Evaluation of electron capture cell designs for use in high resolution capillary column gas chromatography

Abstract

Abstract A comparison of the effects on peak shape is made between a 350 and 100 microliter displaced coaxial and a 350 microliter concentric cylinder electron capture cell. Peaks as fast as W 1/2 = 0.5 second were detected using electronics operating in the constant current mode. The measured peak shapes are compared to those obtained by computer simulation assuming either complete mixing or plug‐like flow within ECD cell. The advantage of controlling the flow pattern through the cell to obtain plug‐like flow is demonstrated. Differences in peak shape between the displaced coaxial and concentric cylinder cells of the same volume are explained in terms of the electrostatic fields within the cells.