Column Recommendations for GPC Analysis of Silicone Oils

Record: 613

Category: Column Selection
Product: KF-806M
Sample: Silicone Oils

Question

I am looking to analyze the molecular weight distribution of silicone oil samples.
Do you have a column recommendation or relevant application example?

Answer

For the molecular weight distribution analysis of silicone oils, Shodex recommends GPC/SEC columns from the KF series, which are designed for non-aqueous polymer analysis using organic solvents.

KF-806M is suitable as a starting column for evaluating the molecular weight distribution of silicone oils. It allows users to determine the approximate molecular weight range and distribution profile before considering additional columns or pore size combinations.

Relevant Application:

Dimethyl Silicone Oil Analysis Using KF Series Columns (Toluene Eluent)

This application demonstrates the analysis of dimethyl silicone oil using KF-series GPC columns with toluene as the eluent. The example shows how column selection and configuration can be used to evaluate silicone oil molecular weight distribution under non-aqueous conditions.

Method Development Considerations:

• A single KF-806M column is often sufficient for initial screening of silicone oil samples.
• If higher resolution or more detailed molecular weight distribution is required, additional KF-series columns with different pore sizes may be connected in series.
• Final column selection should be guided by the observed molecular weight range and resolution requirements of the analysis.

Additional Comments

Silicone oils often exhibit broad molecular weight distributions, making pore size optimization important. Toluene is commonly used as an eluent for silicone oil GPC analysis due to good solubility and compatibility with KF-series columns.

Shodex Technical Support can assist with column selection and method optimization once initial results are available.

support@shodexhplc.com

Download or Print PDF