| Abstract: | Trace elements in different silica gels are determined by neutron activation analysis. The presence of 20 elements in the ppm range and of 15 elements in the ppb range is established in all silica gels; even in spherical material probably obtained via an organosilicium starting material. Removal of these elements by acid treatment before and after derivatization to a reversed-phase is studied. This is only partially effective. The resulting HPLC phases are, however, much better in cases where trace elements are detrimental. Even octadecyl derivatized silicagel can withstand boiling in 12 N hydrochloric acid without loosing significant amounts of bonded organic material. |
