Robustness of Dioxin Analysis in Challenging Matrices like Fish Oil and Fly Ash

Key Learning Points:
- Learn how single GC column solution can improve resolution for robust analysis of dioxins
- Learn to overcome challenges for tough matrix like fish oil and fly ash for dioxin analysis
- Tips and tricks for optimization of GC dioxin separation
Dioxin separation is challenging due to the presence of structurally similar analytes, co-elutions and other interfering compounds. Furthermore, a tough sample matrix often adds complexity to the analysis. There is a necessity to achieve high chromatographic resolution of dioxins and furans in order to meet separation criteria, irrespective of mass spectrometric approach.
Presented in this study is an evaluation of robustness and selectivity of a Phenomenex gas chromatography (GC) column Zebron™ ZB-Dioxin. Fish oil samples were spiked with dioxin and furan compounds and analyzed by GC-MS/MS to evaluate the column robustness across 100 injections. Soil and ash extracts were analyzed by GC-HRMS to evaluate column robustness and selectivity across 30 injections.
The results of the study showed consistent chromatographic resolution of dioxins/furans co-elutions and minimal retention time shift of all analytes, demonstrating the robustness and selectivity of the GC stationary phase to challenging matrix components.
Presenter: Kjell Hope (Technical Research Chemist at Pacific Rim Laboratories)
Presenter: Ramkumar Dhandapani, PhD (Global Product Manager at Phenomenex)
