A liquid sample injected into a heated GC inlet rapidly vaporizes and expands. The vapor volume (expansion volume) will depend on the solvent and the volume of liquid injected, as well as on inlet temperature and pressure. It is important to consider this vapor expansion volume relative to the dimensions of the inlet when working with vaporizing injection techniques. If the volume of vapor is greater than that of the liner, the excess can expand into other areas of the inlet and result in loss of sample or contamination of the gas lines.
Use the Vapor Volume Calculator to compare the estimated volume of gas produced by your method against the capacity of your liner.