High-Sensitivity Trace Detection Using Industry-Leading GC-MS Technology
At Leeder Analytical, Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) underpins a wide range of our trace organic compound analyses.
Using state-of-the-art Agilent systems, our NATA-accredited laboratory delivers reliable, high-resolution mass spectral data to support research, quality assurance, regulatory compliance, and forensic investigations.
What Is GC-MS?
Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) is a hybrid analytical technique that couples compound separation with molecular identification.
- Gas Chromatography (GC) separates volatile compounds based on their physical and chemical properties
- Mass Spectrometry (MS) identifies compounds by analysing their mass-to-charge ratios and fragmentation patterns
The result is a powerful tool for identifying and quantifying trace-level compounds across diverse matrices with exceptional sensitivity and specificity.
What We Use GC-MS For
GC-MS is central to many of our laboratory workflows. It is particularly valuable for:
- Trace-level compound identification
- Screening of unknowns and impurities
- Confirmation of target analytes in complex samples
- Support for regulatory and method-driven analysis
Rather than focus on a specific compound class, GC-MS enables flexible, method-driven detection suitable for environmental, pharmaceutical, biological, and industrial samples.
For compound-specific capabilities, see our VOC & SVOC Analysis.
Our GC-MS Instrumentation
Our laboratory is equipped with advanced GC-MS systems from leading manufacturers, configured for both general screening and method-specific workflows.
| Agilent Single Quadrupole GC-MS | Thermo Single Quadrupole GC-MS | Markes Thermal Desorption GC-MS | Agilent Triple Quadrupole GC-MS |
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Specialised for air analysis and volatile compounds:
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For confirmatory workflows:
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Key Capabilities
Trace Sensitivity: Detect compounds at ppt-ppb levels depending on matrix
Reproducible Quantification: Excellent linearity across wide concentration ranges
Reliable Identification: Robust spectral matching with NIST and Wiley libraries plus expert interpretation
Adaptability: Supports both screening and targeted detection workflows
Method Development and Quality Assurance
All GC-MS workflows are developed and validated under NATA-accredited conditions. Our approach includes:
- Custom sample preparation (headspace, solvent extraction, thermal desorption)
- Multi-point calibration curves with quality control checks
- Internal standards and surrogate recovery tracking
- NIST and Wiley spectral library matching
- Batch-based system suitability and performance verification
We tailor method parameters to your sample type, matrix complexity, and regulatory requirements.
How We Use GC-MS Across Our Work
GC-MS stands as a core component of many analyses we perform. At Leeder Analytical, we use it to support a wide range of compound-specific methods and industry applications.
| Air Quality Testing | Biological Sample Analysis | Surfactant Analysis | Gas Composition Testing |
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| Using our Markes Thermal Desorption GC-MS system for workplace air monitoring, environmental air quality assessment and ultra-sensitive VOC detection without solvent interference. | GC-MS applied to biological matrices such as blood, urine, and tissue for ultra-trace detection of contaminants, metabolites, and toxic compounds. | Characterisation and quantification of surfactants, formulation residues, and degradation by-products in industrial, cosmetic, and environmental samples. | High-resolution GC-MS for detailed impurity profiling, gas stream characterisation, and compositional analysis of petroleum products, industrial emissions, and fuel samples. |
When to Use GC-MS
GC-MS is ideal for:
- Projects requiring volatile or semi-volatile compound detection
- Situations where unknown identification is required
- Supporting EPA, TGA, or ICH-compliant workflows
- Quantifying trace-level analytes in complex or sensitive matrices
What You’ll Receive
Each analysis includes:
- Detailed analytical report with clear results presentation
- Method parameters and performance criteria
- Quality control data
- Interpretation of findings
- Regulatory compliance assessment (where applicable)
- Recommendations for follow-up testing if needed
Contact Our Team
Need help determining whether GC-MS is the right technique for your project?
Contact us today to discuss sample requirements, detection limits, and method suitability.
Phone: +613 9481 4167
Email: enquiries@leeder-analytical.com
