Recent Advances in Comprehensive Two‐Dimensional Gas Chromatography (GC×GC)

Fourteen years after its introduction, comprehensive two‐dimensional gas chromatography (GC×GC) is one of the most powerful analytical tools available for the analysis of very complex samples. The technique is based on the application of two GC columns coated with different stationary phases, connected in series through a special interface (modulator). The interface not only physically connects the two columns, but also ensures the preservation of the separation achieved in the first separation dimension. Compounds coeluting from the first column undergo additional separation in the second column. This leads to vastly increased separation power of the technique compared to conventional 1D GC. This paper reviews the development of the technique, focusing on the most recent advances in the GC×GC field. It describes the principles of the technique, the basics of data processing, instrumentation development, and selected applications.