Size exclusion chromatography (SEC) is an essential analytical technique for characterizing macromolecules, particularly in the fields of polymers, biomolecules, and complex formulations. Used to determine the molar mass, size distribution, and conformation of molecules in solution, it plays a key role in quality control and the optimization of industrial materials. This method is especially valuable for sectors requiring rigorous analysis of polymers and packaging , thus ensuring their compliance with regulatory standards and their technical performance.
Thanks to its extensive network of laboratories, YesWeLab supports you in implementing SEC analyses tailored to your industrial needs, with reliable solutions that comply with regulatory requirements.
Table of Contents
Introduction to SEC Size Exclusion Chromatography
Definition and fundamental principles
Size exclusion chromatography is a liquid-phase separation technique that relies on the ability of molecules to penetrate the pores of a stationary material. More specifically, a column filled with porous beads acts as a molecular sieve: large molecules are excluded from these pores and flow rapidly through the column, while smaller molecules infiltrate the cavities and take longer to elut.
This phenomenon relies on a thermodynamic equilibrium between the interstitial volume of the column (dead volume) and the porous volume accessible to the analytes. The relationship between the elution volume Vₑ of a macromolecule and the volumes of the stationary and mobile phases is described by the following equation: Vₑ = V₀ + K × Vₚ
Or :
- V₀ represents the dead volume, i.e., the space inaccessible to excluded macromolecules.
- Vₚ is the volume of the stationary phase,
- K is the partition coefficient, a function of the size and conformation of the macromolecules.
Thus, the larger a molecule is, the shorter its elution time will be, while smaller ones will take longer to pass through the column due to their interaction with the stationary phase.
Difference with other chromatographic techniques
Unlike conventional chromatographic methods such as affinity chromatography , ion-exchange chromatography , or partition chromatography , SEC does not rely on chemical interactions between the analytes and the stationary phase. It therefore offers several advantages:
- Absence of chemical interactions : no adsorption of analytes onto the stationary phase, minimizing the risk of denaturation of sensitive biomolecules.
- Isocratic method : unlike other techniques requiring a solvent gradient, SEC uses a single, constant mobile phase throughout the analysis.
- Excellent reproducibility : as the analytical conditions vary little, SEC guarantees stable and reliable separation over time.
However, this lack of chemical interaction also limits its scope of application. SEC is not suitable for separating molecules with similar molar masses but different chemical structures.
Importance of SEC in laboratory analysis
SEC is an essential method for characterizing polymers , proteins, and other macromolecules. It is notably used for:
- Determine the molecular mass distribution of polymers and biomolecules.
- Analyze the structure and conformation of macromolecules (linear, branched, globular).
- Control the stability and purity of industrial formulations.
- To study macromolecular interactions , particularly in protein complexes and supramolecular assemblies.
Principle of size exclusion chromatography (SEC)
Size exclusion chromatography (SEC) relies on a purely physical separation mechanism based on the size and structure of macromolecules in solution. Unlike chromatographic techniques based on chemical interactions, SEC allows for a gentle and non-destructive separation of analytes, thus ensuring reliable and reproducible analysis.
Separation based on hydrodynamic volume
The fundamental principle of SEC is based on the ability of molecules to penetrate or not into the pores of the stationary phase . These pores are distributed in spherical beads constituting the packing material of the chromatographic column.
When the sample is injected into the column and carried along by the mobile phase (a specific solvent), the molecules move through the porous network of the stationary phase according to their hydrodynamic volume:
- Large macromolecules cannot penetrate the pores and are quickly excluded, flowing directly through the column. They will be the first to be eluted.
- Intermediate-sized molecules partially penetrate the pores and are slowed in their progression, undergoing a longer retention time.
- Small molecules access the pores deeply and take much longer to pass through the column, being eluted last.
The retention time of an analyte therefore depends solely on its molecular size and the pore size distribution of the packing material. Thus, SEC allows for the establishment of a molecular mass distribution profile of the analyzed samples.
