UHPLC is commercialized since 2004, but there are still far less columns available with sub-2 micron technology than there are for HPLC columns. Are there limitations regarding the development of column materials with separation mechanisms like, but not limited to, ion exchange, ion exclusion or aquous SEC in the UHPLC mode?
Hello Asal, on this topic I recommend the article by Horvath.
https://academic.oup.com/chromsci/article-abstract/7/2/109/393075?redirectedFrom=fulltext
Regards Markus
Thank you Markus, that is an interesting paper. Though, I still don't seem to understand why it is that with so many new technology, the sub-2 (UHPLC) stays behind HPLC column technology. Mechanical stability issues have somewhat been overcome with different new techniques (some types of polymers and BEH or hybrid technology for example). The instrumental challenges are clear, large pressure drop increases frictional heating, may change selectivity/retention and so on. There are also alternatives to UHPLC for ultra fast analysis like the core-shell technology, monoliths, high-temperature LC. But the reason for the lack of column materials with sub-2 particles for different separation mechanisms is still unclear to me as I don't think people prefer to switch to these alternative rather than using UHPLC. There are many users so the question for more sub-2 particles with different separation mechanisms is, I think, high.
Dear Asali, The material science aspect of chromatographic research is usually done by top-notch companies like Waters, Thermo and Agilent and many other rather than the academia. Very few academic researchers have ever developed a commercially successful material for chromatography. In fact, the hardcore separation science (theory etc.) has shifted to Europe. Companies work where the money is. The sales of HPLCs exceeds that of UHPLCs. Even if the companies have developed sub 2 micron material in IEX or SEC, you will never know because it will never be published until and unless the product is launched.
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