Establishing an HPLC separation

The method by which a successful HPLC analysis is established is largely determined by what is known about the sample composition. 

For example, for known compounds of a specific type the reader would be recommended to refer to the applications sections contained within this book to ascertain which systems have been previously described. Alternatively, for an unknown compound or for one not described in this book, the reader will be able to establish a separation based on the first principles outlined in this chapter and Chapter 2. 

For a given sample little information is required to allow the selection of the most appropriate stationary phase. Selection may easily be made using the mode selection chart in Table 10.1. It can be seen that the mode appropriate to any particular application depends partly upon the molecular weight of the sample and partly its physicochemical character. Essentially there are four main categories of separation, which are briefly outlined below. 

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