Exclusively from GERSTEL

The GERSTEL Headspace ChemSensor System (HS/GC/MS) is offered exclusively from GERSTEL. Currently it is only sold in the United States, Canada, and Western Europe. Analysis methods are developed together with the client to assure that their specific needs are met.

For more information concerning sales and systems, contact:

• In the U.S. and Canada – GERSTEL Inc.: sales@gerstelus.com
• In Europe – GERSTEL GmbH & Co KG: chemsensor@gerstel.de

In addition, the detailed report of the signals registered during olfactory detection at the sniff port also includes important parameters such as retention time (RT) and retention index (RI) as well as NIST library search results for compound identification. The audio file with descriptors is stored for later evaluation, as needed. If changes to the initial impression have been realized, the text comments can be edited. Regarding the MS data, results from database searched can be aligned with Retention indices (RIs) calculated by the ODI Software.

To evaluate olfactory information and determine the identity of a critical or key odor active compound or compounds that result in an olfactory impression, the Olfactory Data Interpreter (ODI) provides the analyst with several helpful software features and functions.

Cumulative Olfactogram presentation

When a sample is evaluated in multiple dilutions using Olfactory GC (GC-O), the resulting olfactograms are conveniently combined and presented in cumulated form: The ODI software adds the respective odor intensities and displays the cumulative value. Substances that are still above the odor threshold in the highest dilution will be represented with the highest values in the cumulative olfactogram. The cumulative olfactogram function is a simple yet efficient tool that instantly provides the odor analyst with reliable information as to which compounds belong to the group of more potent odor active compounds that influence the flavor or odor impression even at very low concentrations.

Aroma Extract Dilution Analysis (AEDA)

The ODI Software enables efficient evaluation of classical Aroma Extract Dilution Analysis (AEDA) with defined dilution factor (Flavor Dilution, FD). The ODI software performs all calculations and determines the FD value, which is a measure of the intensity of an odor active compound within a mixture. The software transfers the established value to a ready to print report. The AEDA report provides the sensory analyst a tool for simpler and more efficient evaluation of panel data.

Sensory Panel Analysis

If a sample undergoes olfactory evaluation by a sensory panel, the resulting data will show how many panel members perceive a given impression or compound. This information can be very helpful as a supplement to GC-O data or to correct GC-O data, as well as for further analysis and aroma identification. Manually generated reporting can be both cumbersome and labor intensive, requiring a lot of time. The Olfactory Data Interpreter helps to perform the panel analysis evaluation by mouse-click and delivers the detection frequency of each compound without delay.

MS Library Search

The ODI Software integrates numerous functions relating to extraction, clean-up and interpretation of mass spectra. Spectral recognition is performed using existing libraries; various data formats can be used. The GERSTEL Application Laboratories recommend the NIST-AMDIS software, which is coupled directly to the ODI Software enabling efficient and convenient compound identification and spectral deconvolution of co-eluting compounds.

Multivariate Data Analysis

In order to perform rapid classification of a large number of samples based on olfactory data, the ODI Software is offered with a Multivariate Data Analysis option based on Principal Component Analysis (PCA). The software helps to quickly and efficiently solve odor riddles and identify unknown compounds found in GC/O analysis. When it comes to GC/O data handling and data processing, the GERSTEL ODI offers the tolerance range and flexibility required in order to efficiently navigate the uncertainties of olfactory analysis and to reach not just an answer, but the correct answer.

Flexibility and traceability

MAESTRO provides full flexibility by allowing an ongoing analysis sequence to be modified to incorporate priority samples while keeping track of all steps in the process from sample prep to sample introduction and beyond.

• Priority samples can be added to the system at any point in the standard analysis sequence
• LOG file and Service LOG file functions provide traceability and make trouble-shooting easier
• Automated E-mail notification in case the system is halted enables prompt intervention to ensure that your samples are analyzed as planned

On-line Help Function

MAESTRO has a built-in, context sensitive on-line help function to simplify and speed up the operation and improve the overall productivity.

