www.restek.com


Safety Solutions

- Established expertise. We put our decades of experience in food safety analysis to work for you.
- Best-in-class Restek chromatography products—GC and LC columns and consumables, certified reference materials, and sample preparation products.
- We’re chemists too. We understand you need accurate results fast, and we are committed to finding solutions that work for you.

At Restek, we understand the fast-paced nature of food safety testing. As an analyst, you might be reporting pesticide residues in blueberries one day and analyzing veterinary drugs in meat the next. And no matter how complex the sample matrix is, shipments are waiting so you need to get accurate results the first time. That’s why Restek’s food safety chemists stay busy at the bench developing new chromatography products and optimizing the sample prep, GC, and LC methods that you depend on in order to deliver accurate results quickly and with confidence. Here are just a few of the areas we focus on to better assist food safety labs.
- Unique Rxi-PAH GC column separates 36 key PAHs in just 33 minutes, including all the EFSA PAH4 compounds.
- Best quality and selection of certified reference materials (CRMs) for food safety analysis. Manufactured and QC tested in our ISO-accredited laboratories.
- Full line of Q-sep QuEChERS products that make sample preparation fast and easy.
- Decades of chromatography experience with trace analysis of pesticides, PAHs, melamine, flame retardants, and more in complex sample matrices.
- Active collaboration with government and private labs. Strong supporter of food safety analysis conferences and organizations.
At Restek, we view you as a colleague and we are personally committed to your success. Working with customers like you on a daily basis allows us to learn about emerging trends, techniques, and market needs. Based on this experience, we work hard to develop the best chromatography solutions for challenging food safety analyses. Our goal is to help make your job easier by providing the chromatography products and resources you need to get the right results the first time.
Columns |
![]() Rxi-5ms Columns (fused silica)low-polarity phase; Crossbond diphenyl dimethyl polysiloxane
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![]() Rxi-624Sil MS Columns (fused silica)midpolarity Crossbond phase
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![]() Rxi-PAH Columns (fused silica)midpolarity proprietary phase
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![]() Rxi Guard/Retention Gap Columns (fused silica)
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![]() Rxi-5Sil MS Columns (fused silica)low-polarity phase; Crossbond 1,4-bis(dimethylsiloxy)phenylene dimethyl polysiloxane
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![]() Hydroguard-Treated MXT Guard/Retention Gap Columns/Transfer Lines (passivated stainless steel)
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![]() Ultra Aqueous C18 Columns (USP L1)Stationary Phase Category: modified C18 (L1) Ligand Type: proprietary polar modified and functionally bonded C18 Particle: 3 µm or 5 µm, spherical Pore Size: 100 Å Carbon Load: 15% End-Cap: no Surface Area: 300 m2/g pH Range: 2.5 to 8 Maximum Temperature: 80 °C |
![]() Raptor ARC-18 LC Columns (USP L1)
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![]() Raptor EXP Guard Column Cartridges
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![]() Allure Silica Columns (USP L3)Particle: 5 µm, spherical Highly retentive phase for normal phase separations. Very high surface area, Type B silica packing. Performing MOSH/MOAH analysis? Use cat.# 9160572 below. |
![]() Raptor FluoroPhenyl LC Columns (USP L43)
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![]() Rt-2560 Column (fused silica)highly polar phase; biscyanopropyl polysiloxane—not bonded
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![]() Rxi-17Sil MS Columns (fused silica)midpolarity Crossbond phase
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![]() Stabilwax Columns (fused silica)polar phase; Crossbond polyethylene glycol
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![]() Rxi-65TG Columns (fused silica)High-polarity Crossbond phase
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![]() Raptor Biphenyl LC Columns (USP L11)
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![]() Raptor HILIC-Si LC Columns (USP L3)
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![]() Allure Acrylamide LC Column
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![]() Allure Guard CartridgesParticle Size: 5 µm spherical For a detailed description of the stationary phase in this guard cartridge, see the product page for an analytical column with the same silica and stationary phase (e.g., Allure AK). |
![]() Trident LC Column Protection SystemRedesigned to be more rugged and easier to use!
