CP-Sil 88

CP-Sil 88 column

Agilent CP-Sil 88 GC Columns

Agilent J&W CP-Sil 88 GC columns feature a highly substituted, stabilized cyanopropyl stationary phase engineered to deliver exceptionally high polarity—among the highest available in commercial GC columns. This extremely polar phase provides outstanding selectivity for compounds whose boiling points and polarities are very similar, enabling maximum resolution of both positional and geometric isomers. CP-Sil 88 is a benchmark column for detailed fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) analysis and is widely used in food composition, authenticity testing, and nutritional labeling workflows requiring high-precision isomer separations.

Because CP-Sil 88 is a non-chemically bonded phase, it is not solvent-rinsable; however, its inherently strong polarity and selectivity deliver highly reproducible separations when proper inlet maintenance and clean sample preparation are practiced. This column is especially effective for complex FAME mixtures, trans-fat profiling, and applications where closely related isomers must be distinguished with absolute confidence.
Key Definitions â–¸
CP-Sil 88
A highly substituted, stabilized cyanopropyl stationary phase known for its extremely high polarity. CP-Sil 88 is a reference column for resolving positional and geometric isomers, especially in FAME and lipid analysis.
Highly Polar Stationary Phase
A GC phase designed to maximize interactions with polar analytes, enabling strong selectivity for isomers that differ subtly in structure. Such phases are ideal for complex separations in food, agricultural, and lipid chemistry.
Positional and Geometric Isomers
Molecules with identical chemical formulas but differing in double-bond configuration (cis/trans) or in the position of functional groups. CP-Sil 88 provides exceptional resolution of these structurally similar compounds.
Non-Bonded Phase
A stationary phase not chemically bonded or crosslinked to the silica surface. While highly effective for high-polarity separations, non-bonded phases like CP-Sil 88 are not solvent-rinsable and require clean sample preparation for optimal longevity.
Frequently Asked Questions â–¸
Why is CP-Sil 88 commonly used for FAME analysis?
CP-Sil 88 provides extremely high polarity and unparalleled separation of positional and geometric isomers, making it the preferred choice for fatty acid methyl ester profiling in food chemistry, nutritional labeling, and authenticity testing.
How does CP-Sil 88 compare to HP-88?
Both columns offer similar polarity and isomer selectivity. CP-Sil 88, however, is non-bonded and provides slightly higher polarity, whereas HP-88 supports higher temperature limits and faster analytical cycles. Choice depends on method needs and thermal program requirements.
Can CP-Sil 88 be solvent rinsed?
No. As a non-bonded phase, CP-Sil 88 is not solvent-rinsable. Clean injection techniques, high-quality sample preparation, and proper inlet liner maintenance are essential for sustaining long-term column performance.
What applications benefit most from CP-Sil 88?
CP-Sil 88 is ideal for detailed fatty acid profiling, trans-fat determination, nutritional labeling, food authenticity, agricultural lipid studies, and research requiring separation of closely related fatty acid isomers.