Influence of the stationary phase and the mobile phase
The stationary phase used in SEC is composed of rigid porous materials , suitable for the separation of macromolecules. Several types of materials can be used depending on the nature of the analytes being studied:
- Porous silica gels , particularly suited to organic solvents.
- Crosslinked polymers such as polystyrene-divinylbenzene (PS-DVB), used for the analysis of synthetic polymers.
- Agarose or dextran matrix , commonly used in biochemistry for the separation of proteins and other hydrophilic biomolecules.
The choice of solvent (mobile phase) is equally crucial to ensure optimal separation and preserve sample integrity. The solvent must meet the following criteria:
- To be a good solvent for the macromolecules being studied , in order to avoid precipitation or aggregation phenomena.
- Do not chemically interact with the stationary phase , to ensure separation based solely on size.
- Having a suitable viscosity , in order to limit diffusion effects and ensure a constant flow rate in the column.
Depending on the type of sample, different solvents are used:
- Tetrahydrofuran (THF) or methylene chloride for polymers in organic solution.
- Aqueous buffers (phosphate, TRIS, NaCl) for biomolecules and proteins.
- High temperature solvents (o-dichlorobenzene, trichlorobenzene) for the analysis of polyolefins.
Separation range and column calibration
Each SEC column has a specific separation range , defined by the pore size of the packing material. A sample containing molecules that are too large will be eluted immediately with the column's dead volume ( V₀ ), while molecules that are too small will be eluted with the total solvent volume ( Vt ), without any information about their molecular size.
To accurately determine the average molar mass of analytes, columns must be calibrated using reference molecular standards . This calibration process follows two main approaches:
- Conventional calibration : a calibration curve is established by injecting polymers of known molar mass, allowing the elution volume to be linked to the molecular mass.
- Universal calibration : by coupling the SEC with a viscometric detector, it is possible to normalize the results and obtain a more precise measurement, independent of the type of polymer analyzed.
Thanks to this calibration, it becomes possible to evaluate the distribution of molecular masses of a sample and to extract fundamental parameters such as the number average molecular mass (Mn) , the weight average molecular mass (Mw) and the polydispersity index (Ip = Mw/Mn) , a key indicator of the homogeneity of a polymer.
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Equipment and methodology
Size exclusion chromatography (SEC) relies on specific equipment designed to ensure optimal separation of macromolecules based on their size. Each component plays a key role in the efficiency of the process, from sample injection to analyte detection. The methodology used in SEC must guarantee the reproducibility of the analyses and the accuracy of the results, taking into account experimental conditions and optimization parameters.
Main components of a SEC system
A size exclusion chromatography system comprises several essential elements that enable the analysis to proceed correctly:
- Mobile phase reservoir : Contains the solvent or buffer used to transport the analytes through the column. It must be degassed and filtered to prevent contamination or bubble formation that could interfere with the analysis.
- Pumping system : Ensures a constant flow of the mobile phase through the column. It must be stable and precise to avoid pressure fluctuations that could impair separation.
- Injector : Allows the sample to be introduced into the column. The injection must be performed reproducibly to guarantee identical volumes for each analysis and avoid variations in elution times.
- Chromatographic column : The heart of the system, it is filled with porous particles that allow the separation of molecules according to their size. The choice of column depends on the analytes to be studied and the characteristics of the packing material.
- Detectors : Devices placed at the column outlet, used to measure the signals generated by the eluted analytes. Their selection depends on the nature of the samples and the information sought.
- Data acquisition and processing system : Converts the electrical signals from the detectors into usable chromatograms. It allows for the analysis of elution times and the calculation of parameters related to molecular weights.
Types of stationary phases and their impact on analysis
The choice of column packing material is crucial in SEC. The stationary phase consists of rigid porous particles, suitable for separating macromolecules in solution.
