Waters Corporation Unveils New Charged Aerosol Detector to Elevate Lab Efficiency with Empower Software
Waters Corporation, a global leader in analytical instruments, recently launched its Charged Aerosol Detector (CAD), specifically engineered for integration with the Empower software platform. This innovative tool aims to enhance the efficiency and reliability of laboratory operations, particularly in quality control and development settings where precise analyte detection is critical.
The Waters CAD boasts the capacity to conduct nearly universal detection of numerous analytes prevalent in pharmaceutical formulations, food additives, and environmental pollutants. These analytes often present challenges for traditional measurement techniques, especially those that utilize UV or mass spectrometry methods. Given the complexity of modern chromatography, the CAD serves as a crucial tool for laboratories requiring high precision in their analyses, particularly as about 80% of new drugs are submitted to regulatory authorities using the Empower system.
A significant feature of the CAD is its ability to deliver reliable and sensitive measurements of compounds with minimal to no UV absorption, such as sugars, lipids, and various impurities without necessitating extensive sample pre-treatment. This functionality is invaluable for researchers and developers working in sectors where the characterization of substances spans a wide range of materials—from small pharmacological molecules to diverse environmental contaminants.
James Hallam, Vice President of Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry at Waters Corporation, highlighted the importance of the user experience when integrating the CAD into existing chromatographic systems. His insights reveal that many customers experience frequent disruptions due to communication errors in multi-vendor LC-CAD configurations, which can comprise approximately 70% of such setups. The Waters CAD is designed to overcome these challenges, providing a singular, robust solution that simplifies the implementation of liquid chromatography with charged aerosol detection methods while employing the already familiar Empower software interface.
Additionally, with features that ensure competitive dynamic range and sensitivity, the CAD integrates optimally with Waters' MaxPeak High-Performance Surfaces, which significantly reduce non-specific adsorption common with other detectors. It can be used seamlessly with various Waters liquid chromatography systems, including the Alliance iS HPLC System, Arc HPLC System, and all ACQUITY UPLC Systems. This versatility further enhances its appeal to laboratories seeking efficient detection mechanisms within their analytical workflows.
The Waters CAD also promises to simplify method transfers for laboratories already accustomed to existing CADs, allowing professionals to streamline their processes significantly. During a time when laboratories face increasing pressure to deliver accurate and timely results, the introduction of this cutting-edge detector aligns with the broader trend of enhancing laboratory throughput and productivity.
As a testament to Waters Corporation's commitment to delivering pioneering chromatography solutions, the CAD represents an important development in the landscape of liquid chromatography. This new tool not only complements the existing extensive range of Waters liquid chromatography detectors but also reinforces the company’s determination to facilitate comprehensive characterization of the physical and chemical properties of diverse molecules. The CAD ensures that scientists can maintain compliance and deliver accurate results within secure laboratory environments.
The Charged Aerosol Detector is available for pre-order, with shipments expected to begin in April 2026. By integrating advanced analytical technologies with an emphasis on user experience and reliability, Waters Corporation continues to set the standard in laboratory solutions, empowering scientists and improving the quality and safety of various products used every day. For further information, readers are encouraged to visit the Waters product page or connect with them through LinkedIn.