Chromatography Forum

I need to select a solvent as diluent to prepare stds and samples for residual solvent analysis at low level (25 ppm) detection.
I am using GC FID-Capillary column.
Out of 3 solvents which is better choice to use as a diluent and which will give a higher detector response (peak area).
1. DCM
2. ACN or
3.Hexane

My sample is soluble in all 3 solvents.

...
Out of 3 solvents which is better choice to use as a diluent and which will give a higher detector response (peak area).
1. DCM
2. ACN or
3.Hexane

Do you mean higher peak area of solvent peak ?

Methylene chloride is my solvent of choice whenever possible. It doesn't burn well in the FID so it doesn't give a massive solvent peak in your chromatogram. It's also generally very pure (not a lot of extra "stuff"). I find that it lays down nicely on most of the stationary phases that I use too. Triple bonus!

Some folks get worried about handling it because of the suspected health problems. I use such small amounts, I'm not too worried. My pals who refinish furniture are at much higher risk than I am when I handle a couple of mL's of it at a time.

For residual solvents you may want to use a high boiling solvent such as dimethyl acetamide or such. That way the solvent elutes after all of your analytes. Perhaps an environmentally friendly/safe solvent like Limonene.

Hi

1. Dblux's comment made me smile

2. Rb6 made some useful comments

3. Are you also asking what is the best solvent to extract your analyte?

4. If so, what is your analyte and matrix etc?

5. If not, as an academic exercise why not try all 3 solvents with your analyte and let us know the result? It will only take a few runs with each solvent for you to answer your own question

Regards

Ralph