When installing your capillary GC column, making accurate connections is essential to ensure trouble free operation. In this technical tip we provide advice on the best way to achieve this.<blockquote>Note: For users with sensitive detectors such as MS and ECD, column conditioning steps should be performed before installing the column to prevent contamination and frequent maintenance of the detector.</blockquote>1) Place the column nut and ferrule past the end of the column and cut a centimeter or two off the end of the column. Be sure that the ferrule is the right size and pointing in the correct direction. Inspect the cut with a magnifier and ensure that the cut is square and smooth. See figure below. Recut if needed.2) Insert the outlet end of the column into the detector exactly the distance prescribed in the instrument manual. Distances will vary between detectors. Tighten the ferrule nut finger-tight then 1/2 turn with a wrench. If the column can still be moved, tighten another 1/4 turn until the column is secure.3) Inspect the column connections for leaks using an electronic leak detector. Leaks at the inlet end may introduce oxygen to the column that will result in increased column bleed and damage to the column phase.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Phenomenex_Gas_Chromatography_GC_Column_Installation_Detector_Installation_813b4d81a0.jpg" alt="Phenomenex: Gas Chromatography (GC) Column Installation - Detector Installation: Correctly and Incorrectly Cut GC Capillary." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Phenomenex_Gas_Chromatography_GC_Column_Installation_Detector_Installation_813b4d81a0.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="877" height="242">

Gas Chromatography (GC) Column Installation - Detector Installation

In this technical tip we are pleased to bring you some valuable guidelines for Gas Chromatography (GC) related to installation, from column conditioning to installation testing and through leak checks. Ensuring proper column installation and performance is crucial for accurate and reliable analysis. Let's dive into some important good practices:<h4>Column Conditioning</h4><ul><li>Allow sufficient time for the carrier gas to flow through the column to purge any oxygen that may be in the system.</li><li>Raise the temperature of the column to the maximum isothermal operating temperature that is listed on your individual GC Column Test Report. Maintain this temperature until a constant baseline is achieved. Conditioning times will depend on the phase identity and thickness, with thicker films taking longer to stabilize. In order to minimize the downtime of the instrument, columns can be conditioned overnight at the maximum isothermal temperature.</li></ul><h4>Installation Testing</h4><ul><li>Inject a detectable unretained sample, such as methane for an FID, to determine dead volume time and linear gas velocity at the desired column temperature. Adjust gas pressure for optimal flow depending on carrier gas selection.</li><li>The non-retained peak must have ideal peak shape or installation is faulty and needs to be redone.</li></ul><h4>Checking for Leaks</h4><ul><li>Use a thermocouple-thermometer to check for leaks. It is highly sensitive to H2, He, and N2 and will not contaminate the instrument or column. Liquid leak indicators are not recommended for capillary columns. There is the risk of drawing the liquid into the column or fittings and contaminating the system.</li><li>Any carrier gas that is leaking from the column will alter the conductivity across the thermocouple. As such, just watch for fluctuations within the temperature reading, which would indicate a possible leak near the location of the thermocouple. This prevents any contact and possible contamination of the column.</li></ul>Note: If Vespel® ferrules are being used, leakage can occur after the initial heating phase due to ferrule deformation. Be sure that the fitting is re-tightened after this initial heating phase, then carefully check all corrections for leaks.Remember, following these practices will contribute to the optimal performance and longevity of your GC columns, reducing downtime due to system maintenance.

