Characterization and Properties of Macromolecules

The effect of solvent on the numerical results obtained from gel permeation chromatography has been evaluated. Columns packed with porous glass materials were evaluated, using three solvents. The narrow molecular weight distribution polystyrene standards were chromatographed in each solvent to calibrate the columns. The chromatograms of the standards were then analyzed to yield the molecular weight averages and their molecular weight distributions. The results indicate solvents of high viscosity should be avoided, especially for high molecular weight samples.