HPLC Column Dimensions

HPLC columns are manufactured in a variety of different internal diameter and length combinations, as well as having an assortment of particle sizes. HPLC column dimensions will affect the efficiency sensitivity, and speed of an analysis. The choice of column dimensions will depend on the chromatographic application; analytical, semi-preparative, preparative, number of analytes in the mixture etc. However, the dimensions can also be altered to improve chromatography by achieving more efficient, sensitive, and faster analyses. The primary column dimensions of particle size, length, and internal diameter will be discussed and their effect on chromatographic separations demonstrated, providing some practical insight into how to select the best column dimensions for a particular application.