Porous layer open-tubular capillary columns: preparations, applications and future directions

Porous-layer open-tubular (PLOT) columns, first suggested by Golay in the l ate 1950s, have been developed and commercialized successfully. PLOT column s have since become powerful and routine tools in gas chromatographic analy ses of fixed gases, light hydrocarbons and volatile solvents. They often re place traditional packed columns. However, there are still many unknowns in the development and the applications of PLOT columns. The future of PLOT c olumns seems less clear. This paper reviews the history of PLOT column deve lopment and its applications including practical aspects of PLOT columns. S ome speculation of future development is also provided. (C) 1999 Elsevier S cience B.V. All rights reserved.