Zoex | Europe


FAQ: Moving to Multidimensional GC 

1. Why Multidimensional GC? Multidimensional GC is growing in popularity with many GC analysts because often a single GC column does not provide sufficient resolution of target analyets, even for moderately complex samples. Many analysts will already be very familiar with challenges such as separating large numbers of components in just one single run, co-eluters, active compounds and difficulty of detection of trace analytes. Multidimensional GC offers a powerful solution to these common challenges, as well as reduced method development time and speed of analysis in performing one versus two runs.

2. What is multidimensional GC? Multidimensional GC is the separation of a GC sample in two dimensions, usually using two columns of differing polariaities to resolve a group of peaks over narrow retention time ranges. Sample is first separated on a non-polar column, and small sections of the primary eluent are then separated on a secondary, short narrow ID polar column. A short, narrow ID column is used because the secondary separation needs to be fast, to lend power to resolving troublesome peaks eluted from the primary column. When only a small section of the primary eluent is separated on a secondary column, the term "heart-cutting" is used. When the whole sample needs to undergo both primary and secondary separation, the technique is referred to as "comprehensive GC". The latter technique is considered the most powerful and challenging, as it requires near-perfect modulation (transfer from primary to secondary column) and excellent data matching capabilities.

3. Is multidimensional GC only for experts and experienced GC users? No. Like all young technologies on the market, multidimensional GC was first developed by opinion leaders and implemented by those at the forefront of GC research. The technology has undergone development and the techniques employed and technologies available find use in an increasingly wide range of GC applications. 

4. What sorts of multidimensional technologies exist? Multidimensional GC is accessible to every analyst at Zoex Europe. Commercially available multidimensional GC is predominantly based on Zoex technologies which are licensed to a number of operating vendors and partners. Zoex Europe offers a range of solutions from comprehensive GC, through to heart-cutting, dean switching and splitting (capillary flow technology), integrated multiple oven use and column technologies that enable further techniques such as backflush and sample enrichment. Our pages on products tell you more about each technology and technique available.

5. Can multidimensional GC be integrated into my existing GC system? Several multidimensional GC technologies can be easily integrated into an existing GC system. It depends on your application, what you are seeking to achieve and ease of use. Zoex´s GC Image software can process data acquired from various GC platforms including:

Because of the wide variety of solutions on offer, it is wise to contact Zoex directly about your needs so we can provide the best advice for the applications you wish to perform. Contact Jeannette de Jong on +31 (0) 40 257 3972 or email info@zoex.eu.

6. What applications can be performed by multidimensional GC? There are several sample types where multidimensional GC is rountinely performed: biodiesel, petroleum and refinery products, fragrance and flavour extracts, forensics & clinical toxicology (metabolomics), and environmental applications which include pesticides and POPS (persistent organic pollutants). These sample types often exhibit combinations of large numbers of components, co-eluters, active compounds, and trace analytes that require analysis with higher sensitivity. But samples containing these sorts of analyte challenges will benefit from multidimensional GC - especially those that require two separate runs.