derivatization of 1,2 diols

[chemcad]

Dear all,

I am not using chromatography, but think that the derivatization methods used by you guys could solve my problem:

I am trying to get rid of Glycerol and Propylene Glycol in a mixture containing Diethylene Glycol. Glycerol and Propylene Glycol have adjacent OH groups (1,2 diols), whereas the OH groups lie far apart for DEG. I read that cyclic boronates or siliconides can be used to protect adjacent OH groups. Would those work or also react with Diethylene Glycol?
I have also thought about Periodic Acid and lead Tetraacetate, which cleave Glycerol and Propylene Glycol, but not DEG. However, they produce side products that interfere with my subsequent enzymatic assay.So something that "clips on to" the adjacent OH group may work better (?).

Does anyone know what the best way is to protect/get rid of OH adjacent OH groups (Glycerol, Propylene Glycol) but leave OH groups that are far apart (Diethylene Glycol) intact? The fewer side products are formed the better it would be.

It would be great if you had some advice. Thanks so much in advance and best wishes!

[Consumer Products Guy]

Are you trying to physically separate these or assay them???? If assaying, use GC: dissolve in DMF, add trimethylsilyl derivatizing agent, shake, and inject on nonpolar capillary, easy, plenty of papers on glycerin & propylene glycol assay done this way. We do this routinely in my lab for EG, DEG, PG, DPG and glycerin.