMS instrument. It is important to select the appropriate sample preparation technique based off your matrix type, analytes of interest, and level of selectivity. Solid phase extraction (SPE) provides the highest level of selectivity and Waters Oasis HLB products use a water-wettable sorbent leading to high, consistent recoveries for acidic, basic, and neutral compounds in fewer steps. The Oasis product line offers benefits in reduced matrix effects, consistency, instrument up time and column lifetimes, as well as improved assay performance and low variability.
Learning Objectives:
<ul>
<li>Why do we perform Solid-Phase Extraction (SPE) in a forensic toxicology workflow? </li>
<li>How can Waters Oasis SPE products improve my sample recoveries? </li>
<li>How can matrix interferences affect my data if not removed? </li>
<li>How do I know my SPE method was successful?</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Sarah Olive (Clinical and Forensic Account Manager, Waters Corporation)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Sarah Olive is currently a Clinical and Forensic Account Manager in the Waters Clinical Business Unit. Her LCMS career began as a Forensic Toxicologist in the Dallas County Medical Examiner’s office. Previously, she worked as an LCMS Application Specialist assisting laboratories to develop and implement their methods in the Forensic, Clinical, Biopharma, and Environmental markets.
</blockquote>

Waters Corporation: Improve Sample Cleanup in Fewer Steps using Waters Oasis Sample Preparation Products in a Forensic Toxicology Laboratory

Improve Sample Cleanup in Fewer Steps using Waters Oasis Sample Preparation Products in a Forensic Toxicology Laboratory

The Oasis product line offers benefits in reduced matrix effects, consistency, instrument uptime and column lifetimes.

Waters Oasis Sample Preparation in Forensic Toxicology

Key Learning Points:
<ul>
<li>Learn how to approach analyzing for PFAS, it is not rocket science like they made it out to be</li>
<li>Become aware of Sporadic PFAS Contamination</li>
<li>Understand how to identify false positives</li>
<li>Require all analysis quality control and samples to be analyzed in replicates to identify false positives</li>
</ul>
Who Should Attend:
<ul>
<li>Anyone who is new or has used Quechers and needs to have an update and an insight on Quechers method</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Duilio Romanello (Senior Technical Specialist, Phenomenex)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Duilio Romanello graduated with his Bachelors of Science in Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology from University of Bologna. Duilio then joined Phenomenex in 2008 as an Inside Technical Sales Consultant becoming Team Leader in Italy for GC/SPE in 2010 and then for the Environmental &amp; Food Team. Since 2016 he has been covering the role of Account Manager for the South of Italy working remotely and acting as GC Specialist. Since November 2023 he is Senior Technical Specialist for the Technical team at Phenomenex.
</blockquote>

Phenomenex: Quechers 101: Background and Updates

Quechers 101: Background and Updates

Learn how to approach analyzing for PFAS, it is not rocket science like they made it out to be

Overview:
Nitrosamines – the current state of play
<ul>
<li>Background.</li>
<li>Potential Sources of Nitrosamines.</li>
<li>Practical Challenges for N-Nitrosamine Analysis.</li>
<li>Sample Preparation Approach for Analysis of N-Nitrosamines in Drug Products.</li>
</ul>
Key Learning:
<ul>
<li>A New SPE Method for for Simultaneous Quantification of 13 N-Nitrosamines in Various Drug Products</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Dr. Heiko Behr (Senior Business Development Manager, Phenomenex)
</blockquote>

Phenomenex: New SPE Method for Simultaneous Quantification of 13 N-Nitrosamines in Various Drug Products

New SPE Method for Simultaneous Quantification of 13 N-Nitrosamines in Various Drug Products

Sample Preparation Approach for Analysis of N-Nitrosamines in Drug Products.

New SPE Method for 13 N-Nitrosamines in Drug Products

Key Learning Points:
<ul>
<li>Understand the benefit of using SPE than other sample preparation techniques </li>
<li>Learn the basic protocol for SPE method and separation modes</li>
<li>Dig into reverse phase SPE typical protocol, and solid phase extraction media</li>
</ul>
Who Should Attend:
Anyone beginning with solid phase extraction (SPE) technique, or anyone struggling with method sensitivity
<blockquote>
Presenter: Grace Guo (Senior Technical Specialist, Phenomenex)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Grace Guo graduated from the Johns Hopkins University with a Master’s degree in Material Science and Engineering. She joined Phenomenex Technical Team in 2017 providing technical support globally. With more than 8 years of experience on SPE, HPLC and GC, she delivered 50+ seminars and webinars globally covering food and environmental, clinical, pharma and biopharma industry. 
</blockquote>

Phenomenex: Solid Phase Extraction Introduction and Theory

Solid Phase Extraction Introduction and Theory

Understand the benefit of using SPE than other sample preparation techniques.

