Citronella Oil on Rxi-5Sil MS (10 m, 0.15 mm ID, 0.15 μm)

Significance of the Topic

The detailed profile of citronella oil is essential for quality control and authentication in applications ranging from perfumery to pest repellent production. Rapid and reliable analysis of its volatile compounds ensures product consistency and safety.

Aims and Overview of the Study

This study demonstrates a fast gas chromatographic separation and mass spectrometric identification of 28 key compounds in citronella oil using a short 10 m Rxi-5Sil MS column. The method achieves complete resolution of monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes within 2.2 minutes.

Methodology and Instrumentation

Sample preparation and chromatographic conditions

• Sample: 1 mass percent citronella oil in acetone
• Injection: 1 microliter split (100 to 1) at 250 °C using Topaz inlet liner with wool
• Oven temperature program: 100 °C to 300 °C at 45 °C/min then to 320 °C at 30 °C/min with a five‐minute hold
• Carrier gas: helium at 1.0 mL/min constant flow
• MS detection: scan mode from 35 to 500 amu at 11 scans/sec

Used Instrumentation

Agilent 7890A gas chromatograph coupled to a 5975C mass selective detector with a quadrupole analyzer and inert source.

Main Results and Discussion

The method resolved 28 components including alpha‐pinene, D‐limonene, linalool, citronellal, geraniol and various eudesmols. Retention times ranged from 0.51 to 2.11 minutes, with baseline separation achieved for isomeric compounds. Identification was confirmed using the NIST mass spectral library.

Benefits and Practical Applications

This rapid GC MS method supports high throughput screening and routine quality assurance of essential oils. The short analysis time reduces carrier gas consumption while maintaining robust separation and reliable identification.

Future Trends and Opportunities

Integration with two-dimensional chromatography and high resolution mass spectrometry can further improve compound coverage and quantitation. Machine learning algorithms may enhance spectral deconvolution and pattern recognition for complex mixtures. Portable GC MS solutions could enable on-site analysis in industrial and environmental contexts.

Conclusion

The presented approach offers a fast, reproducible and accurate workflow for profiling citronella oil constituents. Its efficiency and sensitivity make it well suited for quality control laboratories and research applications.