Consumer Goods VOC Emissions

SIFT-MS facilitates real-time, thorough evaluation of volatile compound emissions from materials.  High-sensitivity, broad-spectrum analysis readily detects impurities in materials and coatings that could impact product safety and/or consumer perception.

This study demonstrates the ease with which construction materials can be evaluated for their formaldehyde adsorption efficacy, by utilizing direct analysis with selected ion flow tube mass spectrometry (SIFT-MS). With this approach, merino wool is shown to be extremely effective in adsorbing formaldehyde from air.

SIFT-MS provides rapid and comprehensive analysis of landfill gas, making it ideally suited to the complete range of environmental and industrial applications.

This webcast focuses on case studies that demonstrate simple analysis of chromatographically challenging compounds. Formaldehyde receives special attention, as it is important across a wide range of industries (from environmental to pharmaceutical testing).

This webinar describes a recent addition to the portfolio of techniques available for routine sample analysis: SIFT-MS. SIFT-MS enables rapid, quantitative analysis of VOCs across the full spectrum of packaging materials.  Detailed case studies will describe applications in polymeric and paperboard emissions analysis.

Learn about direct mass spectrometry by SIFT-MS which provides real-time, quantitative analysis of volatile compounds with trace-level sensitivity.  There are also no requirements of chromatography, pre-concentration, or sample prep!  SIFT-MS is easy to use and interpret data. 

SH-SIFT-MS provides an instrument-based odor rating technique for the analysis of diverse odor compounds – such as short-chain organic acids, aldehydes and reduced sulfur compounds. Throughput of at least 12 samples per hour can be achieved using this method.

In this webinar, we demonstrate the advantages of using automated SIFT-MS to analyze volatiles in diverse matrices: from air samples to the headspace of polymers, soil and water samples. Formaldehyde and the BTEX compounds (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and the xylenes) will be utilized in various case studies. In addition, high-throughput thermal desorption-SIFT-MS and real-time thermal extraction-SIFT-MS are presented for the first time.

This Syft App Talk describes how the SIFT-MS technique makes determination of formaldehyde adsorption by materials, such as wool, rapid and simple. 

In this presentation, examples of real-time thermal extraction and analysis of various plastic materials using TD-SIFT-MS are demonstrated, and its application to product development and processing environments are discussed. Direct, continuous analysis of formaldehyde from polyoxymethylene (POM) is of particular significance.

In this sixth and final episode, Dr Perkins reflects on the automation journey and shares his practical "hot tips" for a wide variety of automated analyses.  The webinar (and series!) concludes with a discussion of how automated SIFT-MS is an excellent complementary technique to the conventional laboratory "workhorse" techniques: gas and liquid chromatography.

In this fifth episode, Dr Perkins describes the novel continuous headspace analysis (CHA) technique that he developed to measure stripping of volatiles. (Note: CHA is not to be confused with dynamic headspace analysis!).  In addition, Mark describes simple, very high-throughput gas sample bag analysis and touches on other recent developments – including thermal desorption-SIFT-MS.

In this fourth episode, Dr Perkins describes how simply and rapidly traditional instrument calibration is achieved with the automated SIFT-MS configuration. Traditional calibration approaches have not featured regularly in the SIFT-MS literature due to the widespread use of reliable library-based quantitation. However, calibration is essential for contract testing laboratories, so it is addressed in detail and from a number of different angles in this webinar.

In this third episode, Dr Perkins describes the application of SIFT-MS to multiple headspace extraction (MHE).  You will learn how to determine matrix-independent concentrations from MHE. Furthermore, Dr Perkins describes how the speed of SIFT-MS analysis can be leveraged to accelerate method development for both SIFT-MS and conventional methods – for example, through rapid determination of headspace equilibration times.

In this second episode, Dr Perkins provides a practical guide to automated static headspace (SH) analysis with SIFT-MS.  You will learn how SH-SIFT-MS can address throughput challenges and simplify analysis of chromatographically challenging species.

In this first episode, Dr Perkins answers the important question:

Why Automate Analysis?

This webinar introduces the benefits of automation and discusses how they can be applied to SIFT-MS, enabling straightforward adoption by the contract laboratory.

Headspace-SIFT-MS can screen over 220 samples per day for volatile MOSH and MOAH compounds – nearly seven-fold more samples than the routine liquid and gas chromatography method.

We asked Mike McGinley, President, St. Croix Sensory, Inc. about his experience using SIFT-MS.  Hear what he had to say about the speed of analysis and flexibility inherent to Syft's product solutions.

SIFT-MS provides rapid, sensitive, and robust analysis of benzene and other contaminants in a wide array of commercial products. Integration with a headspace autosampler enables rapid screening of hundreds of samples per day.

