CEFAS25-136 Gas Chromatography Tandem Triple Quadrupole Mass Spectrometer System

The Chemistry Function at the Cefas Lowestoft Laboratory requires a gas chromatography system with a triple quadrupole mass detector (GC-QqQ-MS) to replace an aging instrument. The system will support monitoring and R&D projects assessing the chemical status of the marine environment. It must analyse trace levels of small compounds (<1000 Da), including polychlorinated biphenyls PCBs, organochlorine pesticides, and brominated flame retardants in liquid extracts, and enable method development for emerging contaminants. Ex-demonstration instruments under two years old may be proposed at a reduced price. Where an ex-demonstration instrument is proposed, this must be clearly declared in the supplier's quotation.

This purchase is being conducted under the LUPC Framework Agreement: The Supply of Mass Spectrometry and Chromatography Equipment (LAB 1029 AP), Lot 3 - Gas Chromatographs with Mass Spectrometers.

Scope of requirement:

1. Technical Requirement

The requirement is for a fully automated, bench-top GC-QqQ-MS system capable of high-throughput analysis with robust performance for a wide range of sample matrices. The system must deliver high sensitivity, low detection limits, and excellent long-term stability, supporting both routine and research applications. The objective is to enhance analytical capacity, improve data quality, and ensure compliance with relevant standards (e.g., ISO 17025). Application notes that demonstrate this type of performance should be provided.

The system must consist of the following parts:

1.1 Automated sample introduction systems consisted of:

• an autosampler for liquid sample extracts able to inject from small volume sample extracts (i.e. from 50 µL or less) equipped with a sample tray for at least 80 sample vials (2 ml, 12x32mm).

1.2 Gas Chromatograph (GC) must:

• have internal gas flows managed via electronic pressure control,
• have at least a split/splitless injection system, and optionally a PTV injector,
• be capable of "fast" chromatography using short (sub 20m length), narrow columns (sub 0.18 mm i.d),
• have oven temperatures ranging from ambient to at least 350°C,
• have an independently heated transfer line to the detector

1.3 Triple quadrupole mass selective detector (QqQ-MS). With the following characteristics at a minimum:

• Ionisation modes: EI and CI (positive and negative).
• Usable mass rang: ≥20-1000 Da.
• Q1 Mass Resolution: <1 Da.
• Inert ion source (temperature range to at least 350°C).
• Customisable internal calibration and mass tuning.
• Easy source removal for cleaning.
• Dual filament for EI.
• Automated and manual MS tuning.
• High-capacity pumping system.
• A statement of scan rate (u/s), MRM/SRM speed (in transition/sec), minimum MRM/SRM dwell time is to be provided.
• A statement of typical instrument detection limits, linearity, accuracy and precision.