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Reference Standards |
![]() QuEChERS Reference StandardsBrowse our comprehensive list of QuEChERS reference standards, including internal standards and mixes for AOAC QuEChERS methods.
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![]() Pesticide Standards for Food SafetyBrowse our complete offering of pesticide standards formulated specifically for food safety.
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![]() LC Multiresidue Pesticide Kit
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![]() GC Multiresidue Pesticide Kit
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![]() trans Fat Reference Standards
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![]() Steroids and Mixed Pharmaceuticals Mix (10 components)U.S. DEA-exempted formulation—no additional customer permits or licensing are required to purchase within the U.S. |
![]() USP Residual Solvent Standards
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![]() FAPAS Series 9 OP Pesticide Mix 1 (10 components)
Equal concentration of all compounds. Suitable for GC-FPD, GC-NPD, and GC-MS analysis. |
![]() Fragrance Allergen Standards Kit
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![]() MOSH/MOAH Standard (9 components)
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![]() Pyrethrins StandardIsomeric in nature, the pyrethrins neat material contains the following isomers: cinerin I and II, jasmolin I and II, and pyrethrin I and II. Isomer ratios for each lot are given in elution order on the certificate. |
![]() QuEChERS Performance Standards KitDesigned for use in all QuEChERS methods for pesticides in fruits and vegetables, including the original unbuffered method, AOAC 2007.01, and EN15662.
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![]() EFSA PAH4 StandardConvenient high concentration standard (1,000 μg/mL) allows you to dilute as needed to economically prepare custom mixes. Contains all four EFSA PAH4 compounds in toluene.
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![]() EU 15+1 PAH Standard (16 components)
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![]() SV Internal Standard Mix (6 components)
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![]() MOSH/MOAH Standard (9 components)
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![]() Melamine Analysis KitEverything you need for GC analysis of melamine. Includes Rxi-5Sil MS GC column, reference standards, derivatization reagent, centrifuge tubes, syringe filters, and easy-to-follow instructions.
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![]() Acrylamide-d3Deuterium-labeled acrylamide is an excellent and cost-effective isotopically labeled internal standard choice for the analysis of acrylamide in food or environmental samples. |
![]() Boron Trifluoride
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Sample Handling |
![]() Q-sep QuEChERS dSPE Tubes for Extract CleanupFast, Simple Sample Prep for Multiresidue Pesticide Analysis
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![]() Q-sep Bottle Top Solvent Dispenser
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![]() Q-sep Tube Racks
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![]() Pesticide Residue Cleanup SPE Cartridges
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![]() Resprep SPE Cartridges (Normal Phase)Hydrophilic (polar) adsorbents used to extract hydrophilic analytes from nonpolar matrices, such as organic solvents (e.g., polar contaminants from sample extracts). Meets requirements of EPA Methods 515.2 and 553. |
![]() Empty Centrifuge Tubes, FEPSturdy, easy-to-clean FEP (fluorinated ethylene propylene) tubes last indefinitely under normal usage conditions—and cost 50% less! |
![]() Thomson SINGLE StEP Standard Filter Vials
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![]() Syringe Filters with Luer Lock Inlet
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![]() Resprep VM-96 Vacuum Manifold for 96-Well Plates
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![]() Restek PAL SPME Arrow
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![]() Restek PAL SPME Fibers
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Supplies & Accessories |
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![]() Universal Press-Tight Connectors
