Acoustic methods of detection in gas chromatography

A brief review of the use of acoustic detection methods in GC is presented. While a number of methods (some quite similar) have been developed for use as gas-phase sensors in various applications, this article focuses specifically on those techniques that have been used to detect analytes following their separation by GC. Overall, a number of "active" acoustic methods (which measure analytes through their interaction with a controlled external acoustic wave source) were reportedly used as GC detectors. These include ultrasonic, thickness shear mode, surface acoustic wave (SAW), and flexural plate wave methods. Conversely, "passive" acoustic methods (those that produce an acoustic signal through some chemical reaction with the analyte) have also been used as GC detectors. These include photoacoustic and acoustic flame methods of detection. Of the two major classifications, reports of active methods are far more prevalent. In particular, the usage of SAW techniques with GC is an area of research that has seen accelerated growth in recent years.