Author: advioninc

Analysis of the active components of the cannabis sativa plant is required both for law enforcement where these compounds are illegal and also as a tool for product control and optimization in the increasing number of legal markets for cannabis plant products. Whenever simple, unequivocal and legally defensible  analysis methods for the detection and quantification of plant  metabolites are required, mass spectrometry is the detector of  choice.

Sudan Dyes are synthesized azo-dyes which are widely used to generate color in plastics, leather, fabrics, oil, waxes, etc. They are classified as Group 3 carcinogens by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and are banned as food additives worldwide. However, in some countries these dyes are still occasionally used in order to intensify the color in products. In this note, a TLC/CMS method using expression compact mass spectrometer (CMS) coupled with the Plate ExpressTM Interface (Advion, Ithaca, NY) is introduced for the detection of 7 Sudan dyes in a chili matrix. The primary advantage of TLC/CMS analysis is the ability to sample directly from the TLC plate without further sample preparation after the TLC separation is done. Molecular weight information of sample components can be determined by the mass spectra from the eluted TLC spots.

With over 20 years of mass spectrometry and chemistry expertise, Advion has produced a family of compact mass spectrometers designed for the chemist. The affordability, small size and ease of use make them ideal for use directly at the chemist’s bench, giving immediate answers and informed decisions instead of waiting.

This is an expanded application note with more data regarding direct sample analysis of THC in suspected contraband and on skin. Direct sample analysis is possible via an Atmospheric Solids Analysis Probe (ASAP®) combined with atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI) on a compact mass spectrometer (CMS). This technique allows for the rapid investigation (<30 sec) of material suspected of containing THC/cannabinoids.

The ability to effectively screen passengers with minimal personal contact is critical. Ion mobility detectors used at many airports can be inaccurate and provide many false-positives and false-negatives. Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT) screening techniques are very useful for detecting concealed weapons and explosive devices located on passengers and/or in their belongings, however are unable to detect trace amounts of explosive residues.

Direct sample analysis is possible via an Atmospheric Solids Analysis Probe (ASAP®) combined with atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI) on a compact mass spectrometer (CMS). This technique allows for the rapid investigation (<30 sec) of material suspected of containing THC/cannabinoids.

Reinaldo Almeida, Zane Berzina, Eva C. Arnspang, Jan Baumgart, Johannes Vogt, Robert Nitsch, and Christer S. Ejsing

Here we describe a novel surface sampling technique termed pressurized liquid extraction surface analysis (PLESA), which in combination with a dedicated high resolution shotgun lipidomics routine enables both quantification and in-depth structural characterization of molecular lipid species extracted directly from tissue sections.

Chemists are tasked with quickly identifying compounds created, ensuring quality of products or evaluating safety. Current techniques are adequate, but not all offer speed, data quality or ease-of-use provided by the expression Compact Mass Spectrometer (CMS). The expression CMS with the direct analysis probe (ASAP®) offers chemists the ability to rapidly analyze solids, liquids and powders without tedious and time consuming sample preparation.

Surface analysis techniques have gained significant attention over the last couple of years with LESA being an interesting alternative to techniques such as SIMS or MALDI imaging. A new application note demonstrates practical applications for LESA in the material sciences.

See examples for the determination of amino acids on a combined HPLC compact mass spectrometry (LC/CMS) system for the rapid detection and quantification of amino acids utilizing a novel mixed mode LC column.