Selection of SFC stationary and mobile phases
Résumé
Supercritical fluid chromatography (SFC) benefits from an extensive toolbox to achieve achiral or chiral separations. The most powerful tools in this box arise from the diversity of stationary phases available and the wide range of polarities achievable through manipulation of both the stationary phase and mobile phase composition. These parameters are the main topic of this chapter, with a particular focus on compounds of pharmaceutical interest, whether they be small chemicals, biopharmaceuticals, or traditional medicine from natural products. Secondary tools like column oven temperature, back-pressure applied to maintain the fluid in the supercritical or subcritical state, and the pumping flow rate are all useful when fine optimization is required. Their effects will also be described. Finally, the possibility to predict the outcome of SFC separations will also be briefly discussed.