A method for characterization and optimization of reversed-phase liquid chromatographic separations based on the retention behaviour in homologous series

Summary A method based on the use of the members of homologous series as the calibration standards is suggested for prediction of retention in reversed-phase liquid chromatography. The method respects the dependence of retention on the composition of the mobile phase and makes possible distinguishing between the contributions of non-specific (hydrophobic) and specific (polar) interactions to the retention. The selection of calibration homologous series is described, the method is verified for a number of compounds and compared to the calculations based on the model of interaction indexes. The method suggested can be used for prediction of retention in mobile phases with different compositions and for the optimization of separation conditions. Presented at the 15th International Symposium on Chromatography, Nürnberg, October 1984