Automated spraying device for the derivatization of TLC/HPTLC chromatograms

The CAMAG Derivatizer sets a new standard of reproducibility and convenience in reagent transfer onto TLC/HPTLC plates by employing a unique 'micro droplet' spraying technology (patent pending). The device is suitable for all common reagents. In addition to the unsurpassed homogeneous reagent distribution, the Derivatizer offers other advantages as compared to manual spraying.

• Environmentally friendly and safe handling through a closed system
• User-independent results
• Low reagent consumption, i.e. 4mL for 20 × 20cm plates and up to 3mL for 20 × 10cm plates
• Intuitive handling and easy cleaning.

Operation

At the push of a button, the transparent hood automatically lifts so that the user can remove the plate tray and place the TLC/HPTLC plate on it. After the tray is inserted into its original operating position, the hood is lowered and completely sealed to prevent spraying reagent from leaking to the outside.

The user fills the required reagent volume into the appropriate nozzle, selects the optimum spraying model and starts the reagent transfer.

To meet the divergent physicochemical properties of the reagents, e.g. viscosity, four different color-coded nozzles are available, and the user can select from six spraying modes.

The nozzle generates an extremely fine reagent aerosol, which evenly distributes in the chamber and gradually settles down on the TLC plate.

Any residue remaining in the gas phase is automatically aspirated by the integrated pump and collected in the wash bottle behind the instrument. After the reagent transfer has been completed, the hood lifts at the push of a button and the TLC/HPTLC plate can be removed for further processing.

Results

Derivatization means another step in the process of planar chromatography, consequently causing an increase in variance. Even with a trained, expedient technician manually spraying a reagent, the relative standard deviation (RSD) of the measured values rises up to 12%. Using the CAMAG Derivatizer, the RSD increases by less than 5%, thus providing very reproducible results, equal to those obtained with the Chromatogram Immersion Device, yet consuming considerably less reagent.