As public awareness and regulations regarding PFAS contamination continue to expand, so does the overall volume of sampling and analysis for PFAS. Currently, the routine analytical approach for PFAS analysis is to first prepare/cleanup/concentrate the sample by Solid Phase Extraction (SPE) and then analyze by LC-MS/MS. Sample preparation by SPE is a very time- and cost-intensive process; considering the drastic expansion of PFAS monitoring that is expected to come with future regulation, a new approach is needed to reduce overall project costs and increase the lab’s ability to provide rapid, actionable results.
Pace has developed and validated a ‘direct injection’ approach for PFAS analysis by LC-MS/MS, similar to the protocols described in EPA 8327 and ASTM D8421 &amp; D8535. This new approach has been employed in two field projects, in which the data were used for guidance on boring and sampling for continued project analyses. Comparison data will be presented, showing good agreement between results from SPE methods and this new ‘direct injection’ method.
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Presenter: Stephen Somerville (Technical Director – PFAS, Bio-Sketch)
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As the PFAS Technical Director, Mr. Somerville is responsible for the technical oversight of all the PFAS analysis operations within Pace’s nationwide network of environmental testing laboratories, including 8 PFAS centers of excellence. Mr. Somerville guides the development and implementation of both routine and customized analytical approaches throughout the network. Mr. Somerville is charged with leading efforts toward improving, standardizing, and expanding PFAS analytical services within each PFAS laboratory, as well as providing technical advice to sales, marketing, quality/compliance, project management and analytical teams within Pace.
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Agilent: Effective Use of Method EPA 8327/ASTM D8421/D8535 ‘Direct-Injection’ Techniques to Optimize Rapid TAT and Reduce Overall Project Costs

Effective Use of Method EPA 8327/ASTM D8421/D8535 ‘Direct-Injection’ Techniques to Optimize Rapid TAT and Reduce Overall Project Costs

‘Direct injection’ approach for PFAS analysis by LC-MS/MS, similar to the protocols described in EPA 8327 and ASTM D8421 & D8535.

Effective Use of Method EPA 8327/ASTM D8421/D8535

Who Should Attend:
Anyone new to SPE who wants to get familiar with the basics of SPE method development. Anyone who has a basic understanding of SPE and would like to learn how to improve their extractions. 
Key Learning Points:
<ul>
<li>Understand how to develop SPE methods from start to finish.</li>
<li>Receive general methods to use as starting points.</li>
<li>Learn when and how to optimize SPE methods, and discover new tips and tricks to make SPE method development easier.</li>
</ul>
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Presenter: Koen Askamp (Technical Specialist, Phenomenex)
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Koen Askamp is a Technical Specialist at Phenomenex. He was awarded his BSc and MSc degrees in Molecular Life Sciences at Wageningen University in the Netherlands and joined Phenomenex in 2020 as Technical Sales Consultant. Koen became part of Phenomenex’s global technical support team in 2022 and assists laboratories in training chromatographers and developing analytical methods. 
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Phenomenex: Solid Phase Extraction Method Development

Solid Phase Extraction Method Development

Learn when and how to optimize SPE methods, and discover new tips and tricks to make SPE method development easier.

<h4>The Waters 2024 Virtual Summer School - An Educational Journey to Master Food &amp; Environmental Analysis</h4>Unlock the full potential of LC-MS techniques with our immersive and educational sessions at the Waters Virtual F&amp;E Late Summer School 2024. From September 24th to 26th, engage with leading experts and discover cutting-edge methods for environmental and food analysis.<h5>Why attend?</h5><ul><li>Comprehensive Learning: Dive deep into advanced LC-MS techniques and gain practical knowledge to enhance your laboratory's analytical capabilities.</li><li>Expert Insights: Learn from industry leaders and gain firsthand experience through detailed modules on chromatography, mass spectrometry, and sample preparation.</li><li>Regulatory Compliance: Stay ahead with the latest insights on EU regulations for PFAS analysis in food and water, ensuring your lab meets stringent standards.</li></ul><h3>Episode #5: General Sample Preparation | F&amp;E Summer School - Day 2 - Module 1</h3>Sample preparation is a key aspect in the analytical workflow and heavily determines the quality of the analysis. Solid Phase Extraction is a fundamental sample preparation technique widely used across all areas of analytical chemistry. Whether new to SPE or seeking a refresher, this webinar will introduce the basics of sample preparation and provide practical insights and technical background on the benefits when choosing SPE over another form of sample preparation, especially for analytes in complex matrices, such as the ones often encountered in Food and Environmental analysis. Join us in exploring SPE key parameters and best practices for implementing successful SPE methods. The session will combine PowerPoint slides with videos describing good practices and showing a practical example on the complex analysis of PFAS.Our guest speaker Chiara Sarti from Cranfield University, Bedford UK, will share her research results on the work with new dual layer cartridges to extract PFAS from different environmental samples.<h5>What you'll learn:</h5><ul><li>Understanding SPE fundamentals</li><li>Making SPE simple with water-wettable sorbents</li><li>Verifying successful SPE implementation</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter:&nbsp;Xavier Rodríguez (Business Development Manager Chemistry Group, Southern Europe, Waters)Xavier is part of the European Market Development Team. He works as an Application Specialist with focus on sample prep and has more than 20 years of experience in solving sample prep challenges.Presenter:&nbsp;Chiara Sarti (Ph.D. Student, Department of Chemistry "Ugo Schiff", University of Florence)</blockquote>

Waters Corporation: The Waters 2024 Virtual Summer School

General Sample Preparation

Join us in exploring SPE key parameters and best practices for implementing successful SPE methods. 

LCMS webinars focusing on SPE - page 4