- Porous silica : Used primarily for organic solvents. It offers good chemical stability but can exhibit non-specific interactions with certain analytes.
- Polystyrene-divinylbenzene (PS-DVB) : A cross-linked polymer widely used for the analysis of synthetic polymers. It is compatible with a wide range of organic solvents.
- Agarose or dextran matrix : Used for the separation of biomolecules and proteins in aqueous phase. It allows for gentle separation suitable for fragile macromolecules.
The choice of stationary phase directly influences the separation range and chromatographic resolution . An unsuitable column can lead to poor analyte discrimination or simultaneous elution of molecules of different sizes.
Experimental conditions and optimization of analyses
To guarantee accurate and reproducible results, several experimental parameters must be carefully controlled:
- Mobile phase flow rate : Too high a flow rate can reduce chromatographic resolution by decreasing the interaction time of the analytes with the stationary phase. Too low a flow rate can unnecessarily lengthen the analysis time.
- Column temperature : A stable temperature is essential to avoid variations in solvent viscosity and ensure homogeneous elution of analytes. Some analyses require a temperature increase to improve polymer solubility.
- Injection volume : It must be optimized to avoid peak broadening effects. An excessively large injection can impair separation and reduce the quality of the chromatogram.
- Solvent used : It must be chosen according to the analytes to be analyzed. In SEC, the mobile phase does not play an active role in the separation, but it must be compatible with the sample to ensure good dissolution of the macromolecules.
SEC Analysis Methodology
The classic SEC analysis protocol follows several key steps:
- Sample preparation : The sample is solubilized in a suitable solvent, then filtered to remove particles that may clog the column.
- Sample injection : A syringe or an automated system introduces a precise volume of sample into the mobile phase.
- Chromatographic separation : The analytes pass through the column and are separated according to their size.
- Analyte detection : Signals are recorded by detectors and converted into chromatograms.
- Interpretation of results : Elution times are compared to those of a calibration to determine the average molar mass and distribution of analytes.
Detection and analysis of results
The effectiveness of size-exclusion chromatography (SEC) relies not only on separating analytes according to their size, but also on the accuracy of the detection systems used. Interpreting the results allows for the characterization of the analyzed macromolecules and the extraction of fundamental parameters such as the average molar mass and the polydispersity index. The choice of detectors is crucial for ensuring the reliability of the analyses and optimizing the sensitivity of the measurements.
Types of detectors used in SEC
Different detectors can be coupled to a SEC to provide additional information on the separated analytes.
- Differential refractometer (RI) : This is the most commonly used detector in SEC. It measures the change in refractive index between the pure mobile phase and the eluted sample. It is universal, applicable to a wide range of polymers and biomolecules, but its sensitivity is sometimes limited for low-concentration samples.
- Light scattering detector (RALS/LALS/MALLS) : This detector allows for the direct determination of the absolute molar mass of analytes, independent of calibration standards. It is based on the ability of macromolecules to scatter light according to their size and conformation. This type of detector is particularly useful for structural studies of polymers and proteins.
- Differential viscometer : It measures the intrinsic viscosity of analytes at the column outlet. It is used to characterize the conformation of macromolecules (linear, branched, globular) and provides access to additional information on the size and shape of polymers.
- UV-Visible Detector : This is used for analytes with specific absorption in the ultraviolet range, such as certain proteins or polymers containing chromophores. It allows for selective analysis based on the chemical nature of the macromolecules.
- Sec-MS detector : This combines SEC separation with analyte identification by mass spectrometry. It is primarily used in the analysis of complex biomolecules, such as proteins and polysaccharides, allowing for the precise identification of the composition of the separated fractions.
Interpretation of chromatograms
A SEC chromatogram represents the evolution of the intensity of the detected signal as a function of elution time. The interpretation of these chromatograms allows the determination of several key analytical parameters:
- Analyte retention time : The larger a molecule is, the shorter its retention time. Conversely, smaller molecules take longer to pass through the column.
