Collection of Gas Chromatographic Fractions on Activated Charcoal and Identification by Infrared Spectroscopy

Abstract

A novel method for collecting gas chromatographic fractions in commercially available tubes of activated charcoal has been developed and tested on a number of organic mixtures. The trapped fractions were desorbed with CS2 and infrared spectra of the CS2 solutions measured to provide positive identification of the eluents. The collection efficiency was found to be >68% in all but one case, and the resolution of the separation and collection method was adequate for making positive identifications. The advantages of using computerized subtraction of infrared spectra in identifying the eluents is also demonstrated.