Agilent ZORBAX Rapid Resolution High Definition Eclipse XDB-C18 Column

Importance of the Topic

The development of high pressure, high efficiency reversed phase columns is critical for modern UHPLC applications involving complex samples. Enhanced surface chemistry and mechanical stability directly impact the reproducibility and speed of analyses of acidic, basic, and polar compounds.

Objectives and Study Overview

This datasheet details the design principles, packing methodology, and performance evaluation of the Agilent ZORBAX RRHD Eclipse XDB-C18 column. The primary aims are to achieve ultra-high resolution, broad pH compatibility, and reliable operation at pressures up to 1200 bar.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The column uses a dense monolayer of dimethyl-n-octadecylsilane bonded to ultra-pure Type B silica (180 m2/g, 80 Å pores). A proprietary high-pressure slurry-loading technique and double endcapping procedure ensure maximum surface deactivation and column efficiency.

• Stationary phase: XDB-C18 on ZORBAX Rx-SIL Type B silica
• Packing: high-pressure slurry loading, eXtra-Dense Bonding, double endcapping
• QC conditions: 2.1 × 50 mm, 1.8 µm, 55/45 acetonitrile/water, 0.55 mL/min

Main Results and Discussion

Quality control tests demonstrate exceptional plate counts and symmetric peak shapes for basic, acidic, and neutral analytes. The column operates safely up to 1200 bar and 60 °C, with optimal lifetime at 40 °C and pH 3–8. Double endcapping reduces deleterious sample–surface interactions and silica dissolution under intermediate to high pH.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Rapid, high resolution separations of a broad range of compounds
• Wide pH stability for flexible method development
• High mechanical strength for long-term UHPLC use
• Improved peak shape for basic analytes without mobile phase modifiers

Future Trends and Applications

Emerging developments will target further enhancement of pH resilience, refinement of core-shell and sub-2 µm particle technologies, and integration with high resolution mass spectrometry. Automation and miniaturization trends will expand the utility of UHPLC in pharmaceutical, environmental, and clinical laboratories.

Conclusion

The Agilent ZORBAX RRHD Eclipse XDB-C18 column combines advanced bonding and deactivation strategies to deliver robust performance at ultra-high pressures. Its versatility for acidic, neutral, and basic compounds makes it a valuable tool in diverse analytical settings.

Used Instrumentation

• Agilent ZORBAX RRHD Eclipse XDB-C18 column, 2.1 × 50 mm, 1.8 µm
• Agilent 1290 Infinity UHPLC system

References

1. H.A. Claessens, M.A. van Straten, J.J. Kirkland, J. Chromatogr. A, 728 (1996) 259