HPLC Questions
Occasionally one of our web site visitors will inquire of us regarding the analytical
technique of HPLC or the type of instruments used. The following explanations may be
helpful.
What is HPLC?
High Pressure Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) is a method of separating one chemical from
another based upon their absorption of ultraviolet (UV) light and the functional group
interaction with the analytical column substrate. For instance, the amount of caffeine in
a sample of coffee may be determined to a high degree of accuracy using HPLC techniques.
What constitutes a basic HPLC system?
An HPLC system consists of the following instruments:
- Solvent Delivery System (pump)
- Injector - Automatic or manual
- Column - Many different chemistries
- Detector - UV, fluorescence, refractive index, conductivity, etc.
- Data System - Computer, integrator, or recorder
These instruments are typically small enough to be placed on bench tops in
laboratories. Although they are often purchased as separate instruments, some
manufacturers combine them into self-contained systems in a single cabinet.
Who uses HPLC techniques?
The following is just a brief list of the types of companies and institutions that make
use of HPLC instruments in their work:
