Mixed C₁₈ and C₁ modification on an optical fiber for chromatographic sensing

An optical fiber-chromatographic sensor, aiming at simultaneous and selective response to multiple components following a chromatographic separation, is described. We report an improved approach for immobilization of octadecyl (C₁₈) and methyl (C₁) moieties as stationary phase on an optical fiber suitable as a sensing phase for organic solutes. By this approach, the stability and lifetime of the sensing layer as well as the detectability and retention behavior of the chromatographic sensor could be improved. Infrared spectroscopy was employed to confirm the presence of C₁₈ and C₁ moieties on the modified surface of the optical fiber. The chromatographic sensor was applied, with good sensitivity and chemical selectivity, to the simultaneous separation and detection of bromobenzene and toluene, using water as the mobile phase.