Evaluation of a novel helium ionization detector within the context of (low-)flow modulation comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography

• A novel helium ionization detector was evaluated within the context of (low-)flow modulated GC × GC.
• The performance of the novel detector was compared to that of an FID.
• The helium ionization detector was characterized by a greater sensitivity compared to the FID.
• Detector-derived band broadening was comparable to that of the FID.
• The results indicate the detector as a potential alternative to the FID.

The present research is focused on the use and evaluation of a novel helium ionization detector, defined as barrier discharge ionization detector (BID), within the context of (low-)flow modulation comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography (FM GC × GC). The performance of the BID device was compared to that of a flame ionization detector (FID), under similar FM GC × GC conditions.Following development and optimization of the FM GC × GC method, the BID was subjected to fine tuning in relation to acquisition frequency and discharge flow. Moreover, the BID performance was measured and compared to that of the FID, in terms of extra-column band broadening, sensitivity and dynamic range. The comparative study was carried out by using standard compounds belonging to different chemical classes, along with a sample of diesel fuel. Advantages and disadvantages of the BID system, also within the context of FM GC × GC, are critically discussed. In general, the BID system was characterized by a more limited dynamic range and increased sensitivity, compared to the FID. Additionally, BID and FID contribution to band broadening was found to be similar under the operational conditions applied.Particular attention was devoted to the behaviour of the FM GC × GC-BID system toward saturated and aromatic hydrocarbons, for a possible future use in the field of mineral-oil food contamination research.