Concentration of organics from aqueous solutions using uncoated capillary columns

A novel technique has been developed for the concentration of trace organics in aqueous solutions. Concentration of organics is carried out by passage of aqueous samples through uncoated plastic and metal capillary tubing. The organic compounds are removed on the walls of the column while the water is allowed to elute from the capillary. Detailed investigations were also carried out on parameters that affect the efficiency of trapping such as the column length, column internal diameter, column internal surface area, trapping temperature, solute concentration, ionic strength of aqueous solutions, and the flow rates of solutions through trapping capillaries. It was determined that plastic type materials, and silicone in particular, are capable of removing trace organics from solution extremely efficiently. The trapping temperature and the flow rate of solutions through the columns are important parameters that contribute to the removal of organics.