• Interactive On-line Help Function
• Context sensitive help for fast answers
• Easy-to-understand explanation of each function
• Simple and comprehensive training tool for new users
• Provides recommendations for parameter settings
• Maintenance Function

MAESTRO has a built-in maintenance function, simplifying maintenance planning and improving the overall operation. If the maintenance function is activated, the software will remind you to change ferrules or to perform other specified regular maintenance tasks whenever a user-defined number of injections has been reached (maintenance counter).

LVI Calculator

MAESTRO speeds up optimization of your LVI analysis by calculating the best injection parameters based on the injection liner used, the solvent boiling point and injection volume.

The GERSTEL MultiPurpose Sampler (MPS) is a fully automated sample preparation and sample introduction robot for GC (GC/MS) and LC (LC/MS). Sample preparation is performed in a controlled, highly accurate and reproducible manner for best possible results.

The sequence editor has intelligent fill-down functions that let you generate new sequences extremely easily and quickly. Very little effort is required to create the sequence table that runs your daily samples. Priority samples can be added to the system at any point in the analysis sequence.

When integrated into Agilent Technologies’ ChemStation one sequence table and one method runs the entire system including GC/MS or LC/MS

MAESTRO Scheduler

The MAESTRO Scheduler provides an at-a-glance graphical overview of all sample preparation steps, the GC/MS or LC/MS analysis times and the total analysis time for the entire batch of samples.

Based on the scheduler overview, sample preparation and analysis times are easily optimized for highest throughput.

When the method is changed, the effect on productivity is immediately seen on the display, the sequence is checked for errors before the run to ensure that all samples are analyzed as planned.

MAESTRO: Easy and convenient operation

During the software development of MAESTRO one main objective was a convenient and user-friendly handling.

• The sequence is checked for errors before the run to ensure that all samples are analyzed as planned
• The effects of parameter or method changes are visualized directly
• Interactive on-line help with parameter specific input assistence for fast method development
• Sample preparation steps are conveniently and easily selected a from drop down menu – without macro programming

Context sensitive help

Help for the topic at hand is always at your fingertips in the MAESTRO software. Activate the help function for a single field of interest with a mouse-click or press the help button to display the on-line user manual with extensive help on the software screen in question.

Additionally, whenever the mouse cursor is placed over a parameter field, a short explanation showing the valid range for that parameter pops up to make it as easy as possible to generate the method.

The MPS Liquid is controlled by the proven GERSTEL MAESTRO Software in the simplest and most productive manner: By mouseclick. MAESTRO offers a maximum of flexibility without losing any of the simplicity of intuitive control: Priority samples can be added to the running sequence at any point; and sample preparation steps are added with the ease and flexibility of a truly intuitive graphical user interface using MAESTRO Preplets. The built-in context sensitive help functions make generating and setting up methods and sequences a breeze, you never have to wait for an answer or to search through manuals. Equally out of range entries are not accepted, giving you the assurance thatmethods and sequence are fully operational.

MPS Liquid for LC/MS analysis

The MPS liquid autosmapler is compatible with all standard LC- and LC/MS systems. In addition to autosampler vials of all sizes, the MPS liquid can be configured to operation with microwell- and deepwell plates. When tray stacks are configured, the capacity can be increased to more than 1000 samples.

