Gas Chromatography - Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) is a step up in selectivity and sensitivity from GC-FID. The extra capabilities can be especially useful in the detection of certain halogenated solvents, or to tease apart a larger terpene analyte list. GC-MS cannabis testing does cost more upfront and has higher running costs compared to GC-FID, so it's important to consider your needs vs the costs. Contact AIM for expert help discussing your GC-MS cannabis testing options.

AIM's standard recommendation for GC-MS testing is the Agilent 6890/5973; although other models such as 7890 and 5975 are available. Each system comes with the analytical method preloaded and an SOP for sample-preparation. Installation and training is available and usually lasts 2-3 days in which time you will be trained in the hardware, software, sample-preparation, calibration, data analysis and reporting.

• The Standard GC-MS for Cannabis Analysis Includes:
• GC Mainframe
• Split/Splitless Inlet
• Mass-Selective Detector
• Liquid or Headspace Autosampler
• PC Data System and Software
• Mass-Spectral Library (NIST)

See Also:

Confused by all these acronyms? Start by checking out the Cannabis Testing Starter Guide to learn about which instrument may suit your needs!

Gas Chromatography - Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) can be used for cannabinoids, although it has limitations in comparison to HPLC. See the Cannabis Testing Starter Guide for more information.

An all-in-one cannabis startup kit is available for AIM's in-house terpenes, residual solvents, and cannabinoids methods