<p><strong>Derivatizing amino acids doesn’t have to take hours to do. A more hands-off solution can save your lab hours of prep work. And help you trust your data even more.</strong></p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_How_to_Cut_HPLC_Sample_Preparation_Time_for_Derivatizing_Amino_Acids_f41f58db04.jpeg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: How to Cut HPLC Sample Preparation Time for Derivatizing Amino Acids." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_How_to_Cut_HPLC_Sample_Preparation_Time_for_Derivatizing_Amino_Acids_f41f58db04.jpeg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1024" height="512"></p><p><strong>Ever wonder what makes a simple molecule like valine so complicated to measure?</strong></p><p>Amino acids—the building blocks of proteins—are everywhere. In your food. Body. And even the fertilizers that help grow our food. But measuring these compounds precisely? That’s a classic analytical headache, even for an experienced chromatographer.</p><p>Ask any lab scientist who’s done amino acid analysis, and they’ll tell you the chromatographic separation isn’t the hard part. The challenge is sample preparation, or everything before the chromatography. Handling toxic reagents. The repeated pipetting. And then timing the derivatization reactions just right.</p><p>All these manual steps can contribute to lower method precision and data reproducibility.</p><p>So, what’s the solution? Using a more hands-off approach. You get the same trusted chemical reaction, but your method is now faster, cleaner, and more reliable.</p><p>Let’s walk through a real-life example of how your lab can derivatize amino acids directly inside the HPLC autosampler needle.</p><h3><strong>Key takeaways</strong></h3><div><ul><li>Manual derivatization of amino acids is laborious, error-prone, and handling toxic chemicals can pose health hazards to lab staff.</li><li>Automated in-needle OPA/FMOC derivatization of amino acids is a time- and labor-saving approach for HPLC-FLD analysis.</li><li>Reliable method performance, column stability over several hundred injections, and using inexpensive reagents facilitates high sample throughput at low costs per sample for routine laboratories.</li><li>Sample matrices of medium and high complexity (beverages, food, fertilizers) using in-needle derivatization is robust and reproducible.</li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_How_to_Cut_HPLC_Sample_Preparation_Time_for_Derivatizing_Amino_Acids_2_a906250f79.jpeg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: How to Cut HPLC Sample Preparation Time for Derivatizing Amino Acids: Illustration showing manual derivatization versus in-needle derivatization." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_How_to_Cut_HPLC_Sample_Preparation_Time_for_Derivatizing_Amino_Acids_2_a906250f79.jpeg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="700" height="410"></p><h3><strong>Why does the derivatisation of amino acids still matter when aerosol detectors are an option? The unmatched sensitivity of fluorescence detection compared to evaporative technology.</strong></h3><p>Most amino acids don’t have double bonds that naturally absorb UV light, meaning your HPLC detector can’t “see” the compounds directly.</p><p>To solve these visibility issues, chemists use derivatization. The conjugation reaction is brilliant chemistry, facilitating the formation of <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/content/lifetech/global/en/home/industrial/chromatography/chromatography-learning-center/liquid-chromatography-information/hplc-system-components/how-hplc-detectors-work.html"><strong>fluorescent derivatives</strong></a> suitable for sensitive and precise analysis.</p><p>This technique involves reacting amino acids in the solution for analysis with reagents that make the amino acids fluorescent. The most common pair are OPA (ortho-phthaldialdehyde) for primary amino acids and FMOC-Cl (9-fluorenylmethyloxycarbonyl chloride) for secondary ones.</p><p>Now here’s what can go wrong. You measure reagents, mix samples by hand, wait for the reaction, then inject onto your HPLC instrument. Small inconsistencies, such as a few seconds too long or a reagent variation, can mean BIG differences in peak response, method accuracy, and data reproducibility. Removing these inconsistencies is where automated in-needle derivatization comes in.</p><h3><strong>Let your HPLC autosampler needle handle the not-so-friendly laborious tasks</strong></h3><p>Switching from manual to automated in-needle derivatization can help make this labor-intensive process easier for everyone in your lab, while improving data consistency and overall lab safety. &nbsp;</p><p>Here’s how:</p><div><div><ul><li>Instead of manually preparing reaction mixtures, you can use a compatible instrument, like<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products?category=37&amp;manufacturerItems=3&amp;search=vanquish"><strong> Thermo Scientific Vanquish LC Systems</strong></a>, to perform in-needle derivatization.