Low Phase Ratio Stationary Phase Column Technology for the Characterization of Highly Volatile and Reactive Compounds by Gas-Liquid Chromatography

Abstract

Recent advances in coating techniques and improved polymers employed as gas chromatographic stationary phases have resulted in commercializing low phase ratio capillary column technology with respectable chromatographic efficiency and inertness. Highly volatile compounds that are critical in challenging industrial applications such as alkanes, alkenes, arsine, phosphine, oxygenated, and sulfur compounds have been successfully analyzed with respectable chromatographic performance and resolution using a low phase ratio column such as a 60 m × 0.32 mm id × 8 µm polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) with a β value of 10. An R value of 5.6 was achieved for the separation of hydrogen sulfide and carbonyl sulfide without the use of cryogenic chromatography. In addition to improved retention for highly volatile organic compounds, a low phase ratio column can be employed effectively to enhance chromatographic inertness for reactive analytes. The augmentation of a 3D-printed two stage microreactor for use with flame ionization detection enabled carbon compound independent response, thereby lower cost-of-ownership and improved lab safety.