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This comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography (GC×GC) combined with high-resolution mass spectrometry (JEOL AccuTOF-GCx) shows nontargeted analysis of environmental contaminants in dust from an electronics recycling facility. (Figure adapted from Ubukata, M.; Jobst, K.J. et al. J. Chromatogr. A May 2015, 1395, 152–9. Image courtesy of JEOL.)


of the treatment works operation,” Paez says. “The treatment process can be dictated by the acquired MS data so that it can be tailored to the re- quired level of purification as opposed to expensively running the plants at full capacity.”


MS can also be used at various steps in water treatment “to monitor how the process is performing in the removal of pesticides, for ex- ample,” Paez explains. “Then, before the water goes out into supply, a sample can be quickly analyzed without any extraction using our direct injection workflow.”


For routine water testing, Paez says, SCIEX’s new MS platform, the X500R QTOF, “delivers the sensitivity to help ensure compliance to legislation, and the resolution of the acquired data offers the high levels of accuracy you need.” Paez says that this platform is easy to use, even for a non-expert, and small enough for a benchtop.


As MS systems improve, scientists expect more and more. Marvin says, “The current technology drivers are producing better-quality data at lower and lower detection limits.” He adds, “Agilent is continually asked by customers to help them achieve new reporting limits, or improve detection limits by an order of magnitude to provide greater confidence in measurements.” Improving sensitivity will increase the range of applications for MS applied to environmental samples.


Mike May is a freelance writer and editor living in Ohio. He can be reached at mikemay1959@gmail.com.


AMERICAN LABORATORY 39 MARCH 2016 AL1603


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