Studies in the relationship between molecular structure and chromatographic behaviour : V. The behaviour of some alkyl etc. phenols chromatographed on alumina-impregnated papers and on thin layers of alumina

Abstract Seventy-seven alkyl-, aryl- and alkoxyphenols were chromatographed using 14 different stationary phase/mobile phase systems, each containing alumina in the stationary phase. From a consideration of the R F values, mechanisms for the separations obtained are suggested. The effect of substituents ortho to the phenolic group is pronounced and is discussed in detail. It is suggested that variations in the behaviour of such compounds is mainly attributable to steric hindrance of the approach of the phenolic group to the surface, and hence to the variations in the strength and amount of hydrogen bonding possible between the phenol and the alumina.