Laboratory for GPC-RI/LS coupling analysis (RALS/LALS)
Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC), also known as Size Exclusion Chromatography (SEC), is a key analytical technique used to determine the molecular weight and molecular weight distribution of polymeric materials.
In a GPC laboratory, polymers are separated according to their hydrodynamic size, allowing precise characterization of their structure and properties.
When GPC is coupled with Refractive Index (RI) and Light Scattering (LS) detectors such as RALS and LALS, it becomes possible to determine absolute molecular weights without calibration standards, providing highly reliable data for research, quality control and failure analysis.
FILAB offers advanced GPC-RI/LS coupling analysis to support industrial and R&D projects involving polymer characterization.
GPC laboratory analysis for polymer molecular weight characterization
What is GPC / SEC analysis?
Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC), or Size Exclusion Chromatography (SEC), is an analytical technique used to separate polymer chains according to their molecular size.
During the analysis, molecules pass through a column packed with porous particles. Large molecules elute first, while smaller molecules penetrate the pores and elute later.
This separation allows laboratories to determine:
- Molecular weight distribution
- Number average molecular weight (Mn)
- Weight average molecular weight (Mw)
- Polydispersity index (PDI)
These parameters are essential for understanding polymer performance, processing behavior and product quality.
Advantages of coupling GPC with RI and LS
Combining Refractive Index (RI) and Light Scattering (LS) detectors improves the accuracy of polymer characterization.
Light scattering detectors such as RALS (Right Angle Light Scattering) and LALS (Low Angle Light Scattering) allow the direct determination of absolute molecular weight, independently of calibration standards.
This coupling provides several advantages:
- Absolute molecular weight determination
- High accuracy for complex polymers
- Detection of branching or aggregation phenomena
- Reliable characterization of polysaccharides and biopolymers
This configuration is particularly useful for high-value polymers, advanced materials and research applications.
Our solutions: analysis by GPC-RI/LS coupling (RALS/LALS)
FILAB is an independent analytical laboratory specialized in polymer characterization. Our teams support manufacturers and research laboratories by performing GPC/SEC analyses coupled with RI and Light Scattering detectors (RALS/LALS).
Our expertise allows us to provide reliable analytical data to support quality control, product development and failure investigations.
Our services
Average molecular weight control and molar mass distribution of polymeric materials
Characterization of polysaccharides
Expertise of failure on polymers: rupture, deformation, surface...
Our FAQ
A GPC laboratory analyzes polymer materials to determine their molecular weight and molecular weight distribution. This information is essential for evaluating the structure and properties of macromolecules.
GPC (Gel Permeation Chromatography) and SEC (Size Exclusion Chromatography) refer to the same analytical principle. GPC is commonly used when analyzing polymers in organic solvents, while SEC is more frequently used in aqueous environments.
Light Scattering detectors such as RALS or LALS allow the direct determination of absolute molecular weight, improving the reliability of polymer characterization compared to conventional calibration-based methods.
Many polymer types can be analyzed by GPC, including:
- Synthetic polymers
- Biopolymers
- Polysaccharides
- Resins and plastics
Functional polymers used in pharmaceuticals or advanced materials.
Molecular weight analysis is recommended during:
- Polymer development and formulation
- Quality control of production batches
- Investigation of polymer degradation
- Failure analysis of polymer-based products.
Performing analysis in a specialized GPC laboratory allows manufacturers and R&D teams to obtain accurate molecular weight data for polymer materials.
Typical objectives include:
- Verification of polymer synthesis and formulation
- Quality control of polymer production batches
- Characterization of new materials and biopolymers
- Evaluation of aging or degradation mechanisms
- Investigation of polymer failure or structural modification
Accurate molecular weight data helps optimize material performance, durability and processing conditions.
To obtain a quote, you can contact our team via our contact form, by phone, or by email.
Simply tell us your requirements (type of material, desired analysis, applicable standards, urgency, quantity of samples, etc.). We will then send you a personalized technical and pricing proposal within 24-48 hours.
Turnaround times vary depending on the nature of the analysis and the complexity of the expert assessment project.
However, FILAB is committed to providing fast turnaround times tailored to your industrial constraints and urgent needs.
