Definition:
Dead time
The dead time
of a column is symbolized by either tM (ASTM or IUPAC
terminology) or t0 (USP terminology). In
either case, it is the elution time of an unretained component. It is
also equal to the time required to flush one column volume of eluant
through the column:
t0 = V0/F = Vm/F = tm
where V0 (Vm) is the volume of liquid
contained in the column, and F is the flow rate.
