High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC)

High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) is a separation and quantification technique used to analyze components in liquid samples by driving a solution through a chromatographic column under high pressure. It enables precise identification and measurement of target compounds, supporting accurate assessment of purity, concentration, impurities, and degradation products. At Materials Metric, we apply HPLC using validated, application-specific methods to support polymers, pharmaceuticals, biomolecules, additives, and complex chemical formulations. Our chromatographic workflows deliver reproducible retention profiles and reliable quantitative data, supporting research, formulation development, quality control, stability studies, and regulatory documentation.

Use of HPLC

• Quantification of active compounds
• Detection of impurities and residual monomers
• Polymer degradation and additive analysis
• Drug release and stability studies
• Leachables and extractables analysis

Applications of HPLC

• Pharmaceuticals: potency, impurity profiling
• Polymers: monomer residuals, stabilizers, degradation products
• Biomaterials: hydrogel degradation, release studies
• Food & Chemicals: ingredient verification

Sample Analysis Process

1. Submission & Review

Identify analytes, solvents, and detection needs

2. Sample Preparation

Filtration, dilution, or extraction

3. HPLC Measurement

UV, fluorescence, or mass spectrometry detection
Custom gradient and isocratic runs

4. Reporting

Chromatograms
Quantification curves
Impurity profiles

Why Choose Materials Metric for Your HPLC Analysis

• Accurate quantification and trace-level detection
• Specialized expertise in complex polymer and pharmaceutical samples
• Multiple detection modes (UV, fluorescence, MS)
• Support for extractables, leachables, and stability studies
• Clear reporting with quantitative results and interpretation

Related services

To learn more about our High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) services or other testing needs, please contact us.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)?

HPLC is a liquid-phase separation technique that pumps a sample dissolved in a mobile phase through a packed column under high pressure, resolving individual compounds by their differing interactions with the stationary phase. Detectors such as UV-visible, diode-array (DAD), fluorescence, refractive index, or mass spectrometry then identify and quantify each separated component. Materials Metric uses HPLC to measure the concentration and identity of nonvolatile and thermally sensitive organic compounds.

What can HPLC detect and measure?

HPLC resolves and quantifies small organic molecules, additives, active ingredients, degradation products, residual reactants, and impurities, typically from trace levels up to major components. It is well suited to polar, nonvolatile, and heat-sensitive analytes that would not survive gas chromatography. Coupled with mass spectrometry (LC-MS), it can also confirm molecular identity and resolve co-eluting species.

What sample is required for HPLC analysis?

A small quantity of material that can be dissolved or extracted into a compatible solvent is sufficient, often a few milligrams to a few grams depending on expected analyte levels. Solids, liquids, extracts, and formulated products are all acceptable once prepared into a filtered, particulate-free solution. Providing known target analytes, formulation details, and solubility information helps us optimize the method.

Which standards apply to HPLC testing?

Testing follows validated or fit-for-purpose methods aligned with ASTM, ISO, and USP general chapters where applicable, such as USP <621> Chromatography for system suitability and procedure controls. Method selection depends on the analyte, matrix, and the client regulatory context. Where no compendial method exists, Materials Metric develops and validates a fit-for-purpose procedure.