We asked David Light, CEO and Founder of Valisure, about his experience using SIFT-MS and how it impacted their dry shampoo safety study.  

Automated headspace-SIFT-MS analysis can classify pelleted recycled HDPE at throughputs over 230 samples per day, offering great potential for rapid screening of recycled packaging materials.

Automated SIFT-MS analysis rapidly screens paperboard packaging for a wide range of functional groups in a single analysis, assuring that the volatile emissions meet manufacturer specifications.  This application note describes a Headspace-SIFT-MS method with throughput >10X faster than traditional GC/MS methods.

MHE-SIFT-MS provides rapid, matrix-independent, quantitative determination of volatile leachables in polymers and calibrates quantitative analysis based on single headspace injections.  This approach enables over 200 samples per day to be analyzed, delivering rapid and economic analysis of volatile leachables such as residual monomers.

This app note introduces the next generation of SIFT-MS, Syft Tracer^TM, which launched at Pittcon 2023.  It revolutionizes volatile impurities analysis workflows through unparalleled speed, performance stability, and reproducibility.  Learn about how this innovation to real-time trace gas detection outpaces chromatography-based methods in the analysis of challenging analytes such as formaldehyde in a PEG excipient.

SIFT-MS has been widely applied to quantitative analysis of a broad range of VOCs in applications from food products to workplace safety to environmental monitoring, and most recently to pharmaceutical testing. This review surveys the applications of SIFT-MS in odor analysis and in workplace, environmental and consumer protection, with a particular focus on the complementarity of this real-time mass spectrometry analyzer to sensor technology and conventional laboratory techniques—in particular, gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC/MS).

Join us for this webinar to learn about Syft Tracer, the latest advancement of real-time, trace gas analysis by SIFT-MS which launched at Pittcon 2023. Hear how the recent product innovations unlock analytical bottlenecks and enable faster decisions to be made in critical process steps.

This application brief summarizes a scenario relevant to contract research organization (CRO) and contract drug manufacturing organization (CDMO) laboratories where multiple volatile impurity methods need to be conducted in short runs. Five analyses are considered that can be handled by one Syft Tracer but require multiple legacy, chromatography instruments. For these analyses, SIFT-MS reports the first quantitative results 2- to 12-fold faster, and has sample throughputs 3- to 17-fold higher than the conventional procedures.

In this application note, the performance of SIFT-MS is evaluated for analysis of odors from diverse sources at a modern wastewater treatment plant (WWTP). SIFT-MS provides comprehensive, quantitative profiling of odor sources and can identify operational abnormalities.  In particular, the results presented demonstrate that methyl mercaptan is almost always a more significant odorant at this WWTP than hydrogen sulfide and confirm that the relative abundances of these odorants vary significantly.

The characteristic flexibility, stability, high throughput, and fast time to data of the Syft Tracer next-gen SIFT-MS instrument apply across multiple headspace approaches for diverse matrices. This application note briefly summarizes the use of (1) dissolution, (2) multiple headspace extraction (MHE), and (3) the method of standard additions, then provides a guide for identifying the appropriate headspace approach for various matrices.

This webinar demonstrates how the new, automated Syft Tracer^TM SIFT-MS platform provides a comprehensive solution to workflow challenges and can replace multiple chromatographic systems.  Learn about how combining SIFT-MS with automation provides a very flexible and high throughput solution for screening volatile impurities in pharmaceutical and consumer safety applications, revolutionizing workflows.

This application note demonstrates that SIFT-MS effectively classifies paper samples by odor intensity rating and odor descriptor, in addition to distinguishing paper composition and mill of origin. When integrated with autosamplers, SIFT-MS provides throughputs of over 220 samples per day, supporting significantly enhanced quality assurance compared to conventional human sensory panels and gas chromatography-based analyses.

This E-book describes how next gen SIFT-MS enables rapid, continuous screening of toxic volatile impurities in pharmaceutical and consumer products. This advancement to SIFT-MS delivers trace-level detection sensitivity, unparalleled performance stability, superior selectivity, and highly reproducible, quantitative data. Never miss a contamination event again. 

In this on-demand webinar, Michael McGinley, President, St. Croix Sensory, describes how SIFT-MS has advanced their ability to rapidly perform odor analysis. A variety of SIFT-MS-based odor applications correlated with conventional sensory panel assessment are presented.  Learn how Syft is Simply. Faster. for the analysis of odor compounds.

This application note investigates concentration dependence of MHE calibration in sample matrix.  Across the full range of analytes investigated in this study, MHE calibration holds for at least one order of magnitude change in sample concentration.  For analytes in the C7–C9 range, the MHE calibration applies over two orders of magnitude analyte concentration. These results mean that the MHE workflow can be applied to a wider range of samples in the matrix, further reducing calibration demand.

