Determination of partition coefficients of refrigerants by gas liquid chromatographic headspace analysis

Gas–water partition coefficients, Kw, and gas–solvent partition coefficients, Ks, have been determined for chlorodifluoromethane and for 1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoropropane by headspace analysis, using a very simple experimental procedure. These partition coefficients then yield water–solvent partition coefficients, Ps. Where comparisons can be made there is excellent agreement with literature values for Kw and Ps. The obtained values of Ks and Ps can be used to obtain physicochemical properties, or descriptors, for the refrigerants. Combination of these descriptors with previous equations we have developed enables partition coefficients to be obtained for a host of systems.

► A simple method for the determination of gas–solvent or –water partition coefficients is set out. ► These partition coefficients lead to water–solvent partition coefficients. ► Abraham descriptors are calculated from the various partition coefficients. ► The descriptors are then used to estimate a wide variety of other properties.