Shim-pack SUR-Na Columns for Ligand Exchange Chromatograph

Significance of the Topic

Accurate analysis of sugars is crucial for both food quality control and biofuel production. In ethanol fermentation, monitoring individual sugar components such as glucose, fructose, and sucrose ensures optimal microbial performance, process design, and product consistency. High-precision sugar profiling supports regulatory compliance and enhances process efficiency.

Study Objectives and Overview

This study evaluates the performance of Shim-pack SUR-Na columns for ligand exchange chromatography, combining size-exclusion and sodium-based exchange modes. The goal is to demonstrate superior separation of mono- and oligosaccharides, as well as sugar alcohols, using only ultrapure water as the mobile phase, thereby simplifying HPLC setup and reducing solvent preparation.

Methodology and Used Instrumentation

The experimental configuration includes:

• Analytical column: Shim-pack SUR-Na, 250 mm × 7.8 mm I.D.
• Guard column: Shim-pack SUR-Na (G), 50 mm × 7.8 mm I.D.
• Mobile phase: Ultrapure water
• Column temperature: 80 °C
• Detector: Refractive index detector RID-20A with cell temperature control at 40 °C

Main Results and Discussion

Fermentation broth samples collected at 0, 6, 12, and 18 hours were analyzed. The Shim-pack SUR-Na column achieved baseline separation of key sugars and ethanol, enabling clear tracking of substrate consumption and product formation over time. A broader sugar panel—including monosaccharides (glucose, fructose, mannose, etc.), sugar alcohols (xylitol, sorbitol, inositol, glycerol), disaccharides (maltose, lactose, sucrose), and select oligosaccharides—was resolved with high efficiency. Baseline stability tests confirmed minimal drift under room temperature fluctuations due to the detector’s cell temperature control.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Simplified mobile phase preparation using only water reduces cost and environmental impact.
• Robust separation of a wide range of sugars and sugar alcohols supports diverse applications in food, beverage, and biofuel industries.
• Stable baseline detection ensures reliable quantitation even under varying laboratory conditions.
• Real-time monitoring of fermentation processes enhances quality control and process optimization in ethanol production.

Future Trends and Possibilities

Advancements may include coupling ligand exchange columns with mass spectrometry for enhanced sensitivity and structural elucidation. Miniaturized and integrated flow systems could enable inline monitoring in industrial fermenters. Further development of novel stationary phases may expand the range of analyzable carbohydrates. Implementation of automated data analysis and machine learning could streamline process control and predictive maintenance.

Conclusion

Shim-pack SUR-Na ligand exchange columns deliver high-resolution sugar separation using pure water mobile phase, offering a user-friendly and cost-effective solution for sugar analysis in food quality and biofuel fermentation. The method’s robustness and simplicity make it well-suited for routine laboratory and process control environments.