How to use buffers in HPLC separations

It is obvious that HPLC is gaining domination in laboratories due to its increasing applications and advances in instrument capabilities and you may find yourself running

one in your laboratory.

Here is a clear guidelines on how to use of buffers in HPLC separations.

Buffersplay an important role in Reverse phase HPLC separations. Changes in pH influence the degree of ionization of sample molecules. 

The change is minimal in case of non-polar molecules but assumes significance in case of polar molecules which are acidic or basic in nature. 

Changing the pH can be used effectively to separate closely spaced eluting peaks or may even lead to merger of separate peaks. It is for this reason that a control of pH through use of buffers helps improve separations of closely spaced or overlapping peaks.

There are several key factors that contribute to control of pH through use of buffers which are briefly covered in the article.

Buffer selection

The choice of the appropriate buffer for an application in hand is governed by buffer characteristics such as pka,pH range and UV cut-off. The values for these parameters can be easily found in reference texts. As a general rule the pH buffers should be used within +/- 1 unit of its pka value. Within this range the buffers resist any deliberate attempts to change pH. As an example a buffer having pka value of 4.8 can be effectively used over a pH range of 3.8-5.8.The UV cut-off value should also be considered as the detection wavelength should not interfere with the buffer absorbance.

Buffer pH

Silica based columns should not be used outside the pH range2.0-8-0.Below pH 2.0 there can be loss of the organic bonded phase and on the other hand pH values above 8.00 can result in greater solubility of silica backbone of stationary phase . For such applications columns with other packings can prove to be useful.

Buffer Concentration

Deciding on buffer concentration is important for method development. Ideally the lowest concentration that gives reproducible results should be chosen. Higher concentration leads to faster elution of polar molecules. Generally the buffer concentration should not be lower than 0.005M. Below this concentration it may not remain as an active buffer. On raising buffer concentration there can be increase in buffer viscosity which can increase column back pressures. Normally the concentration should be kept in the 0.005 to 0.1M range.

Buffer solubility

The buffer should be fully soluble in the dissolving media. At higher concentrations precipitation can take place on coming in contact with the organic component of the mobile phase. Such precipitation can lead to operational problems in pumps as well as blocking of the columns.

Preparation of buffer solutions

Weigh the required quantity in the volumetric flask and start adding the required solvent. Adjust the pH of the solution before filling the flask to the required mark. Adjustment of pH should be made before starting addition of the required organic phase. Next filter the solution through 0.45μm filter for routine analytical applications and 0.22μm filter for UHPLC applications. This is essential for removal of any residual solid suspensions. Buffers after their preparation should be used at the earliest and if any solid or bacterial suspensions are observed before use they should be discarded and prepared freshly.

It can be seen that buffers play a crucial role in majority of HPLC separations. Method development often requires careful selection of buffers and adequate care in their preparation.