Preparative LC
Task for preparative HPLC systems differs to analytical one. While analytical HPLC task is qualitative and quantitative determination of defined compounds in samples, preparative HPLC task is separation, purification and isolation of value products from mixtures.
Preparative chromatography can be devidet into three main areas:
- Semi-preparative separations
- Batch preparative chromatography (pilot or industrial scale)
- True Counter-current chromatography
- Simulated moving bed (SMB)
- Continuous chromatography
Scale definition
| Parameter | Analytical | Semi-preparative | Preparative |
|---|---|---|---|
| Column sizes (mm) | 120 - 250 x 2 - 4.6 | 120 - 250 x 8 - 16 | 120 - 250 x 20 - 62 |
| Particle size (µm) | up to 5 | 5 - 10 | higher than 10 |
| Stationary phase (g) | up to 5 | 5 - 30 | 50 - 450 |
| Tubings | 1/16" | 1/16" | 1/8" |
| Flow rates (ml/min) | 0.1 - 2 | 5 - 50 | 100 - 1000 |
| Sample size (mg) | 0.01 - 2 | 0.1 - 50 | 1 - 700 |
| Flow cell (mm) | 10 | 3 | 0.5 - 2 |
