Intelligent optimization of multi-column system of chromatography

To solve problems of the analysis of very complex mixtures, a multi-column system can be used. This needs a multi-column switching system or selectivity tuning for serially connected columns and is very difficulty to operate, therefore being unsuitable for standardization. Therefore, an intelligent optimization method for the multi-column system has been developed based on experimental data and the reliability of analytic results. As main results, optimization rules of column selectivity matching have been gained from experimental facts. The adaption of the multi-column system for different samples has been discussed and a method for comparison of column selectivities is presented. Practical analytic results using the multi-column system are demonstrated to verify the procedure.Dedicated to Professor Dr. Dr. h.c. mult. J. F. K. Huber on the occasion of his 70th birthday