Production Testing Levels

The Importance of Volatile Reduction in Gas Chromatography and Headspace Analysis

In gas chromatography (GC) and headspace analysis, the reduction of volatile release from septa is paramount. Septa with high volatile content can introduce contaminants into the sample chamber, leading to inaccurate readings and potentially costly errors. This is especially problematic when conducting headspace analysis, where even a small amount of contamination can disrupt the detection of volatile compounds. Level 2 and 3 septa, which offer reduced volatiles, are commonly used for these applications because they minimize the release of contaminants during testing. This makes them ideal for industries such as food and beverage safety, where labs must detect tiny amounts of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) to ensure product safety and quality.

For labs conducting tests such as EPA Method 5035, which involves multiple punctures during sample collection and analysis, the analytical cleanliness provided by Level 3 septa ensures minimal contamination and reliable results. These septa withstand repeated use, making them a cost-effective choice for high-throughput testing environments.