Gulf Coast Conference

Posters

The following posters will be presented in the Exhibit Hall at the 2010 Gulf Coast Conference.

   
Abstract # 3 Poster

"A New High Retentive and Selective GC column for the Separation of CFC, based on Alumina Adsorbent"
Jaap de Zeeuw and Tom Vezza - Restek Corporation

Chloro-Fluoro Carbons (CFC), also known as Refrigerants or Propellants, are highly volatile compounds which can be analyzed via gas chromatography. There production, application and especially release is controlled carefully as they have a direct impact on the ozone layer. For the separation via GC, we meet some challenges as due to their volatility, a stationary phase is required with very high retention. In gas liquid separations films up to 10 micrometer can be coated, but such thick-films coated columns have low efficiency, due to the huge contribution to mass transfer in the liquid phase. A more elegant solution is to use adsorbents for the separation. Alumina coated PLOT columns were developed and applied already 25 years ago with limited success due to high activity of the alumina materials used. Porous polymers also did not provide the correct selectivity and showed severe band broadening. The use of alumina was recently revisited for hydrocarbon separations and during this project a procedure was developed to reduce the activity of the alumina significantly, making this adsorption material applicable for a large range of CFC type compounds. The resulting AluminaBOND  CFC column was tested with a series of halogenated components including chlorinated and fluorinated volatiles at different levels. Most compounds behaved very well although the column still showed some reactivity. Poster Presentation - 9:00 AM - Wednesday Abstract # 003

   
Abstract # 6 Poster

"Extending the Resolution Power of new Generation Stabilized PLOT columns to Full Metal 0.53mm ID Wide Bore Columns"
Jaap de Zeeuw, Rick Morehead, Tom Vezza and Gary Stidsen - Restek Corporation

Separation of volatiles is ideally performed on PLOT columns. Many adsorbents have been commercially available in fused silica tubing materials. In time, there became an increasing need to develop the PLOT column in a metal capillary. The last years several new technologies have been developed to manufacture stable fused silica PLOT columns. Molecular sieves, alumina and porous polymers were all deposited efficiently on 0.53mm MXT metal tubing. Columns showed high permeability, constant flow restriction and similar chromatographic performance as seen with fused silica. The big advantage of metal, is the robustness: its virtually unbreakable and it can be coiled down to small diameters, even the 0.53mm columns. In this poster data of merit is presented for alumina, molsieve 5A and porous polymer columns on chromatographic performance, but also on stability of the coating, when used in valve switching type applications. Poster Presentation - 9:20 AM - Wed Abstract # 006

   
Abstract # 13 Poster

"Using Packed Adsorbents in MXT 0.53mm ID Wide-Bore columns; Increasing Retention, Loadability and Robustness for Volatiles in Challenging Environments"
Jaap de Zeeuw, Rick Morehead and Gary Stidsen - Restek Corporation

Separation of volatiles can be well done using adsorption chromatography. Using high retentive adsorbents, unique separations can be done at higher temperatures. Additionally, adsorbents are difficult to destroy, resulting in long column life times. Adsorbents have been coated also in capillary columns. Such columns are known as PLOT columns where the adsorbent is deposited as a layer of 5-50 um on the internal capillary surface. PLOT columns like alumina, Porous polymers and molsieves, have high efficiency, but a limitation is the loadability. An other way to make use of the selectivity of the adsorption materials is to use the micropacked column. Restek developed a packing procedure and unique seal, to pack 0.53mm MXT columns with adsorbents, providing new application options - Using the full Selectivity of adsorbents like Shincarbon, Molecular sieves, Porous polymers - High loadability and retention for volatile compounds - No particle release whatsoever as its a packed column - Can be coiled at very small diameters, flows 1-4 mL/min Additionally all 0.53mm columns can be used in any capillary GC, meaning and capillary technologies can be used with these columns also. Successful packings include shincarbon allowing fast CO and CO2 measurement in air; Also Molsieve 5A, doing permanent gases including CO in 70 seconds. The use of Siltek deactivated SS tubing also guarantees the elution of polar and reactive analytes. Poster Presentation - 9:45 AM - Wed Abstract # 013

