[Preparation and evaluation of silica xerogel monolithic column]

Using potassium silicate as silicon source, formamide as catalyst, a series of silica xerogel monolithic columns with different consistencies were prepared. The column bed would not rupture and collapse during drying at high temperatures. This is the biggest advantage compared with the inorganic monolithic columns using alkoxy silane as precursor. The effect of the modulus of potassium silicate on the physical structure of the monolithic column was investigated. The monolithic silica columns were characterized by scanning electron micrograph (SEM) and nitrogen adsorption. The relationship between column pressure and flow rate was evaluated. The column efficiency for anthracene was tested. The breakthrough curve for toluene was studied. The results showed that the column bed could maintain good stability at high temperatures, high column pressures, and high flow rates. The column efficiency of 41,400 plates/m was achieved for anthracene. The column capacity for toluene was 61 ng.