Kinetic optimisation of the reversed phase liquid chromatographic separation of proanthocyanidins on sub-2 μm and superficially porous phases

► A kinetic evaluation of new C18 phases for phenolic analysis is presented. ► Superficially porous particles provide comparable results to sub-2 μm porous particles. ► Higher temperature improves separation of especially oligomeric procyanidins. ► Conversion between rotational isomers may cause unique behaviour of high MW procyanidins. ► Significant speed and/or efficiency gains obtained under optimal kinetic conditions.