   
Abstract # 17 Poster

"Automated Method Development for HPLC/MS"
Sue D'Antonio, Lynne Marshall, Andre Szczesniewski

With the need for new methods for analysis of non volitle compounds. LC/MS is a technique which is effective in the seperation and identification of these types of compounds. With an automated method development system and a single quadrapole LC/MS an analyst is significantly able to reduce thier method development time. In this poster, we will show the easy of use of automated method development systems. Poster Presentation - 10:00 AM - Wed Abstract # 017

   
Abstract # 18 Poster

"Automated Method Development Using UV and MS Detection"
Sue Dantonio, Lynne Marshall, Andre Szcznewski - Agilent Technologies

With the need to adapt HPLC methodology for new compunds and sample matrixes. This presentation shows the ease of method development. By use of a single quadrapole MS detector, peak retention time variations are identified. This eleminates the need to run individual standars to track retention time variations as conditions and columns change. Poster Presentation - 10:20 AM - Wed Abstract # 018

   
Abstract # 24 Poster

"Enhanced LNG Sulfur Stability in Sulfinert versus Stainless Steel Sample Cylinders"
Silvia Martinez - Restek Corporation

Accurate analysis of sulfur compounds in refinery feedstocks, process plant streams and gas fuels delivered by pipeline has become increasingly significant with industry standards and the global expansion of fuel markets. Sulfur compounds are reactive to stainless steel surfaces, easily adsorbing and showing losses within minutes or hours. Sample cylinders passivated with a Sulfinert coating are ideal for collecting and storing fuel gases containing reactive Sulfurs. The Sulfinert surface, consisting of a chemically-bonded fused silica layer, provides the inertness needed for the highly-reactive sulfur compounds, down to ppbv levels. A storage stability test of LNG Ethyl mercaptan over 30 days in a Sulfinert-passivated sample cylinder versus a stainless steel sample cylinder showed superior stability, as demonstrated by considerably greater recoveries. Poster Presentation - 10:45 AM - Wed Abstract # 024

   
Abstract # 57 Poster

"Determination of Elements at Sub-ppb Concentrations in Naphtha Mixtures Using the Perkin Elmer NexION 300 ICP-MS"
Stan Smith - Perkin Elmer

Analysis of trace metals in organic matrices such as naphtha by ICPMS has historically been very challenging. ICPMS technology has the sensitivity and multi-element capabilities desired but there are many hurdles that must be overcome such as overloading the plasma with vapors from the solvent, carbon deposit build up on the sampler cone, and interferences from carbon-based polyatomic species. Naphthas are particularly challenging due to their broad range of hydrocarbon distribution and boiling point ranges. Using the NexION 300 ICP-MS, several naphtha compounds were successfully analyzed using a single set of calibration standards and operating conditions, demonstrating the accuracy and stability of the method. Poster Presentation - 11:00 AM - Wed Abstract # 057

   
Abstract # 60 Poster

"Evaluation of Several Methods For Post-Extraction GPC Clean-up of Fish Tissue Prior to PBDE and PCB Analysis"
Michael Halvorson (Gilson, Inc., Middleton, WI)) Thomas Gibson, Carol Buelow and Curtis Hedman (Wisconsin State Lab of Hygiene, Madison, WI)

Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC) is an effective post-extraction clean-up method for the removal of high molecular weight interferences from sample extracts prior to analysis by GC. GPC clean-up is often used for fish tissue extracts with high lipid content prior to analysis for halogenated compounds such as PBDEs, PCBs and chlorinated pesticides. The purpose of this study was to evaluate several columns and solvents for the clean-up of fish tissue extracts prior to analysis for PCBs and PBDEs. Comparison of GPC calibrant elution times, lipid loading capacity and recoveries from fish tissue for each column and mobile phase were determined. Poster Presentation - 11:20 AM - Wed Abstract # 060

   
Abstract # 61 Poster

"Applications of TG-MS and TG-GC-MS to Polymers"
Peter Muller, Justin Lang, Peng Ye - PerkinElmer, Inc.

