Optical Fiber Detector Developed by Scientists using GC Separation
An optical fiber detector has been developed by Portuguese scientists for the measurement of simple alcohols in industrial atmospheres following GC separation.
An optical fiber detector has been developed by Portuguese scientists for the measurement of simple alcohols in industrial atmospheres following GC separation. The scientists have developed a polymer-coated optical fiber as a detector for a gas chromatograph for the specific detection of volatile alcohols that are encountered in industry. It is based on the variation in optical signal from the fiber as the alcohols are adsorbed. Over-exposure to low-molecular-mass alcohols such as the isomeric butanols and pentanols causes irritation to the eyes and throat, nausea, dizziness and even central nervous system depression, so it is important that their airborne concentrations are kept to a minimum. Although there appear to be no performance advantages of the optical fiber detector over the FID, the researchers pointed out that the optical fibre detector is far less expensive and easy to operate.
Detangling the Complex Web of GC×GC Method Development to Support New Users
September 12th 2024The 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.
The Reality Behind Column Insertion Distance
September 10th 2024Column 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?
