GC analysis of water as component, or components having water as matrix

Water is considered a difficult component to analyze. Many think that water should not be injected into a GC capillary column, but that is a myth. Water as component or matrix will elute at relative low temperatures, meaning it will do little harm with bonded stationary phases. Water in the carrier gas or introduced as a leak, is a bigger problem, as column is hot and the phase/surface will hydolize, creating active sites.

Water as component can be done on several stationary phases, polar and non-polar. Biggest challenge is to get a reproducible injection. Water as matrix is more challenging. There are several ways to isolate the components from the matrix. Its also possible to inject water but here one need to be careful for back flash. Also adding co-solvents can help to smoothen the injection band.