A study on the onset of turbulent conditions with supercritical fluid chromatography mobile-phases

Following a recent publication [1], the topic of turbulent flow in SFC has generated both interest and questions. Liquid-like density, coupled with significantly low viscosity of CO₂-based mobile-phases may result in high Reynolds number (Re) - higher than what represents laminar flow conditions, reaching the so-called turbulent regions. Although such turbulent flows can form only in the connecting tubings, thus not directly affecting the chromatographic process, it is important to know under many situations, whether the flow inside the tubing is laminar or turbulent. In this report a comprehensive guideline to identify the possibilities of turbulent flow conditions is provided through a series of charts. Flow properties depend on state conditions (composition, pressure and temperature) and also on the tubing material and geometry. Here guidelines to detect the onset of turbulent conditions is provided for cylindrical stainless-steel tubings of different internal diameters (i.d.) under a wide range of SFC mobile-phase conditions.