Gas Chromatography (GC) Column Conditioning, Testing and Checks

<h4>1) Polarity&nbsp;</h4>Some indication of polarity will usually be provided by the GC column manufacturer, the value provided is normally determined using Kovats retention time indices together with McReynold’s numbers. The general advice is that stationary phase polarity should closely mirror the polarity of the analytes of interest, so a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products?category=355&amp;manufacturerItems=50">non-polar phase</a> such as a ZB-1 (rated as 5 on the polarity scale) would be a good choice for hydrocarbon analysis whilst a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products?category=7&amp;manufacturerItems=50&amp;search=WAX">ZB-Wax</a> (57 on the polarity scale) is often chosen for alcohols.<h4>2) Selectivity&nbsp;</h4>This is controlled by the different functional groups present within the polymeric stationary phase, the base of which is either polysiloxane or polyethylene glycol. Polysiloxane phases will typically have methyl groups, phenyl groups or cyanopropyl groups attached to the polysiloxane chains which allow for a variety of different interactions to occur:<ul><li>Methyl groups: van der waals or London forces,</li><li>Phenyl groups: π-π interactions,</li><li>Cyano groups: π-π and dipole-dipole interactions.</li></ul>Increasing the percentage of phenyl or cyanopropyl substituents in the stationary phase increases polarity. Polyethylene glycol (PEG)phases offer sites for dipole-dipole and hydrogen bonding interactions to take place, PEG phases are typically some of the most polar phases available.<h4>3) Length</h4>Increasing the length of the column increases the number of theoretical plates, which aids resolution, however increasing column length also increases the run time of any analysis conducted. A 30 m column is generally a good starting point for general method development whereas 60 m columns are typically used for the fingerprint analysis of complex mixtures. 15 m columns are generally utilised when the rapid separation of less complex mixtures is required.<h4>4) ID</h4>The choice of column ID impacts both column capacity (how much analyte you can inject) and efficiency. The narrower the column ID the higher the efficiency, but the lower it’s capacity. A good place to start with method development is a 0.25 mm ID column, which show a good compromise between efficiency and capacity. If you are converting a method from an old-style packed GC column to capillary GC columns then 0.53 mm ID columns are often chosen due to their higher analyte capacity.<h4>5) Film thickness</h4>Thin films provide the highest efficiency but have lower analyte retention. Thicker films have a higher capacity but lead to more bleed at high temperatures. If choosing to use a thin film (0.1 - 0.25 µm) with active analytes it is preferential to select a column which is highly deactivated to prevent peak tailing. Such columns generally provide lower bleed too.

What parameters should I consider when selecting a GC column for my application?

This month’s technical tip focuses on a basic and crucial topic: How to choose the correct GC column dimensions? When starting a new project or when improving an existing method, it’s important to evaluate the contribution that each column dimension (Length, Internal Diameter (ID) and film thickness) brings to the method resolution, sensitivity, and robustness.Another factor to keep in mind, when investing in GC columns, is to choose a reliable source. Manufacturers perform multiple tests on their columns before they find their way to customers. These tests include resolution of critical pairs, column bleed test, retention factor of probe analytes, efficiency of the column and so on. Make sure to select a manufacturer that provides columns that are individually QC tested.To maximize efficiency in GC, column length, internal diameter (ID) and film thickness, each has a significant effect. Knowing the effect of column dimensions on a GC separation will help not only to select the right column dimension, but also to pick an alternate dimension to achieve efficient chromatographic separation, as well as possibly reducing the analysis time.Let’s see how these parameters influence separation in detail.<h4>Column Length</h4>The length of your column affects the rate of resolution improvement. As the length of the column increases, so does the resolution improvement. However, it will also increase run times. Under isothermal conditions, doubling column length only increases resolution by 41 %, but it doubles the run time! Choose a column length that balances efficiency with acceptable run times.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Phenomenex_GC_Column_Selection_by_Column_Dimension_1_8c584730ec.jpg" alt="Phenomenex: GC Column Selection by Column Dimension: Column Lenght." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Phenomenex_GC_Column_Selection_by_Column_Dimension_1_8c584730ec.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1702" height="598"><h4>Internal Diameter</h4>Column internal diameter (ID) has a major impact on both resolution and sample capacity. Unlike column length, using smaller ID columns can lead to faster run times, because the column length required with a small ID is often shorter due to increased efficiency.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Phenomenex_GC_Column_Selection_by_Column_Dimension_2_c95f77d2fa.jpg" alt="Phenomenex: GC Column Selection by Column Dimension: Internal Diameter." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Phenomenex_GC_Column_Selection_by_Column_Dimension_2_c95f77d2fa.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1740" height="583"><h4>Film Thickness</h4>Film thickness determines solute retention and plays an important role in column sample capacity. Thin film columns are faster and provide higher resolution, but lower sample capacity. In most instances, choose the thinnest film possible that still provides adequate retention. When working with active samples, using a slightly thicker film can significantly improve peak shape.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Phenomenex_GC_Column_Selection_by_Column_Dimension_3_8fb68c44cb.jpg" alt="Phenomenex: GC Column Selection by Column Dimension: Film Thickness." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Phenomenex_GC_Column_Selection_by_Column_Dimension_3_8fb68c44cb.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1740" height="583">

