Ion trap Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LCMS) system.
Helsinki, Finland, 5–16 May 2008
The Finnish Institute for Verification of the Chemical Weapons Convention (VERIFIN), with the support of OPCW, organised a two-week intensive course to enhance skills in analysing chemicals related to the Chemical Weapons Convention using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). The course was held in VERIFIN at the University of Helsinki from 5 to 16 May 2008 for four participants from Bangladesh, Jamaica, Lesotho and the Philippines, who were selected based on their previous experience in using these techniques.
The course was designed both for laboratories that are active or plan to become active in the analysis of chemicals related to the Convention, and for those that are participating or intend to participate in OPCW proficiency testing. It consisted of the following elements: (a) preparation of samples, (b) the theory of LC and LC-MS, (c) demonstrations of LC and LC-MS techniques, (d) practical exercises, and (e) quality assurance and maintenance of instruments. Participants were introduced to the preparation of samples and theoretical aspects of LC and LC-MS, followed by demonstrations of LC and LC-MS techniques and practical exercises.