</li><li>And, with the helpful guidance of supporting software, you can automatically mix samples and reagents in the needle, time the reaction more precisely, and inject the derivatized sample onto the column.</li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_How_to_Cut_HPLC_Sample_Preparation_Time_for_Derivatizing_Amino_Acids_3_5c636b1584.jpeg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: How to Cut HPLC Sample Preparation Time for Derivatizing Amino Acids: In-needle derivatization of primary and secondary AAs with OPA/MPA and FMOC-Cl reagents for subsequent LC analysis of the fluorescent derivatives. *Borate buffer pH 10, **acetic acid for quenching." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_How_to_Cut_HPLC_Sample_Preparation_Time_for_Derivatizing_Amino_Acids_3_5c636b1584.jpeg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="768" height="384"></p><h3><strong>A real-life example showcasing better efficiency, robustness, and throughput capabilities.</strong></h3><p>What makes this automated workflow stand out isn’t a new reaction—but rather a faster way of working with your HPLC instrument.</p><p>The reactions between OPA/MPA and FMOC-Cl still happen as before, but now the reaction is controlled digitally through <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/cn_003698_hplc_vanquish_workflow_amino_acid_analysis_derivatization_cn003698_na_en_e76e3abe44.pdf"><strong>Thermo Scientific Chromeleon Chromatography Data System</strong></a> (CDS).</p><p>As demonstrated in our whitepaper, each reagent draw, mix, and injection step is defined in a Custom Injection Program (CIP), eliminating timing errors and variability. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/76"><strong>Chromeleon CDS</strong></a> visualizes every step in its Instrument Method Editor, tracks parameters in real time, and logs events in the Audit Trail for compliance.</p><p>And since the workflow design has flexibility in mind, you can use Chromeleon CDS or a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/ab_004093_hplc_vanquish_core_amino_acids_needle_derivatization_ab004093_na_en_edb37df857.pdf"><strong>third-party software</strong></a>, with identical parameters, which gives your labs the freedom to work within your preferred environment without retraining staff or rewriting SOPs.</p><h3><strong>Trusting your data and a faster derivatization technique. That’s the science behind putting your sample preparation inside the needle.</strong></h3><p>The most beneficial part of this workflow is the hours of time your lab and broader QC team will save.</p><ul><li>Consistent fluorescence response and accurate quantitation for all amino acids</li><li>Excellent injection-to-injection reproducibility, even across reagent batches</li><li>Improved safety through reduced manual solvent handling</li><li>Less hands-on time, freeing analysts for higher-value work</li><li>Seamless CDS integration for full audit traceability</li></ul><p>So next time you’re pipetting derivatization reagents by hand, secretly wishing there was a better way, why not consider an automated method approach?</p><p>You get the same chemistry, performed automatically inside the autosampler, hands-free, ready to inject in minutes with reproducible data that you can trust.</p><p>Learn more about this new automated amino acid analytical workflow in our <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/cn_003698_hplc_vanquish_workflow_amino_acid_analysis_derivatization_cn003698_na_en_e76e3abe44.pdf"><strong>customer application note today</strong></a>.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_How_to_Cut_HPLC_Sample_Preparation_Time_for_Derivatizing_Amino_Acids_4_341aed0b3a.jpeg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: How to Cut HPLC Sample Preparation Time for Derivatizing Amino Acids: Chromatographic results of calibration standard (50 µM) measured with the Vanquish Core HPLC system, comparing method performance on 1st and 14th day of measurements." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_How_to_Cut_HPLC_Sample_Preparation_Time_for_Derivatizing_Amino_Acids_4_341aed0b3a.jpeg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="768" height="384"></p><h3><strong>Helpful tips to improve method robustness with Vanquish LC Systems+ Chromeleon CDS</strong></h3><ol><li>Use a 100 µL sample loop for thorough and reproducible mixing of the sample and reagents during the derivatization step.</li><li>Install a passive pre-heater to facilitate proper dilution of the reagents before the column.</li><li>Use guard cartridges for your columns and replace the cartridges when column performance diminishes. Apply smart tools like intelligent run control in Chromeleon CDS for automated checks.</li><li>Replace derivatization reagents in your autosampler daily.</li><li>Periodically flush your column with 100% acetonitrile for 30 minutes to remove persistent reaction products and matrices.</li></ol><blockquote><p><strong>Visit us on&nbsp;</strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/72003132/admin/dashboard/"><strong><u>LinkedIn:</u></strong></a>&nbsp;#AutomatedSamplePreparation #HPLC</p></blockquote></div></div></div>

