The MultiFlex GC/Q-TOF as a Tool for the Investigation of Taste and Odour in Drinking Water

Martin Perkins

9th November 2017

Drinking water regulations stipulate national standards for colour, odour and taste and requires companies to investigate the cause of any adverse result. In this application note a water sample, reported to have an off odour was extracted using an automated ITSP set up and analysed both targeted on a GC-MS/MS system and using an Agilent GC/Q-TOF with a GERSTEL Olfactory Detection Port (ODP) to assess aroma active components. The need for accurate mass for structural elucidation and identification of unknowns was illustrated by differences in component identification by low and high mass detection. The ability to do CI and/or MS/MS further enhances the capability for unequivocal identification. The MultiFlex GC/Q-TOF system with an Olfactory Detection Port (ODP) is an invaluable tool in investigation of taste and odour issues in water.