Use of Organic-Montmorillonite Compounds in Gas Chromatography

Abstract

THE development of the various forms of gas chromatography has resulted in a search for more selective stationary phases and adsorbents. In partition chromatography there appears to be a limit to the selectivity which can be obtained with solution forces, for as yet no stationary phase has been found which will separate close-boiling isomers such as meta- and para-xylenes. As it is to be expected that surface forces would show more selectivity, adsorption chromatography appears the most promising technique for these difficult separations. In this respect the recent work of Janak¹, in which he uses xeolite as an adsorbent, is interesting. This mineral has a three-dimensional lattice with replaceable cations, and a certain amount of variation in the separation characteristics may be achieved by replacing the naturally occurring sodium ions by silver or manganous ions.