Size exclusion analysis - Everything you need to know about chromatography

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You want to perform a size exclusion analysis

Size exclusion analysis to characterize the size and distribution of macromolecules

As a manufacturer, do you develop, produce, or control complex polymers, proteins, excipients, or formulations?
Size exclusion analysis, also known as Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC), is a technique of choice for determining the average molar mass and size distribution of your macromolecules in solution.

Using this form of size exclusion chromatography and combining a series of detectors (IR and UV concentration detectors, RALS/LALS light scattering, viscometer), the size exclusion analysis technique allows for the accurate determination of molecular mass and size, as well as intrinsic viscosity and the structure of polymers.

Why perform size exclusion analysis?

SEC/GPC analysis can address several industrial challenges:

  • Characterize a synthetic or natural polymer
  • Monitor the stability or degradation of an active ingredient
  • Compare the structure of two samples (copolymers, formulations, batches)
  • Validate a product's compliance with specifications or a standard
  • Study aging, oxidation, or chemical modification phenomena

Our solutions: complete expertise in size exclusion chromatography

Our laboratory services

Thanks to a reinforced analytical park (GPC in aqueous and organic phase, RI, UV, MALS detectors, etc.), we offer a tailor-made approach to your needs in:

Control of average molecular weights and molar mass distribution of polymer materials and other substances (Mn, Mw, Mp, polydispersity index). The NF T 51-505 standards and the ISO 13885 series particularly concern this type of service.

Structural characterization, including the study of the branching of macromolecular chains (branching analysis, etc.)

Optimization of manufacturing processes in order to validate synthesis, application or crosslinking conditions

Expertise in failure of thermoplastic parts which may in particular be associated with degradation of the polymer fraction (shearing of the material causing chain breaks)

Deformulation of polymers allowing access to physicochemical information complementary to analytical techniques such as FTIR, ATG, Py-GCMS, GCMS, LCMS, etc.

de type IRTF, ATG, Py-GCMS, GCMS, LCMS, …

Characterization of proteins and polysaccharides (sugars)

What are the areas of application of size exclusion chromatography?

Size exclusion analysis is an analytical technique that can characterize a wide variety of polymers or other macromolecules in a mixture.

Used in quality control, process optimization (e.g., polymerization kinetics), or for expert assessment (pollution and contamination research, etc.), this technique now meets a wide range of industrial needs in various sectors: pharmaceutical, plastics, chemical, automotive, paint, lubricant, and adhesive industries.

Size exclusion analysis

Why choose FILAB?

An independent laboratory with a team of experienced doctors and engineers, FILAB guarantees the reliability of its results, ensures rapid processing of requests and personalized support for its clients.

FAQ

What is the difference between SEC and GPC?

These are two names for the same technique.
- SEC (Size Exclusion Chromatography) is the more general term.
- GPC (Gel Permeation Chromatography) is often used when working with organic phases (e.g., THF, DMF).

What information do you get from an SEC analysis?

SEC analysis allows the determination of:

  • Average molar mass (Mn, Mw)
  • Polydispersity index (PI = Mw/Mn)
  • Size distribution

Information on the molecular structure, depending on the detectors used (MALS, viscometer, etc.)

What types of samples can be analyzed using size exclusion analysis?

We analyze all types of synthetic or natural polymers, resins, proteins, polysaccharides, formulated products, raw materials, drugs, and more.
The sample must be soluble in a solvent compatible with the column and system (e.g., THF, DMF, water, NaNO3, etc.).

The filab advantages
A highly qualified team
A highly qualified team
Responsiveness in responding to and processing requests
Responsiveness in responding to and processing requests
A COFRAC ISO 17025 accredited laboratory
A COFRAC ISO 17025 accredited laboratory
(Staves available on www.cofrac.com - Accreditation number: 1-1793)
A complete analytical park of 5,200m²
A complete analytical park of 5,200m²
Tailor-made support
Tailor-made support
Anaïs DECAUX Customer Support Manager
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