Resolving power in liquid chromatography: A trade-off between efficiency and analysis time

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Chromatography

Background:

• Chromatographic performance assessment is crucial for method development.
• Ultra-high-pressure liquid chromatography (UHPLC) offers enhanced separation efficiency.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review chromatographic dispersion and plate-height models for UHPLC column assessment.
• To discuss performance indices (resolution, separation impedance, kinetic plots) for quantifying resolving power.
• To highlight advancements in UHPLC instrumentation and column technology.

Main Methods:

• Review of literature on chromatographic dispersion and plate-height models.
• Discussion of performance indices and kinetic plot construction/visualization.
• Analysis of instrument and column technology developments.

Main Results:

• Chromatographic dispersion and plate-height models are key for UHPLC column evaluation.
• Performance indices provide quantitative and visual measures of separation power.
• Kinetic plots are valuable tools for understanding and optimizing chromatographic performance.
• Technological advancements are pushing the limits of kinetic performance in UHPLC.

Conclusions:

• Effective assessment of UHPLC column performance relies on understanding dispersion and utilizing appropriate models.
• Performance indices and kinetic plots are essential for optimizing separation resolution and efficiency.
• Continuous innovation in UHPLC technology is crucial for achieving higher performance limits and enabling advanced applications.