HPLC Analysis

Polymer Analysis by GPC

A study was conducted to analyse polymeric scale inhibitors, such as acrylate (PPCA/PAA) and sulphonate (PVS/VS-Co) by gel permeation chromatography (GPC) and to determine their molecular weights. The analysis of the polymeric scale inhibitors was carried out using Dionex HPLC following established procedures. Large molecules rapidly washed through the column, while smaller ones penetrate the inside of the porous packing materials and are eluted later therefore giving separation of the molecules. The Dionex was set up with two analytical columns which were able to detect polymeric species with a molecular weight ranging from ~ 5,000 � 500,000 g/mol. Analysis was carried out using UV detection at 193nm.

Samples of PPCA and PVS were diluted in Elga water to 500, 1,000 and 10,000 ppm active . Analysis of PPCA was effective, but the analysis of PVS was not as effective.

Schematic of GPC/HPLC system