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Applications of planar microfluidic devices and gas chromatography for complex problem solving
Jim Luong1, Ronda Gras, Robert A Shellie
1Dow Chemical Canada ULC, Alberta, Canada.
Journal of Separation Science
|December 6, 2012
Summary
Planar microfluidic devices enhance gas chromatography (GC) for complex separations. This technology enables difficult analyses, like trace sulfur compounds in natural gas, in a single run.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Separation Science
- Microfluidics
Background:
- Gas chromatography (GC) is a powerful separation technique.
- Complex mixtures often require advanced techniques for component resolution.
- Microfluidic devices offer novel solutions for chromatographic challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present the application of planar microfluidic devices in GC.
- To demonstrate their utility in achieving difficult separations in a single analysis.
- To showcase the synergy between microfluidics and capillary GC columns.
Main Methods:
- Utilized planar microfluidic devices in various configurations.
- Implemented techniques such as parallel chromatography, effluent splitting, backflushing, selectivity tuning, valve-less switching, column isolation, heart cutting, and comprehensive multidimensional chromatography.
- Combined microfluidic devices with fused-silica capillary columns.
Main Results:
- Successfully performed difficult separations in a single GC analysis.
- Demonstrated effective use of parallel chromatography, effluent splitting, and multidimensional approaches.
- Achieved separation of challenging analytes including light hydrocarbons in high-moisture air, fixed gases in hydrocarbons, trace sulfur compounds in natural gas, and oxygenated compounds in hydrocarbons.
Conclusions:
- Planar microfluidic devices integrated with capillary GC columns significantly enhance separation capabilities.
- These devices enable efficient and comprehensive analysis of complex samples previously requiring multiple steps.
- The technology offers a powerful tool for tackling challenging analytical problems in various fields.
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