New, Inert Zebron GC Column from Phenomenex Improves Responses of Active Compounds

Phenomenex Inc., a global leader in the research and manufacture of advanced technologies for the separation sciences, introduces Zebron™ ZB-5MSPLUS™ – a highly inert 5% phenyl-arylene phase GC column for challenging separations in industries such as food testing, pharmaceutical and clinical research, forensic toxicology and industrial chemicals. Designed with rigorous fused-silica deactivation and quality control processes, Zebron ZB-5MSPLUS virtually eliminates active sites on the column’s surface that can negatively affect peak shapes for challenging compounds.

Most GC chromatographers are accustomed to using a 5% phenyl-arylene phase, and many work with active compounds. These researchers can switch to the new inert column for higher responses and lower detection limits, without redeveloping their methods. ZB-5MSPLUS produces better peak shapes without retention time shifts, and ultimately increases a lab’s productivity.

“GC chromatographers will often use a thicker-film column to compensate for active compounds’ proclivity to stick to the column surface,” explained Kristen Parnell, brand manager for Phenomenex. “The drawbacks of that approach can include increased run time and bleed. Our new deactivated column reduces the need to compensate for this activity.”

The new Zebron ZB-5MSPLUS is also the first of several Phenomenex GC columns that will feature completely redesigned packaging, which uses both recycled and recyclable materials and is easier to open and store.