New technology from Eksigent has re-awakened interest in capillary HPLC, but there are still a few myths making the rounds. Read more to see how things have changed.
Fact versus fiction?
Myth: Capillary LC is Fine. In Theory.
Fact: In actual use, properly designed capillary LC systems perform at near-theoretical efficiencies, even at higher column flow rates:
Myth: Peak retention times are irreproducible.
Fact: Eksigent's capillary HPLC systems use microfluidic flow technology, which maintains accurate mobile-phase flow rates and gradient compositions, even as column backpressure changes during a run.
Myth: Capillary HPLC Wastes Solvent
Fact: Conventional HPLC systems fitted with capillary columns must split off all but a tiny fraction of mixed gradient flow. The diverted flow volume is wasted. Eksigent's microfluidic flow control (MFC) technology is different. There's no flow splitting and no unused mixed solvent waste. Solvent purchase and disposal savings can reach tens of thousands of dollars in a year. Environmental savings are significant, too.
Myth: Capillary LC Systems have Poor Resolution
Fact: Due to poor dispersion control, even the sample data reproduced in sales materials for some capillary HPLC systems doesn't look very good. But take another look, and compare. Eksigent's low-dispersion technology delivers highly resolved separations:
Myth: There aren't enough different kinds of capillary columns
Fact: A wide variety of high-quality 300 µm i.d. capillary columns is now available for purchase from a number of manufacturers including Eksigent Technologies. Capillary stationary phases are now available for almost any HPLC application.