MPS Liquid for GC (GC/MS) analysis

MPS Liquid is compatible with all GC- and GC/MS systems and all standard GC inlets. For liquid sample introduction, the MPS Liquid offers:

• Fast injection for discrimination free analyte introduction over a wide boiling range using split/splitless inlets
• Sandwich injection
• Large Volume Injection (LVI)

MPS Liquid Performance

MPS Liquid is a new member of the MPS family:

• Dedicated liquid autosampler for GC/MS and LC/MS
• Fast, reliable high precision tehcnology from the new MPS Robotic series

Proven MAESTRO Software Control

• Unified control of MPS Liquid and GERSTEL modules
• Simple and reliable method generation and set up with intuitive user interface and interactiec on-screen help
• Fully integrated operation with Agilent Technologies chromatography data systems (CDS), using one method and one sequence table to operate the entire system
• Integrated sequence table with other leading CDSs
• Independently controlled stand-alone operation

Productive, flexible Autosampler

• Priority samples can be inserted into the running seuqnce without stopping the analysis or halting the sequence
• Modular system, easily adapted to future requirements by adding accessories
• Operates with al standard autosampler vials as well as micro- and deepwell Plates
• Barcode lable reader for accurate sample ID
• Reliable results thanks to optimized discrimination-free fast split/splitless injection

Liquid Sample Preparation

• Simple addition of sample preparation steps using the intuitive MAESTRO Software
• Identical treatment of all samples with perfect timing. Analyte derivatization or addition of standard can be performed immediately prior to sample introduction for each sample

Optimized Tray Design

• High sample capacity with up to 156 vials per tray holder
• High Capacity: Up to three 96 well plates per tray holder
• Flexible use of different vial sizes with up to three different trays types in every tray holder

Small Foot Print On The Laboratory Bench

• No extra bench space required, the MPS liquid mounts completely on top of the GC/MS system
• When mounting on an LC/MS system, the MPS Liquid can in many cases be installed across the mass spectrometer

Reliable Operation

• Highest reliability provides minimal downtime. The maintenance counter makes it easy to schedule replacement of consumables
• Full traceability of system operation history through log files
• Email alert in case of problems, enabling laboratory personnel to take corrective action and deliver results on time
• MAESTRO methods can be set up in 21CFR/11 compliance.

Concentration is performed at user defined temperature, agitation and vacuum levels enabling highly flexible operation with mild temperature conditions and limited analyte loss. Concentration in the mVAP can be combined with a wide variety of sample preparation and clean-up techniques such as SPE, dispersive SPE (DPX), liquid/liquid extraction or filtration with the significant benefit of automated injection of the concentrated sample into a GC/MS or LC/MS system. Every step is controlled by mouse-click using the MAESTRO PrepBuilder. Just one method and one sequence table is needed for the entire process including GC/MS or LC/MS analysis.

mVAP Features and Benefits:

• Efficient concentration of extracts and solutions under controlled conditions
• Improved limits of detection
• Solvent exchange for GC/MS or LC/MS analysis

Concentration in combination with all sample preparation techniques

• SPE and dispersive SPE (DPX)
• Liquid-liquid extraction and membrane extraction (MASE)
• Centrifugation and Filtration

Maximum efficiency

• Concentration directly from elution/sample vials
• No need for cumbersome manual liquid transfer
• Automated loading of 2 mL, 4 mL and 10 mL vials into mVAP
• Parallel evaporative concentration of up to six samples
• Controlled evaporation through user defined temperature, vacuum and agitation levels
• Efficient PrepAhead overlapping of sample preparation and analysis
• Optimal utilization of the complete analysis system, best possible ROI

Intuitive control by mouse-click using MAESTRO Software

• Integrated control of complete process including all sample preparation steps and GC/MS or LC/MS analysis
• Only one sequence table required
• MAESTRO integration provides single method control
• Interfaces with major chromatography vendors’ software packages

Easily replaceable rotors for 2 mL, 4 mL, 10 mL, or 20 mL vials are available. In combination with centrifugation, the GERSTEL MPS performs sample preparation and sample introduction. The MAESTRO PrepAhead functionality ensures Just-In-Time sample preparation followed directly by sample introduction to the LC/MS or GC/MS for best possible productivity and throughput.

