Evaluation of Sample Introduction Techniques of Packed-Column SFC into an MIP

Abstract

A packed-column supercritical fluid Chromatograph (SFC) was coupled to an argon high-efficiency microwave-induced plasma (Ar-HEMIP) for the purpose of elemental detection of the chromatographic effluent. Two methods of sample introduction of the effluent into the argon plasma are presented for this hyphenated technique. The results of central introduction vs. sidearm introduction of SFC effluent into the Ar-HEMIP are evaluated according to analytical parameters such as: repeatability, the effects of pressure programming of 100% CO₂ and modified CO₂ on background emission, linear dynamic range (LDR), and minimum detectable quantity (MDQ) of several organometallic compounds. Sidearm introduction is found to be superior to central introduction in terms of these analytical parameters.