Restek Introduces GC Columns Featuring TriMax Technology for Trace-level Sensitivity

In a press release, Restek Corporation (Bellefonte, Pennsylvania, USA) has launched its next-generation RMX gas chromatography (GC) columns, incorporating a new TriMax deactivation technology designed to deliver enhanced inertness, trace-level sensitivity, and extended column lifetime for analytical applications (1).

The RMX GC columns are engineered for analyses requiring low detection limits and robust performance with challenging compound classes, including acids, bases, alcohols, and other active analytes. According to the company, the new TriMax technology creates an exceptionally inert and contaminant-free stationary phase surface, addressing common issues associated with traditional column deactivation methods (1).

TriMax deactivation minimizes residual active sites that can negatively affect peak shape and reproducibility. As a result, the RMX columns provide improved peak symmetry, reliable trace-level detection, and consistent performance even after aggressive thermal cycling or exposure to complex sample matrices.

“TriMax deactivation represents truly groundbreaking research,” said Danny Shollenberger, principal scientist at Restek. “This innovation leverages novel reagents purposely engineered for gas chromatography. By combining optimized reagent chemistry with a precisely controlled process, we dramatically reduce residuals and enable synergistic reactions that create an ordered, densely bonded, three-dimensional deactivation network of bonding, crosslinking, and deactivation.”

Shollenberger added that this structure contributes to exceptional inertness and significantly extends column lifetime, particularly in applications where performance degradation is a frequent concern.

Restek noted that the RMX columns were developed in response to evolving challenges faced by GC users, including regulatory changes affecting solvent use, increasing method consolidation, instrument longevity limitations, and the need for picogram-level sensitivity.

“GC customers today are navigating significant challenges, from chlorinated solvent restrictions to heightened sensitivity requirements,” said Ramkumar Dhandapani, PhD, director of product management at Restek. “We listened closely to our customers’ concerns and designed RMX columns to directly address those needs.”

According to the company, the consistent sensitivity and durability of RMX columns can help laboratories meet stringent data quality requirements for longer periods, expand analyte coverage, and reduce solvent consumption through scaled-down sample preparation (1). Restek says the broadly effective inertness and thermal stability of the columns support increased laboratory productivity while helping control operational costs.

The RMX GC column line is intended for use across a wide range of analytical workflows, particularly those involving trace-level detection and complex sample matrices where column robustness and reproducibility are critical.

Reference

(1) Restek Corporation. Restek Launches Next-Generation RMX GC Columns with TriMax Technology. Press release ref. GNPR5439‑UNV, 2026.