Separation of Nonionic Surfactants by Capillary Electrophoresis and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography

• Published in: Analytical chemistry (Washington) Vol. 70; no. 9; pp. 1885 - 1892
• Main Authors: Heinig, Katja, Vogt, Carla, Werner, Gerhard
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Washington, DC American Chemical Society 01-05-1998
• Subjects: Analytical chemistry; Chemical reactions; Chemistry; Chromatographic methods and physical methods associated with chromatography; Exact sciences and technology; Methods; Oils & fats; Other chromatographic methods; Capillary column; Solvent effect; Ethylene oxide polymer; Organic solvent; Chemical analysis; Multicomponent analysis; Ultraviolet detector; Zone electrophoresis; Non ionic surfactant; HPLC chromatography; Derivatization
• ISSN: 0003-2700; 1520-6882
• DOI: 10.1021/ac9709155

Fatty alcohol ethoxylates (FAEs) are applied in commercial formulations (laundry detergents) as complex mixtures of alkyl and ethoxylate homologues. Therefore, efficient analytical methods are required for product control. Capillary electrophoresis, a modern analytical separation technique, was used to separate FAEs in technical products and household formulations after derivatization with phthalic anhydride. The well-established high-performance liquid chromatography was used as reference and supplementary method. UV detection after derivatization with phenyl isocyanate or light scattering detection has been carried out. Sample components have been identified by standard addition or by comparison to known products. The peak pattern can be considered as a “fingerprint” of the product and is characteristic for a defined composition.