Rapid Method Development and Optimization for Gas Chromatography Using Pro EZGC–a Free Web-Based Software

Green and sustainable material manufacturing is dependent on the resources available to monitor emissions and effluent from the manufacturing process. Gas chromatography (GC) is frequently used to monitor material purity, contamination, and emissions in samples, such as air, water, soil, and in-line production materials. Method development and modification requires time and resources that could otherwise be dedicated to data analysis and interpretation. Restek’s free Pro EZGC platform uses proprietary thermodynamic models to predict analyte retention on various GC column phases, dimensions, program conditions, and detectors. Accuracy of chromatographic models was challenged under a variety of changing conditions including column flow, dimensions, oven program, and carrier gas, and consistently demonstrated accuracy in elution order and retention time within 0.5 min or 10% of the empirically determined value. The software is shown to be capable of modeling absorption and adsorption- based chromatography conditions. Results provide solutions that help labs rapidly develop and optimize methods for separating and identifying known and emerging pollutants or contaminants. In addition, Pro EZGC facilitates rapid implementation of green changes in environmental monitoring, such as alternative carrier gas options, reducing method runtime, and reducing energy requirements related to instrument operation.