LCGC Europe-03-01-2005

In this article, the authors look at the contemporary features of a UV detector and the design improvements that have been made over the last 30 years. Recommendations concerning technical details are also given that may influence the choice in purchase.

In the concluding part of this series, the effects that column variability has on isothermal capillary gas chromatography is discussed and instrument calibration explored. The goal is to reduce the normal variability that occurs when working with multiple instruments and columns to ensure consistent results.

John Dolan concentrates on the impact plumbing can have on column performance and offers his advice on tubing selection.

This month's guest authors review the application of solid-phase microextraction (SPME) to the analysis of drugs in human plasma discussing important factors in the optimization of extraction efficiency. The column concludes with a discussion of method validation issues.

A simple capillary zone electrophoresis method is discussed for the simultaneous analysis of omeprazole and lansoprazole. The aim is to provide an efficient assay for the quality control of both pharmaceuticals.