Comparison of the theoretical limits of separating speed in liquid and gas chromatography

Abstract

The performances of GC and LC columns are compared; these performances are defined as the time needed to generate a peak having a given efficiency (plate number). A comparison can be made by using columns of different lengths but otherwise identical, except for a different mobile phase velocity. The fastest analysis Is then achieved when the inlet pressure Is the maximum pressure at which the available equipment can work. Calculations have been made for a number of different combinations of particle size, diffusion coefficient, HETP equation coefficients, maximum pressure available, etc. both in LC and GC. Combinations of realistic values of these parameters result In curves which are in a restricted area of a time vs. plate number graph characterizing typical column performances. © 1980, American Chemical Society. All rights reserved.