Time resolved chromatograms in ultra-thin layer chromatography

Ultrathin-layer chromatography (UTLC) is a recently developed analytical method intended for compact, rapid separations of nanolitre analyte volumes. Optimizing this method's performance requires new measurement techniques compatible with the millimetre length scales and rapid separation dynamics observed in UTLC. We have designed, implemented and characterized a measurement system which records UTLC separations in full color with 32 μm spatial resolution and 33 ms temporal resolution. Our code analyzes multiple tracks per plate, filters analyte spots by color, and automatically generates time-resolved figures of merit. The instrument presented here captures a wealth of information from a UTLC separation, and should provide insight into UTLC physics and improved analytical performance.

► The short and rapid separations typical of UTLC require new analysis techniques. ► A consumer high definition video camera captures UTLC plate development. ► Hue-Saturation-Value color model used to produce color-filtered chromatograms. ► A custom MATLAB approach automatically generates time-dependent figures of merit.