At the Analytical Chemistry group of TROPOS, we operate two complementary state-of-the-art laboratories designed to provide comprehensive insights into the chemical composition of atmospheric and environmental samples. Our infrastructure combines advanced separation techniques with high-resolution detection systems, enabling both targeted and non-targeted analyses across a wide range of compounds.
Liquid Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (LC–MS) Laboratory
Our LC–MS laboratory is dedicated to the analysis of organic compounds, including emerging contaminants, transformation products, and complex mixtures found in atmospheric particles, aqueous samples, and environmental matrices.
The platform integrates high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS), and is equipped with a versatile and powerful instrumentation portfolio, including:
- One Orbitrap LC–MS system (Exploris 240) for ultra-high-resolution and accurate mass measurements
- One hybrid LC/IC–MS system (Exploris 120), enabling the analysis of both organic compounds and highly polar species such as carboxylic acids
- One Agilent 6546 QTOF system coupled to an Infinity II HPLC, providing high-resolution mass spectrometry with fast acquisition and excellent MS/MS capabilities
- One Q Exactive Plus Orbitrap system operated online and directly connected to the atmospheric simulation chamber for real-time measurements
These systems allow for:
- Sensitive and selective quantification of trace-level pollutants
- Structural elucidation of unknown compounds through accurate mass measurements and fragmentation patterns
- Non-target and suspect screening workflows for comprehensive chemical profiling
- Online and time-resolved analysis of atmospheric processes under controlled simulation conditions
The LC–MS laboratory is routinely used for the analysis of a broad range of compound classes, including biogenic secondary organic aerosols (BSOAs), phenols, amino acids, nitro-aromatic compounds (NACs), per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), and plastic-derived chemicals, among others.
In addition, continuous method development is a core activity of the laboratory. We actively expand our analytical capabilities to include new and emerging compounds, adapting workflows and refining techniques to address evolving research questions in atmospheric and environmental chemistry.
This laboratory plays a central role in research on organic aerosols, plastic-derived chemicals, and anthropogenic pollutants, supporting both routine analysis and method development for novel compounds.
Ion Chromatography (IC) Laboratory
The IC laboratory focuses on the determination of inorganic ions and small polar species in environmental and atmospheric samples. The laboratory is equipped with:
- Two ion chromatography systems dedicated to the analysis of major anions and cations
- One IC system specifically configured for carbohydrate analysis
These systems are particularly suited for the analysis of:
- Major inorganic ions (e.g., sulfate, nitrate, ammonium)
- Organic acids and other highly polar compounds
- Carbohydrates and water-soluble organic fractions of particulate matter
Coupled with advanced detection techniques, including conductivity and mass spectrometry, the IC systems provide high sensitivity and robustness for both routine monitoring and research applications.
This platform is essential for understanding atmospheric processes such as secondary aerosol formation, cloud chemistry, and long-range transport of pollutants.
Complementarity and Integrated Workflows
Together, the LC–MS and IC laboratories enable a holistic characterization of environmental samples, covering a broad chemical space from inorganic ions to complex organic molecules. By combining these techniques, we can better understand sources, transformation processes, and environmental impacts of atmospheric constituents.
Our analytical capabilities support interdisciplinary research within TROPOS and collaborative projects at national and international levels.