Enhanced Sample Preparation Possibilities

• Reliable and quick phase separation for liquid/liquid extraction (LLE)
• Accelerated sedimentation of particles and solids

High flexibility due to quick and easy rotor exchange

• 6 position rotor for 2 mL vials
• 6 position rotor for 4 mL or 10 mL vials
• 2 position rotor for 20 mL vials (force limited to 1500 g)

The GERSTEL MultiPurpose Sampler (MPS) cleans up to 196 samples in a single automated sequence using a wide range of standard syringe filters. Filtration is performed in a simple and highly efficient manner as integral part of the automated sample preparation, for example combined with sample preparation steps such as dilution, derivatization, addition of standards and of course introduction of the cleaned and prepared sample to the LC/MS- or GC/MS system.

MAESTRO software operates all GERSTEL modules and system solutions in a simple, intuitive and efficient manner. All steps in the sample preparation method are set up by mouse-click. Sample preparation and analysis are performed in parallel thanks to the MAESTRO PrepAhead function for best possible productivity and system utilization.

Benefits of the MPS Filter Option

• Filtration performed as part of the overall automated sample preparation process
• Time saving through elimination of tedious and error-prone manual steps
• Laboratory staff is less exposed to potentially toxic solvents, improved work environment
• Rugged operation, reliable and reproducible results, identical treatment of all samples
• High sample throughput and best possible utilization of the analysis system through PrepAhead productivity: Filtration is performed during the ongoing analysis of the preceding sample

All common syringe filter types can be used

• Best possible results: For every application, the right filter type can be used
• Manual methods can be transferred directly and automated

Flexible operation, easily adapting to changing requirement

• One or more 98-position trays for 4 mm syringe filters can be mounted onto the MPS, enabling high throughput operation overnight and during the weekend – even when analysis runs are short
• The 12-position MPS Filtration Tray enables automated filtration using different size syringe filters for maximum flexibility since any suitable standard syringe filter type can be used
• Filtration can be performed using open or sealed vials as per the user requirements

Filtration and GC/MS sample introduction

• Reliable results without risk of injection needle blockage
• Longer life expectancy of inlet liner and GC column since particulate matter is not introduced into the analysis system
• Cost savings through a reduction in maintenance work and improved system up-time

Filtration and LC/MS sample introduction

• Reliable results through protection of the LC column
• Cost savings due to longer column life expectancy, a reduction in maintenance work and improved system up-time
• Optimized system utilization using fast filtration to prepare the next sample during the ongoing LC/MS analysis

GERSTEL DHSLarge Autosampler

The DHSLarge Autosampler enables unattended analysis of up to 11 samples in containers of up to 1L in volume. Series of samples can be analyzed using the PrepAhead function: Sample conditioning and analyte extraction are performed in parallel with GC/MS analysis for best possible productivity and system utilization. Automated screening with the DHSLarge can eliminate tedious, time consuming, and expensive chamber work. Other application areas are determination of volatiles in bulky consumer products or packaging, from which small representative samples cannot easily be taken.

Adsorbent tubes used are stnadard GERSTEL Thermal Desorption Unit (TDU) tubes when using the standard DHS option or 3.5″ tubes when using DHS 3.5+ combined with the GERSTEL TD 3.5+ thermal desorber. Following analyte concentration, the tube is automatically transferred to the TDU or TD 3.5+ for Thermal Desorption and analyte transfer to the GC. Tubes are fitted with individual adapters enabling both automated movement and leak-free sealing during the Dynamic Headspace and Thermal Desorption steps and during storage in the autosampler tray.

Automated Dynamic Headspace combined with sample introduction to a GC or GC/MS system is performed by the MPS and TDU or TD 3.5+. More than 120 samples can be processed automatically in one sequence.

