C-2 Solvent Considerations
Introduction
Clean solvents
Clean solvents provide
• reproducible results
• operation with minimal instrument maintenance
A dirty solvent can cause
• baseline noise and drift
• blockage of the solvent filters with particulate matter
Solvent quality
Use HPLC-grade solvents to ensure the best possible results. Filter through
0.22-µm filters before use. Solvents distilled in glass generally maintain their
purity from lot to lot; use them to ensure the best possible results.
Preparation checklist
The following solvent preparation guidelines help to ensure stable baselines
and good resolution:
• Filter solvents with a 0.22-µm filter.
• Degas and/or sparge the solvent.
• Stir the solvent.
• Keep solvent in a place free from drafts and shock.
Water
Use water only from a high-quality water purification system. If the water
system does not provide filtered water, filter it through a 0.22-µm membrane
filter before use.
Warning: To avoid chemical hazards, always observe safe laboratory
practices when operating your system.