Choosing the separation technique

To select a separation method for a suitable apphcation, the separation scientist usually rehes on a number of factors  

There may be other factors to add to the list above, but the seven factors listed are considered to be the most common factors. The first factor relates to who and where the method is likely to end up. The availabihty of sample information will to a certain extent dictate the most appropriate separation method to use. The use of personal insights and experience is likely to be a dominant one if similar problems have been solved before using a particular separation technique. This is the case for compounds with similar structures. If the separation scientist encounters a completely novel area or analytical solution, then the use of information from published work or from instrument manufacturer is usually of more importance. The availability of instrumentation and consumables in the long and short term is quite often an important requirement particularly if the separation technology is not well established, expensive or is sourced from relatively fewer manufacturers. Quite often, if the separation techniques require very specialised knowledge or experience, then the choice of method would usually be one that is simple, reliable and easy to use. 

In pharmaceutical analysis, separation methods are usually developed with a view to ensuring that the technique chosen can  

Solve the analytical problem and provide reliable data. 

The method is robust and reliable enough to be transferred to other locations and laboratories. 

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