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Are the TLC plates compatible with my mobile phase solvents?
Most TLC plates are compatible with common organic solvents (e.g., hexane, ethyl acetate, methanol). Check the product specifications for specific solvent resistance.
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How do I select the correct TLC plate for my sample?
- Choose the adsorbent type (e.g., silica or alumina) based on the polarity of your compounds.
- Consider layer thickness (250 µm or 0.25 mm for analytical, 1,000 – 2,000 µm or 1 – 2 mm for preparative).
- Use plates with fluorescent indicators for UV detection.
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What are the typical dimensions of TLC plates available?
Standard sizes are 20 x 20 cm, 10 x 10 cm, and 5 x 5 cm. Custom sizes can also be provided upon request.
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How should I choose between silica, alumina, or other adsorbents?
- Use silica gel for general-purpose and normal-phase separations.
- Use alumina for more basic compounds.
- Select reverse-phase plates for polar compounds or water-based separations.
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What is the difference between pre-coated and self-prepared TLC plates?
Pre-coated plates are ready-to-use, offering uniform layers and reproducible results. Self-prepared plates are cost-effective but may vary in layer consistency and require additional preparation time.
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What are TLC plates used for?
TLC plates are used for separating and analyzing mixtures of compounds. Common applications include reaction monitoring, purity testing, and qualitative identification of compounds in pharmaceuticals, food, and environmental samples.
