Posted by Chrom Tech on 14th Oct 2025
What Should Forensic Labs Be Using for Blood Alcohol Testing?
Headspace GC-FID (Gas Chromatography with Flame Ionization Detection) using dual columns is the industry standard for accurately measuring blood alcohol concentration (BAC) in forensic laboratories. Because BAC testing often influences critical legal and medical decisions, precision and reproducibility are essential. The following recommendations outline Chrom Tech’s trusted solutions for reliable BAC analysis in any forensic or toxicology setting.
The GC Column: Optimized for Forensic Accuracy
Column selection directly impacts data quality, resolution, and peak symmetry in GC analysis. For forensic BAC testing, the choice of column pair can determine whether compounds are correctly identified and quantified.
Chrom Tech proudly supplies Restek’s industry-leading Rtx-BAC Plus 1 and Rtx-BAC Plus 2 capillary GC columns—specifically engineered for forensic blood alcohol analysis. These complementary columns feature optimized selectivities that provide:
- Baseline separation of all target alcohols and internal standards.
- Consistent retention times and reproducible elution order for compound confirmation.
- Superior peak symmetry and reduced tailing, ensuring accurate quantitation and reproducibility.
Compared to other column sets, Restek’s Rtx-BAC Plus 1 and Plus 2 columns consistently deliver sharper peaks, faster resolution, and dependable results across repeated analyses. Every column is QC-tested to guarantee high-performance separation and long-term reliability in forensic workflows.
Supporting Consumables and Essential Accessories
Reliable consumables are just as important as the columns themselves when maintaining GC system integrity. Chrom Tech is a stocking distributor of leading chromatography brands, ensuring rapid delivery and consistent supply of the products you rely on.
- Headspace vials and closures: We maintain pallet quantities of headspace vials in both Agilent and alternative brands, ensuring immediate availability for high-throughput labs.
- Electronic leak detectors: A must-have for any GC system. Detecting and repairing leaks early prevents costly downtime, protects columns, and ensures data integrity.
Whether you’re maintaining an existing GC system or scaling up your BAC testing capacity, Chrom Tech offers everything from columns and fittings to GC accessories and replacement parts—all at competitive prices and ready to ship from our warehouse.
Expert Support from Chrom Tech
If you need help identifying the correct column or consumable part number, our knowledgeable product specialists are ready to assist. We can cross-reference part numbers, recommend compatible products, and provide quick quotes to keep your forensic lab running efficiently. Contact our support team today for expert guidance on GC consumables, headspace supplies, or BAC column pair recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions About BAC Analysis by Headspace GC-FID
Why are dual columns used for BAC testing?
Dual-column GC-FID systems use two columns with different selectivities (e.g., Rtx-BAC Plus 1 and Plus 2) to confirm compound identity through retention time comparison. This dual analysis ensures accurate and defensible BAC results in forensic settings.
What makes Restek BAC columns reliable for forensic use?
Restek’s Rtx-BAC Plus columns are specifically optimized for alcohol and volatile compound separation, offering exceptional peak symmetry, reproducibility, and durability—key for high-volume forensic labs.
How often should I check for leaks in my GC system?
Leaks should be checked daily using an electronic leak detector. Early detection prevents oxygen contamination, which can degrade columns, affect detector performance, and compromise data accuracy.
Does Chrom Tech stock BAC testing consumables?
Yes. Chrom Tech stocks BAC testing consumables including headspace vials, Restek columns, leak detectors, and GC replacement parts—all available for quick shipment to keep your lab running efficiently.