Chromatography Forum

I would like to know if Tetrahydrofuran is compatible with all column? I also want to know if Tetrahydrofuran is compatible with HPLC tubing? Should I take some special precautions while using Tetrahydrofuran?
As I have not used this a mobile phase till now…I would like to know your suggestion regarding this

Thanks a lot

THF is generally accepted as one of the "big three" organic solvents used in reversed-phase HPLC. There should be no compatibility problem with any silica-based column. For resin-based columns, consult the manufacturer.

THF is compatible with stainless steel tubing. It is listed as incompatible with PEEK (although in practice you can use a few percent THF without disastrous consequences).

More information here:
http://www.upchurch.com/TechInfo/polymerInfo.asp

THF comes is various grades. Some have stabilizers to suppress formation of peroxides, some don't. Stabilizers, depending on what they are, can interfere with the detection. You can buy HPLC grade that is anhydrous and without stabilizers. Like any ether, it can form peroxides on exposure to air, so think about a shelf life policy for opened bottles. Diluted in a mobile phase, THF is pretty stable.

If 100% THF is used in column regeneration produre, what should we do to avoid interaction with PEEK tube?

Don't use 100% THF with PEEK tubing. First the inside of the tube will swell; small capillaries can swell shut. If you persist, the whole tube swells. Then when you try to dry it out, the interior will develop cracks. I've seen the photomicrographs.

If it is not recommended to use 100% THF, what should I use instead of THF to regenerate our column?

You could search the forum to find your answer.
Here is one topic that you may find useful:

http://www.sepsci.com/chromforum/viewto ... generation

Best regards

I think it would be easier to replace PEEK tubing with stainless steel or teflon than to redesign and revalidate your method.