Optimum performance of capillary GC columns as a function of column diameter and film thickness under various operating conditions: Part II: Computer program extensions for n‐alkane solutes and polydimethylsiloxane phases

A BASIC computer program for calculation of maximum plate number and minimum analysis time conditions for columns operated at various outlet pressures was presented in 1985 [1]. This sequel reports extensions to the program for n‐alkanes separated on polydimethylsiloxane stationary phases, specifically for n‐C2 through n‐C20 on phases equivalent to SE‐30 or OV‐1. For these solute–phase systems the amount of thermodynamic data available is sufficient to enable calculation of several parameters. Firstly, the separation temperature is now automatically calculated for a requested capacity ratio, or vice versa. Secondly, the computation of solute diffusivities in the stationary phase has been improved to approach experimental data more realistically, particularly for higher n‐alkanes at higher temperatures. The largest extension to the program is the inclusion of a facility enabling calculation of column sample capacity, minimum detectable amounts for FID and TCD detectors, and column working ranges. These parameters are again calculated for n‐alkanes, but are, of course, independent of the nature of the stationary phase. The updated program has been and is being used on a routine basis in our laboratory; it has been found to be reliable and has on numerous instances been proven in the field.