Shimadzu SCR-101N HPLC Column

Importance of the Topic

Sugar analysis is critical in food, beverage and biofuel industries for quality control and process optimization. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with size exclusion mode enables accurate quantification and separation of mono-, di- and oligosaccharides based on molecular size differences. Shimadzu’s packed column Shim-pack™ SCR-101N offers a reliable platform for routine sugar profiling, supporting regulatory compliance and product development.

Objectives and Overview

This document provides practical guidance for mounting, operating and maintaining the Shim-pack SCR-101N column on an HPLC system. It covers separation principles, recommended operating parameters, connection procedures, and storage instructions to preserve column performance and lifespan.

Methodology and Instrumentation

• Column Type: Shim-pack™ SCR-101N, packed with sulfonated polystyrene-divinylbenzene cation exchange resin for aqueous size exclusion chromatography.
• Mobile Phase: Distilled or deionized water, free of pH modifiers or organic solvents to prevent resin swelling.
• Flow Rate: Optimal range 0.5–1.0 mL/min. At 0.5 mL/min inlet pressure ~2 MPa; at 1.0 mL/min ~4 MPa (varies with temperature and system).
• Temperature: Recommended below 60 °C to avoid column deterioration; elevated temperatures improve resolution and throughput but require cautious use.
• Instrument Connections: Use 1.6 mm ferrules (P/N 228-16000-10) and male nuts (P/N 228-16001). Ensure tight, dead-volume-free fittings without over-torquing.

Main Results and Discussion

Under recommended conditions, the SCR-101N column separates sugars in order of decreasing molecular size: trisaccharides elute first, followed by disaccharides and monosaccharides. Maintaining appropriate flow and pressure avoids peak broadening or extended run times. Complete air removal from the flow path is essential to prevent performance loss. Gradual pressure changes preserve resin integrity.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• High selectivity for neutral, water-soluble saccharides and oligomers.
• Robust operation under aqueous conditions without organic modifiers.
• Suitable for fruit juice, sake, wine, syrup and beverage analysis.
• Easy integration into existing HPLC systems with standard fittings.

Future Trends and Applications

Advances in resin technology may enhance resolution and pressure tolerance, enabling faster runs and smaller particle sizes. Integration with mass spectrometric detection and online sample preparation can broaden application to complex matrices. Automated systems will streamline routine sugar profiling in high-throughput environments.

Conclusion

Shimadzu’s Shim-pack SCR-101N column offers a dependable solution for size exclusion-based sugar analysis. Adhering to specified operating parameters and maintenance protocols ensures consistent performance and prolongs column life. Proper installation, flow control and storage practices are key to reliable analytical results.

Reference

No external literature references were provided in the source document.