The combination of Thermo-Gravimetric Analyzers (TGA) with Fourier Transform Infrared spectrometers (FTIR) or with Mass Spectrometers (MS) to analyze the gases evolved during a TGA analysis is a fairly well known technique. However, with TG-FTIR or TG-MS it is difficult to differentiate gases that evolve simultaneously. Combining thermogravimetry with mass spectrometry and with gas chromatography-MS allows for a more complete characterization of the material under analysis and precisely determines the products from the TGA. Poster Presentation - 11:40 AM - Wed Abstract # 061

   
Abstract # 63 Poster

"Combined DSC-Raman to Polymer and Pharmaceutical Characterization"
Justin Lang, Peter Muller, Peng Ye - PerkinElmer, Inc.

Raman spectroscopy and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) are complementary techniques that are often applied to the same problems, principally to study phase transitions in solids but also to monitor reactions such as curing of resins. Simultaneous Raman and DSC measurements add a qualitative dimension to DSC data which simply measure heat flow. Poster Presentation - 1:00 PM - Wed Abstract # 063

   
Abstract # 65 Poster

"A Comparison of Porous Layer Open Tubular (PLOT) Columns for the Separation of Refinery Gases"
Robert Wiedemer, Rob Bunn, Tony Edge - Thermo Fisher Scientific

Porous Layer Open Tubular (PLOT) columns are well suited for the analysis of light hydrocarbons such as those found in refinery gases. These highly selective columns are capable of separating low molecular weight hydrocarbons at above ambient temperatures. An increasingly wide variety of PLOT column coatings are available, including alumina deactivated with Na2SO4 and with KCl, as well as a range of porous polymers with varying degrees of polarity. This presentation will show the differences in selectivity of numerous types of Thermo Scientific TracePLOT columns as demonstrated by the differences in the separation of light hydrocarbons. Poster Presentation - 1:20 PM - Wed Abstract # 065

   
Abstract # 71 Poster

"FTIR Analysis of Trace Water in Anhydrous Ammonia"
Jesus Anguiano - CONSCI

This presentation will outline the advantages of using FTIR analysis for moisture contamination in Anhydrous Ammonia at low levels. Sampling and analyzing water is challenging due to its presence in nearly all aspects of the analytical procedure. When using FTIR for the measurement of contaminants in a product, the matrix itself may interfere to a large degree with the contaminants of interest. To overcome this problem we can avail ourselves of software tools in the data system. This is done by zeroing on a known dry source of ammonia followed by measurement of the unknown product against this baseline value. Poster Presentation - 1:40 PM - Wed Abstract # 071

   
Abstract # 74 Poster

"Quantitative Applications of Single and Multi-Reflection Diamond Attenuated Total Reflection Measurements.(FAME,EtOH)"
Dean Brown - PerkinElmer

Historically, quantitative FTIR methods for liquids required measurement in liquid cells in transmission mode. Attenuated Total Reflectance (ATR) is now the primary sampling accessory for the analysis of liquids and solids. Top plates can be interchanged to increase the number of reflections to expand the dynamic rage. However, diamond ATR accessories were considered not suitable for quantitative analysis for two reasons. First, there is no physical fixed pathlength and second, the depth of penetration into the sample varied with wavelength. The efficacy of using a single reflection diamond ATR (UATR) for the quantitative determination will be shown. Poster Presentation - 9:30 AM - Wed Abstract # 074

   
Abstract # 78 Poster

"Analytical Applications By Ultra Fast Gas Chromatography"
Aaron Mendez and Vincent Otten - PAC

