Liquid Chromatography

In the Liquid Chromatography section of the Chemical and Biological Hazards Department, a range of analysis methods are used to study atmospheric and material samples for selected organic and inorganic constituents.

High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) employing diode array and fluorescence detectors or in combination with a mass spectrometer is used for the analysis of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), isocyanates and aldehydes. Plasticizers (phthalates), organic acids, anhydrides, certain organic peroxides, explosives and other individual compounds are also analysed. Ion chromatography (IC) and conductivity detection are used for the analysis of inorganic acids, alkali hydroxides, ammonia and alkanolamines. Infrared spectrometry is employed for the determining of cooling lubricant concentrations in atmospheric samples. Potentiometric and other methods are also used.