Advances in fused-silica column technology for the analysis of underivatized drugs.

The chemical durability of a cross-linked 5% phenyl methylsilicone stationary phase is investigated for the analysis of underivatized drugs. Column performance is tested with respect to quantitative reproducibility, solvent extractability, selectivity for various drug families, and capacity for the polar solute. Data are presented showing the effects of a polar solvent and a serum extract on column lifetime with splitless and cool on-column injection. Examples of a human drug screen and the forensic analysis of street heroin are provided.