This application note describes how SIFT-MS coupled with multivariate statistical analysis can be utilized for rapid screening of pelleted virgin and recycled polypropylene using an untargeted “fingerprinting” approach. Automated headspace-SIFT-MS analysis can classify and qualify polypropylene samples at throughputs of over 230 samples per day, offering great potential for rapid screening of recycled polypropylene feedstock for FCM applications. Adoption of SIFT-MS supports product quality and enhances sustainability.

In this article, the results of a DIMS air monitoring campaign in Auckland, New Zealand, are described. Real-time SIFT–MS measurements were obtained at three sites over a period of several weeks each. At each site, SIFT–MS provided effective on-site analysis to sub-ppbV levels with better than 1-min time resolution.

This application note describes the utility of SIFT-MS in pre-screening polymer packaging materials for volatile MOSH and MOAH compounds.  Automated SIFT-MS can characterize 12 high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and polypropylene (PP) samples per hour, or 220 / day.  Headspace-SIFT-MS readily analyzes benzene at high sensitivity as part of the same analysis.

This application note summarizes key SIFT-MS results obtained and conclusions made in a peer reviewed open-access article entitled “Unreported VOC Emissions from Road Transport Including from Electric Vehicles.”  Learn how the Wolfson Atmospheric Chemistry Laboratory at the University of York used SIFT-MS for VOC analysis in its platform to experimentally verify – for the first time – that motor vehicle screen wash is a significant unreported source of VOC emissions (especially for ethanol and methanol). 

This application note reviews polymer analysis applications of automated headspace-SIFT-MS. Rapid quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) screening of over 220 samples/day can be conducted using targeted or untargeted analysis, while quantitative volatile impurity analysis is achieved efficiently using multiple headspace extraction (MHE)-SIFT-MS. 

This application note summarizes the SIFT-MS results obtained in a study of exposure to VOCs from 26 retail sunscreen products – both VOCs intended as ingredients and those present as contaminants. The commercial products varied widely in VOC content and hence user exposure. Several products contained benzene contamination that was readily quantified using dynamic headspace-SIFT-MS analysis.

This webinar features David Light of Valisure and includes case studies that demonstrate how SIFT-MS provides faster and more accurate analysis of volatile impurities in consumer products.  Learn how benzene has been detected in commercial products like dry shampoo and sunscreens.  

Read the application note, "High Throughput SIFT-MS Quantitative Analysis of Beer Using the Method of Standard Additions," to learn how automated headspace-SIFT-MS quantitatively analyzes VOCs in beer with throughput of 12 samples / hr and time to first result that is >2X faster than chromatographic methods. 

This publication reviews VOC pollutant monitoring applications of SIFT-MS in South Korea.  SIFT-MS has been applied to emission source characterization, fenceline monitoring, ambient monitoring, pollution mapping, and incident response (including the use of drone-based sampling) for hazardous air pollutants (HAPs), odor nuisance species, and compounds that have high ozone formation potential (OFP) and/or contribute to secondary aerosol (SOA) formation.

A rapid analysis method is needed to ensure food safety by high-throughput screening for ethylene oxide contamination. SIFT-MS is a suitable method for rapid quantification of trace amounts of EtO vapors in the headspace of food samples.  This study shows experimental data that reveals how the OH− reagent ion is suitable for overcoming product ion overlap and interferences observed with other reagent ions in this analysis. 

This video describes the bleed air study led by AeroParts in Oct 2023 to understand the differences in VOC ozone converter performance.   VOC ozone converters have the potential for preventing airplane cabin smoke odor fume events.  Learn how SIFT-MS enabled this important study by providing real-time VOC analysis of simulated engine bleed air.

This presentation from Dr. Leslie Silva at Pittcon 2024 describes preliminary work that demonstrates the ability of SIFT-MS to analyze volatile PFAS compounds in real-time.  The use of negative reagent ions gives SIFT-MS a distinct selectivity advantage over competing technologies and legacy chromatographic methods.

In this presentation from Analytica 2024, Marino Beenhakker and Dr. David Muller describe environmental and consumer product applications of next-gen SIFT-MS including ambient air monitoring in New Zealand and PFAS measurement in consumer goods. 

Syft Explorer is a comprehensive solution for making real-time mass spec measurements anywhere on-site.  It includes next-gen SIFT-MS, onboard clean dry air, and automatic power management bundled in a mobile format.  Never miss a contamination event again!

