Size exclusion analysis - Everything you need to know about chromatography
You want to perform a size exclusion analysis
Size exclusion analysis to characterize the size and distribution of macromolecules
As a manufacturer, do you develop, produce, or control complex polymers, proteins, excipients, or formulations?
Size exclusion analysis, also known as Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC), is a technique of choice for determining the average molar mass and size distribution of your macromolecules in solution.
Using this form of size exclusion chromatography and combining a series of detectors (IR and UV concentration detectors, RALS/LALS light scattering, viscometer), the size exclusion analysis technique allows for the accurate determination of molecular mass and size, as well as intrinsic viscosity and the structure of polymers.
Why perform size exclusion analysis?
SEC/GPC analysis can address several industrial challenges:
- Characterize a synthetic or natural polymer
- Monitor the stability or degradation of an active ingredient
- Compare the structure of two samples (copolymers, formulations, batches)
- Validate a product's compliance with specifications or a standard
- Study aging, oxidation, or chemical modification phenomena
Our solutions: complete expertise in size exclusion chromatography
Our laboratory services
Thanks to a reinforced analytical facility (GPC in aqueous and organic phase, RI, UV, MALS detectors, etc.), we offer a tailor-made approach to your needs in:
Control of average molecular weights and molar mass distribution of polymer materials and other substances (Mn, Mw, Mp, polydispersity index). The NF T 51-505 standards and the ISO 13885 series particularly concern this type of service.
Structural characterization, including the study of the branching of macromolecular chains (branching analysis, etc.)
Optimization of manufacturing processes in order to validate synthesis, application or crosslinking conditions
Expertise in failure of thermoplastic parts which may in particular be associated with degradation of the polymer fraction (shearing of the material causing chain breaks)
Deformulation of polymers allowing access to physicochemical information complementary to analytical techniques such as FTIR, ATG, Py-GCMS, GCMS, LCMS, etc.
Characterization of proteins and polysaccharides (sugars)
What are the areas of application of size exclusion chromatography?
Size exclusion analysis is an analytical technique that can characterize a wide variety of polymers or other macromolecules in a mixture.
Used in quality control, process optimization (e.g., polymerization kinetics), or for expert assessment (pollution and contamination research, etc.), this technique now meets a wide range of industrial needs in various sectors: pharmaceutical, plastics, chemical, automotive, paint, lubricant, and adhesive industries.
Why choose FILAB?
FAQ
These are two names for the same technique.
- SEC (Size Exclusion Chromatography) is the more general term.
- GPC (Gel Permeation Chromatography) is often used when working with organic phases (e.g., THF, DMF).
SEC analysis allows the determination of:
- Average molar mass (Mn, Mw)
- Polydispersity index (PI = Mw/Mn)
- Size distribution
Information on the molecular structure, depending on the detectors used (MALS, viscometer, etc.)
We analyze all types of synthetic or natural polymers, resins, proteins, polysaccharides, formulated products, raw materials, drugs, and more.
The sample must be soluble in a solvent compatible with the column and system (e.g., THF, DMF, water, NaNO3, etc.).