GC Column Selection by Column Dimension

More often than not, GC column problems are traceable to something improperly done during installation. The table below may assist you in identifying and correcting common installation problems highlighted by your Column Performance Test Mixture.&nbsp;<h3>Symptom: Tailing Peaks</h3><h4>Possible Cause &nbsp;&nbsp;/ &nbsp;&nbsp;Suggested Remedy</h4><ul><li>Contaminated or active injector liner or column:&nbsp;<ul><li>Clean or replace injector liner.</li><li>Solvent rinse or replace the column.</li></ul></li><li>Dead volume due to poorly installed liner or column: Reinstall liner and column as necessary.</li><li>Ragged column end: Score the tubing lightly with a sapphire scribe or a ceramic scorer wafer before breaking it. Examine the end (a 20-power magnifier glass is recommended). If the break is not clean and the end square, cut the column again. Point the end down while breaking it, and while installing a nut and ferrule, to prevent fragments from entering the column. Reinstall the column.</li><li>A bad match between the polarities of the stationary phase and the solvent: Change the solvent.</li><li>A cold region in the sample flow path: Remove any cold zones in the flow path. Debris in the liner or column:&nbsp;<ul><li>Clean or replace the liner.</li><li>Cut a centimeter or two off the ends of the column and reinstall.</li></ul></li><li>Injection takes too long: Improve injection technique.</li><li>Split ratio is too low: Increase split ratio.</li><li>Overloading the inlet: Decrease the sample volume.</li><li>Some types of compounds such as alcoholic amines, primary and secondary amines, and carboxylic acids tend to tail:&nbsp;<ul><li>Try a different column.</li><li>Make a derivative of the sample.</li></ul></li></ul>

Peak Shape Problems: Tailing Peaks

<h4>No Peaks - Some or all peaks are missing from the run</h4>How many times have you found that some or all peaks are suddenly missing from the run?In this month’s GC technical tip, we explore some of the possible causes and solutions to overcome peak disappearance, by evaluating three possible scenarios that should cover all possible real cases.<h3>Symptom: All Peaks Missing</h3><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Phenomenex_Peak_Shape_Problems_No_Peaks_b0d5e8c344.jpg" alt="Phenomenex: Peak Shape Problems: No Peaks" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Phenomenex_Peak_Shape_Problems_No_Peaks_b0d5e8c344.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1516" height="943"><h4>Possible Cause &nbsp;/ &nbsp;Suggested Remedy</h4><ul><li>Defective or clogged syringe.: Try a new or proven syringe.</li><li>“Blown” septum or massive leaks at the inlet.: Find and fix leaks.</li><li>Problems with carrier gas flow.: Adjust gas flow.</li><li>Column may be broken or installed in the wrong detector or inlet.: If breakage is close to the beginning or end, cut off the short piece. Breakage in the middle can be repaired with a press-fit connector. For multiple breakages, replace or reinstall the column.<ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/GC_Column_Instalation_Guide_73f12586a8.pdf">See column installation</a>.</li></ul></li><li>The detector is not functioning or is not connected to the recorder or integrator.: Ensure detector is working properly. (e.g. is the flame in a FID lit?) Check connection to the output device.</li><li>Incorrect injector temperature:<ul><li>Injector too cold: sample is not vaporized.: Cold injector: check injector and oven temperature with an accurate thermometer. If accurate, increase temperature as necessary, but do not exceed the maximum temperature limit of the column. Inject the sample directly onto the column.</li><li>Injector too hot: thermally labile sample is decomposing.: Hot injector: check injector and oven temperature with an accurate thermometer. If accurate, reduce temperature as necessary, ensuring compatibility with sample and column minimum limit.</li></ul></li></ul><h3>Symptom: No Peaks After Solvent Peak</h3><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Phenomenex_Peak_Shape_Problems_No_Peaks_2_5f1459f9d3.jpg" alt="Phenomenex: Peak Shape Problems: No Peaks" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Phenomenex_Peak_Shape_Problems_No_Peaks_2_5f1459f9d3.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1481" height="943"><h4>Possible Cause &nbsp;/ &nbsp;Suggested Remedy</h4><ul><li>Sample volume is too high.: Inject less sample or use a higher split ratio.</li><li>For FID detectors, the flame is blown out by the solvent peak.: Check the detector temperature.</li><li>Carrier gas flow is too high.: Reduce the flow rate.</li><li>Incorrect column temperature; column is too hot and sample is eluting in solvent peak.: Check oven temperature with an accurate thermometer. If accurate, reduce temperature as necessary, ensuring compatibility with sample and column minimum limit.</li><li>Column cannot separate components from solvent.: Change solvent or column.</li></ul><h3>Symptom: Some Peaks Missing</h3><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Phenomenex_Peak_Shape_Problems_No_Peaks_3_be7fd462a8.jpg" alt="Phenomenex: Peak Shape Problems: No Peaks" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Phenomenex_Peak_Shape_Problems_No_Peaks_3_be7fd462a8.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1453" height="886"><h4>Possible Cause &nbsp;/ &nbsp;Suggested Remedy</h4><ul><li>Activity in the inlet liner or column if the missing peak is an active compound.: Clean or replace the inlet liner. Ensure an inert column is used. If necessary, replace the column. See column installation.</li></ul>When some or all peaks are missing in a GC analysis most causes are related to the detector, which plays a crucial role, but do not dismiss other possible causes, such as a defective syringe, an improper injection or an activated column or liner.See you on the next technical tip, feel free to contact us if you need support in troubleshooting or for your method development.

