Application
Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS)
Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) is a widely used analytical method. It combines gas chromatography, which separates compounds, with mass spectrometry, for molecular identification.
In the GC column, a carrier gas moves compounds through a stationary phase, allowing them to separate by retention time. Each compound’s retention time helps identify it before ionization. Following separation, the mass spectrometer analyzes compounds by their mass-to-charge ratio using an ion source and mass analyzer to generate a detailed mass spectrum.
High-resolution mass spectral analysis supports a wide range of applications, including contaminant screening, residual solvent testing and fragrance compound identification. By delivering precise and reliable data, GC-MS provides the confidence required for accurate decision-making across a broad range of industries, including pharmaceuticals, environmental monitoring, food safety, and research and development.
How Hamilton supports your GC-MS Workflows
Hamilton enhances GC-MS workflows with precision tools for both automated and manual sample prep and injection. For high-throughput labs, systems like the Microlab STAR and specialized workstations (MassStar, Dual MassStar, MassXtract) automate key steps such as dilution, reagent addition, and handling of temperature-sensitive samples.
For lower-throughput or manual workflows, the Microlab Diluter-Dispenser ensures reproducible prep while reducing exposure to hazardous chemicals - ideal for standards, serial dilutions, and derivatization. Hamilton glass syringes offer unmatched precision and durability for manual injections and autosampler use. Complementing these, Hamilton low-bleed GC septa - crafted from preconditioned PTFE or silicone - support repeated injections and deliver cleaner spectra.
Explore our GC-MS Solutions and Applications in Detail
Choose an outcome below to see personalized product recommendations.
Lab Syringes
Gastight Syringes
The solution for dispensing both gases and heterogeneous liquids. Hamilton Gastight syringes are equipped with a precision-machined PTFE plunger tip to create a leak-free seal.
Lab Syringes
Microliter Syringes
Hamilton Microliter syringes are ideal for dispensing homogeneous liquid samples not prone to glass bonding or precipitation. With a hand-fitted stainless steel plunger for frictionless movement and minimal wear, these syringes are designed to last.
TLC Syringes
TLC Cemented Needle Syringes
The needles on Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) syringes are coated from the point for 3/4” with a PTFE-coating. The coating reduces the surface tension between the needle and the liquid making it ideal for reproducible sample spotting.
Microliter Syringes
7000 Series Microliter Syringes
The 7000 series syringes are considered modified Microliter syringes for their unique design. This series of syringes is ideal for dispensing volumes from 0.05 μL up to 5 μL. The 7000 series is the only zero dead volume syringe.
Gastight Syringes
1800 Series Gastight Syringes
Hamilton Company has made a reinforced line of their Gastight, low-volume syringes, the 1800 series. The reinforced plunger keeps the you from bending the plunger.
GC Manual Injection
SampleLock Syringes
The Hamilton Gastight SampleLock syringes allow you to collect, store, transport and analyze liquid or gaseous samples. An easy-to-use twist valve and a positive rear stop on SampleLock prevents loss of sample and plunger blowout.
Septa for Gas Chromatography
Three Layer GC Septa
Three Layer Septa is made of preconditioned silicone rubber and is 3.81 mm (0.150 in) thick. The average life of these rubber septa is up to 100 injections with a 26s gauge needle. The maximum operating temperature is 200° C.
Septa for Gas Chromatography
High Temperature GC Septa
High Temperature Septa is made of preconditioned PTFE/silicone rubber and is 3.175 mm (0.125 in) thick. The average life of these septa is up to 100 injections with a 26s gauge needle. The maximum operating temperature is 212° C.
Septa for Gas Chromatography
Long Life GC Septa
Long Life GC Septa are non-stick and provide reliable seals under carrier gas pressure in the inlet. All Long Life septa are available with a unique pre-pierced center depression to guide the syringe needle to the same injection point, extending septa life, reducing needle bending, and eliminating the common type of coring that occurs on the first injection.
Septa for Gas Chromatography
Low Bleed High Temperature GC Septa
Low Bleed High Temperature Septa have a non-stick surface with a center guide recess except for 9.5mm and 10 mm. They are formulated for the lowest bleed possible at temperatures up to 400 °C, except 330 °C for the 17 mm size. They are optimized for the most demanding GC and GC-MS applications.
