Pinnacle DB C18 lifetime for opiate analysis

[jsupica]

We're getting ready to do a study on optimum lifetime for Pinnacle DB C18 3um 100x2.1mm columns used in urine analysis for opiates. It looks like Restek is loathe to give any estimations on column life so does anyone have experience with column life in urine analysis or know a good place for background research?

[HPLCaddict]

Of course, Restek will give you no estimation of the column lifetime. It depends heavily on the method (mobile phase, temperature, gradient or isocratic, etc.) and the kind of samples run (which matrix, how much of it, etc.). And the third factor is luck!
You may get several thousands of injections out of a column, or the very same column may die after just a few.
Urine samples, as any samples of biological origin, are not the easist stuff for a column. I'd strongly suggest to use a guard column to protect your main analytical column.

[DJ]

jsupica-

I'm interested in hearing more about your study, perhaps even collaborating.

Can you tell me what industry you are in?