Column Lifespan - Part 2

The first part of "Column Lifespan" deals with the general handling of an HPLC column, avoiding blockages due to particles and crystallization. The second part explains further factors that can contribute to the longevity of the column.

Most reversed-phase columns collapse with pure water. The figure shows the collapse behaviour and retention time shift of a conventional RP phase with 100% water content in the eluent. The side chains fold over, and the retention and reproducibility of the measurement decrease. In most cases, this can be reversible by sufficiently long equilibration with 100% organic mobile phase (e.g., acetonitrile).

If you still want to work with a very high water content, special columns can be used, often marked with the abbreviation AQ.

2. Storage of the Column

• It is generally safe to use the same storage solution as that used for the shipping of the column (see manufacturer's instructions).
• Keep a record of the storage solution and final usage conditions together with the column.
• Screw an airtight stopper into the end of the column. Do not allow the packing material to dry out!
• Store the column in a place where it is not subject to shocks or sudden temperature fluctuations.

3. Defective Column and Precolumn

The right figure shows a chromatogram of a new column compared to a chromatogram of an older column. In the older column, you can see significant fronting of all peaks.

To get a good picture of the column's performance, you can replicate the same analytical conditions as in the inspection data provided with the column and compare them with the test chromatogram. If a precolumn is used, it should be removed, and the analysis repeated.