The size exclusion chromatography coupled with multi-angle light scattering (SEC-MALS) is the cutting-edge technology for the precise characterization of polymers and proteins.
Within its analytical platform, FILAB, SEC MALS laboratory, uses this high-performance coupling to determine the absolute molar masses and molecular dimensions of your compounds, without relying on relative calibration.
Your need: rely on SEC MALS expertise to secure your developments
SEC MALS Analysis
The SEC MALS analysis (Multi-Angle Light Scattering) is used to characterize complex macromolecules when the true molar mass, radius of gyration, or degree of aggregation needs to be determined. This technique is essential for detecting subtle structural variations that RI detection alone could not identify accurately.
Principle of SEC MALS analysis
SEC-MALS separates molecules according to their hydrodynamic volume, while the MALS detector measures the intensity of light scattered at multiple angles. This approach makes it possible to directly calculate the absolute molar mass at each point of the chromatogram. This coupling provides a comprehensive view of the conformation of your polymers, ensuring maximum reliability in the evaluation of your materials.
Did you know?
Unlike conventional SEC analysis that compares your samples to standards (such as polystyrene), SEC MALS analysis eliminates the biases linked to structural differences between the standard and your sample. The result is a direct physical measurement of size and mass.
Extended compatibility: SEC MALS for complex materials
The SEC MALS expertise is particularly relevant for complex structures: highly branched polymers, copolymers, proteins prone to aggregation, or natural polysaccharides.
If your products have non-linear architectures or specific interactions with chromatography columns, turning to a laboratory offering SEC MALS analysis is the ideal technical solution.
Our services through GPC-MALS / SEC-MALS coupling
To meet your most advanced R&D challenges, FILAB offers comprehensive services integrating MALS technology:
Determination of the true mass, regardless of the molecule's shape in solution.
Use of conformation plots (Conformation Plots) to distinguish linear structures from branched structures.
Identification and quantification of high molecular weight populations.
Development of specific operating conditions for complex or fragile matrices.
GPC / SEC training for your teams
SEC MALS technical advantages
This cutting-edge technology offers decisive advantages for your SEC MALS expertise:
- Independence from calibration: no more need for costly and often inaccurate calibration curves for specialty polymers.
- Accuracy for high molecular weights: very high sensitivity for detecting trace amounts of aggregates.
- Structural information: direct access to molecular dimensions (radius of gyration).
- Enhanced reliability: less sensitive to flow-rate or temperature variations than conventional SEC.
Applications of SEC MALS technique
The SEC MALS expertise provided by FILAB applies to demanding industrial sectors such as:
Biopharmaceutical: analysis of monoclonal antibodies, recombinant proteins, and their oligomerization state.
Medical devices: monitoring the degradation of complex resorbable polymers.
Specialty polymers: characterization of bio-based, functionalized, or highly branched polymers.
Fine chemistry : study of the stability of macromolecular formulations.
Analytical objectives of an SEC MALS analysis
The goal of an SEC MALS analysis is to move beyond the uncertainty of relative measurements. It makes it possible to:
- Determine absolute average molar masses (Mn, Mw).
- Accurately calculate the true polydispersity index (Ip).
- Measure the radius of gyration (Rg) to understand spatial bulkiness.
- Analyze molecular conformation and identify the presence of aggregates or microgels.
- Characterize innovative molecules for which no commercial standard exists.
Why choose FILAB, SEC MALS analysis laboratory?
Choosing FILAB for your SEC MALS expertise means ensuring a rigorous interpretation of your data:
- State-of-the-art analytical equipment : our systems are equipped with the latest-generation MALS detectors, usable in organic or aqueous solvents.
- A team of experts : our PhDs and engineers have in-depth knowledge of polymer physics to interpret light scattering data.
- Responsiveness and quality : FILAB is an ISO 17025 accredited laboratory (scope available on www.cofrac.fr), guaranteeing the absolute reliability of your SEC MALS analysis results.
Our SEC / GPC technical variants
GPC analysis, or size exclusion chromatography, includes several technical variants depending on your objectives.
Our FAQ
To get a quote, you can contact our teams via our contact form, by phone, or by email.
All you need to do is send us your requirements (material type, requested analysis, applicable standard if any, urgency, number of samples, etc.). We will then send you a tailored technical and pricing proposal within 24-48 hours.
Lead times vary depending on the nature of the analysis and the complexity of the expert assessment project.
FILAB is committed to providing fast turnaround times adapted to your constraints and industrial urgencies.
SEC-RI uses relative calibration against standards with known masses. SEC MALS analysis uses light scattering to directly measure the physical mass of molecules, which is much more accurate for complex or non-standard structures.
Branched polymers have a smaller hydrodynamic volume than linear polymers of the same mass. A conventional SEC analysis would underestimate their mass. MALS technology corrects this bias by measuring absolute mass independently of shape.
FILAB adapts the eluent medium to your sample: THF, DMF, HFIP, chloroform for organic polymers, or aqueous media (buffers) for biopolymers.
Yes, determining dn/dc (refractive index increment) is a step that our SEC MALS analysis laboratory performs to ensure the accuracy of the absolute molar mass calculation.
Contact the FILAB laboratory via our form. Specify the polymer type, known solubilization solvents, and whether you need an absolute mass measurement, radius of gyration, or conformational study.
