A Simple Device for Gradient Elution in Equilibrium Sandwich Chambers for Continuous Thin-Layer Chromatography

Abstract

The separation efficiency of various thin-layer chromatographic techniques was investigated using a horizontal sandwich tank for continuous elution with a glass distributer. Complex extract of camomile flowers (Azulane) was used as the test mixture and the number of separated spots as the measure of efficiency. Best results were obtained when gradient elution with chloroform-ethyl acetate mixtures was applied, A simple miniaturized device without mechanical mixer was employed, the spontaneous mixing being enhanced by gravitational flow of the components and their association on the molecular level.