Capillary hydrodynamic chromatography --an investigation into operational characteristics

Abstract Three capillary tubes of equal length (50 m) but different internal diameter (182, 242, 450 μm) have been examined as columns for capillary hydrodynamic chromatography. The tubes were calibrated for particle size analysis by elution of standards in water, methanol and tetrahydrofuran and applied to the fractionation of paint, pollen and used engine oil. Analytical separation of particles in the diameter range 0.07–40 μm was achieved. Column resolution improved dramatically at higher flow-rates of eluent, contrary to usual chromatographic behaviour.