Chromatography
High-Performance Thin-Layer Chromatography (HPTLC)
An instrumental, standardised form of TLC that uses fine-particle plates, automated band application, controlled development and densitometric scanning. Widely used for herbal identification fingerprints and semi-quantitative or quantitative assays.
- Pharmaceutical
- Herbal and nutraceutical
- Food & cosmetics
- Forensic
- Academic research
PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE
Maintenance checklist
Daily / each use
- Rinse the applicator syringe and check for blockage
- Clean chambers and dipping tanks
- Check nitrogen supply to the applicator
Weekly
- Clean the documentation system glass and light box
- Check the plate heater temperature
Monthly / quarterly
- Check scanner lamp energy and hours
- Check applicator volume precision with a test plate
Six-monthly / annual
- Preventive maintenance and calibration of the applicator, scanner (wavelength and positioning) and camera system
SAFETY
Safety precautions
Before you work on the HPTLC
- Many mobile phases and derivatisation reagents (e.g. sulfuric acid–anisaldehyde) are toxic or corrosive; work in a fume hood.
- Do not look directly at UV lamps; use UV-protective glasses.
- Plate heaters reach high temperatures; use tongs.
- Dispose of solvents and used plates as per site procedure.
In LimsPulse · Calibration Management
Keep every HPTLC in control: usage logs, calibration and maintenance schedules, and automatic blocking of overdue instruments.