LC-MS/MS Analysis – Liquid Chromatography and Tandem Mass Spectrometry

BJL Laboratoires provides LC-MS/MS analysis (liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry) for the detection and quantification of organic compounds, including at low concentrations.

BJL Laboratoires uses this highly selective analytical technique for PFAS testing, as well as for targeted chemical analysis and analytical method development.

What Is LC-MS/MS?

LC-MS/MS stands for Liquid Chromatography–Tandem Mass Spectrometry and combines two complementary techniques:

• Liquid chromatography, which separates the different compounds present in a sample;
• Tandem mass spectrometry, which selectively detects and quantifies the target compounds.

The technique is particularly suitable for compounds that cannot readily be analysed by gas chromatography, as well as for detecting substances present at low concentrations in complex matrices.

Why Use LC-MS/MS?

Tandem mass spectrometry offers high selectivity by monitoring transitions characteristic of the target compounds.

Its applications include:

• quantification of substances at low concentrations;
• simultaneous analysis of multiple compounds;
• improved selectivity in complex matrices;
• reduction of certain analytical interferences;
• development of multi-residue methods;
• targeted quantification of organic compounds.

PFAS Analysis by LC-MS/MS

One of the main applications of LC-MS/MS at BJL Laboratoires is the detection and quantification of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

These substances may be present at very low concentrations and require analytical methods with suitable selectivity and sensitivity.

BJL Laboratoires provides PFAS testing in various types of water, including:

• water intended for human consumption;
• raw water;
• groundwater;
• surface water;
• process water;
• industrial effluents;
• aqueous discharges.

Which Compounds Can Be Analysed by LC-MS/MS?

LC-MS/MS can be used to analyse many families of organic compounds, provided a suitable method is available for the substance and matrix concerned.

Feasibility depends on factors including:

• the compound’s physicochemical properties;
• the matrix;
• the target concentration;
• interferences present in the sample;
• the required sample preparation;
• the availability of analytical standards.

BJL Laboratoires assesses specific requests on a case-by-case basis.

Custom LC-MS/MS Analysis

Not every request corresponds to an analytical method already available in a testing catalogue.

When an industrial business, consultancy or laboratory needs to investigate a particular substance, BJL Laboratoires can carry out an LC-MS/MS feasibility assessment.

To support this assessment, please provide:

• the compound name;
• its CAS number, if available;
• the sample matrix;
• the approximate expected concentration;
• the required limit of quantification;
• the number of samples;
• the background to the request.

Learn more about our custom chemical analysis services

LC-MS/MS Method Development

When a suitable method is not readily available, an analytical method development phase may be necessary.

This may include:

• selection of chromatographic conditions;
• selection of precursor ions;
• identification and optimisation of MS/MS transitions;
• optimisation of instrumental parameters;
• selection of sample preparation procedures;
• assessment of matrix effects;
• selection of internal standards where necessary;
• definition of the calibration range;
• evaluation of method performance.

A more comprehensive assessment of method performance can then be carried out according to the client’s objectives.

Analytical method development and adaptation

Sample Preparation before LC-MS/MS

The performance of LC-MS/MS analysis depends strongly on sample preparation.

Depending on the matrix and target compounds, preparation may involve:

• dilution;
• filtration;
• extraction;
• clean-up;
• concentration;
• addition of internal standards;
• adjustment of pH or sample solution composition.

Preparation must provide adequate analyte recovery while limiting interferences that could affect chromatographic separation or mass spectrometric detection.

Matrix Effects in LC-MS/MS

Matrix effects are an important consideration in mass spectrometric analysis.

Some compounds present in the sample can alter the target analyte’s response during ionisation. This may cause signal suppression or enhancement.

Depending on the method, these effects can be managed through:

• appropriate sample preparation;
• dilution;
• use of internal standards;
• matrix-matched calibration;
• suitable quality controls.

Limit of Detection and Limit of Quantification

Two parameters are frequently associated with LC-MS/MS analysis:

• LOD – limit of detection: the level at which the presence of a compound can be detected;
• LOQ – limit of quantification: the level at which a compound can be quantified with the performance specified for the method.

These limits are not universal. They depend on factors including the target compound, matrix, sample preparation and analytical method.

If your application requires a particular LOQ, please specify it when submitting your enquiry.

Quantitative Analysis by LC-MS/MS

For quantitative analysis, concentrations are determined using calibration solutions containing known concentrations of the target compound.

Depending on the method, internal standards may be used to correct for certain variations arising during sample preparation or instrumental measurement.

Analytical performance is monitored using the quality controls defined for the relevant method.

Who Uses Our LC-MS/MS Services?

BJL Laboratoires works with:

• industrial businesses;
• environmental consultancies;
• local authorities;
• water network and treatment plant operators;
• laboratories requiring subcontract analytical services;
• quality and R&D departments;
• companies investigating contamination.

Subcontract LC-MS/MS Analysis

A laboratory or company without LC-MS/MS capabilities can outsource certain analyses to BJL Laboratoires, subject to feasibility.

Requests may concern:

• a method already available at BJL;
• a one-off requirement;
• a series of samples;
• analytical method development;
• a feasibility study;
• ongoing subcontract testing.

LC-MS/MS or GC-MS: Which Technique Should You Choose?

The choice between LC-MS/MS and GC-MS depends primarily on the properties of the target compounds.

LC-MS/MS is particularly suitable for many polar, low-volatility or thermally sensitive compounds that can be separated by liquid chromatography.

GC-MS is generally better suited to substances that are sufficiently volatile and thermally stable, or that can be made compatible with gas chromatography.

For some investigations, several techniques provide complementary information. The laboratory determines the strategy according to the target substance and matrix.

Explore our GC-MS analysis services

LC-MS/MS and HPLC: What Is the Difference?

HPLC separates the different components of a sample. Depending on the detector used, quantification may rely on the compound’s optical or physicochemical properties.

In LC-MS/MS, chromatographic separation is coupled with tandem mass spectrometry, providing additional selectivity based on the mass-to-charge characteristics of the analyte ions and their fragments.

This is particularly useful for multi-compound analysis and measurements at low concentrations.

LC-MS/MS Testing for Samples from Across France

BJL Laboratoires is based in Sèvres, in the Hauts-de-Seine department, near Paris.

Samples suitable for transport can be sent to the laboratory from anywhere in France.

Before sending samples for a specific analysis, please confirm the following with the laboratory:

• analytical feasibility;
• the required sample quantity;
• packaging;
• storage and preservation conditions;
• the target concentration range;
• the applicable turnaround time.

Accreditation and LC-MS/MS Analysis

BJL Laboratoires is a Cofrac-accredited laboratory.

However, accreditation applies to specific combinations of methods, matrices and parameters. An analysis performed using LC-MS/MS equipment is therefore not automatically covered by accreditation.

The accreditation status of the requested service can be clarified during the assessment of your enquiry.

Frequently Asked Questions about LC-MS/MS Analysis

Related Services

• PFAS testing
• PFAS testing in water
• Custom chemical analysis
• Analytical method development
• Analytical expertise and consultancy