GC Column Configurator

Column selection for GC columns

It is difficult to selct the most suitable column for a specific analysis. Therefore we try to help you with the column selection as best as possible. If possible, check the sample applications of the GC manufacturers and accessory suppliers or published application notes beforehand. You can find further information in the column selection brochure of Agilent, the world's largest manufacturer of GC columns.

Selection of stationary phases for GC columns

Choose a stationary phase - the most critical decision - by factors such as selectivity. polarity and phenyl moiety.

Column diameter: great influence on other parameters

The column diameter influences the separation efficiency, the retention of the analytes, the column pre-pressure and the carrier gas flow rates.

Length and film thickness of GC columns

The column length of GC columns changes the retention, the column pre-pressure and the column bleed - as well as the costs. The separation capacity is proportional to the column length.

• For the beginning of the method development, columns with a length of 25 - 30 meters are suitable.
• 10 to 15 meter long columns are suitable for samples containing very few or easily separable analytes. For very small diameters, shorter columns are used to reduce the initial pressure.
• Columns of 50 to 60 meters should only be used where resolution is not possible with other means (smaller diameter, other stationary phase, column temperature change). However, they are ideally suited for complex samples containing many substances. Long columns require a long analysis time and cause higher costs.

The film thickness of the column has an influence on retention, dissolution, column bleed, inertness and capacity.