Purge and Trap Gas Chromatography Explained

Gas Chromatography refers to the scientific process of analysis of compounds using the gas chromatographs. Gas Chromatograph is a machine that performs the analysis of these compounds once they are separated from the sample and have been vaporized. A column inlet, called as an injector will help you to remove the compounds from the sample and then vaporize and inject them into the column of the chromatograph.

The purge and gas chromatography is performed in order to analyze the compounds that are occurring at minute, parts per billion levels. It also involved a trap and purge column inlet.

Purging and Trapping

Once the sample has been shifted to the column inlet through the autosampler or manually, it will undergo a process which is called the purging and trapping before being injected into the column. The process includes:

•            The inter gas is bubbled through the sample and the compounds are released
  
•            The released components get trapped on the absorbent
  
•            The concentrator is then heated until the compound gets vaporized
  

Once the compound is vaporized, it is transported back to the column on gas steam. This process is known as Mobile Phase of GC. This action the purge and trap process and then the chromatography process occur in the below mentioned order:

•                     The compound enters the column firstly
  
•       These compounds are passed through liquid stationary phase. These compounds then exit through the column and enter the analyzer.
  
•                     The elements are then detected and identified
  
•              In the labs, this process is initiated through autosampler that shifts to the column inlet.
  

Common Applications

The most common and usual application for the purge and trap gas chromatography is the analysis of Volatile Organic Compounds. These are naturally occurring elements that are the cause adverse health effects and environmental damage. They are toxic to animals and humans even if consumed in minute amount.

They tend to vaporize at room temperature helping them to pervade the surrounding. VOC analysis might be the best application but it is not the only option. They are also used to assess the effects of compound on taste, smell, cosmetic products, fragrances etc.

Conclusion

Purge and trap Gas chromatography is highly useful for low level compounds that are present in soil and liquid samples that threaten the safety to natural products and environment. The mission of Gas Chromatography is to analyze the miniscule compounds present at PPB level. The results and accuracy of these processes depend on the usage of right columns, inlets and the person performing the operation.

Purge and Gas chromatography related equipments can be bought online from suppliers at very cheap prices. You must go for some durable and high quality material in order to get precise results and process. Keeping the right and tight eye on count and process is essential to accomplish desired results.