| Derivitaztion Reagents: Silylation Reagents |
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Derivatization Reagents: Silylation Reagents
Silylation is the most widely used derivatization procedure for sample analysis by GC. In silylation, an active hydrogen is replaced by an alkylsilyl group such as trimethylsilyl (TMS) or tert-butyldimethylsilyl (tert-BDMS). Silyl derivatives are more volatile, less polar, and more thermally stable. As a result, GC separation is improved and detection is enhanced. Both TMS and tert-BDMS reagents are suitable for a wide variety of compounds and can be used for many GC applications. Note that silylation reagents are generally moisture sensitive and must be sealed to prevent deactivation. |