Hydrophilic Interaction Liquid Chromatography (HILIC) columns

HILIC is one of the most successful approaches for the retention and separation of polar compounds. There are many stationary phases that can be used in HILIC mode, and many phases are generically described as HILIC independently of their chemistry.  There is also a variety of misinformation regarding the use of this technique. This information center will address many the questions that HILIC users face:

  • What column should be used?
  • What are the best mobile phase starting conditions?
  • What are the common issues in HILIC method development that need to be addressed

HILIC Overview

HILIC can be described as a variation of reversed phase chromatography performed using a polar stationary phase. Learn more about the basics of HILIC columns.

HILIC Stationary Phases

Understanding the possible HILIC retention mechanisms involved for a particular column-solvent-analyte system is crucial in the process of selecting the right HILIC stationary phase leading to a successful application.

HILIC Retention Mechanisms

Evidence suggests that the retention mechanism in HILIC is complex, and consists of a combination of hydrophilic partitioning, hydrogen bonding, electrostatic interactions and van der waals interactions.

HILIC Advantages

Retention of hydrophilic compounds that are difficult to retain by reversed phase liquid chromatography is a big advantage of HILIC columns. Find out more. 

HILIC Method Development

This section explains how to use a systematic approach to method development

HILIC Troubleshooting

This section is intended as an aid in understanding and correcting some of the more common chromatographic problems that could occur with HILIC separations.

HILIC Column Care

This section provides some general guidelines for the care, use and storage of HILIC columns.

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