A robust thermal modulator for comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography

In comprehensive two dimensional gas chromatography (GCxGC), two capillary columns are connected in series through an interface known as a 'thermal modulator'. This device transforms effluent from the first capillary column into a series of sharp injection-like chemical pulses suitable for high-speed chromatography the second column. Dramatic increases in the resolving power, sensitivity, and speed of the gas chromatograph result. This paper describes the development of a robust and reliable thermal modulator for GC x GC.