Gas chromatography in qualitative analysis. Part 14. Molecular retention index as an alternative system for the characterization of gas chromatographic stationary phases

Summary The limitations of methods for the characterization of stationary phases, which require the use of a base or reference stationary phase, are considered. In order to overcome these problems, a new method of column characterization, based upon measurements of molecular retention index and ΔMe values for selected functional groups, is proposed. ΔMe values are shown to be dependent upon liquid phase composition, nature of the support and liquid phase loading.