Chromatography Forum

Hello,

I have a problem related to the Metacarb 87C columns(Strong cation-exchange resin consisting of sulfonated cross-linked styrene-divinylbenzene copolymer in the calcium form, about 9 μm in diameter)

Probably it has been washed with other solvents than distilled water and now is stoppered

Does anybody know how to resolve the problem?

Best Rgd
Antonio

Depends what clogged the column. If someone tried dilute sulfuric acid in there, then it's dead (think "plaster of paris"). If methanol, then there is a chance (but no guarantee).

Turn the column around and backflush with water gently (starting at something like 0.2 mL/min) then gradually increase the flow rate to your usual value. Do this at the usual elevated temperature. If something has clogged the frit, that should blow it loose. If the column has been overpressured, this will (hopefully) "fluff" the bed. If the beads have been collapsed by methanol, this may give them a chance to rehydrate. But, as I said, there are no guarantees.