Nickel gas chromatographic columns: an alternative to glass for biological samples

Nickel tubing may be substituted for glass in the fabrication of gas chromatographic columns for use with samples of biological interest. Comparisons of separations of mixtures of steroids, narcotic alkaloids, phenothiazines, and amphetamines on stainless stell, glass, and nickel packed columns showed little or no observable sample decomposition on glass or nickel as contrasted to complete loss of certain compounds on stainless steel. The nickel columns are easily prepared, durable, economical, and not subject to breakage.