From Detector to Decision, Part III: Fundamentals of Calibration in Gas Chromatography

Abstract

Gas chromatography is a premier technique for quantitative analysis. As gas chromatographs have become simpler to use and data systems more powerful, much of the data processing involved in delivering quantitative results now happens in the background and is seemingly invisible to the user. In this installment, we will review the calibration techniques used with gas chromatography. We will compare calibration methods and the assumptions that underlie them. We will explore common mistakes and challenges in developing quantitative methods and conclude with recommendations for appropriate calibration methods for quantitative problems.