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![]() Dynamic Duo (Restek Leak Detector and ProFLOW 6000 Flowmeter)Protect your instrument and improve data quality with this powerful pair from Restek. Checking for leaks and verifying flows before you start running help you avoid costly problems later. |
![]() EXP Direct Connect Holder
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![]() EXP Reusable Fittings for HPLC & UHPLC for 10-32 fittings and 1/16" tubingEXP Hand-Tight Fittings
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![]() GC AccessoriesFull line of GC consumables, lab tools to make your life easier, and replacement parts for all major instrument manufacturers. |
![]() LC AccessoriesQuality replacement parts, tools, and accessories for liquid chromatography. |
Literature![]() Optimizing GC-MS and GC-MS/MS Analysis of 3-MCPD and Glycidyl Esters in Edible OilsIn this work, we developed an improved, indirect GC-MS method for the analysis of 3-MCPD and glycidyl esters by evaluating different inlets (PTV and split/splitless) and injection modes (split vs. splitless). |
![]() Featured Application: Polar Pesticides in Spinach on Raptor Polar X by LC-MS/MS - Fast and Rugged Direct Analysis of Polar Pesticides in SpinachThis fast, simple LC-MS/MS workflow for the direct analysis of polar pesticides in spinach provides good retention and peak shape over hundreds of matrix injections on a Raptor Polar X column. |
![]() Analysis of Nicotine and Impurities in Electronic Cigarette Solutions and VaporDespite the growing popularity of electronic cigarettes, relatively little work has been done to characterize their vapor. In this study, we developed a quick, simple thermal desorption device for sampling vapor, as well as methods for analyzing vapor and solutions to determine nicotine content (GC-FID) and impurity profiles (GC-MS). This novel approach, which utilizes an Rtx-VMS column, provides detectable levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and semivolatile organic compounds (SVOCs) from a single 40 mL puff. |
![]() Highly Reproducible Detailed cis/trans FAMEs Analysis Ensured by New Optimized Rt-2560 Column Manufacturing and Application-Specific QC TestEven minor variations in manufacturing processes can potentially have detrimental effects on column-to-column reproducibility. As shown here, Rt-2560 GC columns produced using a newly updated and optimized manufacturing process exhibit high reproducibility and provide consistent performance for detailed cis/trans FAMEs analysis. |
![]() Rt-2560 Columns Ensure Accurate, Reliable AOAC 996.06 and AOCS Ce 1j-07 FAMEs AnalysisRestek has optimized the manufacturing process and implemented a new, application-specific QC testing procedure for all new Rt-2560 columns (cat.# 13198). Here we demonstrate that, Rt-2560 columns produced using the optimized process exhibit excellent performance for both AOAC 996.06 and AOCS Ce 1j-07 FAMEs analysis and meet all method requirements. |
![]() High-Resolution GC Analyses of Fatty Acid Methyl Esters (FAMEs)Capillary GC is especially useful for determining total fat content, trans fat content, and total omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid content in foods. The choice of capillary column depends on the information required. As shown here, whatever your fatty acid analysis requirements, Restek can provide the consistent-performance analytical columns and reference mixes that will help you to accurately characterize your materials. |
![]() Featured Application: 3-MCPD and Glycidyl Esters on Rxi-17Sil MS - Faster GC-MS Analysis of 3-MCPD and Glycidyl Esters in Edible OilsThe analysis of 3-MCPD and glycidyl esters using AOCS Cd 29c-13 is time consuming and exposes the GC-MS to harsh derivatization reagents that can limit column lifetime and increase maintenance costs. Here, we optimized the method using split injection, resulting in a time savings of 8 minutes, less damage from derivatization reagents, and the flexibility to use either PTV or split/splitless inlets. |
![]() Improve Acrylamide Analysis in Food with a Long-Lasting LC Column and a Cost-Effective Internal StandardThis method for acrylamide analysis in food provides faster analysis times and meets EN 16618.2015 system suitability requirements longer compared to porous graphitized carbon column methods. |
