Embracing Sustainability in Analytical Science


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In the analytical science field, Waters is committed to driving sustainability, efficiency, and precision. We believe that sustainable practices in the use of analytical instruments are crucial for reducing energy consumption, minimizing waste, and optimizing resource use. This aligns with our dedication to making a positive impact on the world. Our global efforts to drive innovation and operational excellence while fostering an environmentally conscious approach are reflected in our most recent accomplishments with the ACQUITY™ QDa™ II Mass Detector.

Sustainability in Analytical Science: The Role of the ACQUITY QDa II Mass Detector

The ACQUITY QDa II Mass Detector embodies the way Waters advances the boundaries of analytical science. Tailored for chromatographers seeking mass spectral data without the intricacies associated with traditional mass spectrometry, the ACQUITY QDa II Mass Detector provides a streamlined solution for confirming compound identity and quantifying chemicals. It is particularly advantageous for chemicals with either no UV response or concentrations beyond the reach of optical detection, enabling the analysis of a broader range of chemical entities with efficiency, cost-effectiveness, low energy consumption, and a compact footprint.

Waters ACQUITY QDa II Mass Detector instrument

Key features of the ACQUITY QDa II Mass Detector include:

  • On/off push button simplicity for rapid start-up and shut down operation to eliminate the complexities typically associated with mass spectrometry, allowing analytical scientists to focus on their primary goal: acquiring robust, accurate, and reliable data.
  • Designed for a broad range of applications and for handling diverse chemical entities with minimal or no UV response, making it an invaluable tool for scientists working with varied sample matrices.
  • Additional layer of confidence in compound identification, enhancing the reliability of analytical results for compliant workflows.
  • Compatible with all Waters ACQUITY UPLC™ ACQUITY UPC2, Alliance HPLC, and purification LC systems and complementary to current Waters optical detectors including ACQUITY UPLC PDA, TUV, or FLR.
  • Accessibility of mass spectral information to a wider audience, including researchers who may not have extensive expertise in mass spectrometry.
  • Compliant operation within Empower™ Chromatography Data System, ensuring that data management and analysis adhere to industry standards and regulatory requirements, providing scientists with confidence in the reliability and integrity of their results.
  • Small footprint makes it an ideal choice for laboratories with space constraints. This feature not only contributes to a more organized and efficient workspace but also allows for easier integration into existing analytical workflows.

The ACQUITY QDa II Mass Detector provides a streamlined solution for confirming compound identity and quantifying chemicals, particularly those with no UV response or concentrations beyond the reach of optical detection.

My Green Lab ACT (Accountability, Consistency, and Transparency) Label: A Commitment to Sustainability

We recently underscored our dedication to sustainability with the My Green Lab ACT label awarded to the ACQUITY QDa II Mass Detector.

Our instrument embraces the ACT principles by:

  • Promoting responsible utilization of resources; its efficient design minimizes waste and reduces energy consumption by up to 70% as compared to third-party mass detectors on the market, reducing the overall environmental footprint of analytical laboratories.
  • Ensuring that sustainable practices are ingrained in the entire life cycle from development and manufacturing processes to end-of-life disposal.
  • Providing transparency on its environmental impact, empowering users to make informed decisions regarding their analytical instruments.

The Waters Xevo™ TQ Absolute mass spectrometer, our highly sensitive and compact benchtop tandem quadrupole mass spec, and the Xevo™ TQ-S cronos and Xevo™ TQ-S micro tandem quad systems also received the My Green Lab ACT label.

act label acquity qda

Implications for Analytical Laboratories

The combination of innovative and environmentally conscious technology in the ACQUITY QDa II Mass Detector provides significant advantages to analytical labs, particularly in supporting efforts to foster sustainable scientific research. Organizations that invest in these instruments not only contribute to a positive image but also cultivate an ethos of corporate social responsibility.

In summary, the integration of sustainability practices in analytical laboratories is not just a trend but a crucial shift towards a more responsible future. The ACQUITY QDa II Mass Detector demonstrates the way Waters approaches routine mass detection instrumentation by enabling laboratories to elevate scientific capabilities and concurrently contribute to a sustainable future.

Together, let’s champion a greener future!

Embracing Sustainability in Analytical Science blog

With contribution by Richard Watts, Consulting Project Manager


Additional Resources:

Explore further Waters products and sustainability initiatives:

My Green Lab ACT Label for ACQUITY QDa II

Explore our 2023 ESG Report

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