Is Golay’s Famous Equation for HETP Still Relevant in Capillary Gas Chromatography? Part 2: Assumptions and Consequences

Abstract

This installment is the second part of a discussion on the origins and uses for determining the height equivalent of a theoretical plate (HETP) calculations in gas chromatography (GC). This month, I discuss the good and challenging consequences of the Golay theory, its relevance, and some alternatives. Many of the variables that chromatographers view as independent have some interdependence, and we see several limitations of the theory. The complex relationships between HETP and temperature present a particular challenge when thinking about temperature-programmed GC compared to isothermal GC. This article concludes with comments regarding the continued relevance of this classical theory.