We asked Geraint Morgan, Research Fellow at The Open University, about his experience using SIFT-MS.  He discusses how his Syft Tracer has opened up new ways of looking at samples that are difficult to analyze by traditional methods such as formaldehyde and other aldehydes. 

Method detection limits (MDLs) have been determined for the newly regulated HON (Hazardous Organic NESHAP (National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants)) compounds, which validate selected ion flow tube mass spectrometry (SIFT-MS) as an effective solution for measuring these toxic volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other environmental pollutants in ambient air, whether at the fenceline or in a mobile setting. SIFT-MS offers unparalleled speed, sensitivity and ease of use for environmental monitoring applications.

This app note describes how SIFT-MS was used to measure short-lived odor species given off by a blooming titan arum flower during the spring of 2024. Seven odorous VOCs were identified from full-scan data taken from within the blooming flower and compared with air surrounding the flower from three days prior to bloom. Results suggest that dimethyl disulfide is responsible for the constant mild stink that the flower gives off, while the other VOCs that were elevated only when in bloom are responsible for the rotting flesh characteristic commonly described with this type of flower.

This technical note explores advancements in utilizing alternative solvents for SIFT-MS, emphasizing updates from 2024. It introduces three new solvents—acetonitrile, N,N'-dimethylpropyleneurea (DMPU), and propylene glycol (PG)—and highlights the enhanced sensitivity and applications of existing solvents like triacetin. The findings demonstrate significant benefits in analyzing diverse volatile organic compounds (VOCs) while addressing challenges in method development, such as solvent-specific carryover and partitioning behaviors.

This application note highlights the innovative use of SIFT-MS for real-time mapping of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in industrial complexes. Learn how mobile laboratories enable on-the-move spatial data acquisition, improving response times to pollution incidents and enhancing environmental and public health monitoring.

This application note showcases an innovative approach used in South Korea, where fenceline monitoring and mobile laboratories equipped with SIFT-MS enable rapid, on-site analysis of volatile pollutants. Learn how this powerful combination delivers precise, real-time data to trace emissions back to their sources with unmatched efficiency.

This technical note, the first in a three-part series, explores automation options for SIFT-MS. It reviews key considerations for integrating automation with SIFT-MS, covering headspace sampling, thermal desorption, and multiport inlet systems. By enabling high-throughput, unattended operation, automation enhances efficiency and scalability in volatile compound analysis.

This technical note details an optimized gas-phase calibration workflow for automated SIFT-MS. It highlights the benefits of automation in streamlining calibration procedures, reducing hazardous solvent use, and improving efficiency in volatile organic compound (VOC) analysis. The document outlines a step-by-step approach for single- and two-step dilution methods, instrument configurations, and data processing techniques. By minimizing reliance on costly third-party calibration standards, this method enhances sustainability and operational cost-effectiveness.

This app note explores real-time monitoring of ozone photochemical precursors, including VOCs and nitrogen dioxide (NO₂). Unlike traditional air quality monitoring methods, SIFT-MS enables rapid, continuous analysis with high sensitivity. Integrated with SyftEnviro software, this technology streamlines data collection, visualization, and interpretation, providing a powerful tool for environmental monitoring, air quality management, and regulatory compliance.

This technical note explores automated analytical approaches using SIFT-MS. Building on Part 1, it covers applications such as static headspace analysis (SHA), multiple headspace extraction (MHE), the method of standard additions (MoSA), and continuous headspace analysis (CHA). Additional techniques include thermal desorption, solid-phase microextraction, and gas sampling bags, offering rapid and robust analysis of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Ideal for laboratories seeking efficient workflows, SIFT-MS automation enhances throughput and accuracy across diverse sample types.

This technical note highlights the significant workflow advantages of automating SIFT-MS. By comparing SIFT-MS with conventional GC methods, it demonstrates how faster analysis times, reduced calibration demands, and simplified processes enhance productivity. The document explores the economic and operational benefits across various applications, including headspace analysis, multiple headspace extraction (MHE), and method of standard additions (MoSA). Ideal for laboratories seeking improved throughput and streamlined operations, this guide showcases the efficiency gains achievable with automated SIFT-MS systems.

This technical note explores the latest advancements in miniaturization and energy efficiency, highlighting how smaller electronic components contribute to a greener future. Learn how innovative design strategies reduce material usage, improve performance, and lower environmental impact. Perfect for engineers and sustainability advocates looking to optimize technology for a more sustainable world.

This application note showcases SIFT-MS for mobile monitoring of odor pollutants using SyftEnviro software for simple, reliable data collection. Aligning with China’s T/ACEF 156 – 2024 guidelines, it bridges the gap between objective chemical analysis and human odor perception for better odor impact assessment and regulatory compliance.