- Molecular mass distribution curve : It allows visualization of the distribution of different sizes of macromolecules in the analyzed sample.
- Calculation of average molar masses : Three quantities are generally extracted from chromatograms:
- Number-average molar mass (Mn) : Corresponds to the average mass weighted by the number of molecules.
- Weight-average molar mass (Mw) : Represents the average mass weighted by the mass of the macromolecules.
- Average molar mass in z (Mz) : Sensitive to high molar mass fractions, it is used to describe the heaviest part of the distribution.
- Polydispersity index (Ip = Mw/Mn) : This reflects the heterogeneity of the molecular weight distribution. An index close to 1 indicates a perfectly homogeneous polymer, while a higher value reflects a wide distribution of molecular sizes.
Accuracy and reproducibility of analyses
To ensure the robustness of the results, several precautions must be taken during SEC analyses:
- Rigorous column calibration : Precise calibration using certified standards is essential to ensure the accuracy of molar mass calculations.
- Flow stability control : Any fluctuation in the pumping system can lead to elution errors and distort the results.
- Constant temperature : A variation in temperature can affect the viscosity of the mobile phase and alter the elution behavior of analytes.
- Filtration and sample preparation : Poor dissolution or the presence of aggregates can disrupt chromatographic separation and cause distortions in chromatograms.
Industrial and scientific applications
Size exclusion chromatography (SEC) is an analytical technique widely used in many industrial and scientific sectors. Its ability to separate macromolecules according to their size makes it essential for quality control, research and development of polymer materials, biomolecules and complex formulations.
Polymer analysis: quality control and formulation optimization
One of the main applications of SEC is the characterization of synthetic polymers. In materials chemistry, the structure and molecular weight distribution directly influence the mechanical, thermal, and chemical properties of polymers. SEC is used for:
- Determine the average molar mass of the polymers and their polydispersity index, ensuring the consistency of production batches.
- Controlling the distribution of polymer chains is essential to optimize the properties of a material (elasticity, strength, solubility).
- Detect the presence of impurities or low molecular weight fragments , which can alter the performance of a polymer.
- Validate the polymerization conditions by analyzing the residual monomer fractions and checking the completion of the chemical reactions.
The SEC is therefore a tool of choice for manufacturers in the plastics, automotive, composites and coatings industries, allowing them to ensure that their materials meet quality and durability requirements.
Characterization of biological proteins and macromolecules
In biochemistry and biotechnology, SEC is commonly used for the analysis of proteins, enzymes, and biomolecular complexes. Unlike other chromatographic methods that can chemically interact with analytes, SEC allows for gentle separation, preserving the native structure of proteins.
The main applications in molecular biology include:
- The study of protein aggregates , particularly in pharmaceutical research to evaluate the stability of biological formulations (monoclonal antibodies, vaccines).
- The purification of biomolecules , particularly during the production of recombinant proteins, by removing small contaminants.
- The analysis of macromolecular interactions , by determining the conformations and molecular weights of protein-protein or protein-DNA complexes.
- Desalting and sample preparation , removing salts and small molecules before further analysis.
Thanks to these applications, SEC has become an essential technique in pharmaceutical and biotechnological laboratories, contributing to the development of new treatments and the optimization of bioprocesses.
Use in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food industries
SEC is also widely used in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food industries to ensure the quality and safety of finished products.
- In pharmacy , it is used to analyze the molecular weight distribution of polymers used as excipients, but also to control the stability of protein formulations and the elimination of contaminants in biopharmaceutical products.
- In the cosmetics industry , SEC (Selective Chemical Sequencing) is used to characterize polymers present in gels, creams, and hair formulations to ensure texture stability and the efficacy of active ingredients. It is also used to check for the migration of certain additives in cosmetic packaging.
- In the agri-food industry , SEC is used to analyze polysaccharides present in food additives, but also to characterize the structure of plant and animal proteins used in food formulations and protein substitutes.
By ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, the SEC plays a key role in improving industrial formulations and securing production chains.
Importance in research and development
Size exclusion chromatography is an essential technique for research and development in many scientific fields. It allows researchers to analyze the structure and behavior of macromolecules, providing a precise view of their size distribution and physicochemical properties.
- Development of new materials , by characterizing the structure and reactivity of innovative polymers.
- The study of biomaterials and nanotechnologies , where the size and conformation of macromolecules play a fundamental role in their functional properties.
- Analysis of complex macromolecular systems , such as micelles, hydrogels or polymer networks used in biomedical engineering.
Thanks to its precision and versatility, SEC has become an indispensable tool in the development of advanced materials and in the understanding of biomolecular interactions, thus contributing to innovations in cutting-edge sectors.
Standards and regulations in size exclusion chromatography
Size exclusion chromatography (SEC) is an analytical technique used in industrial and scientific sectors subject to strict regulations. Standards and accreditations play a key role in ensuring the reliability of analyses, the harmonization of protocols, and compliance with quality and safety requirements. Laboratories must adhere to these standards to guarantee accurate and reproducible results that meet the expectations of regulatory bodies and industry.
Compliance with ISO standards and regulatory frameworks
Several international standards govern the use of SEC in the analysis of polymers, biomolecules and other macromolecules.
- ISO 16014 : This standard defines methods for determining the mean molecular weight and molecular weight distribution of polymers by SEC. It is composed of several parts:
- ISO 16014-1 : General principles of SEC for polymer analysis.
- ISO 16014-2 : Universal calibration method based on intrinsic viscosity.
- ISO 16014-3 : Low temperature analysis method.
- ISO 16014-4 : High-temperature analysis method for heat-sensitive polymers.
- ISO 16014-5 : Coupling with light scattering for the determination of absolute molar mass.
- ISO 13885 : Standard specific to the analysis of biodegradable polymers, incorporating characterization criteria by SEC.
- USP (United States Pharmacopeia) and Ph. Eur. (European Pharmacopoeia) : These references govern the analysis of biomolecules, including therapeutic proteins and pharmaceutical excipients, via the SEC.
Adherence to these standards ensures uniformity of analyses between laboratories and avoids biases related to variations in protocols.
Laboratory accreditations and analysis certification
Laboratories performing SEC (Secure Electron Testing) must meet strict requirements regarding the quality and traceability of analytical results. Several accreditations guarantee the reliability of services and compliance with applicable regulations.
- ISO 17025 Accreditation : This international standard defines the general requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories. An ISO 17025 accredited laboratory demonstrates its ability to produce reliable and reproducible results using validated methods.
- COFRAC (French Accreditation Committee) : In France, this certification guarantees that laboratories comply with the requirements of the ISO 17025 standard, particularly in terms of traceability, validation of methods and control of measurement uncertainties.
- FDA (Food and Drug Administration) : In the United States, laboratories performing analyses on pharmaceutical and cosmetic products must meet FDA requirements, particularly regarding Good Laboratory Practice (GLP).
- GLP (Good Laboratory Practices) : This standard is essential for regulatory studies in the pharmaceutical and chemical sectors. It governs experimental conditions and the management of analytical data to ensure their reliability.
These accreditations assure manufacturers and control bodies that the analyses carried out by SEC comply with the regulations in force and applicable to the products marketed.
Specific requirements depending on the industrial sectors
Because the SEC is used in several industries, regulatory requirements vary depending on the area of application.
- Pharmaceutical industry : SEC analyses must follow the recommendations of the European Pharmacopoeia and the USP. They are essential for characterizing the stability of therapeutic proteins and detecting any aggregates that could affect the efficacy of treatments.
- Cosmetics and packaging : European regulations (Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009) mandate rigorous analyses of polymers and additives present in cosmetic formulations. Packaging migration tests are also regulated by Regulation (EC) No 1935/2004.
