Ultra high performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) columns with sub-2-μm particles offer high productivity and resolving power. Shorter columns with these small particles allow analysts to achieve faster runtimes while maintaining column efficiency and resolution. Longer columns with these small particles enable additional resolution for complex mixtures. However, smaller particles produce higher backpressure. When the backpressure is too high, the column will not run. This document introduces the Agilent ZORBAX Rapid Resolution High Definition (RRHD) columns, which are designed to operate at up to 1200 bar of pressure. In this high-pressure domain, analysts can achieve even more speed and resolution for complex separations.
This document explains that Ultra High Performance Liquid Chromatography (UHPLC) using sub-2-micron particles offers productivity benefits, but traditional systems are limited by backpressure caps of 400 to 600 bar. Agilent addresses this with the 1290 Infinity LC System and ZORBAX Rapid Resolution High Definition (RRHD) columns designed for operation up to 1200 bar.
The text details three examples demonstrating these capabilities: maximizing speed by running a gradient separation at 1.6 mL/min generating over 1070 bar; increasing resolution by using tandem columns in series requiring nearly 1100 bar; and improving peak capacity with longer columns operating around 800 bar.
These columns are designed for reliable operation at 1200 bar, which is the highest pressure in the industry.
The gradient program at a flow rate of 1.6 mL/min generated a maximum pressure of 1070 bar.
The tandem columns required close to 1100 bar pressure for this gradient separation.