Rapid determination the pore structure of monolithic stationary phases by size-exclusion chromatography

Retention data of polystyrene samples of narrow molecular size distribution and known average molecular mass from 418 to 190 000 were measured on radial flow monolithic column by size-exclusion chromatography (SEC). These data were used to determine the external (55.1%), internal (4.9%), and total porosities of the column. These data provided also information on the pore-size distribution of the adsorbent medium. The SEC applied in the determination of the pore structure possesses the characteristics of speediness, easiness, in-situ and nondestructive. The external and the total porosities of the column are much higher than those of conventional packed columns. The results illustrate the high penetrability and low pressure drop even in the case of high mobile phase flow velocities.