Analysis of Polycyclic Aromatic Compounds Using Microbore Columns

Abstract

The gas chromatographic analysis of polycyclic aromatic compounds can be completed faster and with increased chromatographic resolution using microbore columns (Fast GC). Microbore columns contain two to three times the number of theoretical plates per meter when compared to 0.25 mm internal diameter (i.d.) capillary columns. The increased chromatographic resolving power of microbore columns enables separations to be carried out with much shorter columns giving rise to faster analysis times. Analysis times of priority polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons on 20 m (5% phenyl, 0.1 mm i.d., 0.1 w m film thickness) and 10 m (5% phenyl, 0.1 mm i.d., 0.1 w m film thickness) columns are reduced by about 45% and 60% respectively in comparison with 30 m columns, and data quality (precision and accuracy) is not affected. All areas/parameters of the chromatographic system must be adjusted and optimized to ensure proper chromatographic performance. Smaller injection volumes (0.2-0.5 w L) and injection liners (1-2 mm i.d.) are required to obtain optimum (and reproducible) chromatography on 0.1 mm i.d. columns.