Chromatography
Gel Permeation / Size-Exclusion Chromatography (GPC / SEC)
Separates molecules by their size in solution rather than by chemistry, so large molecules elute first. Used for polymer molecular-weight distribution and for protein aggregates in biologics.
- Pharmaceutical
- Biopharmaceutical
- Polymers & plastics
- Food (polysaccharides)
- Cosmetics
- Chemicals
PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE
Maintenance checklist
Daily / each use
- Record pressure and RI baseline
- Check solvent levels and waste
- Check for leaks
Weekly
- Prepare fresh aqueous mobile phase to prevent microbial growth
- Check inlet filters
Monthly / quarterly
- Check column performance with a reference standard (plate count, resolution of monomer and dimer)
- Purge the RI reference cell
Six-monthly / annual
- Preventive maintenance of pump and autosampler
- Calibration of flow rate, oven temperature and detector
SAFETY
Safety precautions
Before you work on the GPC / SEC
- THF is highly flammable and can form explosive peroxides; use stabilised THF, store it properly and work in a ventilated area.
- Some GPC solvents (e.g. DMF, trichlorobenzene at high temperature) are toxic; follow the safety data sheet.
- Never loosen fittings while the system is under pressure.
- Dispose of solvent and biological waste as per site procedure.
In LimsPulse · Calibration Management
Keep every GPC / SEC in control: usage logs, calibration and maintenance schedules, and automatic blocking of overdue instruments.