Quantification of Nitrogen-Containing Compounds in Algae-Based Bio-Oil Using ELEM-SPOT

User Benefits

- Even in samples with complex matrices, nitrogen-containing compounds (N-compounds) can be detected selectively and with high sensitivity, enabling analysis with an equimolar response. - With the same setup, qualitative analysis can also be performed as a conventional GC-MS system. - By using the Gas Selector, oxygen-containing compounds (O-compounds) can also be analyzed using the same setup.

Introduction

Expectations for algal biomass are growing as a next-generation key resource toward a carbon-neutral, low-carbon society. In addition to its high CO₂-reduction potential, algal biomass has attracted attention because it can be cultivated without competing with food resources, and its utilization is expected across a wide range of fields including fuels and materials. Unlike fossil resources, algal biomass contains many amino-acid-derived N-compounds. Because these compounds can cause catalyst poisoning in downstream refining processes, accurate determination of their content and optimization of the process are essential. However, selective and highly sensitive detection of compounds containing heteroatoms (e.g., N and O) in a complex matrix has been challenging with conventional technologies. Our proprietary ELEM-SPOT system combines a GC-MS with the combustion catalytic reactor EL-30, enabling the world’s first selective and highly sensitive analysis of N- and O-compounds in complex samples. In this article, we present an application example of analyzing N-compounds in algae-based bio-oil using ELEM-SPOT. We have signed a comprehensive clean-energy research collaboration agreement with TotalEnergies, Université de Pau et des Pays de l’Adour (UPPA), and the University of Oviedo (UO). This system merges jointly owned patented technology from TotalEnergies, UPPA, and UO with our analytical technology.

July 29, 2026 GMT