Maximum temperature - Symmetry C18

[scanter]

Hi does anyone know where I can find a literature source giving the maximum recommended operating temperature for simple Waters Symmetry C18 columns?

[JGK]

Not sure of the actual upper limit.

However, Waters column ovens max out at 60C, so the columns should be OK to that temperature.

[Uwe Neue]

The answer is not simple, since you are dealing with a multi-variable situation. At room temperature, the recommended pH range is between 2 to 8, i.e. you won't see any appreciable changes for about 4 weeks at either pH value. At pH 7 and 50 degrees, you may see appreciable changes already earlier, say at about 2 to 3 weeks. The best stability is obtained around pH 4.5... 10 000 chromatographic runs at 30 degrees without the slightest change in retention.

At what pH are you planning to work, and what will the buffer be?

[scanter]

Unfortunately the columns are general use columns so the application could vary. The form that goes with the column asks for a maximum operation temperature to stop users from destroying it or damaging it with a single use. Based on your comments 50C is a good figure and if they need high temperatures they can ask and we can see whether what they are doing is worth expiring a column so quickly.