A new classification of Gas Liquid Chromatography has emerged where the classification is associated with the speed of heating and cooling the column. High throughput without sacrificing the quality of the analysis is vital for many sectors of the industry and for many quality control labs. We have developed a series of analytical applications under ultrafast gas chromatography conditions in which a special capillary column is heated directly by a Microwave Energy in a very controlled way. The applications discussed in this work utilize a specially coated 0.32 mm id capillary column, a fast heating TPI Inlet and a conventional FID detector. Heating and cooling rates of up to 350 oC/min had been applied to study boiling range distributions of gasoline, jet fuels, diesel and biodiesel formulations. FAME contamination of jet fuels have also been analyzed by SPME GC. Cycle times of less than 3 min can be obtained with excellent repeatability and Reproducibility. Additionally several excellent correlations to conventional methodologies have been obtained. Poster Presentation - 10:20 AM - Wed Abstract # 078

   
Abstract # 81 Poster

Gulf Oil Spill Symposium "Characterization of Dispersants by Reversed-Phase High Pressure Liquid Chromatography and Charged Aerosol Detection"
Matthew Neely, Marc Plante, Bruce Bailey, Ian Acworth - ESA - A Dionex Company

An HPLC method for quantification of dispersants, used to treat oil in the recent Gulf of Mexico drilling incident, is an analytical challenge: these dispersants lack a chromophore, which limits the sensitivity of ultraviolet detection for these analytes, and they are also non-volatile, limiting the use of highly sensitive gas-chromatography analysis. A reversed-phase HPLC method is presented that will provide the characterization stage for development of a quantitative method for these analytes. The Corona ultra charged aerosol detector was used to provide chromatograms of nine different dispersants: Aerosol-OT,* SPAN-20, SPAN-60,* SPAN-80,* SPAN-83, SPAN-85, TWEEN-80,* and TWEEN-85.* (*used in COREXIT 9500). Poster Presentation - 10:00 AM - Wed Abstract # 081

   
Abstract # 92 Poster

"TXRF for Environmental Applications with the BENCHTOP S2 PICOFOX"
Dr. Michael Rider Bruker AXS Inc., The Woodlands, TX Michael Beauchaine Bruker AXS Inc. Madison, WI Dr. Hagen Stosnach, Bruker Nano GmbH, Berlin Germany

Effluent testing for industrial plants with high solids content posed challenges for any ICP or AAS. We will show case studies from effluents and benchmarks using NIST standard reference material to illustrate the performance of the new instrument with the proven TXRF technique. The poster will illustrate sample preparation, calibration and validation for this and similar applications. Poster Presentation - 10:40 AM - Wed Abstract # 092

   
Abstract # 110 Poster

"The Extraction of Glycols From Water Using ENVI-Carb Plus Solid Phase Extraction Cartridges"
L.M. Sidisky, K.K. Stenerson, W.R. Betz, M.J. Keeler, J.Brown, and M.R. McCoy - Sigma-Aldrich/Supelco

The analysis of glycols such as propylene and ethylene glycol from water samples is traditionally done by direct aqueous injection into a gas chromatograph. Aqueous injections are problematic in GC analysis due to issues such as the large expansion volume of water in the inlet, increased carryover, and elevated detection limits. It would be advantageous to do glycol analysis from an organic solvent, however the highly hydrophilic nature of glycols does not allow for liquid/liquid extraction or solid phase extraction with reverse phase sorbents such as C-18. In this work, we have evaluated a unique carbon adsorbent, ENVI-Carb Plus, and found it to be able to retain glycols from water. Subsequent elution of the glycols from ENVI-Carb Plus with an organic solvent allowed for improved GC analysis over direct aqueous injection. The extraction method developed was found to be reproducible and quantitative, and was not affected by the presence of salt and hydrocarbon contamination. Poster Presentation - 11:00 AM - Wed Abstract # 110

