Evaluation of ring-opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP)-derived monolithic capillary high performance liquid...

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Polymer Chemistry
• Chromatography

Background:

• High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) is a critical analytical technique.
• Development of novel stationary phases is essential for improving chromatographic performance.
• Capillary HPLC offers advantages in sensitivity and reduced solvent consumption.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize and characterize novel monolithic capillary HPLC columns using ROMP.
• To evaluate the separation performance and reproducibility of these ROMP-based monolithic columns.
• To assess the loading capacity and long-term stability of the developed columns.

Main Methods:

• Monolithic capillary HPLC columns were prepared via ring opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP).
• Monomers used included norborn-2-ene (NBE) and dimethanonaphthalene (DMN-H6) with a ruthenium initiator.
• Column performance was evaluated using protein, insulin-albumin, and peptide standards.

Main Results:

• Reproducibility of synthesis in separation performance was 1-2% relative standard deviation in retention time (tR).
• Polymerization parameters significantly influenced monolithic morphology, separation efficiency, and back pressure.
• Maximum analytical loading capacity for albumin ranged from 30-125 ng.
• Long-term stability studies showed no alteration in separation performance.

Conclusions:

• ROMP is a viable method for preparing monolithic capillary HPLC columns.
• The synthesized columns exhibit good reproducibility, stability, and loading capacity for various analytes.
• Further optimization of polymerization parameters can enhance separation efficiency and reduce back pressure.