Separation of Proteins on Polar Bonded Phases by Hydrophobic Interaction Chromatography

Abstract

Hydrophobic interaction chromatography (HIC) with a polar bonded phase (“Acetamide”) developped for size exclusion chromatography (SEC) is described. Retention of proteins depends on the surface area of the stationary phase, the pH and ionic strength of the eluent. For efficient separation the pore diameter should be 25 nm or more. The surface area should be large to achieve retention even at low ionic strength. Separation is only possible with a gradient from high to low ionic strength. Gradient volumes of 10 empty column volumes with column lengths above 15 cm are recommended. Selectivity can be optimized via pH adjustment. The advantage of this column packing is its applicability for two different separation modes: SEC and HIC.