Overpressured thin-layer chromatography OPTLC

At present attempts are being made to optimize the chromatography, and a great deal of faith has been placed in OPTLC (overpressured thin-layer chromatography). With this technique an extension of the development distance, better resolution and a shorter separation time are achieved. In 1982 a report was published on the applicability of this technique in the analysis of various substance groups 59). 

These limitations have led to the development of forced flow development systems and to the technique of overpressured thin layer chromatography. The special feature of this method is that the adsorbent layer is in a completely sealed unit and the solvent is delivered under pressure at a controlled oniform flow-rate by a pump module as in HPLC. Thus, overpressured TLC (OPTLC) takes place in the absence of a vapour pressure and the migration of the solvent front is free from both evaporation and adsorption effects. As the eluant is delivered under controlled conditions it is possible to optimise the separation conditions by adjusting the flow-rate of the eluant and also to undertake continuous development proeedures. 

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