Dynamic Headspace Benefits:

• The GERSTEL Dynamic Headspace provides lower detection limits than static headspace, SPME and other widely used techniques
• High productivity through high throughput design and complete automation from sample preparation to GC/MS analysis
• Highest flexibility: User defined extraction time, flow, temperature and adsorbent
• The Dynamic Headspace technology provides multiple water management options to ensure best chromatography and MS stability

DHS – Powered By MAESTRO, DHS is easily and conveniently controlled from the GERSTEL MAESTRO Software.

Parallel processing of samples enable the DHS process to be performed during the chromatographic run of the preceding sample for optimal productivity and for highest system utilization.

Automated liquid handling in the MPS can be used for additional sample prep steps. As part of the sample prep procedure, standard addition can be performed automatically for best possible analytical results.

Sample prep steps are selected by mouse-click from a pull-down menu using the PrepBuilder function of the GERSTEL MAESTRO software.

A graphical scheduler display for the DHS process provides an overview of the time required for each individual step and for the complete sequence of samples for easier planning.

Just one method and one sequence table controls the complete process from DHS through sample prep and sample introduction to GC/MS analysis. Integrated control ensures a more efficient operation with less risk of error. The GERSTEL MAESTRO Software operates stand-alone or fully integrated with the Agilent Technologies ChemStation Software.

The DHS station provides sample thermostating and agitation combine with purging of the sample headspace with a controlled flow of inert gas. Extracted compounds are trapped and concentrated on a replaceable adsorbent-filled trap, which is subsequently thermally desorbed in the integrated Thermal Desorption Unit (TDU) followed by determination of the analytes using GC/MS. While in the GERSTEL MPS autosampler, samples are stored in standard headspace vials at ambient temperature. Optionally, samples can be stored at controlled temperatures between 4oC to 200oC.

During extraction, samples can be agitated to enhance and speed up the extraction process. The temperature of the adsorbent tube during the DHS process can be independently controlled from 20oC to 70oC for optimal trapping of the analytes of interest. The adsorbent tube can be dry purged for water removal to ensure the best possible chromatography and MS stability. A new adsorbent tube can be used for every sample, eliminating the risk of cross contamination or the same tube can be used for multiple samples as in standard Purge and Trap instruments.

The Disposable Pipette Extraction (DPX) technique was developed by Professor William E. Brewer, Ph. D. from the University of Southern Carolina. Professor Brewer is the Owner-President of DPX Labs. The DPX technique has been automated by GERSTEL using the MultiPurpose Sampler (MPS).

Automated Disposable Pipette Extraction (DPX) offers:

• Fast Extraction: Equilibration and elution occur in seconds
• Low detection limits: Less than 250 µL liquid sample like blood or urine required to reach very low detection limits when combined with large volume injection
• Excellent reproducibility and accuracy
• Complete automation including added sample preparation steps and GC/MS or LC/MS analysis

DPX for LC (LC/MS) and GC (GC/MS). DPX coupled to your chromatographic system.

DPX methods are readily automated using the GERSTEL MPS, which can introduce the extract into a GC/MS or LC/MS system. Additional sample preparation steps can be performed, including derivatization or adding an internal standard. The analyst only needs to place the samples in the MPS autosampler and activate the sequence table from the MAESTRO software. Everything else is performed automatically including GC/MS and LC/MS analysis.

Automated DPX solution for GC and GC/MS

• For coupling DPX to a GC (GC/MS) system the DualRail variant of the MultiPurpose Sampler is needed, thus enabling to use two diferent syringes, one for the DPX process, another one for GC (GC/MS) introduction. Lowest detection limits and highest throughput can be obtained when using large volume injection with the GERSTEL Cooled Injection System (CIS). In this case no additional concentration step is needed.

Automated DPX solution for LC and LC/MS

• For coupling DPX to an LC (LC/MS) system a two tower variant of the MultiPurpose Sampler (MPS) is used enabling to use one syringe for the DPX process and one for LC (LC/MS) introduction.

GERSTEL MAESTRO PrepAhead provides automated overlapping of sample preparation and analysis for highest throughput and system utilization.