Element-selective gas chromatographic detection and determination of organoboron compounds

Abstract

Element-selective gas chromatographic detection using a microwave-induced plasma detector has been evaluated for the detection of borated molecules. Boron-selective detection offers low detection limits (3 pg s^–1), a wide linear dynamic range (≈10⁴) and high selectivity over interference from carbon (20 000). Motor oils containing 3–200 ppm of boron were analysed for total boron content. Results from the analyses compare favourably with values obtained using a standard industrial method.