Shimadzu i-Series - High Performance Liquid Chromatograph

Significance of the Topic

The evolution of high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) toward remote, automated and user-independent workflows addresses growing demands for laboratory efficiency, data reproducibility and flexible working environments. Modern analytical laboratories require systems that deliver consistent results regardless of operator experience or location and adapt to diverse applications in research, quality control and regulated industries.

Study Overview and Objectives

This application note presents the Shimadzu i-Series HPLC platform, designed to maintain the proven performance of previous models while integrating smart automation, remote operation and intuitive interfaces. Key objectives are to demonstrate how the i-Series enhances work efficiency, ensures data integrity, supports method migration and enables high-quality analysis across skill levels and laboratory settings.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The i-Series architecture combines modular LC components with advanced software automation. Main elements include:

• FlowPilot gradient flow control for automated pump startup and temperature-compensated flowrate adjustment
• Mobile Phase Monitoring (MPM-01) for continuous volume detection and low-consumption alerts
• i-PeakFinder algorithm for robust automatic peak integration under complex baseline conditions
• ACTO method migration support to transfer gradients and system delay volumes between instruments
• i-PDeA II peak deconvolution using MCR-ALS for qualitative and quantitative resolution of coeluted peaks
• Auto-validation routines and system check reports for performance qualification (pump, wavelength, absorbance, gradient accuracy, noise)
• Dual-temperature control (TC-Optics) for detector optics and flow cells to stabilize baselines
• Ultra-low carryover flow path design (<0.0025 %) for trace analysis reliability
• LabSolutions software suite (Direct, CS, i-QLinks) for remote control, centralized data management, 21 CFR Part 11 compliance and automated report generation

Main Results and Discussion

Implementation of remote monitoring and operation via LabSolutions Direct and CS enabled analysts to initiate methods, track chromatograms and receive notifications on smart devices without physical presence in the lab. Automated workflows embedded expert operational logic, reducing repetitive checks and standardizing procedures across users. Waveform control by FlowPilot maintained consistent delivery of solvents during temperature equilibration, minimizing system stress and extending consumable life. The i-PeakFinder algorithm processed large datasets with high precision, yielding reproducible integration for multicomponent samples. ACTO successfully migrated methods from legacy and third-party HPLC systems to the i-Series, preserving retention times and peak shapes. i-PDeA II deconvolution revealed hidden impurities and confirmed peak purity in complex polymer and additive analyses. Auto-validation and system check functions simplified performance qualification and documentation, ensuring compliance and rapid troubleshooting. Dual-temperature control delivered stable baselines over long runs, and the optimized flow channel achieved near-zero carryover, critical for trace quantitation.

Benefits and Practical Applications

By embedding analytical intelligence into hardware and software, the i-Series offers:

• Standardized, operator-independent results for regulated and routine testing
• Reduced downtime and labor through automated solvent monitoring and remote alerts
• Efficient method transfer and validation across instrument generations and brands
• Enhanced data integrity and audit tracking compliant with electronic records regulations
• Scalability for multi-instrument networks managed from centralized databases
• Rapid report creation with templates to eliminate manual transcription errors

These features suit pharmaceutical QA/QC, environmental monitoring, food safety, materials science and academic research where throughput, trace sensitivity and regulatory compliance are paramount.

Future Trends and Potential Uses

Advances in IoT, machine-to-machine communication and artificial intelligence will further transform HPLC into self-optimizing systems. Predictive maintenance based on real-time performance metrics, cloud-based data analytics for cross-laboratory method development and integration with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) will expand capabilities. Future innovations may include autonomous method refinement, virtual analysts to guide users and broader connectivity with complementary analytical platforms such as mass spectrometry.

Conclusion

The Shimadzu i-Series HPLC platform exemplifies a shift toward smart, flexible and reliable analytical workflows. By combining remote operation, intelligent automation and intuitive interfaces with rigorous performance controls, the system delivers reproducible results across skill levels and environments, streamlining laboratory productivity and ensuring data integrity.

Reference

Shimadzu Corporation Application Note C196-E098 High Performance Liquid Chromatograph i-Series 2020