Studies of separation performance of silanized silica gel for simulated distillation

<p> We present the results of investigations of the chromatographic (sorptive) properties of silanized silica gel as a stationary phase for gas chromatography used for simulated distillation. Commercially available silanized sorbent (particle diameter range 63-200 &mu;m, average pore size 60 &Aring;) was sieved to obtain the 80-100 mesh fraction (180-150 &mu;m). The obtained results revealed that silanized silica gel allows complete separation of a mixture of n- and iso-alkanes in the C1 -C7 range. Such a separation is achieved with a temperature program starting with an initial temperature of 50&ring;C, which is advantageous because the GC oven does not have to be cooled below room temperature. Using temperature programming with a final temperature of 300&ring;C ensures separation and elution of all mixture components from C1 to n-C28 in one run. The paper confirms applicability of silanized silica gel as a stationary phase for the investigation of distillation temperature distribution of gasoline and diesel fuel based on the simulated distillation procedure according to ASTM D2887. The deviations of individual points of distillation curve obtained using ASTM D2887 and columns packed with silanized silica gel were within the reproducibility range of the standard procedure. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.</p>