Although it is possible to observe and measure each of the several characteristics of the ELCD under different and unique conditions, in particular its different modes of selectivity, it is the intent of this practice that a complete set of detector specifications should be obtained at the same operating conditions, including geometry, gas and solvent flow rates, and temperatures. It should be noted that to specify a detector’ capability completely, its performance should be measured at several sets of conditions within the useful range of the detector. The terms and tests described in this practice are sufficiently general so that they may be used at whatever conditions may be chosen for other reasons.

Linearity and speed of response of the recorder used should be such that it does not distort or otherwise interfere with the performance of the detector. Effective recorder response should be sufficiently fast so that it can be neglected in sensitivity of measurements. If additional amplifiers are used between the detector and the final readout device, their characteristics should also first be established.

1.1 This practice covers testing the performance of an electrolytic conductivity detector (ELCD) used as the detection component of a gas chromatographic system.

1.2 This practice is directly applicable to electrolytic conductivity detectors that perform a chemical reaction on a given sample over a nickel catalyst surface under oxidizing or reducing conditions and employ a scrubber, if needed, to remove interferences, deionized solvent to dissolve the reaction products, and a conductivity cell to measure the electrolytic conductivity of ionized reaction products.

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

1.4 For general gas chromatographic procedures, Practice E 260 should be followed except where specific changes are recommended herein for the use of an electrolytic conductivity detector. For definitions of gas chromatography and its various terms see Practice E 355.

1.5 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.

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.