Shim-pack GIST/GISS Series INSTRUCTION MANUAL

Significance of the topic

Modern HPLC demands columns that deliver consistent retention, high resolution, and long lifetimes. Shim-pack GIST GISS series columns address these needs across both reversed phase and normal phase separations.

Objectives and overview

This manual provides comprehensive instructions on installation, operation, and maintenance of Shim-pack GIST GISS columns to ensure optimal chromatographic performance and extended column life.

Instrumentation Used

• Shim-pack GIST and GISS columns: C18, C18 AQ, C8, Phenyl, Phenyl Hexyl, NH2
• PEEK tubing (0.25–0.3 mm ID) or stainless steel tubing for UHPLC (0.1–0.2 mm ID)
• Column fittings: male nuts, ferrules, UHPLC specific fittings
• Guard columns, 0.45 μm membrane filters, and Ghost Trap DS for particulate removal
• HPLC or UHPLC system capable of operating pressures up to 80 MPa (analytical) and 130 MPa (prep)

Methodology and Instrumentation

Proper column installation requires matching the flow direction labeled on the column, minimizing dead volume with short, correct diameter tubing, and using compatible fittings. Columns undergo rigorous QC tests for reagent purity, packing uniformity, and chromatographic performance. Operating pH ranges (C18 and variants: pH1–10, Phenyl pH1–10, NH2 pH2–7.5) and temperatures (up to 60 °C at pH 2–7.5) vary by phase. Pressure limits depend on particle size and column length, with analytical columns rated to 50 MPa and UHPLC to 80 MPa.

Main results and discussion

Key considerations include avoiding dead volumes to prevent early peak tailing, degassing eluents to eliminate bubbles in the flow cell, and preventing column clogging from sample particulates and pump seal debris. Recommendations include pre filtration of mobile phase and samples, use of guard columns, and regular flushing with mutually miscible solvents when switching solvent polarity or storing columns. Proper valve operation speed is crucial to avoid pressure spikes.

Benefits and practical applications

Shim-pack GIST GISS columns deliver high resolution and reproducibility for pharmaceutical, bioanalytical, environmental, and food testing. Their broad pH and temperature compatibility simplifies method development and routine QA QC operations, extending instrument uptime.

Future trends and applications

Emerging advances focus on sub 2 μm particles for faster UHPLC separations at higher pressures, integration of online sample preparation devices, and greener mobile phase systems to reduce solvent consumption and waste.

Conclusion

Following the recommended installation, operating, and storage protocols for Shim-pack GIST GISS columns ensures stable baselines, sharp peaks, and extended column lifetimes, meeting diverse analytical demands.

References

• Shimadzu Corporation Instruction Manual ERAD-0001-9007: Shim-pack GIST GISS Series Columns