The utility of the sequential simplex method in chromatographic methods development is demonstrated by the experimental optimization of separation for several mixtures of isomeric octanes. Column oven temperature and carrier gas flow-rate are varaied simultaneously during the optimization process. Factorial experiments and regression analysis are used to understand the factor effects in the regions of the optima.
A chromatographic response function based on the peak separation function of Kaiser is described. Its use as an operational measure of performance in the separation of multicomponent systems is illustrated.