Thin layer chromatography carotenoid chromatographic separation

It is essential for determination of the structure of a carotenoid that the pigment sample be pure. Chromatographic homogeneity of carotenoids in two or more thin-layer or adsorbent-impregnated paper systems may be used as a criterion of carotenoid purity. Care must be taken that sterols, ter-penols, or other nonsaponifiable compounds do not contaminate the sample. These compounds can be detected by iodine vapors if they separate from the carotenoid on chromatography. 

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