Today, many laboratories face the challenge of accurately analyzing pesticides and polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) residues. In addition, the need for lower detection limits of these compounds forces labs to find ways to attain results in the pg/µL range. By combining a large volume splitless (LVSL) injection and a single quadrupole GC/MS system operated in full scan mode, low-level samples can be analyzed with very little preparation time.

A large-volume splitless (LVSL) injection technique that exploits a unique injection port design is discussed in this application note. This technique virtually eliminates problems typically associated with large solvent volumes. By combining LVSL injection with a full scan GC/MS system, low-level concentrations of contaminants in food can easily be analyzed with very little sample preparation time.

Pesticide and PCB analysis was easily accomplished using the LVSL technique. This technique simplifies sample preparation by minimizing evaporation and concentration techniques. The system modifications that enable the use of the LVSL technique are easily reversible, which provides flexibility when this technique is used in conjunction with standard split/splitless injections.