The parameters affecting the separation and quantification of triglycerides by gas-liquid chromatography have been investigated with the use of QF-1 and SE-30 as stationary phases and a flame ionization detector. The isothermal characteristics of a wide variety of triglycerides (carbon number 6 to 60) on both columns show that long retention volume is directly proportional to carbon number and inversely proportional to absolute temperature. Isothermal retention indices of some triglycerides are given, as are column efficiencies (in terms of theoretical plates and ability to separate closely related triglycerides). When various rates of programmed temperature rise are used, retention indices have been found to be less useful than absolute or relative elution temperatures. The elution temperatures of triglycerides of carbon number 6 to 54 have been determined relative to that of trilaurin. Under optimal separation conditions weight and molar correction factors can be obtained. Triolein and tristearin have been partially separated, as have certain triglycerides that have the same carbon number but widely different fatty acids. The natural triglycerides of human milk fat have been separated.
