Advances and Changes in the Techniques of Multi- Dimensional and Comprehensive Chromatography and When Coupled with Mass Spectrometry

This review covers the principles of two dimensional gas and liquid chromatography (2DGC and 2DLC) and briefly introduces the theory accounting for the increase in separation resulting from a greater peak capacity than for the one dimensional (1D) mode. The advance in the techniques from multi-dimensional to comprehensive chromatography is discussed. The more recent development of multi-dimensional chromatography ion mobility mass spectrometry receives a mention to highlight the added dimension of molecular size and shape (molecular collision cross section) as an enabling tool for increasing component separation and peak capacity. Although both the techniques of 2DGC and LC are described the focus is on the environmental and food applications of 2DGC, principally when coupled to mass spectrometry, with TOFMS and HRMS as prime examples.