   
Abstract # 111 Poster

Gulf Oil Spill Symposium "Detection and Identification of Dispersants (Corexit 9527 and Corexit 9500) by GC/MS and LC/MS/MS"
Kory Kelly, Sky Countryman, Ngoc Nguyen, Terrell Matthews - Phenomenex, Inc

To fight the largest oil spill in US history, nearly a million gallons of dispersant have been pumped into the Gulf of Mexico. Dispersants are plasticizers commonly used to prevent clumping and help dissipate oil slicks. Unfortunately, very little is known about their effects on humans, wildlife, or, the environment. In this work, we used GC/MS and LC/MS/MS to detect and indentify the two most widely used dispersants used to date (Corexit 9527 and Corexit 9500). We also evaluated Nony Phenol, a potential break down product of the dispersants. Gulf Oil Symposium Poster Presentation - 11:30 AM - Wed Abstract # 111

   
Abstract # 113 Poster

"ASTM D 3606 Analysis for Quantifing Benzene and Toluene in Finished Gasoline Made Simple"
Barry L. Burger,Jan Pijpelink - Restek Corp.

Demand for finished gasolines containing ethanol continues to increase, as these fuels reduce greenhouse gas emissions and can be used to help control air pollution. Ethanol is a cost-effective additive for production; however, its presence significantly complicates the analysis of benzene, a regulated carcinogen which is added to increase octane levels. Accurate benzene and toluene analysis is critical because incorrect data can result in inaccurate octane levels and out-of-specification product. Toluene analysis is straightforward, but benzene is extremely difficult to separate from ethanol on the 1,2,3-tris(2-cyanoethoxy) propane (TCEP) column listed in ASTM method D3606. A new D3606 column set developed by Restek separates benzene and ethanol completely and more reliably than TCEP columns, resulting in tighter control and more accurate results for refineries and contract laboratories. Poster Presentation - 11:40 AM - Wed Abstract # 113

   
Abstract # 114 Poster

Gulf Oil Spill Symposium "Detection of Environmental Contaminants Caused By The Oil Spill In The Gulf Of Mexico By GC/MS And HPLC"
Kory Kelly, Sky Countryman, Ngoc Nguyen, Terrell Matthews, Chris Fernandez, Matthew Trass - Phenomenex, Inc

The recent oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico is undeniably the largest oil leak in US history. The objective of this work was to provide analytical methods for analyzing the most common contaminants that originated from the leak. Quick SPE, GC/MS, or HPLC methods were developed for detecting Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs), Petroleum Hydrocarbons (PHCs), and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). PHCs fuel samples were separated into Gasoline Range Organics (GROs) and Diesel Range Organics (DROs). The VOCs testing determined the presence of benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylenes (BTEX). Quick analysis of diesel fuel and VOCs was also done. Gulf Oil Spill Symposium Poster Presentation - 1:00 PM - Wed Abstract # 114

   
Abstract # 116 Poster

"New Zebron ZB-1XT SimDist GC Column Provides 70% Higher Efficiencies, For Improved Results of Simulated Distillation Analysis"
Kory Kelly, Sky Countryman, Ngoc Nguyen, Chris Fernandez, Matthew Trass - Phenomenex, Inc

Simulated Distillation is common GC technique used to characterize petroleum fractions and products. Up until now, the limited choices in GC columns available may provide irreproducible results not only from column-to-column but from injection to injection. This work presents an innovative new metal GC column from Phenomenex that can greatly improve the data accuracy of simulated distillation studies. The Zebron ZB-1XT SimDist column utilizes the new Glass Infusion Technology that greatly increases the reproducibility of the analysis. The new product also provides up to 70 % higher efficiencies for sharper peaks and improved signal to noise for late eluting hydrocarbons. Poster Presentation - 1:20 PM - Wed Abstract # 116