Peak Shape Problems: No Peaks

When sensitivity loss occurs, it can significantly impact the accuracy and reliability of analytical results. Several factors can contribute to sensitivity loss, such as column contamination, sample matrix effects, injector and detector issues, or improper sample preparation. This technical note aims to guide analysts in identifying the common causes behind sensitivity loss and implementing effective strategies to address the issue.<h3>Symptom: Decreased Response</h3>Some or all peaks are displaying decreased response.<h4>Possible Cause &nbsp;/ &nbsp;Suggested Remedy</h4><ul><li>Contamination of column and/ or liner can lead to loss of sensitivity for active compounds.:&nbsp;<ul><li>Clean liner.</li><li>Bake out the column. Solvent rinse or replace the column.</li></ul></li><li>Injector leaks reduce the peak height of the most volatile components of a sample.:&nbsp;<ul><li>Find and fix any leaks</li></ul></li><li>If initial column temperature is too high for splitless injection, this prevents refocusing of sample. This affects the more volatile components most.:&nbsp;<ul><li>Lower temperature below the boiling point of the solvent. Decrease the initial column temperature, or use a less volatile solvent</li></ul></li><li>Inlet discrimination: injector temperature is too low. Later eluting and less volatile compounds have low response.:&nbsp;<ul><li>Increase the injection temperature or use on-column injection with direct connect liner</li></ul></li><li>Issues with the sample:&nbsp;<ul><li>Check the sample concentration, any sample preparation procedures, and shelf life. Prepare a fresh sample ensuring the proper concentration</li></ul></li></ul>In conclusion, sensitivity loss in GC is characterized by decreased response in one or more peaks, which can hinder accurate and reliable analysis. It is crucial to maintain a clean column and liner, address any injector leaks, optimize column conditions, and ensure proper sample preparation. Remember to regularly perform maintenance tasks and quality checks to ensure the ongoing performance of the GC system.By implementing these countermeasures, you can overcome sensitivity loss and achieve more accurate and reliable analytical results.

