Minimum column temperature required for concurrent solvent evaporation in coupled HPLC-GC

Concurrent solvent evaporation using the loop-type HPLC-GC interface requires that the GC oven temperature be above the eluent boiling point at the given carrier gas inlet pressure in order to prevent eluent flowing into the GC capillary column. Corresponding oven temperatures representing minimum oven temperatures for eluent transfer were experimentally determined for solvents and solvent mixtures of interest for use as HPLC eluents. Evaluation of eluents for concurrent evaporation is discussed. Recommended lengths of uncoated column inlets (pre-columns) are derived from the mechanisms involved in solvent evaporation. Temperatures listed as minimum column temperatures for concurrently evaporating HPLC eluents are also useful for estimating maximum applicable column temperatures when working with the conventional retention gap or partially concurrent solvent evaporation techniques in coupled HPLC-GC.