Synthesis and characterization of new organometallic complexes bonded stationary phases for high-performance liquid chromatography

Summary The preparation, characterization and potential liquid chromatographic applications of various organometallic iron complexes silica stationary phases are presented. These new supports are synthesized by covalently linking ferrocene, as well as some of its cationic derivatives, to appropriately derivatized silica support matrices. These columns exhibit moderate to high selectivity towards the separation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). A charge transfer retention mechanism has been proposed. A comparison with a reference stationary phase, 3,5-dinitrobenzamide (DNB), to quantify the acceptor power of the new stationary bonded phases, is also reported. Finally, the effect of varying the derivatives of the bonded metallocene on PAHs retention is discussed.