Peak Shape Problems: Sensitivity Loss

When it comes to selecting the best GC column for your analysis, understanding the concepts of polarity and selectivity is crucial. While often used interchangeably, they have distinct meanings in the context of gas chromatography. Let's explore how you can make informed decisions for column selection.<h4>Overview</h4>Polarity and selectivity are often regarded as interchangeable, however in practice they are quite different when looking at gas chromatography. Selectivity refers to the difference in retention factors between two peaks whilst polarity is an assigned value specific to a GC column, based on an assignment using solute-solvent properties. With a plethora of GC phases available to an analyst, how can you ensure you are selecting the best stationary phase for your method?<h4>Tip</h4>Resolution between compounds is primarily determined by the selectivity of the stationary phase, and your choice will have the largest effect on this. Column selectivity is unique to column polarity, but it is important to also ensure the polarity of the phase you select is appropriate to the compound types you are analyzing. For example, if you have a selection of mid-polarity compounds generally these will resolve best on a mid-polarity column. What is important when selecting a stationary phase is to consider that two columns with almost equivalent polarity can offer very different selectivities. If we consider the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/1576">Zebron ZB-35</a> and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/1573">ZB-1701</a>, which have polarity indexes of 18 and 19 respectively, due to their very different stationary phases they work in different ways depending on the class of compound in question.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Phenomenex_Zebron_ZB_35_and_ZB_1701_0793537614.jpg" alt="Phenomenex: GC columns Zebron ZB-35 and ZB-1701" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Phenomenex_Zebron_ZB_35_and_ZB_1701_0793537614.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1057" height="238">Using PAHs as an example we can see the different selectivity profiles for these hugely aromatic compounds, with the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/1573">ZB-1701</a> and its higher level of aromaticity giving better resolution, specifically of the critical pair of dibenzeno[a,h]acridine and dibenzeno[a,j]acridine (Fig. 1) when run using the same column dimensions and temperature profile.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Phenomenex_Zebron_ZB_35_and_ZB_1701_2_eac90b78f7.jpg" alt="Phenomenex: Comparison of GC columns Zebron ZB-35 and ZB-1701" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Phenomenex_Zebron_ZB_35_and_ZB_1701_2_eac90b78f7.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1279" height="727">In GC, 3 types of interactions are important for selectivity:<ol><li>Van der Waals Interactions, which occur between non- polar groups on the phase and non- polar compounds.</li><li>Dipole-dipole interactions, which can assist with separating compounds with similar boiling points where their chemical structures are different.</li><li>Hydrogen bonding, which can be a powerful tool for polar compounds. It can also lead to poor peak shape if not controlled appropriately.</li></ol>When selecting the most appropriate GC column for your application, polarity should be considered first, and using a column which matches your compound polarity is generally advised. Once this is selected, elution order of your compounds is primarily determined by boiling point and in general compounds with lower boiling points will elute earlier than those with higher boiling points. The caveat to this is when the lower boiling compound has more interaction with the stationary phase than the higher boiling compound. For a purely boiling point based separation you would be looking to use a stationary phase such as the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/1572">ZB-1 </a>which is 100% dimethylpolysiloxane – where Van De Waals forces form the main interaction between the analytes and the stationary phase.<h4>View On Demand Webinar</h4>🎥 <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.phenomenex.com/webinars/exploring-fast-gc-solutions-for-priority-pollutants-like-pah-and-pcb-in-food-and-environmental-sampl">Exploring Fast GC Solutions for Priority Pollutants like PAH and PCB in Food and Environmental Samples.</a>

