Thin Layer Chromatography
Thin Layer Chromatography
Thin Layer Chromatography
TLC is one of the fastest, least expensive, simplest and easiest chromatography
technique.
Thin Layer Chromatography -Principle
The compounds in the mobile phase move over the surface of the stationary
phase. The movement occurs in such a way that the compounds which have a
higher affinity to the stationary phase move slowly while the other compounds
travel fast. Therefore, the separation of the mixture is attained.
Diagram of thin layer chromatography
Thin layer chromatography-Procedure
1.Thin Layer Chromatography Plates –ready-made plates are used which are
chemically inert and stable. The stationary phase is applied on its surface in the
form of a thin layer. The stationary phase on the plate has a fine particle size and
also has a uniform thickness.
Since TLC operates as an open system, some factors such as humidity and
temperature can be consequences to the final outcome of the chromatogram.
The detection limit is high and therefore if you want a lower detection limit, you
cannot use TLC.