Analysis of Light Crude Oil Using Gas Chromatography—High Resolution Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry

This application note demonstrates the use of LECO's Pegasus® GC-HRT high-resolution mass spectrometer for analyzing light crude oil samples, including Arabian, Nigerian, Basra, and South Louisiana Light crude oils. The study focuses on identifying aromatic, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon, and heterocyclic compounds within these complex matrices. By employing high-resolution modes (R = 25,000) and ultra-high-resolution modes (R = 50,000), the analysis achieves mass accuracy values below 1 ppm, facilitating robust elemental composition assignments. The integration of Folded Flight Path™ (FFP™) technology and Kinetic Algorithmic Data Acquisition System (KADAS®) ensures ultra-fast capture of high-resolution spectra, enhancing the characterization of petroleum components