Brookfield DVNext Advanced Rotational Rheometer

Overview

The PFA Micro Chromatography Column Set (15 mL and 30 mL) is a precision-engineered sample preparation tool designed for trace metal analysis, anion/cation exchange purification, and matrix separation in high-purity analytical workflows. Constructed entirely from perfluoroalkoxy alkane (PFA), these columns offer exceptional chemical resistance to concentrated acids (e.g., HNO₃, HF, HCl), bases, and organic solvents—making them ideal for cleanroom-compatible, low-blank sample processing in ICP-MS, ICP-OES, and IC applications. Unlike glass or polypropylene alternatives, PFA eliminates leachable contaminants and minimizes analyte adsorption, ensuring high recovery rates for critical elements including Li, Mg, K, Sr, W, Nd, Sn, V, and Ba. Each column operates on gravity-fed or vacuum-assisted flow principles, enabling reproducible retention and elution kinetics under controlled residence time conditions.

Key Features

• Full-body PFA construction: Ultra-low extractables (<0.1 ng/mL for most metals), certified for ultra-trace analysis
• Modular geometry: Available in two nominal volumes—15 mL and 30 mL—with multiple inner diameter options to optimize flow rate, bed height, and resolution
• Integrated bottom taper: Precision-molded conical base prevents frit displacement during packing, centrifugation, or vacuum application
• Field-adjustable length: Columns may be cleanly cut with a PFA-compatible blade to reduce dead volume or match instrument interface requirements—no thermal degradation or microcracking observed post-trimming
• Standardized frit assembly: Includes inert PFA sintered frits (OD 9 mm / ID 6 mm; OD 11 mm / ID 7–8 mm) pre-installed and pressure-tested to 100 psi
• Sealing compatibility: Equipped with chemically inert PFA caps featuring integrated O-rings for leak-tight storage and transport

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

These microcolumns are validated for use with aqueous matrices containing ≤40% v/v organic modifiers (methanol, acetonitrile) and acid concentrations up to 12 M HNO₃ or 48% HF. They comply with ASTM D5673–22 (Standard Practice for Trace Metal Analysis in Water by ICP-MS) and support GLP/GMP-aligned workflows through documented lot traceability and certificate of conformance (CoC) upon request. All PFA material meets USP Class VI biocompatibility requirements and passes ISO 10993-5 cytotoxicity testing. No lubricants, mold-release agents, or secondary adhesives are used in manufacturing—ensuring zero interference in elemental speciation studies.

Software & Data Management

While the PFA microcolumn itself is a passive consumable, its integration into automated sample introduction systems (e.g., CETAC ASX-560, ESI PrepFAST IC) enables full audit trail generation via instrument control software compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11. Batch-level metadata—including column lot number, trimming date, frit type, and usage history—can be logged directly into LIMS platforms using standardized CSV or XML export templates. Optional barcoded labeling (GS1-128) supports automated inventory tracking and expiration management in regulated laboratories.

Applications

• Pre-concentration and matrix removal prior to ICP-MS analysis of seawater, geological digests, and biological fluids
• Separation of lanthanides (Nd, Sm, Eu) from high-zirconium or high-iron samples in nuclear fuel cycle analytics
• Cleanup of environmental soil extracts for EPA Method 6020B compliance
• Isotopic purification of Li and Sr standards for TIMS calibration
• On-column derivatization support for ion chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry
• Reagent-free desalting of protein hydrolysates in proteomics workflows

FAQ

Can these columns be reused?
Yes—provided they are rigorously rinsed with ≥3 column volumes of 2% HNO₃ followed by ultrapure water (18.2 MΩ·cm), and verified for carryover via blank analysis. Typical service life exceeds 50 cycles for low-matrix samples.

What is the maximum operating pressure?
Designed for gravity or vacuum-driven flow only; maximum recommended backpressure is 100 psi. Positive pressure operation requires custom end-fittings and is not supported out-of-box.

Are frits replaceable?
Frits are permanently bonded during molding and not user-replaceable; however, spare frit-equipped column bodies are available as consumable kits (Cat. No. PFA-MC-FRIT-SET).

Do you provide method validation documentation?
Application notes—including spike recovery data (n = 6, RSD < 3.2%), breakthrough curves for 10 ppb Li/Mg/K, and inter-lot consistency reports—are available under NDA upon request.

Is custom sizing available?
Yes—custom inner diameters (2–15 mm), lengths (5–100 mm), and tapered geometries can be manufactured under OEM agreement with minimum order quantities starting at 500 units.