Viscotek launches entry-level Lals detector
launches its latest entry-level system for laboratories looking to
conduct characterisation of proteins, and other biomolecules,
allowing researchers to make a determination of absolute Molecular
Weight, a traditionally time consuming process.
The model 270 Dual Detector's main advantage is that it can be configured as a stand-alone low angle light scattering (Lals) detector or as a Lals and viscometry dual detector.
The dual detector model 270 can be added to any commercial GPC/SEC system equipped with a concentration detector, converting it into a triple detector system.
Configured with an additional differential Viscometer the model 270 provides further information including hydrodynamic radius, density and conformation as well as providing structural data such as branching and aggregation.
Unlike multi-angle light scattering techniques that can only determine molecular weight by extrapolation, the model 270 Lals measures molecular weight directly, improving accuracy.
Included is optical technology, which operates at an angle of only 7deg.
Low Angle Light Scattering is the only GPC detection method that provides absolute molecular weights without extrapolation or correction.
Unlike multi-angle light scattering techniques that can only determine molecular weight by extrapolation, the Viscotek LALS directly measures molecular weight for a large range of synthetic polymers, natural polymers and proteins.
It is a non-invasive technique that does not require outside calibration standards. It is a technique that can be applied in either batch or chromatography mode.
In either instance the sample may be recovered at the end of the measurement. Since light scattering provides the weight-averaged molar mass for all molecules in solution, it is generally more useful to utilise the chromatography mode, though each technique has its advantages.
Wyatt Technology is another company offers batch dynamic light scattering equipment for high throughput screening and better understanding of the physical attributes of purified protein molecules.
The demand for light scattering instruments has grown considerably over the past few years. This has been due to advanced research in pharmaceutics and biotechnology.
Most of the molecules of interest in these fields are macromolecules like proteins, hyaluronic acid and haemoglobin, not to mention nanoparticles like liposomes or viruses, which can be used as drug-delivery vehicles.
