Comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography-mass spectrometry: a review

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Chromatography
• Mass Spectrometry

Background:

• Comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography (GC x GC) provides enhanced separation capacity for complex mixtures.
• GC x GC subjects the entire sample to two distinct analytical separations, surpassing classical multidimensional chromatography.
• Combining GC x GC with mass spectrometry (GC x GC-MS) creates a powerful tool for volatile and semi-volatile analytes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the history and development of comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC x GC-MS).
• To discuss the principles, practical aspects, and significant advancements in GC x GC-MS.
• To highlight applications across various research fields and evaluate mass spectrometry systems used.

Main Methods:

• Review of literature focusing on GC x GC-MS experiments and applications since the late 1990s.
• Analysis of methodologies employing time-of-flight and quadrupole mass analyzers in GC x GC-MS.
• Discussion of theoretical and practical aspects of GC x GC separation principles.

Main Results:

• GC x GC-MS has evolved significantly since its inception, becoming a widely studied and applied technique.
• Time-of-flight and quadrupole mass analyzers are predominantly used in GC x GC-MS applications.
• The review details specific experimental findings and compares the advantages and disadvantages of different MS systems.

Conclusions:

• GC x GC-MS is a highly effective technique for analyzing complex mixtures of volatile and semi-volatile compounds.
• Continued development and application of GC x GC-MS promise further advancements in analytical chemistry.
• The integration of GC x GC with mass spectrometry offers superior analytical power for challenging samples.