How to Cut HPLC Sample Preparation Time for Derivatizing Amino Acids

<h3><strong>How long does it actually take to install all the capillaries and fittings on a conventional HPLC system?</strong></h3><h4><strong>The Small Components That Matter Most</strong></h4><p>When people think about HPLC systems, they often focus on pumps, detectors, columns, or software. Capillaries and fittings are usually seen as minor components because they are relatively inexpensive and physically small. However, every chromatographer eventually discovers that these tiny parts can have a major influence on system performance.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_Connecting_a_U_HPLC_system_can_be_difficult_at_some_poorly_accessible_locations_3b837b441b.webp" alt="KNAUER: Connecting a (U)HPLC system can be difficult at some poorly accessible locations" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_Connecting_a_U_HPLC_system_can_be_difficult_at_some_poorly_accessible_locations_3b837b441b.webp 208w," sizes="100vw" width="720" height="540"></p><p>Even decades ago, chromatographers recognized the importance of proper connections. In the 1980s, long before UHPLC became common, John Dolan wrote about minimizing dead volume through correct fitting installation. Today, with UHPLC systems operating at extremely high pressures and using columns with very small particle sizes, dead volume is even less tolerable than before. The topic remains just as relevant today as it was back then.</p><p>Interestingly, despite what many users assume, the chromatographic column itself is often not the primary source of HPLC or UHPLC problems. In my experience, poor connections are far more commonly responsible for issues such as peak broadening, leaks, or loss of efficiency.</p><h4><strong>The Early Days of HPLC Capillaries</strong></h4><p>Anyone who has been working with HPLC for many years will probably remember the era of rigid <strong>1/16" stainless steel tubing</strong>. Whenever PEEK tubing was unsuitable, stainless steel capillaries were the standard choice.</p><p>Setting up a system back then was far from convenient. You first had to locate an appropriate length of tubing somewhere in a drawer full of capillaries. Usually, this meant finding a several-meter-long piece and cutting it yourself using a dedicated capillary cutter. After cutting, you needed to ensure the tubing end was smooth and undamaged, hoping that the previous person using the cutter had not accidentally crushed the inner diameter.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_Standard_1_16_Capillary_and_needed_tools_and_the_drawer_we_all_know_pretty_well_943d7ed0b2.jpg" alt="KNAUER: Standard 1/16” Capillary and needed tools and the drawer we all know pretty well" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_Standard_1_16_Capillary_and_needed_tools_and_the_drawer_we_all_know_pretty_well_943d7ed0b2.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1277" height="456"></p><p>Once cut, the tubing often required additional preparation. You might need to deburr the capillary using a grater, shape it carefully with bending tools, and then finally install it using separate fittings and ferrules. And of course, everyone remembers the frustration of dropping a ferrule onto the laboratory floor, where it effectively disappeared forever.</p><p>At the same time, laboratories often accumulated drawers filled with pre-assembled capillaries that had fixed fittings attached. Reusing these assemblies was risky. If the fitting geometry did not perfectly match the receiving port, users could unintentionally introduce dead volume into the system. The result was often degraded chromatographic performance, broad peaks, and frustrating troubleshooting sessions involving the entire laboratory team. In worse cases, excessive force could damage threads or receiving ports while attempting to stop leaks.</p><p>During that period, assembling and connecting a complete HPLC system could easily consume half a day of work.</p><h4><strong>The Improvement: Flexible and Pre-Cut Capillaries</strong></h4><p>Later, laboratories gradually adopted pre-cut tubing and flexible capillaries, which represented a significant improvement over manually preparing stainless steel tubing.</p><p>With these newer capillaries, users simply selected the correct length and installed the tubing directly. Flexible capillaries adapted naturally to the required shape, eliminating much of the manual bending and shaping work. Installation became faster, easier, and far less stressful.</p><p>Still, these systems had limitations. Although the capillary itself improved, the fitting technology remained largely unchanged. Many of these capillaries were still effectively single-use components. If a connection was installed incorrectly because the tubing was not fully inserted into the receiving port before tightening, the result was often another unusable capillary destined for the growing “capillary drawer.” Sustainability was certainly not a strong point of these systems.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_A_typical_capillary_drawer_It_was_tricky_to_open_and_close_it_sometimes_530dd2087c.webp" alt="KNAUER: A typical capillary drawer. It was tricky to open and close it sometimes" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_A_typical_capillary_drawer_It_was_tricky_to_open_and_close_it_sometimes_530dd2087c.webp 208w," sizes="100vw" width="1024" height="768"></p><p>Even with these advancements, system setup still required considerable time and effort.</p><h4><strong>The Real Breakthrough: Modern Tool-Free Connection Systems</strong></h4><p>A major breakthrough finally arrived when manufacturers introduced a completely redesigned fitting and capillary concept aimed specifically at simplifying UHPLC connections.</p><p>These newer systems came with fittings pre-installed directly on the capillary. Unlike traditional ferrule-based systems, the fittings automatically adjusted to different port depths and sealed directly at the bottom of the port. This dramatically reduced the amount of torque required and eliminated the need for complicated installation techniques.</p><p>Perhaps the biggest advantage was convenience. These capillaries could be connected and disconnected more than 100 times without tools, while remaining entirely finger-tight. And best of all, ferrules no longer disappeared onto the laboratory floor.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_The_little_things_that_do_the_click_3a0469d516.jpg" alt="KNAUER: The little things that do the “click”" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_The_little_things_that_do_the_click_3a0469d516.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1866" height="1022"></p><p>The system I currently use includes an especially useful feature: a patented torque-limiting mechanism that prevents both under-tightening and over-tightening. Once the correct torque is reached, the fitting produces a tactile “<strong>click</strong>,” providing immediate feedback that the connection is secure and properly installed every time.</p><h4><strong>From Half a Day to Fifteen Minutes</strong></h4><p>Thanks to these modern connection systems and pre-configured startup kits, installing an HPLC or UHPLC system today is dramatically faster than it used to be.</p><p>What once consumed hours of work can now be completed in less than 15 minutes. The improvements in usability, reproducibility, and sustainability over recent years have been remarkable.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_Trouble_free_connection_systom_for_HPLC_and_UHPLC_e62b80154b.webp" alt="KNAUER: Trouble-free connection systom for HPLC and UHPLC" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_Trouble_free_connection_systom_for_HPLC_and_UHPLC_e62b80154b.webp 221w," sizes="100vw" width="690" height="487"></p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_Trouble_free_connection_systom_for_HPLC_and_UHPLC_2_71c24acdf5.webp" alt="KNAUER: Trouble-free connection systom for HPLC and UHPLC" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_Trouble_free_connection_systom_for_HPLC_and_UHPLC_2_71c24acdf5.webp 224w," sizes="100vw" width="1920" height="1339"></p><p>And while today’s solutions already represent a huge leap forward, the evolution of HPLC connection technology is certainly not over yet. Looking ahead, it will be exciting to see how future innovations continue to simplify chromatography workflows even further.</p><blockquote><p>If you want to learn more about KNAUER´s capillaries, fittings and (U)HPLC system start-up kits and are interested in details and numbers, I highly recommend our brand <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/r75ev6rjivdbid246k60zrs3gjpvwdi5b8em_fad0f92fd9.pdf"><strong>new tech note "Benefits of KNAUER´s trouble-free analytical capillaries in terms of HPLC and UHPLC system performance</strong></a><strong>"</strong> and a visit to our <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/2402"><strong>products online</strong></a>.</p></blockquote>