- Food industry : The analysis of polysaccharides and vegetable proteins by SEC must meet the requirements of the INCO regulation on food labelling and the standards for the analysis of food additives.
- Materials and plastics : The polymer industry is subject to REACH (EC Regulation No. 1907/2006) and RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) regulations, which require testing of polymers and their potentially toxic additives.
Compliance with these regulations is essential to ensure consumer safety and guarantee that products meeting current standards are placed on the market.
Importance of method validation in SEC
To ensure the reliability of analyses, laboratories must validate their SEC methods according to rigorous protocols. Validation includes several criteria:
- Linearity : Verify that the detector response is proportional to the analyte concentration.
- Accuracy and repeatability : Ensuring that results are reproducible between different analyses and different operators.
- Accuracy : Compare the results obtained with certified standards to ensure their accuracy.
- Limit of detection and quantification : Determine the minimum thresholds from which a macromolecule can be reliably identified and quantified.
- Robustness : Test the sensitivity of the method to variations in experimental conditions (temperature, solvent, mobile phase flow rate).
A method validated according to these criteria guarantees accurate and usable results for quality control and characterization of the materials analyzed.
Advanced analytical methods and coupling with other techniques
Size exclusion chromatography (SEC) is a powerful method for analyzing macromolecules, but its effectiveness can be enhanced by coupling it with other analytical techniques. Combining SEC with complementary detectors provides more precise information on the structure, molar mass, and conformation of analytes. These advanced approaches are essential for sophisticated applications in polymer chemistry, biotechnology, and pharmaceuticals.
Coupling of SEC with mass spectrometry (SEC-MS)
One of the major developments in SEC is its coupling with mass spectrometry (MS), which allows for detailed identification of separated analytes.
- Macromolecule identification : SEC separates molecules based on their size, while mass spectrometry provides precise identification of their chemical composition. This coupling is particularly useful for studying proteins, complex polymers, and hybrid biomolecules.
- Analysis of post-translational modifications : In biopharmaceuticals, SEC-MS is used to detect structural modifications of therapeutic proteins (glycosylation, phosphorylation) and identify possible impurities.
- Polymer characterization : SEC-MS analysis allows the study of molecular weight distribution and the exact composition of polymer fractions. It is essential for identifying additives or contaminants present in complex matrices.
The main challenge of SEC-MS coupling lies in optimizing solvents and analytical conditions to avoid unwanted interactions with mass detectors.
Multidetector size exclusion chromatography
Combining multiple detectors allows us to supplement the information provided by the SEC alone and improve the accuracy of the analyses.
- SEC coupled with multi-angle light scattering (MALLS) : This technique allows the determination of the absolute molar mass of analytes without resorting to conventional calibration. It is particularly useful for the analysis of polymers and biomolecules, providing a detailed view of their size and conformational structure.
- SEC coupled with a differential viscometer : The intrinsic viscosity of an analyte provides information about its conformation in solution. This coupling allows for the differentiation of linear polymers from branched polymers and the evaluation of the compactness of macromolecules in solution.
- SEC coupled with a refractometer and a UV detector : This combination is commonly used for polymers and proteins. The refractometer allows for universal detection, while the UV detector provides specific information on light-absorbing analytes.
These multi-detection methods allow for a finer characterization of samples and are particularly suited to regulatory and quality control analyses.
Integration of SEC into biomolecule characterization strategies
In the field of biopharmaceuticals and biotechnology, SEC is often combined with other separation and analysis techniques to ensure complete characterization of complex biomolecules.
- Combination with ion-exchange chromatography (IEX) : IEX is used to separate biomolecules based on their electrical charge, while SEC provides information about their size. This combination is essential for the purification of therapeutic proteins and the analysis of monoclonal antibodies.
