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- Posts: 3
- Joined: Wed Feb 08, 2023 7:25 pm
- Location: United States
I run ASTM D2163 with an alumina PLOT column for C1- C6 hydrocarbon analysis via an FID. The scope of the analysis is for the calculation of main components and trace C3 and C4 olefins in propane, isobutane, and n-butane blends. Currently I use Helium as my carrier and it's great but I would like to transition to H2 carrier.
A big headache which requires method development and can be variable from column to column even from the same manufacturer and column type is the separation and co-elution of neopentane from the C4 unsaturated hydrocarbons. It will usually co-elute with isobutylene. Usually flow and temperature can be modified to circumvent this.
I have nicknamed this the "Neopentane dilemma". Anyways, has anyone had any success with using Hydrogen carrier for this or a similar analysis? Most references utilizing a PLOT column for the analysis of hydrocarbons uses helium carrier.
A partner with our GC manufacturer has said that PLOT column lifetimes are decreased when they have attempted to develop methods using hydrogen carrier. Also, neopentane coelution is more difficult to remedy.
Feedback would be much appreciated.