Fast analysis of terpenes using GC-TOFMS with a 50 µm ID column

A method of terpenes analysis using GC-TOFMS system with a nanobore SLB-5 ms, 5 m, 50 µm ID column is described. Terpene test mixture of 46 compounds was used in analyses. In comparison to a standard column of the same phase (SLB-5 ms, 30 m, 250 µm ID) used for essential oils analysis the total analysis time of 46 compounds in a test mixture was reduced from 25.8 min to 3.8 min. Coelutions were observed in analysis on both columns – 5 and 4 for the nanobore and standard column respectively. For some coeluting compounds spectra obtained after deconvolution provided a reliable identification and possibility of their quantitation. The method uses hydrogen as a carrier gas for GC/MS, which in the shortage of helium is an attractive alternative, especially for fast GC.. The method can be used for high throughput analyses of essential oils.