1.1 This practice is intended to serve as a guide for testing the performance of a nitrogen/phosphorus thermionic ionization detector (NPD) used as the detection component of a gas chromatographic system.

1.2 This practice applies to an NPD that employs a heated alkali metal compound and emits an electrical charge from that solid surface.

1.3 This practice addresses the operation and performance of the NPD independently of the chromatographic column. However, the performance is specified in terms that the analyst can use to predict overall system performance when the detector is coupled to the column and other chromatographic components.

1.4 For general chromatographic procedures, Practice E260 should be followed except where specific changes are recommended herein for the use of a nitrogen/phosphorus (N/P) thermionic detector.

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For specific safety information, see Section 5, Hazards.