A novel gel permeation chromatography (GPC) method for characterizing Nylon, developed by researchers at Malvern Instruments, significantly reduces the cost of analysis while simultaneously improving safety, when compared with conventional techniques
The new method uses formic acid as a solvent for Nylon, in place of the traditional choice of hexafluoroisopropanol (HFIPA), a relatively expensive, aggressively corrosive solvent with poor health and safety characteristics. First presented at a recent webinar by Dr Wei Sen Wong, his breakthrough is expected to generate significant industrial interest.
GPC is routinely used to determine the molecular weight and molecular weight distribution of Nylon, and indeed many other polymers. It relies on complete dissolution of the polymer in a suitable solvent and this can be a challenge with sparingly soluble polymers. For Nylon, HFIPA is conventionally chosen as a solvent because of its effectiveness, despite the deterrents of toxicity, cost and corrosivity.
The new method, developed by Drs Wei Sen Wong and Kyle Williams at Malvern’s research facility in Houston, Texas, achieves complete dissolution using formic acid, a solvent that is typically around 1% of the cost of HFIPA. In addition, formic acid has a more favourable health and safety profile. The new technique can also handle residual water from the polymerization process and does not require the addition of corrosive salts (such as potassium trifluoroacetate KTFA), reducing wear and tear on the chromatography system. These benefits add up to a considerable advance for Nylon characterization, an improvement in health and safety coupled with significant potential for cost reduction.
To find out more about this exciting advance
download the webinar or visit
www.malvern.com/viscotek-range
Subscribe to any of our newsletters for the latest on new laboratory products, industry news, case studies and much more!
Request your free copies HERE
Popular this Month
Top 10 most popular articles this month
Today's Picks
Looking for a Supplier?
Search by company or by product
Please note Lab Bulletin does not sell, supply any of the products featured on this website. If you have an enquiry, please use the contact form below the article or company profile and we will send your request to the supplier so that they can contact you directly.
Lab Bulletin is published by newleaf marketing communications ltd.