A New Computer Program for the Resolution of Fused Chromatographic Peaks

Abstract

One of the major problems in data processing of chromatographic analyses has been the resolution of complex wave forms. The use of perpendiculars at the low valley between peaks and the tangent to the side of the major peak to obtain the area for the shoulder were acceptable estimations when the interpretation was made by an experienced technician doing a manual calculation. The difficulty arose when it became time to make a logical decision for a choice of technique during automated processing. The new computer program as presented for laboratory data handling incorporates a program for area allocation of complex peak shapes which utilizes neither of the geometric approaches. It provides a method that is a continuous function over all complex wave forms. This presentation includes both the theoretical considerations which led to the program development and experimental chromatographic analyses showing quantitatively the increased accuracy of this new area allocation technique.