Mark Sinnott

There are many misconceptions about what it means to perform fast gas chromatography (GC) and what the term fast GC implies. Fast GC is often associated with the use of hydrogen as a carrier gas and, although this is certainly a good approach, it is not always necessary to shorten the analysis time. A second misconception is that changing column dimension results in time-consuming method development. Using high-efficiency GC columns can greatly reduce the analysis time and when coupled with the method translation software, the time spent on method development can be greatly minimized.

Modern gas chromatography (GC) capillary columns are rugged and forgiving but some care should be taken when handling and using these high-efficiency columns. In this instalment of "Column Watch", the authors discuss the issues surrounding avoiding column breakage, stationary phase damage and column contamination. Prolonging the life of a column by keeping an oxygen-free system, providing a cleaner sample and not exceeding the upper temperature limit of the stationary phase are highlighted in this practical discussion.

Modern gas chromatography (GC) capillary columns are rugged and forgiving but some care should be taken when handling and using these high-efficiency columns. In this installment of "Column Watch," the authors discuss the issues surrounding avoiding column breakage, stationary phase damage, and column contamination. Prolonging the life of a column by keeping an oxygen-free system, providing a cleaner sample, and not exceeding the upper temperature limit of the stationary phase are highlighted in this practical discussion.