Comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography-mass spectrometry: Recent evolution and current trends

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Separation Science

Background:

• A previous review in 2008 summarized comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC×GC-MS).
• Significant advancements have since occurred in mass spectrometry (MS) technology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the evolution and current trends of GC×GC-MS since 2008.
• To examine the integration of novel MS instruments with GC×GC.
• To contextualize GC×GC within the broader field of separation science.

Main Methods:

• Review of literature published after 2008 focusing on GC×GC-MS.
• Analysis of advancements in various mass spectrometry detectors (single quadrupole, triple quadrupole, isotope ratio, time-of-flight, hybrid).
• Discussion of the coupling of these MS technologies with GC×GC systems.

Main Results:

• Considerable evolution in MS technology has surpassed developments in GC×GC itself.
• New MS instruments, including various quadrupole and time-of-flight configurations, have been successfully coupled with GC×GC.
• GC×GC coupled with advanced MS provides powerful capabilities for complex mixture analysis.

Conclusions:

• The combination of GC×GC with advanced MS represents a significant progression in separation science.
• Continued innovation in MS technology will further enhance the utility of GC×GC.
• GC×GC-MS is a powerful and evolving analytical technique for detailed chemical analysis.