Use this page as a planning guide. Exact flushing, storage, pH, pressure, temperature and flow limits must come from the current CycloLab manufacturer instructions.
Understanding the sample
Start by identifying whether the target is a parent cyclodextrin, neutral derivative, ionic derivative, residual parent material, degradation-related component or a complex substituted distribution. This determines which selectivity questions matter most.
Choosing the column format
The 5 µm, 250 × 4 mm column is a conventional longer analytical format. The 3 µm, 150 × 4 mm option uses a shorter bed with smaller particles. CD-Screen-IEC is the specialized option for ionic derivatives. Instrument pressure capability and method-transfer constraints should be considered alongside selectivity.
Installation
Confirm flow direction, fitting compatibility, solvent miscibility and a clean fluid path before installation. Introduce flow progressively rather than subjecting the packed bed to an abrupt pressure change.
Sample cleanliness
Particulate loading can shorten useful column life and affect pressure. Appropriate filtration or centrifugation may be considered when compatible with the analytical objective and analyte recovery.
Solvent changes and precipitation
When changing mobile phases or wash solvents, consider miscibility and salt precipitation. A poorly planned solvent transition can cause blockages or damage independently of the stationary phase chemistry.
Flushing and storage
Use only solvents confirmed as compatible with the stationary phase and the previous/current mobile phase. Exact flushing volumes and storage solvent must be taken from current manufacturer instructions.
Method-development considerations
- Analyte and derivative chemistry
- Sample matrix and sample solvent
- Detector compatibility and response
- Mobile-phase composition and ionic conditions
- Instrument pressure capability
- Injection volume and sample concentration
- Equilibration and system-suitability strategy