Novel method of preparation of monolithic columns for fast separation by γ-ray irradiation

A porous monolithic sol-gel column with the solution of methacryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane in toluene with an acid catalyst was prepared in the presence and absence of sodium dodecyl sulfate. In situ polymerization was carried out by gamma-ray irradiation within the capillary. The,gamma-radiation-initiated synthesis could generate radicals directly on the monomer avoiding use of any initiator. The chromatographic behavior of the capillary monolithic columns were studied in the modes of CEC, p-CEC and low pressure-driven separation, all the tests exhibited reversed-phase character. It provided a viable alternative to either thermally initiated or photo polymerization method for the preparation of monolithic columns.