Chromatography Forum

Does anyone know how to remove silicone build-up from the septum in the injection port? I have a SSL injector that has not been used in 2 years but installed and I'm noticing a lot of, what appears to be, silicone oil residue from the breakdown of the septum. It is covering the entire inside of the injection port. I tried a copper brush and acetone and methylene chloride but it still seems to stick around. My peaks have awful tailing that I can't get rid of. Is there any solvent out there that will dissolve this junk so I can restore my injection port?

Thanks,
Ty

Silicones break down in the presence of base.

Ammonia comes to mind. Ammonia in methanol also comes to mind.

best wishes,

Rod

Thanks Rod. I have also heard a similar suggestion here around the lab. I think I'll give it a try next.