Introducing the Newest Addition to the EATC

We’re thrilled to share some exciting news from our European Application and Training Center (EATC) in Berlin! Recently, we’ve enhanced our capabilities with the installation of the latest model of LECO’s High Resolution Mass Spectrometer, the Pegasus HRT4D.

What sets this version apart is its modular features, including GCxGC capabilities with LN2 and a unique Multi-Mode Source™ (MMS™) ion source. The MMS allows for seamless switching between three ionization modes (EI, PCI, and ECNI) without the need for hardware changes, ensuring perfectly aligned chromatographic traces and consistent retention times even for unknown molecule detection.
With this cutting-edge setup, we’re poised to tackle a wide range of analytical challenges, from screening targeted molecules to identifying untargeted compounds across various sample types, spanning Environmental, Petroleum, and Flavour and Fragrance sectors. The GCxGC capabilities further enhance our capabilities by providing structured contour plots for improved identification and reduced interferences.

Additionally, we’ve integrated a Direct Insertion Probe (DIP) to the front of the MMS ion source, eliminating the need for chromatography. This feature enables direct ionization of samples, opening up possibilities for evaluating purity, formula computation for synthesied molecules, and studying complex petroleum fractions like asphaltenes.

Looking ahead, we’re excited to embark on a Non-Target Screening project focusing on polluted environmental samples. Our goal is to identify both targeted and untargeted compounds, ranging from POPs and pesticides to emerging contaminants like PFAS and chlorinated paraffins. What’s remarkable is that we can achieve all of this using just one instrument, employing different analytical approaches.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to push the boundaries of analytical excellence at EATC!

Instruments Discussed

Pegasus High Resolution two-dimensional gas chromatograph

Pegasus GC-HRT 4D

Explore additional stories

Thank You, 2026 Summer Interns!

Thank You, 2026 Summer Interns!

As the summer begins to wind down and students gear up for another school year, our 2026 summer internship program is coming to a close. LECO has hosted fourteen interns across several departments at our St. Joseph, MI headquarters, including one intern overseas at...

Superalloys and Sulfur: How Even Trace Amounts Can Be Detrimental

Superalloys and Sulfur: How Even Trace Amounts Can Be Detrimental

Alloys are formed when a metal is combined with another element to strengthen the base metal’s properties. Basically, an alloy is just a modified metal. Superalloys are similar, but these specific high-performance materials are held to a higher standard. They are...