Agilent 990 Micro GC Channel CP-Sil 5 CB

Relevance of the Topic

Analyses of light hydrocarbons and organic solvents in natural gas, refinery streams and biogas are critical for process optimization, safety and regulatory compliance. Rapid on-site gas chromatography with microfabricated components delivers fast turnaround, low carrier gas consumption and high sensitivity, enabling real-time decision making in industrial and field applications.

Objectives and Overview

This data sheet describes the performance characteristics of the Agilent 990 Micro GC channel featuring CP-Sil 5 CB columns. The aim is to present column configurations, analytical figures of merit, and application suitability for saturated hydrocarbons (C3–C10), aromatics and solvents.

Methodology

The system uses a MEMS-based heated injector, isothermal capillary column and micromachined thermal conductivity detector (TCD) in each analytical channel. Columns are available in lengths from 4 to 20 meters, in straight or backflush layouts for enhanced separation speed and column maintenance.

Used Instrumentation

• MEMS-based injector with heated sample transfer line (up to 110 °C), volume 1–10 µL
• CP-Sil 5 CB stationary phase columns (100 % PDMS) in straight or backflush (BF, BF2D) configurations
• Micromachined dual-channel TCD (sample/reference) with four filaments, 200 nL internal volume
• Independent pneumatic control for column pressure programming and detector settings
• Stainless steel Valco sample inlet with 5 µm filter, non-condensing gas up to 110 °C, 100 kPa inlet pressure
• Carrier gases: He, H₂, N₂ or Ar at 550 ± 10 kPa

Main Results and Discussion

Resolution (iC₄/nC₄) ranges from 1.2 to 2.0 depending on column length and backflush mode. Detection limits for n-C₅ are 0.3–1.0 ppm, with area repeatability below 0.5 % RSD at 0.2 % concentration. Backflush configurations reduce analysis time and prevent heavy compound build-up, while BF2D generates a composite peak for C6+ hydrocarbons.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Rapid separation (<10 min) of C3–C10 hydrocarbons and aromatics for process control
• Low carrier gas consumption and compact footprint for field deployment
• High sensitivity and reproducibility for compliance monitoring and QA/QC
• Backflush options extend column lifetime and simplify unattended operation

Future Trends and Opportunities

Advances in microfabrication and detector technologies may enable multi-dimensional separations, integration with AI-driven data analysis and the use of greener carrier gases. Field-portable micro GC systems will benefit from wireless networking and modular channel designs for broader on-site environmental and industrial monitoring.

Conclusion

The Agilent 990 Micro GC CP-Sil 5 CB channel offers a versatile, high-performance solution for fast, accurate analysis of light hydrocarbons and solvents. Its MEMS-based design, versatile column options and robust TCD detection meet the stringent demands of industrial and field applications, supporting real-time process optimization and regulatory compliance.