In this special edition of Z-APPS we have included four new application notes.  This research explores the unique method development tools offered by a sub-2μm zirconia based phase.  ZirChrom plans a full line of sub-2μm products, the first of which will be introduced at the upcoming PITTCON 2009 conference and exhibition in Chicago.

Technical Bulletin #327 – Performance Analysis of ZirChrom^®-PBD Sub-2μm Particles – Since about 1970, there has been a steady effort to develop smaller particles that improve HPLC column efficiency. The most recent results with sub-2μm particles have been given the name Ultra-HPLC (UHPLC).  The unparalleled thermal, chemical and mechanical stability of zirconia-based phases make them particularly well suited to this application.  As theoretically expected, the ZirChrom^®-PBD sub-2μm particles are more efficient than the 3μm particles.  The resistance to mass transfer is reduced with the smaller particles thus enabling a faster analysis (i.e. faster flow rate) without significant loss of efficiency. (PDF - Full Application Note)

Technical Bulletin #328 – Analysis of Catecholamines on ZirChrom^®-PBD – Here we report the separation of several catecholamines and the effect of ionic strength and percent organic on the resolution of these compounds: L-dopa, tyramine, epinephrine, dopamine, and 3,4-dihydroxynorphedrine.   Historically, catecholamines are difficult molecules to elute on zirconia-based HPLC columns, however, under the right mobile phase conditions, the separation is facile and the multi-modal surface chemistry of zirconia allows for a unique selectivity.  Furthermore the unparalleled stability of ZirChrom^®-PBD allows for a much longer column lifetime and more robust separation when compared to traditional silica-based ion-pairing techiniques. (PDF - Full Application Note)

Technical Bulletin #329 – Comparison of Sub-2μm and 3μm ZirChrom^®-PBD for the Separation of Catecholamines – In this application note we examine the benefits of a smaller particle size for the analysis of catecholamines.  As predicated theoretically, the decrease in particle size, from 3μm to sub-2μm, allows for a marked increase in efficiency (measured in plates/meter). (PDF - Full Application Note)

Technical Bulletin #330 – Effect of Temperature on the Analysis of Catecholamines using  Sub-2μm ZirChrom^®-PBD – In this application note we examine the effect of temperature on a sub-2μm zirconia based phase for the analysis of catecholamines.  Reducing the particle size and increasing the temperature both increases the efficiency and speed of separation without sacrificing resolution. (PDF - Full Application Note)

To place an order for our new sub-2μm products, or for more information, please contact us at 1-866-STABLE-1 or support@zirchrom.com .