September 2024

Intricate Network of Multicolored Threads | Image Credit: © David - stock.adobe.com.

The introduction of comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography (GC×GC) to the sample screening toolbox has substantially increased the ability to comprehensively characterize complex mixtures. However, for many gas chromatography (GC) users, the thought of having to learn to develop methods on a new technology is daunting. Developing a basic GC×GC method for most (nonspecialized) applications can be accomplished in minimal time and effort given parameter suggestions and ranges to target analytes in a sample of interest. In this article, the authors work describe a simple workflow to develop a GC×GC method for a specific sample upon initial use, with the aim of decreasing the time to accomplish functional workflows for new users.

A puddle of gasoline on the ground. Generated with AI. | Image Credit: © ksu - stock.adobe.com.

Petroleum contamination from leaking underground storage tanks, for example, is a significant concern for both the environment and human health. Thorough characterization of the contamination is required to form appropriate risk assessments and remediation strategies, but until now, the determination of total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPHs) in soil has typically involved a convoluted and labour-intensive process. In this article, the analysis of TPH in environmental media is simplified using flow-modulated GC×GC–FID with quantitation based on pre-defined compound groupings. This approach overcomes the drawbacks of conventional solvent fractionation approaches, by eliminating the need for sample fractionation and automating data processing workflows.

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Column insertion distance is critical to good chromatography. What happens if the column is installed too low in the injection port? Is insertion distance more important when performing split injection or splitless injection? Does the position of the column in the injection port impact reproducibility?