Analysis of Aromatics using SCION-WAXMS GC Column

Significance of the Topic

The analysis of aromatic hydrocarbons is critical for environmental monitoring, quality control in the petrochemical industry, and ensuring product safety. Reliable separation and quantification of these compounds support regulatory compliance and process optimization.

Objectives and Study Overview

This application note demonstrates the separation and identification of seven aromatic and related hydrocarbons using a SCION-WAXMS gas chromatography column coupled to a flame ionization detector. The primary aim is to achieve baseline resolution within a reasonable run time under optimized conditions.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The analytical procedure employs split injection of a 0.1Â µL sample (0.1% solution in cyclohexane) under the following parameters:

• Injector temperature: 250 °C with a split flow of 75 mL/min
• Carrier gas: Helium at 2.0 bar
• Column: SCION-WAXMS, 60 m × 0.25 mm × 0.25 µm
• Oven program: Ramp from 55 °C to 150 °C at 4 °C/min
• Detector: Flame ionization detector at 275 °C

Used Instrumentation

• Gas chromatograph: SCION GC with FID
• Column: SCION-WAXMS 60 m × 0.25 mm × 0.25 µm
• Detector: Flame ionization detector (FID)

Main Results and Discussion

The method achieved clear baseline separation of the following compounds in elution order: 2,2-dimethylhexane, benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, p-xylene, m-xylene, and o-xylene. The temperature ramp provided efficient separation within a moderate analysis time, and retention times were reproducible across replicates.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• High selectivity and resolution for common aromatic hydrocarbons
• Reproducible retention times ideal for quality control laboratories
• Robust and simple operation suitable for environmental and petrochemical analyses

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Advancements in column stationary phases and detector sensitivity will enable shorter analyses and lower detection limits. Integration with mass spectrometry could improve compound identification in complex matrices. Automated sampling and data processing solutions will further enhance throughput and reproducibility.

Conclusion

The SCION-WAXMS GC-FID method offers a reliable and efficient approach for the analysis of key aromatic hydrocarbons, combining excellent separation performance with straightforward operation suitable for diverse analytical settings.

References

No references were provided in the original text.