| The Acoustic flame detector (AFD) has previously been introduced as a simple, robust, and inexpensive alternative universal detector for Gas Chromatography (GC), High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), and Supercritical Fluid Chromatography (SFC). It is based upon the acoustic emissions from an oscillating premixed hydrogen/oxygen flame. The AFD provides uniform response to all carbon containing compounds independent of their volatility or optical properties. Several improvements to the AFD are presented in this thesis. A novel method of interfacing the AFD with HPLC and SFC is introduced. Through the use of a heated interface, detector noise is greatly reduced and the overall stability of the device is much improved. The properties of this AFD interface for the detection of larger molecular weight molecules is also investigated and discussed using the analysis of alcohol ethoxylates as a model compound set. Additionally, through the use of larger bore quartz burners for the flame of the AFD, the flow rate compatibility of the detector is increased five-fold. The potential of the AFD for universal detection in Solvating Gas Chromatography (SGC) is also discussed in the context of this improved flow rate compatibility. Overall the changes and observations made in these investigations greatly improve routine AFD usage and provide insight into future improvements of the device. |