   
Abstract # 120 Poster

"Development of a Logistically-Enabled Sampling System (LESS™) for the Collection of High Geographic Density or High Temporal Resolution Samples Using Multi-Bed Sorbent Tubes"
Kyle Hunt, Renee Williams, Matt Bartlett, Brian Schimmoller - Signature Science, LLC

This poster will cover the development of a new pumped/active air sampling system, present the latest verification data, and illustrate the utility of the system in several case studies. The highly-portable system is quickly and efficiently deployed to support single or networked monitoring locations; sampling activity is controlled from remote locations. The 28 sorbent tube manifold can collect hourly air samples, including duplicates and blanks, to characterize concentrations of a wide spectrum of chemical species. Sorbent-bed material selection is tailored to the project’s parameter list. Collection and replenishment of sampling media is via the sealed ‘plug-and-play’ manifold, which can be shipped directly to a laboratory for sample analysis. The system can be integrated with existing sensors and/or monitoring systems or customized to operate with a project specific set of sensors that control frequency or duration of sampling. For example, meteorological sensors or a PID for VOCs can either trigger sampling or provide continuous data to assist in the selection of samples for analysis. Poster Presentation - 1:00 PM - Wed Abstract # 120

   
Abstract # 121 Poster

"Fast Determination of Impurities in Propane-Propylene Streams Using a Pulsed Flame Photometric Detector (PFPD) and a New Capillary PLOT Column"
Laura Chambers, Gary Engelhart, Hank Hahn - OI Analytical

Determination of sulfur impurities in propane-propylene feedstock is important because they corrode equipment, poison catalysts, and affect polymer yield. Analysis of sulfur compounds is traditionally done by gas chromatography with sulfur-selective detection, however with a propane-propylene feed most available GC columns will not separate the impurities from the matrix, will irreversibly absorb H2S, or have poor peak shape. This poster will describe a turn-key solution for fast analysis of sulfur in propane-propylene feedstock using a Pulsed Flame Photometric Detector (PFPD) and a new capillary column designed to give baseline separation of the sulfur impurities from the propane-propylene matrix, provide good peak shape, and exhibit excellent response for H2S. Poster Presentation - 1:40 PM - Wed Abstract # 121

   
Abstract # 124 Poster

"NeSSI is an acronym for New Sampling/Sensor Initiative, Not a Monster"
Gordon McFarlane, Yves Gamache - Analytical Flow Products

The NeSSI programme was begun to simplify the tasks, and reduce the costs, associated with engineering, installing and maintaining chemical process analytical systems. The specific objectives of NeSSI are to increase process analytical system reliability through the use of increased automation, shrink the physical size by means of miniaturization. Two years ago we introduced a totally re-engineered Diaphragm Valve with patented features never before seen. This year we are introducing this robust valve on the NeSSI platform. The innovations we brought to the lab, are now available to the process industry – virtually “plug & play” - with all the benefits. Poster Presentation - 1:30 PM - Wed Abstract # 124

   
Abstract # 127 Poster

"Streamlined Method for Quantitation of Bisphenol-A in Saliva using Liquid Chromatography – Tandem Mass Spectrometry"
Aaron A. Morgan; Samuel H. Yang; Benjamin J. Figard; Kevin A. Schug - University of Texas at Arlington

Common plastic additives such as bisphenol-A (BPA) have been shown to be endocrine disruptors. These compounds are frequently found in consumer products. Exposure via food or other products is a source of public concern. A method was developed to measure the levels of BPA in whole saliva by high performance liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS). BPA-containing saliva was prepared through a novel bulk derivatization procedure. Detection limits as low as 2.9 pg were achieved utilizing internal standards. A saliva sample was taken after eating canned food and analyzed for the presence of BPA using the established method. Poster Presentation - 10:00 AM - Wed Abstract # 127

