What You Should Have Asked Your Teachers About Headspace Sampler
headspace sampler refers to the procedure of analysis of compounds using gas chromatograph- a machine that perform the analysis of compounds after being separated from the sample and has been vaporized. A column inlet, also known as injector helps to take away the compounds from the sample, vaporizes and injects them in to the column of the chromatograph.
The purge and gas chromatography is normally performed to investigate the compounds that are occurring at the low parts per billion levels. It also involves a purge and trap column inlet.
Purging and Trapping
Once the sample has been transported to the column inlet, either through autosampler or manually, it’ll undergo the following procedure for purging and trapping before being injected in to the columns of chromatograph:
The inter gas is bubbled via the sample and releases the compounds
The released compounds are trapped on an absorbent material within the concentrator
The concentrator is heater till the compound is vaporized
After the compound gets vaporized, they are transported back again to the column on a steam of gases. This process is called as the Mobile Phase of GC. This action concludes the purge and the trap process and then starts the chromatography process occurring in the following manner:
The compounds firstly enter the column
They are passed through a liquid called stationary phase. The compounds then exit the column and enter analyzer
They are detected and identified
In the labs such processes are initiated via autosampler that shifts the sample to column inlet.
Common Applications
The most common and usual application for purge and trap gas chromatography is analyzing the VOCs- Volatile Organic Compounds. They are the naturally occurring elements that cause adverse health effects and environmental damage. They are toxic to humans and animal even though consumed in smaller amounts.
They have a tendency to vaporize at room temperature that helps them pervade the environment. VOC analysis might be the very best known application for GC but its not the only one. They are also being used to assess the effects of certain compounds on taste and smell of varied foods, beverages and cosmetic products in addition to fragrances.
Conclusion
Purge and trap gas chromatography is useful for low level compounds in liquid and soil samples that threatened safety to environment and products. The goal of Gas Chromatography would be to analyze those compounds which are present at a low PPB level. The accuracy of the procedure depends on using right type of inlets, columns and those who perform the purge and trap function.
Purge and trap gas chromatography can be used to evaluate low level compounds. Purge and trap equipment can be purchased online or offline form suppliers at cheap prices. You are advised to go for quality products to retain preciseness of results and process. Since the functions are based on small elements, it is crucial to keep the accuracy sharp right form start.