Understanding GPC/SEC

Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC), also known as Size Exclusion Chromatography (SEC), is a chromatographic technique that employs specialized columns to separate natural and synthetic polymers, biopolymers, proteins or nanoparticles on the basis of size.

As the sample is separated and elutes from the column, it can be characterized by a single concentration detector (Conventional Calibration) or series of detectors (Universal Calibration and Triple Detection).

When the GPC/SEC separation is coupled with light scattering, viscometer and concentration detectors together (triple detection), it will provide a distribution of absolute molecular weight, molecular size, and intrinsic viscosity as well as information on macromolecular structure, conformation aggregation and branching.

Separation theory:

Calculation types:

Detector theory:

Systems for GPC/SEC:

Viscotek TDAmax A complete, temperature controlled, triple-detector GPC/SEC system with RI, Viscometer and Light Scattering detectors. Sample type: Protein / Polymer / Biopolymer Temp range (°C): Ambient to 80°C Technology: Size Exclusion Chromatography More Information

Viscotek 270max A complete, cost effective, modular triple-detector GPC/SEC system, with RI, Viscometer and Light Scattering detectors. Sample type: Protein / Polymer / Biopolymer Temp range (°C): Ambient to 100°C* * Column only Technology: Size Exclusion Chromatography More Information

Viscotek RImax A complete, cost effective, modular, conventional calibration GPC/SEC system with RI detection. Sample type: Protein / Polymer / Biopolymer Temp range (°C): Ambient to 100°C* * Column only Technology: Size Exclusion Chromatography More Information

Viscotek HT-GPC A complete modular high temperature GPC system designed exclusively for the characterization of polyolefins at up to 160°C. Sample type: Polymer Temp range (°C): Ambient to 160°C Technology: Size Exclusion Chromatography More Information