This Application Note describes a method for fast GC analysis of natural waxes from art and museum objects. The method is based on a short column (15 m x 0.32 mm x 0.1 µm) fitted with on-column injection to maximize sensitivity. For additional sensitivity, some analytical reagents can be used.
This document details an analytical procedure for identifying waxy substances in works of art and museum objects. Due to the small sample sizes often available, the method utilizes Gas Chromatography with Flame Ionization Detection (GC/FID) and a short, high-speed Varian FactorFour VF-1ms column to maximize sensitivity.
The note compares analysis on a standard 0.32 mm ID column versus a smaller diameter 0.15 mm ID column. Results demonstrate that the faster column provides significantly shorter analysis times (almost half), improved signal-to-noise ratios, and better resolution for components such as beeswax, Japan wax, pine resin, and animal fats.
The highly temperature stable VF-1ms liquid phase can be routinely pushed to 380 °C without any loss of column performance.
The higher speed of analysis results in times that are almost half of the original analysis.
The sample must be reconstituted in 600 uL dichloromethane for the 0.15 mm column.