Ask LCGC: Temperature Fluctuation Problem, or . . .?

The answer to the following question was provided by LCGC’s “LC Troubleshooting” columnist John Dolan.

Q: We are using an LC–MS system for bioequivalence measurements. We prepared a batch of 120 samples and ran those. The first few injections showed good results, with an excellent calibration curve. After a few injections, the internal standard (IS) area ratio was continuously increasing up to the end of the batch, and total obscure results were obtained. I observed that the ambient temperature of the room was constantly fluctuating +/- 2 °C. My senior coworkers advised me to keep the room temperature constant. I had the same problem with three batches. My question is threefold: Could ambient temperature changes be affecting the results (drug concentration)? What caused the IS variation? Is there a formula for relating temperature with concentration?

A: It is unlikely that temperature is the problem. Temperature will affect retention (rule of thumb is 2% change in retention for 1 °C temperature change). I would make a plot of IS and analyte areas and IS/analyte ratio all on the same plot (three lines) vs. injection number or time. You may have to multiply the ratio by something to get it to sit on the same scale as the areas. Look for patterns between the various responses. Does the IS area change or the analyte, or both? The first thing I would look for is ion suppression. I’ve seen it change the area of one of the components, but not the other, which will affect the ratio.

Questions?

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