Preparation of inert glass capillary columns coated with UCON 50 HB-5100. An attempt to rediscover industrially produced α, ω-polyethylene/polypropyleneglycol ethers as stationary phases in capillary gas chromatography

Using UCON 50 HB-5100, one of the most successful stationary phases in capillary gas chromatography during the past decade, as an example, we wish to redirect attention to the excellent properties of the polyethylene/polypropyleneglycol ether copolymer coatings. Based on experience gained in work with OH-terminated polysiloxanes, a method is described for preparing inert and relatively temperature stable chemically bonded and crosslinked coatings in a single working step. Methyltrimethoxysilane was used as coupling agent, and trifluoroacetic acid was introduced as an acidic catalyst. The reaction mechanisms involved as well as the influence of additional crosslinking on the column behavior are discussed, particularly with respect of the inertness of the coatings.