Microanalysis of carbon monoxide in blood by head-space capillary gas chromatography

A gas chromatographic procedure for the determination of carboxyhaemoglobin in blood was improved by using a capillary system in combination with a micro thermal conductivity detector. This system is very sensitive with high resolutions. The analytical time is reduced to approximately two minutes. Using sulphuric acid as the liberating agent of carbon monoxide, a gradual and reproducible release of carbon monoxide was seen. This shortens the time in emergency cases for sample preparation.