Good Column Selection: Polarity vs Selectivity

For gas chromatographers, dealing with high temperatures is a routine requirement. One of the most common questions we receive from customers is: What is the maximum temperature a GC column can reach? In this technical tip, we will cover this topic... along with some recommendations.Polar stationary phases are more susceptible to damage and degrade at a faster rate when exposed to excessively high temperatures. Thermal damage is evident by excessive column bleed and peak tailing of active compounds. Loss of retention and efficiency (resolution) may also be observed for severe cases of thermal damage. Temperature limits do not have any extra safety factors built in, so maintaining the column within its temperature limits should be practiced to ensure reasonable column lifetime and performance.Column temperature limits may differ slightly between the same phase with different film thickness. There is an inverse relationship between the film thickness and the upper temperature limit when working with the same stationary phase. For example:<ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/1572">ZB-1</a> (30 m x 0.32 mm x 0.25 µm) – 360/370 °C isocratic/gradient</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/1572">ZB-1</a> (30 m x 0.32 mm x 5.00 µm) – 340/360 °C isocratic/gradient</li></ul>Note also that sometimes, even when the phase and the dimensions are the same, the column temperature limits may be different among different manufacturers. Usually, Zebron™ columns have limits that are 10 °C - 20 °C above those of competitor columns.Be careful to distinguish between a high-temperature version of a stationary phase and the regular version, including all the related accessories. A standard silica column may reach up to 360 °C depending on various parameters as discussed above. The high-temperature <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/1563">Zebron-HT line</a>, called Inferno™, can be distinguished from the regular line by the black color of the silica tubing. These offer temperature limits of up to 430 °C. If you need to develop a method at higher temperatures because you are dealing with compounds with very high boiling points, you have to choose our Zebron-1XT Sim Dist column that has a metal capillary tube and can reach 450 °C!When working with high temperatures we highly recommend using only accessories designed for high-temperature analyses such as SilTite® ferrules, HT Guard Columns, and last but not least, Zebron gas management filters, which ensure that all gases that reach the GC systems and columns are free from oxygen and other contaminants that may break the column - especially when working with high temperatures.

How Hot is TOO Hot? - Part 1

Protecting your GC column and instrument components from exposure to dirty samples is important. Non-volatile or high molecular weight components can contaminate the stationary phase, causing poor peak resolution, lower accuracy, and poor column lifetime. Cutting off the damaged portion of column tubing will often restore your column’s performance, but over time performance will degrade to a point where the column can no longer be used. If you are experiencing rapid degradation of column performance, there are several simple ways to help protect your column and increase its lifetime.<h3>Ensure Proper Sample Preparation</h3>Sample filtration and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products?category=136&amp;manufacturerItems=50">SPE</a> products can help to eliminate or mitigate contaminants and matrix effects, resulting in longer column lifetimes and increased signal-to-noise ratios. Not only will proper sample preparation prolong the life of the analytical column, it will also protect your system and improve method accuracy by removing unwanted contaminants or particles. Sample filtration in particular, helps reduce system downtime and equipment replacement, resulting in time and money savings. Filtering samples before injection is one of the quickest (and easiest!) way to protect your GC column and lengthen lifetime.<ul><li>Filter your samples prior to injection with <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/2246">Phenex</a> syringe filters.</li><li>Use <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products?category=136&amp;manufacturerItems=50&amp;search=Strata">Strata or Strata-X SPE</a> cartridges to eliminate contaminants.</li></ul><h3>Use A Guard or Integrated Guard Column</h3>With integrated guard columns, unlike traditional guard columns, the guard is built directly into the analytical column in one continuous length of tubing. Traditional columns may be difficult to seal and can leak after normal column maintenance, whilst integrated guards such as the Zebron™ Guardian system provide the same inert column protection, but eliminate the possibility of leaks.Traditional guard columns such as <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/2245">Zebron Z-Guard</a>, are 5 or 10 meter pieces of deactivated tubing that are connected to an analytical column using a glass press-fit connector. The tubing acts like a trap for non-volatile residues that would otherwise damage the stationary phase of your analytical column.In addition to providing column protection, traditional guard columns can also be used for solvent focusing, or for large volume injection when the guard section is long (8 to 10 meters). When using a traditional guard column, success lies in proper installation. Ensure that column ends are cut cleanly and that any polyimide resin used is cured.<blockquote>Look out for our second part on how to protect your GC column next week!</blockquote>

How to Protect Your GC Column - Part 1

Article

Product

Events

Webinars

Application

Academy

Video

Poster

Scientists

Plastics

Environment

Food

Water

Health

Presentation

Scientific article

Interview

Toxicology

Popularization

Science and research

Software

Covid-19

Career

Laboratories

Various

Zaměření

Type of News

Focus

Phenomenex is a global technology leader committed to developing novel analytical chemistry solutions that solve the separation and purification challenges of researchers in industrial, government and academic laboratories.

Phenomenex

Pittcon 2026

36th MassSpec Forum Vienna 2026

US HUPO 2026

The science of next-gen ingredients: fermentation, formulation and function

The Data Driven Plant; How AI Transforms Chemical Manufacturing

Process Raman: A Reliable and Versatile Tool For Downstream Process Monitoring and Control For mAB Production