Eyes on the Prize: Overcoming Uncertainty to Realize the Power of 2D-LC Separations

Two-dimensional liquid chromatography (2D-LC) is a technique that extends the separation capabilities of conventional liquid chromatography by adding a second separation step to resolve compounds that are coeluted from a first column. This approach holds tremendous potential to solve difficult separation challenges in fields ranging from pharmaceutical analysis to biofuel characterization. Currently, method development is a significant bottleneck impeding more widespread implementation of 2D-LC methods, particularly for new users who are uncertain about how to proceed. In this month’s column, I highlight some of the primary considerations we face in method development and point to resources that can help users overcome uncertainty and develop highly effective 2D-LC methods.