Oxygenates, C1 - C7 - Separation of C1-C7 oxygenated compounds in hydrocarbon matrix

Význam tématu

Oxygenated compounds in fuels and hydrocarbon matrices significantly influence combustion efficiency, emission profiles and regulatory compliance. Accurate separation and quantification of C1–C7 oxygenates are crucial for quality control in energy and fuels analysis as well as for environmental monitoring.

Cíle a přehled studie

This application note demonstrates a gas chromatographic method using the Agilent Lowox phase to achieve highly selective retention of C1–C7 oxygenated species from a complex hydrocarbon background. Key objectives include achieving baseline separation, minimizing chromatographic bleed and enabling trace-level quantification.

Použitá metodika a instrumentace

The analysis employed an Agilent GC system with a wide-bore inlet. The stationary phase was a 0.53 mm×10 m Agilent Lowox fused silica PLOT column. Temperature program: initial 30 °C hold for 3 min, ramp at 3 °C/min to 280 °C. Carrier gas helium at 3.5 mL/min (10 kPa). Split injection at 150 °C; Flame Ionization Detector at 300 °C.

Hlavní výsledky a diskuse

The Lowox phase showed exceptional selectivity, causing most oxygenates to elute after the hydrocarbon matrix, which simplifies peak identification and quantification. Low column bleed and high thermal stability support trace analysis down to 5–10 ng per component. A total of 27 compounds, including aldehydes, ketones and alcohols from C1 to C7, were resolved with minimal coelution.

Přínosy a praktické využití metody

This method provides robust, reproducible separation of key oxygenates in complex mixtures, supporting fuel quality assessment, regulatory compliance and environmental studies. Its sensitivity and selectivity make it applicable for QA/QC laboratories and research settings.

Budoucí trendy a možnosti využití

Future developments may include coupling with mass spectrometry for structural confirmation, extension to higher homologues and real-time monitoring using fast GC techniques. Advances in column technology may further reduce analysis time and improve resolution.

Závěr

The use of the Agilent Lowox PLOT column in gas chromatography offers a highly effective approach for the separation and quantification of C1–C7 oxygenated compounds in hydrocarbon matrices, delivering low bleed, high thermal stability and trace-level sensitivity.

Reference

• Felix U, Dettmer K, Engewald W, Mohnke M. Separation of C1–C7 oxygenated compounds in hydrocarbon matrix. Agilent Technologies Application Note A01614; 2011.