![]() Residual Pesticides Analysis of Botanical Ingredients Using Gas Chromatography Triple Quadrupole Mass SpectrometryDietary supplements, which are consumed worldwide, are made from various botanical ingredients. To be safe from pesticides exposure, residual pesticides must be monitored by chromatographic instrumentation. Issues arise, however, due to the fact these botanical samples are dried and cause large interferences in the chromatography. This study shows that the modified QuEChERS method combined with GC-MS/MS achieves consistent pesticides monitoring in botanical ingredients. |
![]() Featured Application: Pyrrolizidine Alkaloids on Raptor ARC-18 - Rapid, Simple 4.5-Minute Pyrrolizidine Alkaloids Analysis by LC-MS/MSPyrrolizidine alkaloid analysis is time consuming, with a typical run time of 15 minutes, and the acid digestion step can shorten analytical column lifetime. In contrast, this analysis using an acid-resistant Raptor ARC-18 column eluted the final compound in just 3.2 minutes with good peak shape and separation. |
![]() Robust Analysis of Fatty Acids in Milk: An Independent Lifetime Evaluation of Rt-2560 GC ColumnsThe analysis of fatty acids in milk fat is an important test and this challenging matrix was used by Eurofins Analytik GmbH to evaluate the stability of Rt-2560 columns. Consistent retention times and separations were achieved even after 225 injections, demonstrating the column’s robust performance. |
![]() Can Nonmatching Mycotoxin SIDA Internal Standards Be Used for Stable Isotope Dilution Assay Calibration?Stable isotope dilution assay (SIDA) is a calibration technique that can be used to offset matrix effects. However, care must be given to choosing appropriate internal standards. This article demonstrates the importance of using a labeled internal standard that matches the target analyte for mycotoxin SIDA analysis. |
![]() Featured Application: Multiresidue Pesticide Mix Extracted from Brown Rice Flour Using QuEChERS Extraction and Cleanup - 7.5-Min Screening Analysis of Multiresidue Pesticides in Brown Rice FlourMultiresidue pesticides analysis presents many challenges, from extensive lists of chemically diverse analytes to the negative effects of complex matrix components. The optimized chromatographic method described here allows the analysis of hundreds of compounds in as little as 7.5 minutes with a total cycle time under 10 minutes, ensuring fast, accurate sample screening and increased lab productivity. |
![]() GC/MS Analysis of Melamine and Cyanuric Acid Below 1 μg/g in Infant FormulaThe establishment of a 1 µg/g safety threshold for melamine in infant foods has led to a need for sensitive methods. Here we established GC/MS conditions for highly reproducible analyses and evaluated the effectiveness of both solvent-based and matrix-matched standards. Using this method, melamine and cyanuric acid were reliably detected at and below 1 µg/g in infant formula. |
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Featured Application: Mycotoxins in Peanut Powder on Raptor Biphenyl
- 5.5 Minute LC-MS/MS Analysis of Mycotoxins
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![]() Featured Application: Bisphenols on Raptor Biphenyl - Comprehensive LC-MS/MS Analysis of 15 Bisphenols in 8 MinutesThe analysis of bisphenolic compounds that are used as alternatives to bisphenol A (BPA) is essential for monitoring exposure to and evaluating the safety of these emerging industrial chemicals. The LC-MS/MS method presented here provides excellent chromatographic peak shape and separation for an extensive list of BPA analogues in a fast, 8-minute analysis. |
![]() Featured Application: Mycotoxins on Raptor FluoroPhenyl - Highly Selective LC-MS/MS Analysis of Mycotoxins from Multiple ClassesMycotoxin contamination of crops is not only a public health concern, but it also has a huge impact on the global economy. This highly selective LC-MS/MS analysis of 20 mycotoxins in just 9 minutes allows scientists to accurately identify toxins, to monitor food products for contamination, and to support control strategies that prevent economic loss. |
![]() Featured Application: Analysis of Melamine and Related Compounds on Raptor HILIC-Si - Trace-Level Analysis of Melamine and Related Compounds by LC-MS/MSThe analysis of melamine and related compounds is critical in protecting consumers from adulterated food products. While these highly polar analytes are difficult to retain and accurately quantify on many columns, the Raptor HILIC-Si column and LC-MS/MS method shown here allow quick and complete separations, so melamine and related compounds can be accurately identified and quantified even at residual levels. |
