Recent discussions within the gas chromatography (GC) and mass spectrometry (MS) sectors highlight a number of emerging trends and innovations that are shaping the future of analytical chemistry. Prominent figures from various industry-leading companies shared insights into the key advancements and shifts in practice pertaining to GC and GC–MS, shedding light on their implications for businesses.
Jim Gearing, Associate Vice President of Marketing at Agilent's Gas Phase Separations Division, addressed the ongoing helium shortages that have posed considerable challenges in the GC and GC–MS testing landscapes. As laboratories seek to conserve helium and identify more cost-effective alternatives, there is a growing trend towards using hydrogen (H2) and nitrogen (N2) as carrier gases. Gearing noted that systems can now be programmed to switch to these gases when not in use, thereby promoting savings and operational efficiency. An integrated hydrogen sensor is employed to detect any potential leaks, ensuring safe operation and quick problem resolution.
Massimo Santoro, Group Business Development Director at Markes International, highlighted that GC and GC–MS technologies remain essential for complex sample analysis, particularly where reliable data is required. He pointed to a significant shift towards green chemistry practices, aimed at quicker analysis times and reduced sample costs. This growing commitment to sustainability in sample preparation could lead to substantial cost savings and improved laboratory efficiency.
Ed Connor, GC Product Manager at Peak Scientific, remarked on the noticeable uptick in the adoption of hydrogen as a carrier gas, attributing it to the wider industry push towards alternatives to helium. With significant technological advances facilitating the use of H2 and N2, Connor suggested that the trend is likely to continue as labs adapt to the challenges surrounding helium supply.
Bruce Richter, Vice President of Research & Development at Restek Corporation, discussed the evolving capabilities of instrumentation, stating, "Improved resolution, sensitivity, and scan speeds of mass spectrometers are having interesting impacts in many laboratories." The enhanced performance of mass spectrometers allows for streamlined analysis times and reduces the necessity for extensive sample preparations. Richer remarked that the ability to analyse different compounds within the same method configuration presents opportunities for increased productivity in labs.
In discussing future possibilities, Gearing indicated that the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies will drive improvements in both diagnostic capabilities and operational efficiency within GC and GC–MS systems. This trend towards intelligent systems means that remote operation and troubleshooting by expert operators could become commonplace. He also underscored the importance of sustainability, highlighting the need for laboratories to run more samples in compact spaces using energy-efficient technologies.
Connor and Richter both acknowledged the key role of GC and GC–MS as enduring cornerstones in various analytical fields, from health and safety to monitoring environmental pollutants. Connor noted, "Despite GC and GC–MS being well into middle-age, their intrinsic ties to testing commodities and air quality ensure their continued relevance."
Emerging applications are also reflecting a notable shift, particularly in the energy sector, where growth in hydrogen energy production, transport, and qualification testing presents new opportunities. Gearing specifically mentioned the expanding focus on synthetic aviation fuels (SAF) and battery technologies, which are likely to require increased analytical testing and stringent quality measures.
In terms of noteworthy advancements made in the 2023-2024 timeframe, the sector has witnessed significant innovations in safety and operational efficiency. Gearing pointed to the introduction of advanced hydrogen safety sensors capable of detecting and responding to hydrogen presence within a GC system in real time, enhancing both functionality and safety compliance. Furthermore, devices enabling seamless switching between carrier gases to conserve helium have gained traction, allowing laboratories to mitigate rising operational costs while maintaining optimal performance.
Across the discussions, it is clear that developments in gas chromatography and mass spectrometry will continue to evolve, particularly in the realms of technology advancement, method development, and the adoption of sustainable practices. As these techniques witness transformative changes, industry stakeholders are gearing up to meet the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in an increasingly complex analytical landscape.
Source: Noah Wire Services