Chromatography

Chromatography - A Separation Science

Chromatography is an analytical technique that allows the separation of analyte through its characteristics, such as - but not limited to - molecular charge, molecular size, or molecular affinity, to remain within the mobile phase, also known as the stationary phase. Once separated, the analyte can be isolated, purified, and quantified.

What are different types of chromatography?

There are several different setups to run a chromatographic separation. Based on the interaction of the analyte there is adsorption for polar non-ionic compounds, ion exchange for ionic compounds (anions and cations), partition based on solubility, size exclusion based on molecular size, and affinity with specific interactions (e.g. antibody interaction or protein interaction).

1. Gas Chromatography (GC)
   • Gas Adsorption Chromatography
   • Gas-Liquid Partition Chromatography (GLPC)
   • Capillary Gas Chromatography
2. Liquid Chromatography (LC)
   • High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC)
   • Size Exclusion Chromatography (SEC)
   • Supercritical Fluid Chromatography (SFC)
3. Ion Exchange Chromatography (IC)
4. Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC)
5. Affinity Chromatography

Applications of Chromatography

Chromatographic separation can be employed in various analytical testing laboratories, including:

• Clinical Diagnostics
• Environmental Testing
• Food and Beverage Analysis
• Forensic Tests
• Life Sciences
• And more

Range of Chromatography Instrumentation and Supplies

There are several general components to using chromatography in your laboratory. Based on the type of chromatography you'll be running in the lab will determine the type of chromatograph you will employ. The chromatograph is the instrument itself carrying out the operation. The chromatograph is used in conjunction with chromatography columns. The stationary phase and mobile phase (e.g. Liquid or Gas) move through the columns. There are a variety of other accessories, including fittings, valves, fraction collectors, and autosamplers available as well for increased throughput.

What To Consider When Choosing Chromatography Equipment and Supplies?

Aside from determining the right type of chromatography for your separation needs, you'll want to consider chromatography columns that will be used in conjunction with your chromatograph. Additionally, a chromatography detector is vital component in order to identify the molecules/sample that was chromatographically separated. General specifications to compare (varies between each type of chromatograph) include flow rate, maximum pressure, temperature range, # of injection ports, dimensions, and whether the system is capable of spectroscopic analysis (e.g. GC-MS, LC-MS, etc.).