Gas-Mass Spectrometry
The coupling of mass spectrometry with a chromatographic technique (especially gas chromatography) dates back to the 1970s. This adaptation revolutionized the analysis of complex mixtures of organic compounds by combining the high chromatographic resolving power of gas chromatography with the high sensitivity of the coupled mass spectrometer. The development of capillary columns in the 1980s further increased the resolving power of gas chromatography and, as a result, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) has become the most powerful method for the identification and quantification of relatively nonpolar organic molecules.
Instrumental Facilities
Hewlett-Packard 5989A Mass Spectrometer.
Components:
- Hewlett-Packard 5890Iiplus Gas Chromatograph
- Oven for two independent channels
- Column head pressure control
- Split/Splitless injector
- Temperature programmer with capacity for three positive or negative ramps
- Hewlett-Packard 6890 automatic injector Hewlett
- -Packard 7694 head space injector
- Hewlett-Packard 5989a mass detector Detector
- range from 10 to 1000 daltons with the possibility of extending it to 2000 daltons
- Direct injection probe for solid and liquid samples
- Ionization source with instantaneous switching between chemical ionization and electron impact
- Direct capillary probe for gas chromatograph
- Linked stationary phase capillary columns: HP-FFAP (Modified Polyethylene Glycol-TPA) and HP-INNOWAX (Polyethylene Glycol (intertwined)
Applications
This technique, like high-resolution mass spectrometry, is of great utility in the identification and structural characterization of compounds, but when combined with gas chromatography, its utility is even greater in the analysis of multicomponent mixtures.
The GC-MS technique is widely used in the determination of drugs, poisons, pesticides, etc. and is the legally recommended analysis procedure for narcotics analysis in the USA and anti-doping control by the International Olympic Committee.
More information
Manuel Marcos – Nieves Atanes
+34 986 813 884