   
Abstract # 140 Poster

"Use of GC×GC/TOF-MS in the Analysis of Petroleum Hydrocarbons: Advantages of Library-Searchable ToF Mass Spectra Combined with High Chromatographic Resolution"
Kurt Thaxton(1), Nicola Watson(2), Nick Bukowski(1) - (1) ALMSCO International (2) Markes International

The analysis of petroleum hydrocarbons by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) has been considered routine for many years. However, many of the thousands of hydrocarbons in petroleum are still unresolved by GC-MS. GCxGC-MS using a time of flight (TOF) mass spectrometer can improve this resolution such that thousands more hydrocarbons can be separated but identification of many of these separated compounds requires acquisition of mass spectra with clear molecular and fragment ions over a wide carbon number range (e.g C10-40 or higher). In the present study we used a Zoex GCxGC modulator coupled to an ALMSCO BenchTOF-dx time-of-flight MS to optimise chromatographic conditions for the separation of a large range of hydrocarbons in petroleum including hopane biomarkers with molecular weights up to 482. The mass range of the mass spectrometer and design of the GCxGC-ToF-MS instrument may allow this range to be extended further, with the promise of opening up new analytical windows in petroleum chemistry. Poster Presentation - 1:40 PM - Wed Abstract # 140

   
Abstract # 151 Poster

"Introduction of a New Fast Scanning, Highly Sensitive Single Quadrupole GCMS: A Platform for Modern Chromatography Techniques"
C. Mark Taylor, Richard R. Whitney, S. Michael McCown - Shimadzu Scientific Instruments

The modern gas chromatography techniques of Fast-GC and comprehensive GC X GC offer the analyst a variety of desirable advantages over conventional gas chromatography. Fast-GC utilizes extremely narrow bore capillary columns which allow the analyst to drastically shorten analysis times while maintaining resolution. Comprehensive GC x GC offers the user a much greater ability to resolve complex mixtures into individual components. These techniques are powerful but at the same time very demanding in terms of instrument performance. The very narrow peak widths (100 to 600 milliseconds) generated by these techniques require fast data acquisition rates for full characterization. Publications agree that at least 10 data points across a chromatographic peak are necessary for reliable quantification. Due to the relatively slow scan speed limitations of current quadrupole mass spectrometers, the modern techniques mentioned above have been feasible only with GC detectors or by TOFMS. A quadrupole GCMS system, capable of scanning 20,000amu/sec and 100Hz has been developed that meets the data acquisition requirements of the comprehensive GCxGCMS and Fast-GC techniques. In this study, complex natural product extracts will be analyzed that demonstrate the utility of this new GCMS. Poster Presentation - 10:40 AM - Wed Abstract # 151

   
Abstract # 181 Poster

"A Quick and Sensitive Method for the Analysis of Fatty Acids Present in a Biodiesel Sample Using UHPLC/MS"
Hayley Crowe, Sharanya Reddy, Ali Kettani, Silverio Iacono - Perkin Elmer Inc.

Due to the depletion of fossil fuels, biodiesel fuel is gaining more importance and becoming an appealing alternative. Since biodiesel is produced from plant oils and animal fats, fatty acids are a primary component of the fuel. The amount of fatty acids affects the efficiency of the esterification process. Additionally, complete transesterification of the fatty acids is necessary for the fuel to be usable. Presence of fatty acids in biodiesel that have not been transesterified can cause engine degradation and produce hazardous emissions. Here we present a method that is fast and sensitive for monitoring of individual fatty acids in a biodiesel sample using ultra high pressure liquid chromatography (UHPLC) and a single quadrupole mass spectrometer (MS). Other lipid species found in the oils such as triglycerides and phospholipids can also be monitored using this method without esterification and minimal sample preparation. Quick and sensitive analysis of fatty acids in biodiesel using UHPLC/MS followed by an intuitive and easy to use data analysis software package provides a powerful and robust method for monitoring biodiesel quality. Poster Presentation - 1:50 PM - Wed Abstract # 181