SPECTRAL MAPPING ANALYSIS - A METHOD FOR THE CHARACTERIZATION OF STATIONARY PHASES

Retention data for a test mixture consisting of nine benzene derivatives are determined under specific chromatographic conditions. Different batches, brands, and types of stationary phases (RP18, RP8, CN, silica, and polymer-coated) are used, and a methanol-phosphate buffer is used as the mobile phase. Stationary phases with similar and dissimilar properties can be identified by applying spectral mapping analysis to the capacity factor (k') data. Three benzene derivatives are found to be sufficient for the characterization of commercially available stationary phases. Ternary diagrams are used as the method of characterization. Both methods also permit the identification of selectivity changes due to aging of the stationary phase or the presence of a tailing suppresser in the mobile phase.