ABSTRACT
An approach to shortening the analysis time for practical fast gas chromatography (GC) by using Method Translator software, which can be downloaded free from the Internet, is presented. This software simplifies the process of optimizing temperature programming while changing column dimensions, carrier gas type, and flow. Basic chromatographic theory is employed in a practical manner for adjusting column dimensions for optimal performance. In addition, electronic pneumatic control and high oven ramp rates make it easier to achieve fast analysis times without reproducibility problems. This practical approach is demonstrated using Contract Laboratory Program pesticide analytes. The factors found to be most important in decreasing the analysis time without a loss of performance are utilization of GC columns having smaller diameters and substitution of hydrogen for helium as the carrier gas.