![]() Featured Application: Paraquat and Diquat on Raptor HILIC-Si - LC-MS/MS Analysis of Paraquat and Diquat without Ion-Pairing ReagentsLC-MS/MS analysis of paraquat and diquat herbicides is an important tool for protecting human and environmental health. However, the ion-pairing reagents that are commonly used to improve retention, resolution, and peak shape have a negative impact on sensitivity and can contaminate the system necessitating frequent cleaning. The LC-MS/MS analysis of paraquat and diquat presented here provides complete separation and good peak response for both target analytes in a fast, 7-minute gradient run without the use of troublesome ion pairing reagents. |
![]() Featured Application: Multiclass Veterinary Antibiotics on Raptor C18 by LC-MS/MS - One Analysis, One Column, Less than 9 Minutes for Over 60 Multiclass AntibioticsThe use of antibiotics on food-producing animals is a public health and safety concern due to the potential of generating drug-resistant bacteria. A sensitive, efficient, and reliable analytical method for different classes of antibiotics is necessary to meet regulations covering maximum residue limits (MRL) for a variety of animal tissue and food products. The Raptor C18 LC column is the ideal choice for antibiotic residue analysis. |
![]() Analytical Method for Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) in Yerba Mate Tea Using Modified QuEChERS, Solid Phase Extraction and GC-TOFMS and GC-MS/MSThis application note describes the development of an analytical method for PAHs in tea that allows analysts to more quickly and accurately characterize target PAHs. Sample preparation is based on a modified QuEChERS extraction and solid phase extraction sample cleanup. Both GC-TOFMS and GC-MS/MS techniques were used and analyses were optimized for resolution of isobaric compounds, as well as for maintaining a reasonable analysis time. |
![]() Matrix Effects in Multi-Residue Pesticide Analysis When Using Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass SpectrometryMatrix effects present a significant challenge to multi-residue pesticide analysis of food samples using LC/MS/MS. In this editorial, Dr. Kai Zhang, of the FDA Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, discusses approaches that minimize matrix effects. |
![]() Featured Application: LC Analysis of 4-MEI on Raptor FluoroPhenyl Columns - Reliable HILIC LC-MS/MS Analysis of 4-Methylimidazole (4-MEI) on Raptor FluoroPhenyl ColumnsRaptor FluoroPhenyl columns perform well in both HILIC and reversed phase modes, giving method developers the flexibility to select the mode that performs best for their specific compounds of interest. Here we use a Raptor Fluorophenyl column in HILIC mode for LC analysis of 4-methylimidazole (4-MEI). This approach provides more retention than reversed phase mode and can be applied to determining 4-MEI levels in caramel colorings to monitor formulations and also in foods and beverages to assess potential exposure. |
![]() Comparing Pesticide Residues in Amish and Commercially Grown Strawberries and Spinach Using QuEChERS, Various dSPE Sorbents, and GC-TOFMSQuEChERS extraction, dSPE cleanup, and GC-TOFMS analysis were used to assess pesticide residue levels in strawberry and spinach from both commercial and Amish growers. Various dSPE sorbent products were compared to determine which were most effective. |
![]() Evaluation of Dispersive and Cartridge Solid Phase Extraction (SPE) Cleanups for Multiresidue Pesticides in QuEChERS Extracts of Finished Tobacco Using GCxGC-TOFMSWe compared the efficacy of dSPE and cSPE cleanup methods for multiresidue pesticide analysis of QuEChERS extracts of finished tobacco products using GCxGC-TOFMS. Cleanup with dSPE tubes containing 7.5 mg of GCB and 25 mg of PSA produced better results than other methods, with average recoveries of 92% and 91% for 500 ppb and 50 ppb fortifications respectively. |
