Single-jet, single-stage cryogenic modulator for comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography (GC x GC)

A simple, single-stage CO2 jet modulator has been designed, which cools only a single, ca. 10 mm long section of the front part of the second-dimension column of a comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatographic (GC x GC) system. Direct heating by means of the GC oven air effects remobilization of the small fractions trapped upon eluting from the first-dimension column within a predetermined short period of time. Evaluation of the present modulator for the GC x GC separation of (very) polar flavour as well as non-polar compounds shows that the analytical performance of the single-stage modulator is closely similar to that of earlier reported, more complex, types of modulator.