- Coupling with affinity chromatography (AC) : Affinity chromatography is used to isolate specific biomolecules based on their interaction with a ligand, while SEC allows for the removal of aggregates and small contaminants. This approach is commonly used in the production of recombinant proteins.
- Joint use with fluorescence spectroscopy : By combining SEC with fluorescence spectroscopy, it is possible to detect molecular interactions and analyze the conformations adopted by certain biomolecules in solution.
These integrated approaches allow for a more robust analysis of biomolecules and macromolecular complexes, thus ensuring a better understanding of their functional properties and stability.
Development prospects and innovations in SEC
Technological advances in the field of SEC aim to improve the resolution, sensitivity, and speed of analyses.
- Column miniaturization : The rise of small-diameter, high-performance columns reduces analysis time and improves chromatographic resolution. These columns are particularly well-suited for the analysis of proteins and nanoparticles.
- Development of new stationary phases : Innovation in column packing materials optimizes macromolecule separation by reducing non-specific interactions and expanding the separation range.
- Automation and artificial intelligence : New generations of instruments incorporate artificial intelligence algorithms for chromatogram analysis and optimization of analytical conditions. This accelerates characterization processes and improves the reproducibility of analyses.
Scientific analysis and validation of results
Scientific analysis using size exclusion chromatography (SEC) relies on strict methodological principles to ensure the accuracy and reproducibility of results. Each step of the analytical process, from sampling to data interpretation, must be rigorously controlled to avoid errors and guarantee the reliability of the conclusions.
Sampling methods and sample preparation
Reliable SEC analysis begins with optimal sample preparation. Sampling quality directly influences the results obtained, particularly in terms of chromatographic resolution and the accuracy of molar mass measurements.
- Selection of sampling media : Samples must be collected and stored in suitable vials, usually made of borosilicate glass or inert polymer, to avoid any chemical interaction with the container.
- Solubilization and filtration : Macromolecules must be completely dissolved in the mobile phase to ensure optimal separation. Filtration at 0.22 µm or 0.45 µm is often necessary to remove suspended particles and prevent column clogging.
- pH and temperature control : Some polymers and biomolecules are sensitive to variations in pH and temperature. Stabilizing analytical conditions is essential to preserve the integrity of the analytes.
Why go through YesWeLab for SEC analysis?
Size exclusion chromatography (SEC) is an essential analytical technique for many industrial sectors, ranging from polymer chemistry to biopharmaceuticals. To guarantee accurate, reproducible results that comply with regulatory requirements, it is crucial to rely on a specialized analytical laboratory. YesWeLab offers a complete solution for performing your SEC analyses under optimal conditions.
Expertise in size exclusion chromatography
YesWeLab offers its expertise in advanced chromatographic analyses , ensuring reliable characterization of macromolecules. Using validated protocols and state-of-the-art equipment, our partner laboratories perform SEC analyses tailored to the specific requirements of each industry.
Network of over 200 partner laboratories
With a network of over 200 accredited laboratories , YesWeLab gives you access to a wide range of specialized analytical services. This unique network allows you to select the laboratory best suited to your needs, based on the matrices to be analyzed, the methods required, and the standards applicable to your sector.
Access to a digital platform optimized for managing analyses
YesWeLab simplifies the management of your analyses with an intuitive digital platform . You can:
- Easily search for available analyses via a detailed catalogue.
- Place your order and track the progress of your analyses in real time.
- Access results as soon as they are available, with secure and centralized archiving.
This digital solution allows for significant time savings and ensures complete traceability of each step of the analysis.
Conclusion
Size exclusion chromatography (SEC) is an essential method for the analysis of polymers, proteins, and other macromolecules. It allows for detailed characterization of molecular weights, size distribution, and conformation of analytes, thus ensuring a better understanding of the materials and formulations being studied.
Thanks to its network of laboratories and its digital platform, YesWeLab facilitates access to chromatographic analyses and ensures rigorous monitoring of your analytical requests .
