Maintenance of RF 18 column

[souradipta]

I am attempting HPLC for the first time.
I have used an RP 18 (Agilant Zorbax ODS C18) for separation of ascorbic acid with mobile phase sodium acetate , EDTA , acetic acid . However I could not wash the column post use. It lying like this disconnected from the system for a month now.Is there any chance of contamination or other problems . I would use it within next 7 days. Do any washing or any treatment I need to do befor next use.
Kindly suggest

[tom jupille]

A column that has been allowed to dry out can sometimes be recovered, but there is no guarantee. A reverse-flush with a 50:50 mixture of methanol and water at a fairly low flow rate (maybe 0.5 mL/min if it's a 4.6-mm id column) is often a good starting point.

However, you should check with Agilent to see if they have any specific recommendations. If they do, follow them.

In any case, be prepared to buy a new column.