Optimization of separation of some polycyclic aromatic compounds by thin-layer chromatography

A new modelling of the chromatographic separation process of some polar and nonpolar polycyclic aromatic compounds in the form of 3rd degree functions is reported. For the selection of the optimum composition of the benzene-acetone-water mobile phase used in the separation of eight polycyclic aromatic compounds (benzo[a]pyrene-7-hydroxy; benzo[a]pyrene-8-hydroxy; benzo[a]pyrene-trans-7,8-dihydrodiol; benzo[a]pyrene-trans-9,10-dihydrodiol; benzo[a]pyrene-trans-7,8-diol-9,10-epoxy(syn); benzo[a]pyrene; dibenz[a,h]anthracene; chrysene) on n-octyl and n-octadecyl silica gel R thin layers, some computer programs were performed. These programs are written in GW-BASIC language and can be examined on any adequate IBM PC (386, 486, 586) computer. The best mixtures of the mobile phase as given by the computer programs have been experimentally tested. These programs allow the choice of a mobile phase which ensures the best spreading of R-F values on a chromatographic plate and satisfactory differences between them (Delta R-F,R-min takes maximum values). Information concerning the general aspect of the chromatographic separation process can be obtained by curve analysis from diagrams(R(F)x100 versus mobile phase composition). (C) 1997 Elsevier Science B.V.