Let´s Connect a whole (U)HPLC system without tools and trouble

News from LabRulezLCMS Library - Week 21, 2026

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A unique company dedicated to serving science helping our customers drive productivity and accelerate results. Through our premier brands – Thermo Scientific, Applied Biosystems, Invitrogen, Fisher Scientific and Unity Lab Services.

Thermo Fisher Scientific

Everything from the world of analytical chemistry in one place. We connect people in solving their problems. At Labrulez you will find all the necessary information easily, quickly and clearly. Stop searching and start finding.

LabRulez

Based in Berlin, KNAUER is a medium-sized, owner-managed company that has been serving the sciences since 1962. We develop and manufacture scientific instruments of superior quality for liquid chromatography, including: Analytical HPLC/UHPLC, Preparative HPLC, Fast protein liquid chromatography (FPLC), Multi-column chromatography/Simulated moving bed (SMB) chromatography. High pressure dosing, in-line detection systems, and osmometry are additional business areas.

KNAUER

Waters ACQUITY APC Columns

Waters ACQUITY Advanced Polymer Chromatography (APC) Columns with novel capabilities for chromatographic efficiency, speed and resolution that cannot be matched by conventional GPC methods.

<h4><strong>ACQUITY APC AQ BEH Column</strong></h4><p>ACQUITY APC AQ columns are designed to provide highly efficient size-based separations for water soluble polymer characterization. The sorbent uses patented Ethylene Bridge Hybrid (BEH) technology to provide a mechanical strong packed bed that resists shinking and swelling for easy mobile phase solvent switching. The expected molecular weight range for this column is approximatley 1, 000 - 30, 000 g/mole.</p><h4><strong>Specifications</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Separation Mode:</strong> SEC/GPC</li><li><strong>Particle Substrate: </strong>Hybrid</li><li><strong>pH Range Min:</strong> 1 pH</li><li><strong>pH Range Max: </strong>8 pH</li><li><strong>Endcapped: </strong>No</li><li><strong>Silanol Activity: </strong>Medium</li><li><strong>Molecular Weight Range Min:</strong> 1000</li><li><strong>Molecular Weight Range Max:</strong> 30000</li><li><strong>Particle Shape: </strong>Spherical</li><li><strong>Particle Size:</strong> 1,7 µm &nbsp;/ 2.5 µm&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Endfitting Type: </strong>Parker-style</li><li><strong>System:</strong> APC</li><li><strong>Particle Technology:</strong> BEH</li><li><strong>Technique: </strong>SEC</li></ul><h4><strong>ACQUITY APC XT BEH Column</strong></h4><p>ACQUITY APC XT columns are optimized to provide highly efficient size-based separations for organic solvent soluble polymer characterization. The sorbent uses patented Ethylene Bridge Hybrid (BEH) technology to provide a mechanical strong packed bed that resists shinking and swelling for easy mobile phase solvent switching.The expected molecular weight range for this column is approximatley 1,000 - 30,000 g/mole.</p><h4><strong>Specifications</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Separation Mode:</strong> SEC/GPC</li><li><strong>Particle Substrate: </strong>Hybrid</li><li><strong>pH Range Min:</strong> 1 pH</li><li><strong>pH Range Max: </strong>12 pH</li><li><strong>Endcapped: </strong>No</li><li><strong>Silanol Activity: </strong>Low</li><li><strong>Molecular Weight Range Min:</strong> 1000</li><li><strong>Molecular Weight Range Max:</strong> 30000</li><li><strong>Particle Shape: </strong>Spherical</li><li><strong>Particle Size:</strong> 1,7 µm &nbsp;/ 2.5 µm&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Endfitting Type: </strong>Parker-style</li><li><strong>System:</strong> APC</li><li><strong>Particle Technology:</strong> BEH</li><li><strong>Technique: </strong>GPC</li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Waters_ACQUITY_APC_AQ_BEH_Column_0c0d837b73.jpeg" alt="Waters: ACQUITY APC Column" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Waters_ACQUITY_APC_AQ_BEH_Column_0c0d837b73.jpeg 234w," sizes="100vw" width="660" height="440"></p><h3><strong>ACQUITY APC Columns</strong></h3><h4><strong>Achieve superior speed and resolution for polymer characterization</strong></h4><p>Achieving superior performance and reliability with high resolution polymer characterization can be a challenge. <strong>ACQUITY Advanced Polymer Chromatography (APC) Columns</strong> are designed for polymer scientists like you, with novel capabilities for chromatographic efficiency, speed and resolution that cannot be matched by conventional GPC methods. With these columns, you can quantify and characterize polymer samples with confidence and accuracy while maximizing productivity.</p><p>The <strong>Ethylene Bridged Hybrid (BEH) particles</strong> used in ACQUITY APC Columns enable rapid solvent switching and the ability to use multiple conditions for the same bank of columns. Conventional polymeric stationary phases are dedicated to a single set of analytical conditions and solvent because the chromatographic bed is vulnerable to shrinking and swelling. By eliminating this undesirable behavior, ACQUITY APC Columns allow for maximum robustness and method development flexibility.</p><h4><strong>Overview</strong></h4><ul><li>Eliminate the shrinking and swelling that often occurs with polymeric stationary phases upon solvent switching with a stable chromatographic column bed&nbsp;</li><li>Achieve unmatched separation speed, resolution, and chromatographic efficiency from optimized pore volumes and particle size</li><li>Meet workflow requirements with 1.7 and 2.5 μm columns for organic and aqueous size-based separation</li><li>Achieve industry-leading column-to-column reproducibility with exceptionally reliable columns from a tightly controlled column manufacturing process</li><li><strong>Recommended Use: </strong>For rapid and accurate chromatographic characterization of synthetic polymer and macromolecular species.&nbsp;</li></ul><h4><strong>ACQUITY APC Column Featured Technologies</strong></h4><h5><strong>BEH Technology</strong></h5><ul><li>Rugged hybrid organic/inorganic base particle</li><li>Improved peak shape for bases- low silanol activity</li><li>Wider operating pH range for method development flexibility</li><li>Mechanical strength for maximum column efficiency at UHPLC operating pressures</li></ul><h4><strong>ACQUITY APC Column Characteristics</strong></h4><h5><strong>ACQUITY APC XT Columns</strong></h5><ul><li>Designed to provide high efficiency sized-based separations for organic soluble polymer characterization</li><li>Uses BEH particle technology</li><li>Stable column bed that resists shrinking and swelling for easy mobile-phase solvent switching</li><li>Features an extended temperature range up to 90 °C</li><li>Designed for organic solvent-based separations</li></ul><h5><strong>ACQUITY APC AQ Columns</strong></h5><ul><li>Designed to provide high efficiency sized-based separations for water soluble polymer characterization</li><li>Uses BEH particle technology</li><li>Robust separations up to 45 °C</li><li>Designed for aqueous-soluble polymer separations</li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Waters_ACQUITY_APC_Columns_2268ceb5f5.jpeg" alt="Waters: ACQUITY APC Columns" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Waters_ACQUITY_APC_Columns_2268ceb5f5.jpeg 234w," sizes="100vw" width="1024" height="682"></p><h4><strong>Unprecedented capacity for rapid solvent switching</strong></h4><p>Use multiple conditions for the same column bank with rapid solvent switching using the rigid hybrid particles in ACQUITY APC Chromatography Columns. Conventional polymeric phases are often dedicated to single analysis conditions because the chromatographic bed is vulnerable to shrinking and swelling that can be potentially harmful to the column. By eliminating this constraint, ACQUITY APC Chromatography Columns provide more freedom for method development and deliver advanced polymer characterization for a diverse range of samples.</p><h4><strong>Reduce calibration time by a factor of 3-5x and increase resolution</strong></h4><p>With long conventional Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC) run times of up to one hour or more, analyses of standards and samples can be quite time-consuming. In addition to long GPC run times, the large extra-column volume of conventional GPC systems can result in peak bandspreading, reducing the resolution and thus accuracy of the calibration points. Combined with the lower dispersion ACQUITY APC System, small particle ACQUITY APC Columns deliver less bandspreading and narrower, sharper peaks compared to the conventional GPC system. Additionally, robust sub-3-µm APC Column Technology supports higher flow rate and backpressures, thereby improving resolution.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Waters_A_comparison_of_run_times_and_resolution_for_polystyrene_standards_Mp_100_K_10_K_and_1_K_on_a_conventional_GPC_system_and_the_ACQUITY_APC_System_37cfb15ed5.jpeg" alt="Waters: A comparison of run times and resolution for polystyrene standards (Mp: 100K, 10K, and 1K) on a conventional GPC system and the ACQUITY APC System. " srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Waters_A_comparison_of_run_times_and_resolution_for_polystyrene_standards_Mp_100_K_10_K_and_1_K_on_a_conventional_GPC_system_and_the_ACQUITY_APC_System_37cfb15ed5.jpeg 234w," sizes="100vw" width="1024" height="682"></p><h4><strong>Ensure reproducible column performance</strong></h4><p>Reproducible column performance is one of the most critical factors for achieving long-term method reliability during polymer characterization. Each step of our column manufacturing process is monitored and tightly controlled to maintain unmatched product reproducibility. Every test, from raw material characterization to final batch analysis, is designed to ensure that ACQUITY APC Columns perform the same from column-to-column, batch-to-batch, and year-to-year.</p>

Waters SEC Columns

Get unmatched batch-to-batch reproducibility with the wide range of Waters Size-Exclusion Chromatography (SEC) Columns and standards for protein and peptide characterization.

<h4><strong>Size-based separations of peptides, proteins, nucleic acids, LNPs, and viral vectors</strong></h4><p>Get unmatched batch-to-batch reproducibility with the wide range of <strong>Waters Size-Exclusion Chromatography (SEC) Columns</strong> and standards for protein and peptide characterization.</p><p><strong>SEC</strong> is a powerful technique for aggregate and fragment analysis in the <strong>research, development</strong>, and <strong>manufacturing of biotherapeutic proteins</strong>, such as <strong>insulin</strong> and <strong>monoclonal antibodies</strong> (mAb). With SEC, also known as gel filtration, you can separate proteins based on their size (hydrodynamic radii versus absolute molecular weight) in solution, with larger sized species eluting before smaller proteins.</p><p>The <strong>pore size and volume</strong> of the SEC particles used in the packed column drives this <strong>isocratic based technique</strong>, so the column you choose matters. As the molecular weight of the proteins of interest increases, SEC columns with comparatively larger pore size particles are selected.</p><h4><strong>Overview</strong></h4><ul><li>Gain efficiency with this “platform based” method for <strong>proteins ranging from 10,000 to 650,000 Daltons</strong>, leveraging <strong>MaxPeak Premier Technology</strong> coupled with <strong>BEH-PEO Particle Technology&nbsp;</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Minimize non-desired secondary interactions </strong>for improved separation reproducibility and results with Ethylene Bridged Hybrid (BEH) SEC particles</li><li>Ensure reliable <strong>column-to-column and batch-to-batch performance</strong> with columns quality control tested with relevant peptide, protein, and mAb samples &nbsp;</li><li>Achieve reliable <strong>high throughput analysis on UPLC</strong> systems with our <strong>1.7 µm particle size</strong> offering and reproducible separations on any <strong>HPLC, UHPLC, or UPLC system</strong> to address different application needs with <strong>2.5 µm&nbsp;</strong></li><li><strong>Extend analytical column life</strong> and<strong> lower cost per analyses </strong>with SEC Guards&nbsp;</li><li>Confirm on-site SEC column and LC system performance with available BEH125, BEH200, BEH450, and mAb Size Variant Standards &nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Manufactured in a cGMP, ISO 9001</strong> certified plant using stringent manufacturing protocols and ultra-pure reagents</li></ul><p><strong>Recommended Use: </strong>For size-based peptide, protein, and viral vector analyses.</p><h4><strong>System Dispersion Specifications for Column Recommendations</strong></h4><h5><strong>LC System Dispersions &lt;20 µL (UPLC)</strong></h5><ul><li>ACQUITY Premier Protein SEC 250 Å Guards and Columns</li><li>ACQUITY UPLC Protein BEH SEC 125 Å, 200 Å, and 450 Å Guards and Columns</li><li>1.7 µm guards and columns for low dispersion UPLC systems</li></ul><h5><strong>LC System Dispersions &gt;20 µL – ≤35 µL (UHPLC)</strong></h5><ul><li>XBridge Premier Protein SEC 250 Å Guards and Columns</li><li>XBridge Protein BEH SEC 125 Å, 200 Å, and 450 Å Guards and Columns</li><li>BioResolve mAb SEC Guards and Columns</li><li>2.5 µm guards and columns for UHPLC systems</li></ul><h5><strong>LC System Dispersions &gt;35 µL (HPLC)</strong></h5><ul><li>XBridge Protein BEH SEC 125 Å, 200 Å, and 450 Å Guards and Columns</li><li>XBridge Premier Protein SEC 250 Å Guards and Columns</li><li>BioResolve mAb SEC Guards and Columns</li><li>BioSuite SEC Guards and Columns</li><li>3.5 µm guards and columns for HPLC systems</li></ul><h4><strong>GTxResolve SEC Columns</strong></h4><h5><strong>GTxResolve Premier BEH SEC 450 Å Columns</strong></h5><ul><li>2.5 µm particle size columns for UHPLC and UPLC separations</li><li>Lower secondary interactions and lower noise suitable for platform methods</li><li>Low adsorption hardware necessary for analysis of biologics samples</li><li>450 Å pore size with up to 50% higher resolving power reducing need for sample consumption, resulting in faster analyses<ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.waters.com/nextgen/us/en/products/columns/GTxResolve-sec-columns.html"><strong>Explore GTxResolve SEC Columns</strong></a></li></ul></li></ul><h5><strong>GTxResolve Premier SEC 1000 Å Columns</strong></h5><ul><li>3 µm columns for UHPLC and UPLC separations</li><li>1000 Å columns with high efficiency for aggregate analysis of GTx drugs with diameter of 80-200 nm</li><li>Low secondary interaction &amp; improved compatibility with universally applied detector, such as MALS</li><li>Low adsorption hardware necessary for analysis of biologics samples<ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.waters.com/nextgen/us/en/products/columns/GTxResolve-sec-columns.html"><strong>Explore GTxResolve SEC Columns</strong></a></li></ul></li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Waters_G_Tx_Resolve_SEC_Columns_1b8741a62b.jpg" alt="Waters: GTxResolve SEC Columns" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Waters_G_Tx_Resolve_SEC_Columns_1b8741a62b.jpg 234w," sizes="100vw" width="1024" height="682"></p><h4><strong>Protein SEC Columns</strong></h4><h5><strong>ACQUITY Premier Protein SEC 250 Å Guards and Columns</strong></h5><ul><li>Sub-2-μm particle columns for UPLC separations</li><li>250 Å pore size</li><li>High throughput &amp; resolution SEC separations of biomolecules ranging from 10,000 to 650,000 Daltons on low dispersion UPLC Systems</li><li>Available SEC Guard Columns to extend analytical SEC Column life</li><li>Significantly reduce non-desired ionic and hydrophobic secondary interaction for desired SEC platform methods with MaxPeak Premier Technology and BEH-PEO SEC particle technology<ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.waters.com/nextgen/us/en/products/columns/acquity-premier-columns.html"><strong>Explore ACQUITY Premier Protein BEH SEC Guards and Columns</strong></a></li></ul></li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Waters_ACQUITY_Premier_Columns_featuring_Max_Peak_HPS_Technology_11a541350e.jpg" alt="Waters: ACQUITY Premier Columns featuring MaxPeak HPS Technology" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Waters_ACQUITY_Premier_Columns_featuring_Max_Peak_HPS_Technology_11a541350e.jpg 234w," sizes="100vw" width="1024" height="682"></p><h5><strong>XBridge Premier Protein SEC 250 Å Guards and Columns</strong></h5><ul><li>2.5 μm particle columns for HPLC and UHPLC separations</li><li>250 Å pore size</li><li>High resolution SEC separations of biomolecules ranging from 10,000 to 650,000 Daltons on any LC system</li><li>Available SEC Guard Columns to extend analytical SEC Column life</li><li>Significantly reduce non-desired ionic and hydrophobic secondary interaction for desired SEC platform methods with MaxPeak Premier Technology and BEH-PEO SEC particle technology</li><li>Specifically designed and QC tested with NIST-based, mAb Size Variant Standard to help ensure batch-to-batch consistency<ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.waters.com/waters/global/Waters-XBridge-Premier-Columns/nav.htm"><strong>Explore XBridge Premier Protein BEH SEC Columns</strong></a></li></ul></li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Waters_X_Bridge_Premier_Columns_0230c90278.jpg" alt="Waters: XBridge Premier Columns" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Waters_X_Bridge_Premier_Columns_0230c90278.jpg 193w," sizes="100vw" width="950" height="768"></p><h5><strong>BioResolve mAb SEC Guards and Columns</strong></h5><ul><li>2.5 μm particle columns for UPLC, UHPLC, and HPLC separations</li><li>200 Å pore size</li><li>Obtain reproducible, accurate quantitation of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), associated high molecular weight aggregates (&gt;300,000 Da), and lower molecular weight fragments (e.g., &lt;100,000 Da)</li><li>Each packed column is tested with NIST-based, mAb size variant standard to help ensure batch-to-batch and column-to-column performance consistency<ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.waters.com/waters/global/BioResolve-SEC-mAb-Consumables-%7C-SEC-Guards/nav.htm"><strong>Explore BioResolve mAb SEC Guards and Columns</strong></a></li></ul></li></ul><h5><strong>ACQUITY UPLC Protein BEH SEC Guards and Columns</strong></h5><ul><li>Sub-2-μm particle columns for UPLC separations (2.5 μm for 450 Å)</li><li>Pore size options include: 125 Å, 200 Å, and 450 Å</li><li>Available SEC Guard Columns to extend analytical SEC Column life</li><li>Specifically designed and QC tested with BEH125, BEH200, or BEH450 protein standards to help ensure batch-to-batch consistency</li><li>10x faster than traditional HPLC-based SEC<ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.waters.com/nextgen/us/en/products/columns/acquity-uplc-columns.html"><strong>Explore ACQUITY UPLC Protein BEH SEC Guards and Columns</strong></a></li></ul></li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Waters_Acquity_UPLC_kolony_1dc5c25d3e/Waters-Acquity-UPLC-kolony.jpg" alt="Waters: Acquity UPLC columns" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Waters_Acquity_UPLC_kolony_1dc5c25d3e/thumbnail_Waters-Acquity-UPLC-kolony.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="807" height="407"></p><h5><strong>XBridge Protein BEH SEC Columns</strong></h5><ul><li>2.5 μm particle columns for use on any UPLC, UHPLC, or HPLC system</li><li>Pore size options include: 125 Å, 200 Å, and 450 Å</li><li>Available SEC Guard Columns to extend analytical SEC Column life</li><li>Specifically designed and QC tested with BEH125, BEH200, or BEH450 protein standards to help ensure batch-to-batch consistency<ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.waters.com/waters/global/XBridge-BEH-Columns-for-High-pH-Chromatography/nav.htm"><strong>Explore XBridge Protein BEH SEC Columns</strong></a></li></ul></li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Waters_X_Bridge_Columns_b0b55de501/Waters-XBridge-Columns.jpg" alt="Waters: XBridge Columns" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Waters_X_Bridge_Columns_b0b55de501/thumbnail_Waters-XBridge-Columns.jpg 203w," sizes="100vw" width="900" height="691"></p><h4><strong>Peptide SEC Columns</strong></h4><h5><strong>BioSuite SEC Columns</strong></h5><ul><li>Silica-based diol SEC columns</li><li>Molecular weight exclusion limits are determined primarily by the selected pore size</li><li>Available in analytical and semi-preparative column sizes<ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.waters.com/waters/global/BioSuite-Columns/nav.htm"><strong>Explore BioSuite SEC Columns</strong></a></li></ul></li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Waters_Bio_Suite_Columns_bf2bb8249f.jpg" alt="Waters: BioSuite Columns" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Waters_Bio_Suite_Columns_bf2bb8249f.jpg 184w," sizes="100vw" width="307" height="260"></p><h5><strong>Protein-Pak SEC Columns</strong></h5><ul><li>Based on a 10 μm diol-bonded silica</li><li>Resolve proteins that differ in molecular weight by a factor of two</li><li>Distinguish proteins differing by as little as 15% in molecular weight<ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.waters.com/waters/global/Protein-Pak-HPLC-and-UPLC-Columns/nav.htm"><strong>Explore Protein-Pak SEC Columns</strong></a></li></ul></li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Waters_Protein_Pak_Columns_be6a669326.jpg" alt="Waters: Protein-Pak Columns" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Waters_Protein_Pak_Columns_be6a669326.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="500" height="315"></p><h4><strong>Choose the right SEC Column for your lab</strong></h4><p>SEC is ideal for aggregate and fragment analysis in the research, development, and manufacturing of biotherapeutic peptides, proteins, and viral vectors, but choosing the right column for your analysis is important. Use the following criteria to choose a column that provides reliable, high quality SEC analyses of various biomolecules, including insulin, monoclonal antibodies, and adeno associated viruses (AAVs).</p><h5><strong>What to consider when choosing an SEC Column:</strong></h5><ul><li>What is the molecular weight of your sample?</li><li>What is the dispersion of your LC system?</li><li>Are you separating components &lt;2 fold difference in molecular weight (MW)?</li><li>Are you separating components &gt;2 fold difference in MW?</li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Waters_Choose_the_right_Size_exclusion_chromatography_SEC_column_for_your_analysis_with_Waters_SEC_columns_selection_guide_b81f674f65.jpg" alt="Waters: Choose the right Size-exclusion chromatography (SEC) column for your analysis with Waters SEC columns selection guide." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Waters_Choose_the_right_Size_exclusion_chromatography_SEC_column_for_your_analysis_with_Waters_SEC_columns_selection_guide_b81f674f65.jpg 158w," sizes="100vw" width="1024" height="1013"></p><h4><strong>Addressing the complexity of SEC Separations</strong></h4><p>Experience the advancements in SEC-based technologies to address non-desired specific ionic and hydrophobic interactions for more reliable results with ACQUITY Premier Protein SEC and XBridge Premier Protein SEC Columns and Guards.</p><h5><strong>With MaxPeak Premier SEC Columns, you can:</strong></h5><ul><li>Reproducibly resolve injected sample components that are less than 2x different in size for challenging applications</li><li>Use a ‘platform SEC method’ to reduce method development time and cost</li><li>Ensure batch-to-batch and column-to-column performance</li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Waters_Classes_of_therapeutic_proteins_separated_on_an_ACQUITY_Premier_Protein_SEC_Column_d3f74a8ea4.jpg" alt="Waters: Classes of therapeutic proteins separated on an ACQUITY Premier Protein SEC Column." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Waters_Classes_of_therapeutic_proteins_separated_on_an_ACQUITY_Premier_Protein_SEC_Column_d3f74a8ea4.jpg 234w," sizes="100vw" width="1024" height="682"></p>

Products from category GPC/SEC HPLC columns focused on LC columns from Waters - page 1

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