Characterizing Cellular Fatty Acid Methyl Ester (FAME) Profiles to Identify Bacteria Using Gas Chromatography

Dr. Radomír Čabala, Head of the Toxicology Department at the General University Hospital in Prague, presents work on the potential utility of GC-TOFMS analysis of cellular fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs) in identifying clinically relevant bacteria.

Retention Cross-over Phenomenon in Gas Chromatography — Can the Mystery be Revealed?

Dr. Werner Engewald discusses the phenomenon of cross-over, or changes in elution order following modification of the GC temperature program. This effect has been observed for decades but the physio-chemical background still is not well understood. In this article Dr. Engewald explores the theory and potential explanations for the cross-over phenomenon.

Achieving Faster GC

Numerous articles have been published on faster methods for gas chromatography (GC), yet uncertainty remains on how best to speed up separations. Here, Dr. Hans-Gerd Janssen clarifies the confusion surrounding fast GC and recommends a strategic approach based on 3 steps: 1) minimizing resolution to a value just sufficient, 2) maximizing the selectivity of the chromatographic system, and 3) implementing a method that reduces analysis time while holding resolution constant.