Matrix on C18 column, ruin it?

[ana89]

Hey

I have an analyte to analyse by LC, my only option is a C18 column which is ok to have a nice shaped peak according to literatture. Problem is propanoic acid is in the matrix and I cannot separate it from my analyte. Can propanoic acid ruin my column or will it go out very fast without sticking to the column ?

[dhometchko]

Hi,
Depends on the concentration and to some extent the mobile phase. In most cases the addition of an organic acid in the sample will not destroy the C18 column. You may see some baseline issues especially at low UV wavelengths.

[ana89]

Thank you Dhometchko, do you know what is the concentration limit to spare the column please ? (So I can dilute my product in case it is too high?)