![]() New Rxi-PAH GC Column; Resolve Important Isobaric Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons for Food Safety and Environmental MethodsSeparate isobaric polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, including priority EFSA PAH4 compounds benz[a]anthracene, chrysene, benzo[b]fluoranthene, and benzo[a]pyrene, easily and accurately on an Rxi-PAH column. Whether you need more resolution or faster analysis, these new GC columns offer the selectivity and efficiency you need for food safety and environmental PAH analysis. (PDF - 0MB) |
![]() Thomson SINGLE StEP Filter VialsPatented Thomson SINGLE StEP filter vials speed up sample preparation and analysis. The incorporated vial plunger contains an integrated membrane that filters samples with just one squeeze—a SINGLE StEP process to minimize sample loss while saving time and money during sample filtration. (PDF - 0MB) |
![]() Ensure Successful Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon (PAH) Analysis—Choose Specialized Rxi-PAH ColumnsWhether you are analyzing comprehensive lists or focusing on the EFSA PAH4, the Rxi-PAH column ensures your success by combining efficiency, selectivity, and robustness to produce a column that outperforms all competitors’ columns. Chose the configuration that best suits your application and be confident that you are reporting accurate results without bias from interferences. (PDF - 0MB) |
![]() Accurately Quantify 380 Pesticides Using LC-MS/MS and GC-MS/MSStop spending your time and money developing LC-MS/MS or GC-MS/MS multiresidue pesticide methods and mixing reference standards when you could be running samples. Restek’s expert formulations chemists and chromatographers have already done the work for you—with guaranteed accuracy and at a lower cost. (PDF - 0MB) |
![]() EXP and EXP2 Fittings: Reusable fittings for easy, reliable HPLC & UHPLC connectionsEXP and EXP2 fittings are now available from Restek. These reusable HPLC/UHPLC fittings feature a patented titanium/PEEK ferrule that provides repeated zero-dead-volume connections to any 10-32 female port without compromising high-pressure seals. (PDF - 0MB) |
![]() Raptor ARC-18 LC Columns BrochureRaptor LC columns combine the speed of superficially porous particles (i.e., SPP or “core-shell”) with the resolution of highly selective USLC technology. The sterically protected ARC-18 phase was designed and intended specifically for use with acidic mobile phases on LC-MS/MS systems. Even after extended use in low-pH (≤ 2.0) conditions, it offers consistent and well-balanced retention, peak shape, and response. Choose Raptor ARC-18 columns for the rapid analysis of large, multiclass assays by mass spectrometry. (PDF - 5MB) |
![]() QuEChERS Sample Preparation ProceduresInstruction sheet for QuEChERS sample preparation, cat.# 25847, 25848, 25849, 25850, 25851, 25852, 26123, 26124, 26125, 26126, 26215, 26216, 26217, 26218, 26219, 26220, 26221, 26222, 26223, 26224, 26225, 26226, 26242, 26243, 26244, 26245. (PDF - 0MB) |
![]() QuEChERS Made Even Easier: Comprehensive Solutions Simplify Sample Prep and AnalysisLearn how to use the QuEChERS approach to perform faster, easier sample preparation and cleanup for multiresidue pesticide analysis. Q-sep QuEChERS products save time, money, and materials compared to modified Luke methods. (PDF - 5MB) |
![]() Improve Acrylamide Analysis with Allure Acrylamide LC Columns and Certified Reference StandardsMeet method requirements for food and drinking water quickly and easily with Allure Acrylamide LC columns, guards, and reference standards. (PDF - 2MB) |
![]() HPLC Analysis of Glucosinolates in Vegetable Extracts without Ion Pairing Using an Ultra Aqueous C18 ColumnGlucosinolates with hydrophilic functional groups are very difficult to retain by conventional reversed phase HPLC, and when the functional groups in a sample are diverse, polarity can differ widely, complicating the problem. Until now, reversed phase HPLC with an ion pairing reagent has been the inconvenient, but necessary, approach to these analyses. This 2-page note describes a column and conditions for analyses of glucosinolates, without ion pairing. (PDF - 0MB) |
GC Chromatograms
![]() NIST SRM 2260a PAH Mix on Rxi-PAHGC_FF1223 |
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LC Chromatograms
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![]() Pesticides on Ultra Aqueous C18LC_FF0490 |
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![]() EU 15+1 PAH Mix on Pinnacle DB PAHLC_FF0513 |
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![]() Carbamates on Ultra CarbamateLC_FF0473 |
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