Agilent 990 Micro GC Channel CP-Molsieve 5Å

Importance of the Topic

Rapid and reliable analysis of permanent and noble gases is critical in fields from environmental monitoring to industrial process control. Micro gas chromatography systems enable compact, low power operation with high resolution for trace level detection. The CP Molsieve 5 Angstrom channel on the Agilent 990 Micro GC offers a versatile solution for fast separation of gases such as N2, O2, CO, H2, CH4 and noble gases, supporting quality assurance, field surveys and process diagnostics.

Objectives and Study Overview

The data sheet aims to describe channel configurations, performance specifications and options available for the CP Molsieve 5 Angstrom column in the Agilent 990 Micro GC. It provides an overview of column chemistries, lengths, backflush options and carrier gas treatments that enhance separation quality and analytical throughput.

Methodology and Instrumentation

Analytical methodology relies on MEMS based components integrated in each channel of the Agilent 990 Micro GC. Key features include:

• Micromachined inlet with heated transfer line for injection volumes from 1 to 10 microliters
• Isothermal CP Molsieve 5 Angstrom column operated up to 180 degrees Celsius
• Optional backflush configurations to remove heavy compounds and maintain column cleanliness
• RTS carrier gas filtering to remove water and carbon dioxide for stable retention times
• Micro thermal conductivity detector with dual channel reference and sample flows

Used Instrumentation

The following instrumentation supports the methodology:

• Agilent 990 Micro GC system with up to four independent analytical channels
• CP Molsieve 5 Angstrom columns in lengths of 4, 10 and 20 meters with straight or backflush designs
• Micromachined thermal conductivity detector with 200 nanoliter internal volume per channel
• Carrier gas supply of helium, nitrogen or argon at controlled pressures

Main Results and Discussion

Performance specifications demonstrate:

• Detection limit of approximately 2 parts per million for neon using helium carrier gas
• Repeatability below one percent relative standard deviation for peak area at trace concentration
• Linear dynamic range extending over five orders of magnitude
• Reliable separation of argon and oxygen on 20 meter columns

Backflush options with precolumn lengths from one to five meters allow removal of heavier matrix components and support faster cycle times. RTS filtering enhances retention time stability in challenging field conditions.

Benefits and Practical Applications

Key benefits include:

• Compact design suitable for mobile and benchtop analysis
• Customizable channel configurations to target specific gas mixtures
• High sensitivity and precision for trace gas monitoring
• Robust isothermal operation requiring minimal temperature control

Applications range from environmental air quality surveys to process gas monitoring in petrochemical and semiconductor industries.

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Emerging directions include combining micro GC with preconcentration modules to achieve sub ppm detection, integration of advanced data analytics for automated anomaly detection and expansion of column chemistries for volatile organic compound screening. Miniaturized detectors and multiplexed channels are expected to further enhance throughput and portability.

Conclusion

The CP Molsieve 5 Angstrom channel for the Agilent 990 Micro GC provides a proven platform for rapid, high resolution analysis of permanent and noble gases. Its flexible configurations, low detection limits and robust performance make it a valuable tool for both laboratory and field applications.

Reference

Agilent Technologies Data Sheet for CP Molsieve 5 Angstrom channels on the Agilent 990 Micro GC 2024