GC-MS Analysis Service
As scientific research and industry continue to advance, the demand for qualitative and quantitative analysis of various compounds has surged. Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) has emerged as a pivotal separation and detection technique, renowned for its high resolution, impressive sensitivity, and compatibility with volatile and semi-volatile substances. In recent years, GC-MS has found extensive applications in food safety testing, environmental monitoring, pharmaceutical research, and metabolomics, providing precise and reliable data to support both scientific inquiry and industrial innovation.
MtoZ Biolabs capitalizes on state-of-the-art instrumentation and rigorous quality control protocols to deliver standardized, customized GC-MS analysis service. Catering to diverse sample types and research objectives, we strive to balance data accuracy with fast turnaround times, thereby offering flexible and dependable solutions to drive academic progress and industrial growth.
Technical Principles
1. Basic Principles
GC-MS integrates gas chromatography with a mass spectrometer. After injection and vaporization, samples are separated in a GC column based on physicochemical properties such as boiling point and polarity. Each component then enters the mass spectrometer, where ionization generates characteristic mass fragments. By measuring ion mass-to-charge ratios (m/z) and their intensities, GC-MS can accurately identify and quantify target compounds. Thanks to this dual benefit of chromatographic separation and mass-spectral detection, GC-MS excels in detecting trace compounds in complex matrices, achieving high sensitivity and strong selectivity.
2. Technical Applications
GC-MS is particularly suited for analyzing organic compounds that are naturally volatile or can be rendered volatile via derivatization, such as volatile organic pollutants in the environment, aroma compounds and pesticide residues in food, and certain metabolic products in biological samples. For complex components that exhibit good volatility or can be made volatile with proper sample preparation, GC-MS effectively addresses separation and detection challenges, delivering accurate and stable analytical results.
3. Technical Advantages
• High Sensitivity and Selectivity: Enables the detection of trace targets while providing distinct mass-fragment data.
• Emphasis on Identification and Quantification: Determines chemical structures through retention times and mass-fragment signatures, and applies internal/external standards for precise quantification.
• Broad Sample Compatibility: Suitable for various sample types, including blood, urine, food matrices, environmental samples, and petrochemical products.
• Outstanding Stability and Reproducibility: Under standardized conditions, achieves consistent and trustworthy analytical outcomes.
Analysis Workflow
MtoZ Biolabs develops tailored GC-MS Analysis Service based on customer requirements and sample characteristics. The primary steps include:
1. Needs Assessment and Method Design
• Discuss detection goals, sample origins, target detection limits, and project timelines.
• Propose an optimal analytical path, including preparation strategies, column selection, and MS modes.
2. Sample Preparation and Pretreatment
• Perform different pretreatment procedures (extraction, purification, derivatization, concentration) for food, environmental, or biological samples.
• For complex matrices or interfering substances, further separation or removal steps may be employed to enhance detection accuracy.
3. Gas Chromatography Separation
• Inject the sample into the GC, where components separate in sequence based on their retention behaviors in the column.
• Adjust conditions (flow rate, programmed temperature, column choice) to maximize resolution and peak shape.
4. Mass Spectrometry Detection and Data Collection
• Ionize the separated components in the MS ion source and identify/quantify them based on mass-to-charge ratios and signal intensities.
• Use appropriate internal standards or reference materials to ensure consistent, reproducible results.
5. Data Processing and Analysis
• Apply specialized software for peak recognition, library matching, and quantitative calculations.
• Compare quality-control samples, blanks, and replicates to validate statistical reliability and adjust data as needed.
6. Report Generation and Delivery
• Provide a comprehensive report detailing qualitative and quantitative outcomes, as well as spectra.
• Offer additional documentation such as method validation data, quality-control results, or application-focused insights if requested.
Service Advantages
1. Expert Team and Technical Experience
MtoZ Biolabs boasts a seasoned team specialized in analytical chemistry, mass spectrometry, and multi-omics research. Our extensive project history ensures robust methods for a wide range of sample matrices.
2. Rigorous Quality Control
Every stage features stringent checks—internal standards, repeat injections, blank controls—and adheres to strict laboratory protocols and data traceability, guaranteeing accurate, reproducible results.
3. Tailored Solutions and Flexibility
Whether for single-analyte detection, multi-component screening, or specialized pretreatment, we customize each step to client needs. We encourage close collaboration to achieve the finest analytical outcomes.
4. Comprehensive Data Interpretation and Support
Beyond standard reports, we can provide deeper data analysis and offer follow-up experimental or process recommendations. In many scientific and industrial settings, meaningful interpretation is as vital as the raw data itself.
5. Rapid Response and Efficient Service
While maintaining quality, we endeavor to shorten project turnaround times. For urgent requests, we can prioritize scheduling or expedite procedures as circumstances allow.
Applications
1. Food Safety and Quality Control
• Detect volatile flavor components, additives, and pesticides in food, ensuring regulatory compliance and product safety.
• Evaluate the impact of processing techniques on flavor compounds to refine formulations and enhance product quality.
2. Environmental Monitoring and Pollution Assessment
• Quantify volatile and semi-volatile organic compounds (VOCs, SVOCs) in air, water, and soil.
• Help environmental agencies or related businesses trace contamination sources, gauge remediation efforts, and guide restoration.
3. Pharmaceutical and Metabolomics Research
• Investigate endogenous or exogenous small molecules in biological samples such as blood, urine, or tissues to study disease mechanisms or drug metabolism.
• Facilitate new drug development, clinical diagnostics, personalized medicine, and deeper exploration in metabolomics and toxicology.
4. Industrial Process Control and Quality Assurance
• Monitor key components in chemical, fine chemical, fragrance, and flavor industries through real-time or periodic GC-MS analysis.
• Assess volatile losses during storage, transport, or product usage, helping maintain quality and ensuring safety throughout the supply chain.
Case Study
1. A Rapid Method for Quantifying Free and Bound Acetate based on Alkylation and GC-MS Analysis
Tumanov, S. et al. Cancer Metab. 2016.
Figure 2. GC Chromatogram for Acetate Derivative (Propyl-Acetate)
2. An Enhanced GC/MS Procedure for the Identification of Proteins in Paint Microsamples
Fico, D. et al. J Anal Methods Chem. 2018.
Figure 3. GC-MS Detection of Derivatized Amino Acids
FAQ
Q: Which types of compounds can GC-MS analyze?
A: It primarily targets low molecular weight substances that are volatile or can be made volatile, such as volatile organic compounds, certain fatty acids, aromatic compounds, and pesticide residues. For thermally unstable compounds, alternative or complementary techniques may be more suitable.
Q: How is accuracy and reproducibility ensured?
A: We employ multiple quality-control procedures, including blanks, internal standards, replicates, and calibration curves. In-house protocols guarantee consistent practices from sample reception to data analysis, maintaining reliability throughout the entire workflow.
Q: What if the sample matrix is extremely complex?
A: We adopt thorough purification, extraction, or derivatization methods to minimize interference. For highly intricate samples, advanced tools like two-dimensional gas chromatography can further enhance separation and clarity.
Q: What is the typical detection limit of GC-MS?
A: Sensitivity depends on instrument capabilities, analyte properties, and sample preparation. Generally, GC-MS can detect concentrations in the ppm (parts per million) or even ppb (parts per billion) range, though exact limits vary with each target compound and testing conditions.
Q: Can you provide post-project technical guidance or data analysis support?
A: Yes. Besides offering comprehensive reports, we can assist in interpreting the results and propose expanded tests or research strategies, maximizing the utility of your data.
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