Shimadzu supports transfer of existing HPLC to faster UHPLC methods

The Nexera-i MT is based on the i-Series platform of compact HPLC and UHPLC systems launched in 2014 and targets industries including pharmaceutical and foods.

Nexera-i MT's dual flow lines enable one instrument to run both HPLC and UHPLC analyses, as opposed to separate dedicated systems for each analysis.

By switching between the flow lines, it performs both analyses, preserving the relative separation pattern by compensating automatically for differences in system volume.

Dual flow lines and ACTO tech​

Dr Gesa Schad, product manager HPLC at Shimadzu Europa, said it features two flow lines, one for UHPLC and the other for HPLC analyses.

“Newly developed Analytical Conditions Transfer and Optimization (ACTO) technology automatically adapts method conditions according to changes in flow rate and column dimensions and also minimizes the effect of system volume differences on analytical results,” ​she said.

“This enhanced functionality supports the transfer of existing HPLC to faster UHPLC methods and also assures high cross-compatibility between old and new method conditions.”​

Shimadzu said recently there has been a focus on the use of UHPLC instruments and small particle columns to develop faster and better analytical methods that improve efficiency and throughput, especially in R&D environments.

However, many of the analytical methods used in quality control labs are conventional HPLC ones. Transferring these to UHPLC and validating them is a time consuming and labour intensive task.

Faster methods and smaller columns​

Dr Schad said more companies are moving to faster LC methods, using smaller columns to increase throughput, safe time and reduce solvent consumption.

“The Nexera-i MT incorporates two analytical flow lines with different system volumes into a single compact integrated LC,” ​she said.

“A switching valve allows a change between a flow path with bigger tubings and a dedicated HPLC column and a flow line that’s optimized for UHPLC analysis with a small particle column for UHPLC analysis. ​

“Pumps and detector are the same as in the high performance Nexera-i UHPLC system, so there is no negative effect on speed or sensitivity.​

“Solvent and sample consumption can be reduced to one-fifth of the usual amount without sacrificing data quality, by using a narrow-bore column, thanks to lower system volume and on-time injection function.”​

The ACTO technology adjusts injection timing based on the system volume difference between the existing HPLC system and Nexera-i MT, without requiring modification to the original gradient program.

It can be used to convert an existing HPLC method automatically to UHPLC conditions.

Nexera-i MT has features of the i-Series integrated LC product line including automated system start-up and baseline stabilization.

The on-instrument touchscreen control panel and Interactive Communication Mode (ICM) allow the user to edit and start analytical methods and batches from the instrument touch panel and synchronize with Shimadzu's LabSolutions software.

The instrument has a small footprint and is equipped with a stable low-noise detector and high speed, reproducible injector (especially for low volume injections).