Bluefield University Acquires GC-MS Instrument - Bluefield University

Bluefield University Acquires GC-MS Instrument - Bluefield University Bluefield University in the News < Back to News & Events Bluefield University’s Chemistry Department Acquires GC-MS Instrument by Bluefield University Apr 6, 2026 Bluefield University has acquired a tandem gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer (GC-MS), expanding hands-on learning opportunities in its chemistry and forensic science programs. The instrument was obtained as government surplus from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), providing access to technology that would otherwise be cost-prohibitive. New, the instrument carries a list price of nearly $80,000. Dr. Joe Saunders, professor of chemistry, retrieved the GC-MS from a DEA lab in Largo, Maryland. “This instrument is a tandem gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer (GC-MS) and is a wonderful tool to separate (semi-)volatile mixtures, quantify, and identify each component,” Dr. Saunders said. The GC-MS enables rapid analysis of complex samples, such as determining the composition of gasoline by identifying hydrocarbons like iso-octane and ethanol. These capabilities support real-world applications, including forensic investigations. “This analysis can apply to our forensic science program for cases of arson to determine the identity and source of an accelerant,” Dr. Saunders added. This marks the first time Bluefield University has made a GC-MS available to students on campus. Installation and setup are ongoing, including software integration and system calibration. The instrument is expected to be incorporated into the Quantitative & Instrumental Analysis course, with a target of Fall 2027. The addition strengthens Bluefield University’s ability to provide students with meaningful, career-focused laboratory experience. Bluefield University [email protected] • 276.326.4212 Skip to content