Knowledge Base
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[Readers Insight] Is Retention Time Determined Solely by the Polarity of a Compound?
Have you ever thought about this question: In reversed-phase chromatography, does an earlier elution always mean the compound has higher polarity? Or rather — is retention time determined solely by the polarity of a compound? In this article, we explore what polarity is, why it acts as the primary factor affecting retention time, and what other factors are unneglectable. -
[Readers Insight] Mobile Phase Selection in Method Development: How to Optimize
In method development, the selection of mobile phases is an important part to success. This article discusses thoroughly different mobile phases and their use in HPLC and LC-MS, and provides recommendations for initial mobile phase choices. -
[Readers Insight] Retention Time Drifts: Why Do They Occur?
Learn the causes of retention time drift in HPLC analyses, explained thoroughly through mobile phase, column, instrument, and sample solvent. -
A Premier Alkaloid: Nicotine and the Strategy for Developing Its Determination Method
Nicotine analysis is notoriously challenging due to its weak retention on conventional columns. This article shares a practical UHPLC-MS method using the Welch Ultisil HILIC Amphion II column, detailing the development approach, chromatographic conditions, and key advantages for reliable nicotine detection. -
Determination of Mannitol Related Substances with Xtimate Sugar-Ca
Mannitol is a substance with important applications in pharmaceutical and food. See how Welch Xtimate Sugar-Ca columns perform well in determination of mannitol related substances in accordance with Chinese Pharmacopoeia 2025 Edition. -
Column Substitution in HPLC: More Than Just Matching Specs
When considering HPLC column replacements, cross-reference charts can only tell half the story. Read to learn how a right Welch Column goes beyond replacement—delivering optimized results tailored to your method. -
[Reader Insights] Acidic or Basic? Read Analyte Structure First When Developing a Method
In this article, we discuss how to read molecular structure to assess an analyte’s acidic or basic character and use that insight to design starting chromatographic methods. You will find practical, rule-based criteria, clear decision points for method setup, and a focused real-world example that illustrates structure-driven choices. -
The Four Pillars of Welch Materials ODS Columns
This article explores the fundamental qualities of ODS columns and examines four representative designs from Welch Materials. It reflects on long-standing misconceptions, practical challenges, and design considerations, offering chromatographers deeper insight into one of the most widely used tools in liquid chromatography. -
[Readers Insight] The Starting Point in Method Development
Method development often begins with uncertainty—especially when faced with unknown compounds and no literature guidance. This article examines a pharmacopoeial method as a case study, highlighting its chromatographic settings, analyzing potential limitations, and considering improvements. Through this, readers gain insight into the logical framework behind choosing starting conditions. -
Uncovering Overlooked Factors Behind Abnormal Baselines
A stable, flat baseline is essential for accurate HPLC analyses, yet analysts may grapple with noise and drift. This article explores key baseline disturbances—sawtooth patterns, pulsations, chaotic fluctuations, and drift—pinpoints their root causes, and offers precise remedies. A real-world case study demonstrates systematic troubleshooting to restore baseline integrity. -
Preventing Hydrophobic Collapse: Demystifying AQ Columns
Struggling with weak retention of polar compounds in RP‑HPLC? Discover how Ultisil® AQ‑C18 delivers reliable performance under 100% aqueous conditions in this article. Enhance your analyses with stable retention and extended column life. -
Maintenance of HPLC Systems: Material Compatibility and Best Practices
Maintaining an HPLC system requires careful consideration of material compatibility, from 316L stainless steel pump heads to PEEK tubing. This article examines real‑world cases, compares flow‑path materials, and outlines practical cleaning and maintenance practices to safeguard analytical accuracy, prolong instrument life, minimize costly downtime, and prevent unexpected failures.