LCGC North America-10-01-2015

The third installment in this series provides an overview of modern practices of separation science in small-molecule drug development. It highlights approaches in HPLC method development and physical/chemical characterization to support process chemistry and formulation development, and for assessment/control of the clinical trial materials. The role of the separation scientist in analytical development and salient chromatographic methodology trends are discussed.

Here in the second part of this series, the key system architecture requirements for a CDS in a regulated environment are discussed.

In GC split injection systems as much as 99% or more of the injected sample never enters the column: It is released downstream of the inlet where it can encounter and possibly perturb precision gas control devices. The split vent trap acts to prevent or at least moderate such effects. This month's installment addresses the operation and maintenance of split-vent traps..  

If sample preparation is the most time and labor intense step in the analytical process, and uses the largest amounts of solvents, it stands to reason that sample preparation may present the most significant safety risks in the analytical lab. While most laboratory workers receive significant safety training, we may become numb to the prospect of accidents or get into the mindset that accidents only happen to other people. Given some recent, significant safety incidents, this month we step back and take a quick refresher on safety concerns appropriate during our sample preparation activities.

Proper implementation is key to the performance of your SPE analyses. Look out for the common mistakes explained here.

Hamish Small discusses the secrets to his success in separation science and the value of vague thoughts in scientific progress.

Miniaturized separation techniques are advantageous for the analysis of illicit drugs and new psychoactive substances.

Are your solvent costs too high? Here are some ideas about how to decrease the amount of mobile phase you use.

Are your solvent costs too high? Here are some ideas about how to decrease the amount of mobile phase you use.

Click the title above to open the LCGC North America October 2015 regular issue, Vol 33 No 10, in an interactive PDF format.