HPLC is used for separating, detecting and analyzing a variety of materials, including organic compounds and polymers. HPLC size-exclusion chromatography separates molecules based on differences in their molecular weights. Compounds varying in molecular weight from a few hundred to 10 million daltons can be easily separated. Three methods (laser light scattering, refractive index and UV-VIS) are used to detect the separated compounds and to characterize the components present. This technique provides valuable data on formulations for batch-to-batch comparisons.
This course covers the basics of the relevant scientific history, underlying theory and principles of operation of liquid chromatography. A description of HPLC hardware, its purpose and mode of operation, as well as basic separation principles are all covered in this course. A classroom approach with practical demonstrations and examples, together with written course notes helps to provide all the fundamental references someone starting out in HPLC needs.
This course is designed for beginners and intermediate-level users in HPLC who want practical laboratory experience. The lectures, supplemented by problems sets, slides, and video tapes, provide the fundamentals needed to understand the techniques and instrumentation involved in this powerful analytical tool. No prior experience in advanced mathematics, theoretical chemistry, or physics is required for this course. Some experience in HPLC or introductory course work in organic chemistry is desirable but not necessary.