Ultra high performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) systems, also referred to as fast LCs, are designed to take full advantage of smaller particles (sub 2 μm), which yield higher resolution and increased sensitivity. Because of increased backpressure, UHPLC systems employ high-performance pumps that deliver up to 15,000 psi (1,000 bar) of pressure. Some systems solve the backpressure issue by elevating temperatures (via column oven), which lowers the viscosity of the mobile phase, allowing it to move faster through the column. UHPLC systems have been shown to provide analysis in less than 1 min and up to 40 times faster than conventional HPLC systems.
The market for high performance liquid chromatography continues to be one of the most dynamic markets of the analytical instruments industry. Innovations in mass spectrometry helped to fuel growth for the HPLC market. But, in many cases, HPLC was somewhat of an afterthought and considered to be a mere inlet to MS. The introduction and development of UHPLC systems is forcing change in the liquid chromatography market as users re-evaluate existing and explore new applications.
In a recent survey of nearly 500 UHPLC users, conducted by Strategic Directions International (SDi), the participants were asked to indicate the reasons for choosing UHPLC over standard HPLC or other types of liquid chromatography systems. Improved resolution was the most frequently mentioned response. However, when asked to indicate UHPLC drawbacks, expensive column price tag was frequently mentioned.
The accompanying graph shows the regional distribution of respondents to the survey. The United States and Canada represented the largest segment of respondents, followed by Europe, Asia (China, Japan, India, Pacific Rim), and the rest of the world.
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