The Hamilton Microlab Prep is an affordable liquid handler perfect for automating workflows. This entry-level liquid handler supports automated PCR setup and serial dilution.
The Hamilton Microlab STAR is a reliable and versatile automated liquid handling platform. With advanced features like multi-probe heads, pipetting technologies, and VENUS software, this premier liquid handling system fits your laboratory needs. Revolutionize your workflows with the STAR today!
Hamilton VANTAGE 2.0 is a cutting-edge liquid handling system with automated precision. Optimize workflows with the VANTAGE robot, all while boosting performance, safeguarding samples, and maximizing walk-away time. Discover the Hamilton VANTAGE liquid handler for your current & future needs.
Diluter Dispensers
Microlab 600 Diluters
Quickly perform accurate and repeatable dilutions independent of viscosity, vapor pressure, or temperature.
Diluter Dispensers
Microlab 600 Dispensers
Dispense a single solution or two solutions independently. Pipette, serial dispense, titrate, or aliquot with confidence.
Good to Know About GC-MS Workflows
This section provides a selection of additional resources related to the application described on this page. It includes helpful articles, videos, and blogs that offer deeper insights into the topic.
Useful Links
External resources not written by Hamilton but valuable for understanding the topic, such as industry guidelines, explanatory videos, or relevant tools.
| GC-MS Principle, Instrument and Analyses and GC-MS/MS- Technology Networks | Access Article |
| Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry: Principle, Instrumentation, Advantages, and 10 Reliable Applications - Chemist Notes | Visit Website |
Scientific Articles
Peer-reviewed journal publications that feature Hamilton products, demonstrating their use in real-world research and application
| Das, A. J., Khawas, P., Miyaji, T., & Deka, S. C. (2014). HPLC and GC-MS analyses of organic acids, carbohydrates, amino acids and volatile aromatic compounds in some varieties of rice beer from northeast India. Journal of the Institute of Brewing, 120(3), 244-252. doi:10.1002/jib.134 | Read Article |
Hamilton Products in Action
A collection of videos showcasing Hamilton products in use, providing practical insights into their functionality and benefits.
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Solutions for the Top 3 Challenges for GC-MS Workflows
Ensuring Sample Purity in Residual Solvent Testing
Challenge: Contaminants and carryover can distort mass spectra, reducing the reliability of residual solvent testing and compromising regulatory compliance.
Solution: Hamilton high-precision chromatography syringes and automated sample introduction systems minimize carryover, ensuring clean and repeatable injections. These tools support robust GC-MS analysis by protecting sample integrity, enhancing solvent detection, and delivering reliable, high-quality results for solvent testing and drug product workflows.
Achieving High Sensitivity in Fragrance Compound Detection
Challenge: Accurate detection of the compounds in fragrances requires precise control of GC-MS instruments, including ion source stability, carrier gas flow, and injection volume.
Solution: Hamilton chromatography syringes deliver consistent, ultra-low-volume injections essential for high-sensitivity workflows. Paired with tightly controlled carrier gas flow and stable ion source operation, our solutions enable accurate, high-sensitivity detection of trace fragrance compounds. This precision supports consistent GC-MS performance and reliable quantification, even for low-abundance aromatic molecules.
Managing Analytical Complexity in Mixed Sample Types
Challenge: Analyzing complex mixtures of known and unknown substances presents challenges in retention time resolution, stationary phase selection, and mass spectrum interpretation.
Solution: Hamilton’s broad portfolio of manual and autosampler syringes is compatible with a wide range of GC columns and injection systems. These solutions facilitate accurate and consistent sample introduction, allowing laboratories to confidently analyze complex compounds and generate reliable GC-MS analysis across a wide range of applications.
Integrating Hamilton’s advanced sample handling tools into your GC-MS workflow enables cleaner chromatographic results, improved sensitivity, and increased confidence when tackling even the most complex analytical challenges.
What are the Disadvantages of GC-MS?
Although GC-MS is a powerful analytical tool, it does have limitations. It is primarily suited for volatile and semi-volatile compounds, meaning non-volatile substances require additional sample preparation or derivatization. Complex matrices can cause stationary phase overload in the GC column, reducing separation efficiency.
Maintaining a stable carrier gas flow and a clean ion source is essential to ensure accuracy. Additionally, instrument maintenance can be costly, and even minimal contamination may distort mass spectra, impacting data quality across applications.
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