The development of an evaluation method for capture columns used in two-dimensional liquid chromatography

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Chromatography

Background:

• Capture columns are crucial for online two-dimensional liquid chromatography (2D-LC).
• Optimizing capture column performance is essential for effective 2D-LC separations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a systematic off-line method for evaluating and optimizing capture column performance in 2D-LC.
• To introduce a quantitative parameter (Δt(R)) for assessing capture ability.
• To investigate and determine the optimal elution mode for trapped compounds.

Main Methods:

• Introduced Δt(R) parameter to quantitatively assess capture column ability.
• Optimized mobile phase and utilized Complex Sample Analysis Software System (CSASS).
• Investigated two elution modes (Mode I and Mode II) for trapped compounds.

Main Results:

• Successfully selected and optimized capture columns using the Δt(R) parameter.
• Identified Mode I as the more suitable elution mode for 2D-LC applications.
• Demonstrated the practical application through an off-line reversed-phase/hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography (RP/HILIC) 2D-LC system.

Conclusions:

• The developed off-line method provides a systematic approach to optimize capture columns for 2D-LC.
• The Δt(R) parameter and Mode I elution offer significant improvements in 2D-LC system performance.
• This work facilitates enhanced efficiency and effectiveness in 2D-LC analyses.