Evaluation of Gas-Liquid Chromatography in Assays for Blood Volatiles

Abstract

Abstract A simple screening by gas-liquid chromatography (GLC) can provide definitive answers in the detection and identification of a number of volatile substances, including acetone and the common alcohols. After identification, quantitative assay by an internal-reference technic yields highly specific values for ethyl alcohol concentration with a precision at least equal to (and for low levels, better than) that of conventional assays. The unique advantage of GLC is in its simultaneous quantitative assay of mixtures, some of which cannot be satisfactorily assayed or even recognized in any other way. The combination of speed and negligible sample volumes render the technic valuable for sequential studies on capillary blood samples and, potentially, for mass screening of large populations.