LC-MS (Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography- High Resolution Mass Spectrometry)
Microtrace offers sample analysis by ultra (high) performance liquid chromatography (UPLC/UHPLC)- high-resolution mass spectrometry (HR-MS). Whether as a discrete material or part of a complex mixture, this laboratory technique allows us to identify a wide range of organic compounds. The process is similar to traditional high-performance liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS). However, the higher pressure of UPLC permits our lab to analyze even smaller samples and obtain higher resolution separations. The high-resolution accurate mass spectrometer yields extremely precise mass information. As a result, our experts can identify compounds and complete detailed studies on a wide range of organic materials.
Liquid Chromatography (LC)
Our lab’s Waters H-Class UPLC is equipped with an extended wavelength photodiode array (PDA). The PDA detects and measures the absorption profile of separated components of a sample. This combination of mass spectral and UV-visible data absorption data is extremely powerful. Our experts can use it to screen for, characterize, ID, and quantitate numerous volatile and semi-volatile organic compounds.
In addition, the LC system can collect eluted fractions. This allows our scientists to separate the most complex mixtures for detailed analysis. Furthermore, this ability permits the isolation and accumulation (concentration) of specific compounds, which have been purified from a sample. These isolated fractions can be characterized with another technique to supplement the UPLC-MS analysis when necessary. These may include Raman spectroscopy, infrared spectroscopy, and thermal analysis.
High Resolution Mass Spectrometry (HRMS)
A Thermo-Fisher Orbitrap Exploris 120 High Resolution Mass Spectrometer (HRMS) couples to our LC system. After UPLC has separated a sample into individual components, the Orbitrap provides high-resolution accurate mass information of these components. The MS system achieves extremely high resolving power (120,000 at m/z 200) and sub-1 part-per-million mass accuracy as well as MS-MS analysis (MS2). This allows our scientists to provide detailed chemical characterizations and compound identifications on a wide range of organic materials. As a result, LC-MS can help solve problems in industries ranging from manufacturing to forensic investigations. Common uses include the analysis of chemicals and drugs (pharmaceutical and illicit), ingredients, explosive residues, toxicological samples, environmental samples, contaminants, and other unknown materials.
LC-MS Serving Client’s Needs
Whether it’s a chemical screening, compliance evaluation, contamination analysis, failure analysis, or forensic investigation, Microtrace’s lab is here to help. Our decades of experience and state-of-the-art laboratory allow us to address the specific needs of our clients, with both customized and standardized methods.
LC-MS Instrumentation
UPLC- Waters Acquity H-Class Plus-
- Quaternary solvent pump (simultaneous blending of up to four solvents)
- Maximum operating pressure: 15,000 psi @ at 1 mL/min flow rate
- Thermally controllable sample department (4-40 deg C)
- Extended wavelength PDA detector: 190-800 nm, w/ 1.2 nm resolution)
- Fraction collector
MS- Orbitrap Exploris 120 Mass Spectrometer
- High-field Orbitrap mass analyzer
- <1 ppm RMS mass accuracy (with EASY-IC calibrant)
- Mass Range m/z 40–3,000
- Resolution Up to 120,000 at m/z 200
- Polarity Switching
- MS-MS capabilities
Related Standardized Methods
ASTM E2036, E2037
How May We Help You?
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