Characterization of an Algerian diatomite by inverse gas chromatography: Specific and non-specific contribution and Lewis acid–base parameters

Abstract

The fundamental understanding of the behavior of a solid is intimately related to the understanding of the interactions on the surface of the latter, a major challenge in particular if the material is natural and ecological. The infinite dilution-inverse gas chromatography was used to evaluate the surface thermodynamic properties of several phases (grafted and/or coated) diatomite. A series of non- or polar-solute probes were injected at temperatures of 45 °C and 90 °C. The dispersive surface free energies values of the supports decrease with increasing temperature and their active surface is amphoteric with predominantly acidic character.