A [Cu2(bdc)2(dabco)] coated GC capillary column for the separation of light hydrocarbons and the determination thermodynamic and kinetic data thereof

• The metal–organic framework [Cu2(bdc)2(dabco)] was synthesized via controlled SBU-approach and a capillary column was coated with it.
• Light hydrocarbons were separated by the [Cu2(bdc)2(dabco)]-coated column and their heats of adsorption were determined.
• From kinetic investigations the relation between mass transfer and plate height was determined.

The unique properties of MOFs (MOF = metal–organic framework) such as their adjustable pore size, high intrinsic surface area and organic functionalizations make them a suitable class of materials for chromatographic separations. Micro particles of [Cu2(bdc)2(dabco)] (bdc2− = terephthalate, DABCO = 1,4-diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane) were prepared by a cyclic deposition method based on the technique of the so called “controlled SBU approach” and anchored via SAMs (SAM = self-assembled monolayer) in a short GC capillary column to generate a wall-bonded cross linked stationary phase. It could be demonstrated, that the fabricated column exhibits a high separation power for the light hydrocarbons C1–C7. Chromatographic parameters, including resolution factors and selectivity as well as thermodynamic data characterizing the interaction between the stationary phase and the analytes, were determined from the temperature-dependent measurements of the retentions times of these analytes. In addition, isothermal measurements were used for the calculation of diffusion constants in [Cu2(bdc)2(dabco)].

Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide