<p><strong>Size exclusion chromatography (SEC) columns are highly sensitive to operating conditions, including the composition of the mobile phase and the nature of analyzed samples. Improper handling and unsuitable method conditions can significantly reduce column lifetime. This guide summarizes common causes of column degradation and provides practical recommendations for extending column lifespan.</strong></p><h3><span><strong>Common Causes of Reduced Column Lifetime</strong></span></h3><p>Several factors can negatively affect the performance and durability of SEC columns:</p><h4><span><strong>1. Contamination of the Stationary Phase</strong></span></h4><ul><li>Accumulation of impurities from samples or mobile phases</li><li>Microbial growth due to infrequent replacement of mobile phase</li></ul><h4><span><strong>2. Stationary Phase Degradation</strong></span></h4><ul><li>Caused by unsuitable pH conditions</li><li>Exposure to inappropriate temperatures</li><li>Use of harsh chemical agents</li></ul><h4><span><strong>3. Improper Column Storage</strong></span></h4><ul><li>Incorrect storage conditions may reduce column performance over time</li></ul><h4><span><strong>4. Column Inlet Blockage</strong></span></h4><ul><li>Particulates from insufficiently prepared samples can clog the column inlet</li></ul><h3><span><strong>Preventive Measures and Best Practices</strong></span></h3><h4><span><strong>1. Preventing Contamination</strong></span></h4><ul><li>Use high-quality solvents</li><li>Prepare buffer solutions daily</li><li>Filter both mobile phases and samples before use</li><li>Perform regular column cleaning</li></ul><p><strong>Important note: </strong>Not all SEC columns can be reverse flushed. For example:</p><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/1534"><strong>Biozen dSEC-2</strong></a> and Yarra SEC-X7 columns <strong>must not be backflushed</strong></li></ul><h4><span><strong>2. Protecting the Stationary Phase</strong></span></h4><ul><li>Operate within recommended pH and temperature limits</li><li>When using strong denaturants (e.g., urea or SDS):<ul><li>Perform immediate and thorough water flushing after use</li></ul></li></ul><h4><span><strong>3. Proper Column Storage</strong></span></h4><p><strong>Before storage </strong>always clean the column thoroughly</p><ul><li><strong>Two storage options:</strong><ul><li><strong>Buffer with bacteriostatic agent</strong> (e.g., sodium azide)</li><li><strong>No buffer:</strong> water with 20% methanol</li></ul></li></ul><p><strong>When introducing methanol:</strong></p><ul><li>Use <strong>low flow rates</strong></li><li>Prevent pressure spikes that could damage the column</li></ul><p><strong>When restarting the column:</strong></p><ul><li>Consider that the column contains 20% methanol</li><li>Adjust flow conditions accordingly</li></ul><h4><span><strong>4. Preventing Column Inlet Clogging</strong></span></h4><p>Use protective components:</p><ul><li><strong>Guard column</strong></li><li><strong>Precolumn</strong></li></ul><p>These act as barriers to prevent contamination of the analytical column.</p><h5><span><strong>Types of Protection:</strong></span></h5><ul><li><strong>Security guard cartridges</strong><ul><li>Minimal added length</li></ul></li><li><strong>Short precolumns</strong><ul><li>Same stationary phase as analytical column</li></ul></li></ul><h5><span><strong>Key Advantage:</strong></span></h5><ul><li>Essential for columns that <strong>cannot be backflushed</strong></li><li>Protects against:<ul><li>Poorly centrifuged samples</li><li>Particulate contamination</li><li>Dirty sample matrices</li></ul></li></ul><h3><span><strong>Conclusion</strong></span></h3><p>Extending the lifetime of SEC columns requires careful attention to:</p><ul><li>Sample preparation</li><li>Mobile phase quality</li><li>Operating conditions</li><li>Storage procedures</li><li>Use of protective accessories</li></ul><p>Implementing these practices helps prevent contamination, degradation, and mechanical damage, ensuring consistent column performance and longer service life.</p>

Extending the Lifetime of Size Exclusion Columns

<h4><strong>Let’s begin with a simple question: what do we actually mean by high throughput?</strong></h4><p><strong>In the laboratory, high throughput usually refers to the ability to analyze tens, hundreds, or even thousands of samples per day, either across a laboratory workflow or on a single analytical system. Achieving this requires more than just a fast method. It depends on reliable instrumentation, automation, sufficient sample capacity, and smart system design that minimizes idle time between runs.</strong></p><p>In this article, we look at the key requirements for high-throughput HPLC analysis and how they are addressed in the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/2371"><strong>HTQC system</strong></a>.</p><h4><strong>Speed</strong></h4><p>High-throughput HPLC workflows typically rely on short methods. This includes both the chromatographic runtime and the cycle time of the injection module.</p><p>With the HTQC system, fast gradient applications up to 1200 bar can be implemented using two integrated UHPLC high-pressure gradient pumps.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_Fig_1_2_HPG_pumps_of_HTQC_system_left_P_8_1_L_max_pressure_1240_bar_right_P_6_1_L_max_pressure_1000_bar_4d4873ff2f.jpg" alt="KNAUER: Fig. 1–2  HPG pumps of HTQC system, left: P 8.1L (max. pressure 1240 bar), right: P 6.1L (max. pressure 1000 bar)" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_Fig_1_2_HPG_pumps_of_HTQC_system_left_P_8_1_L_max_pressure_1240_bar_right_P_6_1_L_max_pressure_1000_bar_4d4873ff2f.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1266" height="386"></p><p>We will not discuss the full details of transferring classical HPLC methods to fast, high-resolution UHPLC methods here, but UHPLC implementation can dramatically reduce total analysis time.</p><p>Let’s use a hypothetical example. Imagine Giorgia, a randomly chosen name, working in pharmaceutical quality control in 1998. She must have travelled back in time, because she would have been too young to work in a lab then, but the example still works. With a classical HPLC method, each sample takes approximately 75 minutes, including equilibration, analysis, and backflushing of a 250 × 4.6 mm ID column. This type of method has been common in QC laboratories around the world. During an eight-hour working day, Giorgia can analyze around six samples.</p><p>Now let’s transfer the same method to UHPLC. The improvement is substantial. Analysis time, equilibration time, and backflushing time are all reduced to under six minutes per sample. Giorgia can now process around 90 samples in one working day.</p><p>You may wonder why the HTQC system requires two UHPLC gradient pumps. We will come back to that shortly.</p><p>The next way to increase speed is to reduce injector cycle time. Injection procedures and washing steps can sometimes take a significant amount of time. This is where the LH 8.1 liquid handler becomes important.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_Fig_3_KNAUER_LH_8_1_Liquid_Handler_77ab506ca6.webp" alt="KNAUER: Fig. 3  KNAUER LH 8.1 Liquid Handler" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_Fig_3_KNAUER_LH_8_1_Liquid_Handler_77ab506ca6.webp 129w," sizes="100vw" width="800" height="971"></p><p>The LH 8.1 supports overlapped injections. This means that the next injection can already be prepared while the current analysis is still running. Necessary cleaning steps of the injection system are still maintained, but idle time is reduced.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_Fig_4_Schematic_buildup_of_injections_with_and_without_overlapped_injections_af089ba652.webp" alt="KNAUER: Fig. 4 Schematic buildup of injections with and without overlapped injections" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_Fig_4_Schematic_buildup_of_injections_with_and_without_overlapped_injections_af089ba652.webp 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1920" height="452"></p><p>Let’s return to Giorgia. By using overlapped injections in her QC method, she saves about one minute per sample. This increases her capacity to approximately 105 samples per day.</p><h4><strong>Sample Throughput</strong></h4><p>A high-throughput system must also be able to handle and store a sufficient number of samples. Here, the LH 8.1 provides another major advantage. In the long-rail version, it can be equipped with up to three robotic coolers.</p><p>With three coolers, each containing three drawers, the system can hold nine 10 × 13 sample trays. That means a total capacity of 1170 vials. The samples are also temperature controlled.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_Fig_5_6_Robotic_Cooler_with_two_10x6_trays_LH_8_1_887_version_with_two_Robotic_Coolers_855b10c2a3.jpg" alt="KNAUER: Fig. 5–6 Robotic Cooler with two 10x6 trays, LH 8.1 (887 version) with two Robotic Coolers" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_Fig_5_6_Robotic_Cooler_with_two_10x6_trays_LH_8_1_887_version_with_two_Robotic_Coolers_855b10c2a3.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1262" height="503"></p><p>Combined with the low eluent consumption typical of UHPLC, this large sample capacity makes it possible to extend operation from an eight-hour workday to 24-hour operation.</p><p>For Giorgia and her QC lab, this changes everything again. The same UHPLC method, including overlapped injections, can now run continuously around the clock. This allows approximately 320 samples to be processed per day.</p><p>Is that enough? Maybe not. As the blog title suggests: we just can’t get enough.</p><h4><strong>Automation</strong></h4><p>In addition to a standard 6-port, 2-position injection valve, the HTQC system includes an additional valve. This special column-switching and backflushing valve enables two columns to be operated alternately within a single UHPLC system.</p><p>While one column is used for analysis, the second column can be backflushed and equilibrated in the reverse flow direction at the same time. This is particularly useful for reducing matrix effects, which are often encountered in QC laboratories when complex sample matrices are analyzed. It also helps reduce overall method runtime.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_Fig_7_Exemplary_flow_scheme_of_special_column_switching_valve_d837a71117.webp" alt="KNAUER: Fig. 7 Exemplary flow scheme of special column switching valve" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_Fig_7_Exemplary_flow_scheme_of_special_column_switching_valve_d837a71117.webp 127w," sizes="100vw" width="735" height="905"></p><h4><strong>Parallel Processing</strong></h4><p>Remember the earlier question: why does the system use two UHPLC gradient pumps?</p><p>The reason is now clear. The second gradient pump is required to backflush one column while the other column is connected to the analytical flow path through the special switching valve.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_Fig_8_Schematic_illustration_of_column_cleaning_equilibration_and_analysis_with_special_backflush_valve_eae2e6f705.webp" alt="KNAUER: Fig. 8 Schematic illustration of column cleaning, equilibration and analysis with special backflush valve" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_Fig_8_Schematic_illustration_of_column_cleaning_equilibration_and_analysis_with_special_backflush_valve_eae2e6f705.webp 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1920" height="281"></p><p>Giorgia immediately ordered a second UHPLC pump and the special valve for her QC lab. She now has a complete HTQC system and is very pleased with the result.</p><p>Why? Let’s calculate it one final time. With all automation features in place, Giorgia can clean one column while the other column analyzes a sample. This enables her to process an impressive 600 samples per day.</p><p>Compared with the classical HPLC method she used in 1998, the daily sample throughput has increased from six samples to 600 samples. That is a 100-fold increase.</p><h4><strong>Summary</strong></h4><p>We started with a question, so let’s end with one too: what steps increased the throughput?</p><p>First, the method was scaled down from classical HPLC to a fast UHPLC approach. Then, a second pump and a special column-switching and backflushing valve were added to the UHPLC setup. Together with the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/1454"><strong>LH 8.1 liquid handler</strong></a> and its exceptional sample capacity, the HTQC system becomes a flexible and powerful configuration for high-throughput analysis.</p><p>The system can also be coupled to nearly any detector used in HPLC. Because of its ability to operate at very high speed, it is especially well suited for mass spectrometric methods.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_Fig_9_Complete_flow_scheme_of_HTQC_system_with_highlighted_system_components_edef36cb42.webp" alt="KNAUER: Fig. 9 Complete flow scheme of HTQC system with highlighted system components" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_Fig_9_Complete_flow_scheme_of_HTQC_system_with_highlighted_system_components_edef36cb42.webp 161w," sizes="100vw" width="800" height="775"></p><blockquote><p>For further information on this topic, please contact our authors: <strong>kramer@knauer.net</strong>, <strong>m.myrach@knauer.net</strong></p></blockquote>

Introducing Our System Solution for High Throughput Quality Control – HTQC

News from LabRulezLCMS Library - Week 19, 2026

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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.

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Phenomenex is a global technology leader committed to developing novel analytical chemistry solutions that solve the separation and purification challenges of researchers in industrial, government and academic laboratories.

Phenomenex

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.

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Thermo Scientific™ Dionex™ Easion™ Ion Chromatography System

Compact IC system with built-in suppressor, heated conductivity detection, and automated sample handling—ideal for routine anion and cation analysis in water and environmental labs.

<h4><strong>Compact, intuitive IC system for routine anion and cation analysis</strong></h4><p><strong>The Dionex Easion IC system is a small yet powerful ion chromatography solution designed for routine water and environmental analysis. With its compact footprint, easy setup, and intuitive Chromeleon™ CDS control, the system enables fast, reliable quantification of both anions and cations—even for inexperienced users. Built-in chemical suppression, minimal maintenance, and preconfigured analysis kits make it ideal for any lab performing standard IC workflows.</strong></p><h3><strong>Key Features and Benefits</strong></h3><h4>🧪 <strong>Simple, Complete System</strong></h4><ul><li>Fully integrated setup includes suppressor, columns, eluent and regenerant concentrates</li><li>Ready to operate in under <strong>90 minutes</strong>—no extra pumps or accessories needed</li><li>Compatible with 2, 3, and 4 mm anion and cation columns</li></ul><h4>📏 <strong>Reliable, Reproducible Performance</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Heated bipolar conductivity cell</strong> ensures signal stability and low noise</li><li>Chemical suppression with <strong>Dionex CRS 500</strong> suppressor—no regeneration steps needed</li><li>Fixed-loop valve for <strong>manual or automated injections</strong></li><li>Flow range: 0.01–5.00 mL/min; pressure up to 5000 psi</li></ul><h4>💡 <strong>Smart and Compact Design</strong></h4><ul><li>All-PEEK flow path—metal-free and chemically inert</li><li>Simple eluent preparation with concentrates and high-purity water</li><li>Bench-friendly size (33 × 24 × 40 cm, 10 kg) with minimal maintenance</li></ul><h4>🔁 <strong>Automation Ready</strong></h4><ul><li>Supports <strong>Dionex AS-DV, AS-AP, and AS-HV autosamplers</strong></li><li>Built-in sample filtration (with AS-DV) and dilution workflows</li><li>Autosampler-based inline filtration and degassing options available</li></ul><h4>🧠 <strong>Controlled by</strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/76"><strong> Chromeleon™ CDS</strong></a></h4><ul><li>Intuitive system setup with ProcedureWizards™ and application templates</li><li>Built-in calibration memory and audit trail</li><li>Virtual column simulator and multi-vendor instrument integration</li></ul><h3><strong>Applications</strong></h3><ul><li><strong>Drinking water</strong> and <strong>wastewater</strong> monitoring</li><li><strong>Inorganic ion analysis</strong> (F⁻, Cl⁻, NO₃⁻, PO₄³⁻, SO₄²⁻, etc.)</li><li><strong>Routine ammonium and cation detection</strong> (Li⁺, Na⁺, NH₄⁺, Ca²⁺...)</li><li><strong>Educational and QA/QC laboratories</strong></li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Dionex_Easion_System_news_1f1d3e6c64/Thermo-Dionex-Easion-System-news.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific™ Dionex™ Easion™ Ion Chromatography System" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Dionex_Easion_System_news_1f1d3e6c64/thumbnail_Thermo-Dionex-Easion-System-news.jpg 215w," sizes="100vw" width="1103" height="800"></p>

Thermo Scientific™ Dionex™ ICS-4000 Capillary HPIC™ System

Capillary HPIC system for high-resolution, reagent-free ion chromatography with 24/7 readiness, ultra-low eluent use, and versatile detection in a compact format.

