Selerity turns the heat up with new column
phase that can withstand temperatures of up to 200ºC, overcoming
the extreme temperature barrier that has hampered HPLC technology
progression.
Increasing temperature can limit the column lifetime when the bonded phase is based on traditional chemistries. Most silica-based HPLC columns can only be used to temperatures up to 60°C and a pH range of 3-8. Such columns have a propensity to degrade as water attacks the underlying support particles.
The advantages of using high temperature on chromatographic performance for HPLC have been well documented. Shorter run times can be achieved resulting from lower viscosity and decreased back pressure at elevated temperatures.
As temperature increases, the viscosity of the mobile phase decreases. Since the mobile phase can now move through the column bed more easily, the pressure required to pump the mobile phase through the column is relaxed. Consequently, smaller particles can be used for higher plate counts, and higher flow rates can be used without exceeding pump pressure limits.
Although there are a variety of stationary phases such as polymeric and graphitic carbon materials that can be used at elevated temperatures, most HPLC chemists prefer the selectivity and higher efficiencies of silica-based columns. The new Blaze200 column therefore opens up opportunities for the separations scientist looking to take advantage of better results and peak shapes.
Selerity's column overcomes these obstacles with the development of a new polycarbosilane bonding chemistry that is hydrolytically stable against breakdown in aqueous environments facilitates. It integrates multiple point attachments to the silica with a high degree of cross-linking. This combination creates a highly protective barrier over the silica backbone, protecting it from hydrolytic attack.
The column offers traditional C18 selectivity, while providing enhanced temperature stability for use up to 200°C and pH conditions as high as 12. Columns based on this chemistry are useful for both isothermal and programmed separations over wide ranges of temperature.
The increase in temperature range therefore allows higher efficiency and better resolution. Lower plate heights due to increased diffusion rates improve the efficiency and resolution. The diffusion rate increases, in both the mobile phase and within the stationary phase as the temperature increases. The net result is a reduction in plate height over an extended range of the mobile phase flow rate.
