TCE and PCE screening method

[pacerlaser]

Hello, I am trying to set up a quick screening analysis to determine if a sample has TCE or PCE in it. I am using an ECD with a Zebron Inferno column (30 m). I have tried using different solvents to determine where the TCE elutes but I can't seem to find it. I have an FID as the front detector and the ECD is the back detector and I am using a y connector to split the Inferno column just before it reaches the detectors. The FID is being used to screen for diesel and oil in samples. Any help would be greatly appreciated!

[chromatographer1]

While you did not tell us [please do be more specific if I do not guess correctly]

I ASSUME

you are using a biodiesel type column (like a 0.1um film and 0.25mm ID column)

Were all the peaks of the solvents you tried coming out very early in the SAME place?

If the answer is YES. Then guess where TCE elutes !

If I guessed incorrectly, well blame yourself for giving so little information for the Forum to work with.

best wishes,

Rod

[AICMM]

pacerlaser,

A suggestion. It sounds like you have PCE and TCE on hand, so why not put a uL of each into a beaker and let them evaporate and then shoot the headspace. The other solvent you might think about is DMSO which elutes rather late (relative to lots of other solvents.

Best regards,

aicmm