SPE Column Selection Guide

Start With The Sample Matrix And Analyte Type

The right SPE column depends on the sample type and the analyte's chemical nature. For acidic compounds in biological fluids, use C8/SAX. For basic drugs, choose C8/SCX. For multiresidual pesticides in food, select GCB/NH2 or GCB/PSA. For non-polar to moderately polar compounds across pH ranges, HLB is the general-purpose option.

Mixed Mode Mechanisms Reduce Strong Adsorption

C8/SAX and C8/SCX combine hydrophobic and ion-exchange interactions. This dual retention prevents analytes from binding too strongly, which can cause poor elution and low recovery. The moderate retention improves reproducibility in complex matrices like blood and urine.

Graphitized Carbon Black Removes Interferences

GCB/NH2 and GCB/PSA use graphitized carbon black to remove pigments, sterols, and fatty acids. The bilayer design with ultrathin frits ensures uniform flow and consistent cleanup. GCB/PSA has higher ion exchange capacity due to secondary amine groups, making it better for metal chelation and neonicotinoid analysis.

HLB For Broad-Spectrum Extraction

HLB is a copolymer resin with balanced hydrophilic and lipophilic groups. It works across pH 1 to 14, resists bed dryness, and maintains high recovery. It outperforms C18 silica in adsorption capacity and loadability, making it ideal for drugs, antibiotics, and metabolites in complex samples.

Column Size Matches Sample Volume And Load

Available sizes include 1 ml, 3 ml, 6 ml, and 10 ml. Use 1 ml for small volumes and low analyte concentration. Choose 3 ml or 6 ml for higher sample loads. The 10 ml size is for large-volume extractions. Larger columns hold more sorbent and reduce breakthrough risk.

Sorbent Particle Size And Pore Size Affect Flow And Capacity

C8/SAX, C8/SCX, and HLB have particle sizes of 40-75 µm and pore sizes of 70 Å. HLB has a larger pore size of 300 Å and a surface area of 600 m²/g. GCB has a coarser particle size of 100-300 mesh, while PSA uses 50-75 µm particles. These differences affect flow rate, capacity, and compatibility with sample viscosity.

Packaging And Ordering For Consistent Supply

Columns are packaged in 100, 50, or 30 pieces per pack. Cat. No. SCC8SAX1001 is 100 mg in 1 ml, packed 100 per pack. SCC8SCX5006 is 500 mg in 6 ml, packed 30 per pack. Ensure the mass and volume match your extraction protocol and scale.