<h4><strong>Always on, always ready — high-resolution capillary IC in a compact platform</strong></h4><p>The <strong>Dionex ICS-4000</strong> is the world’s first <strong>dedicated capillary high-pressure reagent-free ion chromatography (HPIC) system</strong>. Designed for high-resolution, low-flow separations, it delivers exceptional chromatographic performance, fast analysis times, and 24/7 on-demand readiness. With integrated control, capillary-optimized detectors, and minimal eluent consumption, it offers a new standard for reliable, low-maintenance ion chromatography.</p><h3><strong>Key Features and Benefits</strong></h3><h4>🧪 <strong>Capillary HPIC Performance</strong></h4><ul><li>Supports <strong>high-pressure separations</strong> with 4 µm columns</li><li><strong>Fast, high-resolution gradients</strong> in minutes</li><li>Continuous operation with <strong>no equilibration needed</strong></li></ul><h4>♻️ <strong>Reagent-Free Simplicity</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Eluent generation</strong> from deionized water via EGC cartridge</li><li>Just <strong>15 mL of water/day</strong> for continuous operation</li><li>Eluent cartridges last up to <strong>18 months</strong></li></ul><h4>🧠 <strong>Integrated Smart Design</strong></h4><ul><li>Fully integrated system in <strong>compact footprint</strong></li><li><strong>Tilt-up lid</strong>, color-coded connections, and pre-cut tubing</li><li><strong>Vacuum degassing</strong>, seal wash (option), and inline shut-off valves</li></ul><h4>🧲 <strong>Versatile Detection Options</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Conductivity Detector (CD)</strong> – with self-regenerating suppressor</li><li><strong>Electrochemical Detector (ED)</strong> – ideal for cyanide, amines, carbohydrates</li><li><strong>QD Charge Detector</strong> – signal proportional to ion charge and concentration</li></ul><h4>🔁 <strong>Flexible Column Chemistry</strong></h4><ul><li>Compatible with <strong>over 20 capillary columns</strong></li><li>Suitable for a wide range of inorganic and organic ions, sugars, acids, amines</li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Dionex_ICS_4000_Iontovy_Chromatograf_2_64107dbdca/Thermo-Dionex-ICS-4000-Iontovy-Chromatograf-2.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific™ Dionex™ ICS-4000 Capillary HPIC™ System" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Dionex_ICS_4000_Iontovy_Chromatograf_2_64107dbdca/thumbnail_Thermo-Dionex-ICS-4000-Iontovy-Chromatograf-2.jpg 156w," sizes="100vw" width="650" height="650"></p><h3><strong>Automation and Sample Handling</strong></h3><ul><li>Compatible with <strong>Dionex AS-DV</strong> and <strong>AS-AP</strong> autosamplers</li><li>Advanced prep (dilution, derivatization, matrix removal)</li><li>Supports <strong>vials, well plates</strong>, and &lt;30 s injection cycles</li><li>Optional <strong>Sample Conductivity &amp; pH Accessory</strong> with conditional logic</li></ul><h3><strong>Software Integration</strong></h3><ul><li>Controlled by <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/76"><strong>Chromeleon™ Chromatography Data System (CDS)</strong></a></li><li>eWorkflows™ simplify analysis from injection to report</li><li>Interactive charts and MiniPlots for intuitive data interpretation</li></ul><h3><strong>Ideal for Applications in</strong></h3><ul><li>Food and beverage (e.g., sugars, organic acids, preservatives)</li><li>Environmental (e.g., drinking water, wastewater)</li><li>Pharmaceutical (e.g., excipients, counterions)</li><li>Educational and routine analytical labs</li></ul>

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News from LabRulezLCMS Library - Week 19, 2026

Introducing Our System Solution for High Throughput Quality Control – HTQC

Extending the Lifetime of Size Exclusion Columns