Semi-Preparative HPLC

The DLSU Chromatography Laboratory’s Semi-Preparative High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (Semi Prep HPLC) is capable of separating the UV-detectable (wavelength range: 190 to 600 nm) components of crude extract samples, similar to the gravitational chromatography technique. Unlike analytical HPLC, preparative HPLC allows the collection of fractions corresponding to the peaks in the chromatogram.

The crude extract samples are contained in 6 mL vials, passed through the packed column with the help of the mobile phase and high pressures supplied by the binary pump, for chromatographic separation. Once the eluate passes through the detector, the fraction collector operates to dispense the fractions into individual 45 mL vials. 

The instrument is located in Room GT205 Dr. George Ty Central Instrumentation Facility at DLSU Laguna Campus in Binan, Laguna.

The facility offers Chromatography Analytical Services and accepts samples not only from DLSU researchers but also from outside clients (academe, government, and industry) for a fee (please see the schedule of fees).

Agilent 1260 Infinity II Semi Preparative HPLC: Column temperature control from 4°C to 40°C with flow rate range of 18 to 50 mL/min and is able to deliver pressures of up to 420 bar. The autosampler can hold up to 36 samples with a volume of 6 mL and an injection volume of 0.1 μL to 900 μL 

Other Specifications:

  1. Fraction collector: maximum collection volume = 45 mL; trigger modes include: time slices, peak (threshold up-/downslope), and time table; it can collect 40 fractions simultaneously in a single run.
  2. Variable Wavelength Detector (VWD): wavelength range from 190 to 600 nm.

Chromatography Lab analysis is charged per hour starting from instrument conditioning up to the analysis, and washing/cool down. The fees are inclusive of sample analysis and raw data (pdf/raw file) only. Standards, solvents, columns, and sample preparation consumables and reagents must be provided/shouldered by the client

The DLSU Chromatography Laboratory offers the following services:

  • Analytical HPLC/GPC analysis for UV and non-UV absorbing substances (e.g. identity comparison with standards, molecular weight determination, etc.).
  • Headspace and/or liquid injection analysis for GC-MS.
  • Tentative/putative compound identification by spectral matching using GC-MS, and based on accurate mass and MS/MS fragmentation matching (where available) for UHPLC-QTOF analysis. Absolute identification is possible when standards are available.
  • Quantitative analysis of identified compounds using GC-MS and UHPLC-QTOF analysis.
  • Non-destructive separation (i.e. fractionation) of compounds in crude extracts using the Semi-preparative HPLC.

Semi-Preparative HPLC analyses are charged per hour (60 minutes) usage. For each analysis, a minimum of an hourly rate is charged. Users may provide their own vials, columns, mobile phases/solvents, and standards. A separate rate will be charged for the use of vials, columns, mobile phases/solvents, and standards from our inventory.  

Semi-Preparative HPLC Hour Rates

DLSU Chemistry Department DLSP System Users External Users (Academic Institutions) External Users (Government Institutions) External Users (Industry/ Commercial)
1 HOUR RATE(PhP) 1 HOUR RATE(PhP) 1 HOUR RATE(PhP) 1 HOUR RATE(PhP) 1 HOUR RATE(PhP)
1,500 1,900 2,300 3,450 5,050
Additional Fees
Columns C-18 150 x 30.0 mm 10 μm
C-18 50 x 30.0 mm 5 μm
Silica 150 x 30.0 mm 10 μm
Solvents Acetonitrile
Methanol
Hexane
Ethyl Acetate
Dichloromethane
Methyl tert-butyl ether
Consumables Solvent Membrane Filter
Disposable Syringe
Syringe Filter
Vials
*Example: The Semi-Preparative HPLC instrument was used for 7 hours by a researcher within the DLSP system. He/she provided the column and solvents for HPLC analysis: The charge will be (7hrs x Php 1,900) + (consumables fee) = Php XXXX. For clients who provided their samples in vials for direct instrument analysis, the charge will only include the hourly rate: (7hrs x Php 1,900).
*Charge includes labor for sample preparation, experimental set-up (e.g. sample filtration, instrument conditioning), data processing, print-outs, and electronic data file.
*We require that papers for publication using the Semi-Preparative HPLC should acknowledge the DLSU Chromatography Facility.
* DLSP system users refer to DLSU users outside the DLSU Chemistry Department including other schools within the DLSP system

STEP 1. Apart from the processed sample itself, kindly provide a blank sample (this should also undergo the same process as the samples during sample preparation –except it does not contain the sample itself) to ensure that the noise coming from the solvent is eliminated from the sample chromatogram.

STEP 2. Provide the sample weight and dilution performed during the sample preparation.

STEP 3. Ensure that the solvent used to dilute/dissolve the sample is miscible with the mobile phase for the analysis. Otherwise, peak distortions may occur.

STEP 4. Ensure that the blank and samples are filtered via 0.2 μm syringe filters prior to transferring them into 2 mL vials. Omitting this process may introduce blockage in the HPLC tubings. For light-sensitive samples, they must be contained in 2 mL amber vials.

STEP 5. Ensure to securely cover the top of the screw caps with parafilm to prevent leakage and solvent evaporation during transport.

STEP 6. Using commercially available stickers, kindly label the vials properly.

STEP 7. Pack the sample vials carefully by placing them in small containers that can be closed completely (e.g. Ziploc bag, 50 mL centrifuge tubes, or plastic box) surrounded by spill absorbent or tissue. For samples to be contained in a Ziploc bag/plastic box, we recommend inserting the samples in DIY block styrofoam with holes big enough to fit the vials. Place the packed vials in an icebox with cool gel packs.

STEP 8. Submit the sample to DLSU for analysis. Please click here for instructions on how to submit the samples.

STEP 1. Send your queries to [email protected], indicate your name and institution. To serve you better, we request a conference/discussion with you to help you determine the appropriate Semi-Preparative HPLC experiments to achieve your objectives.

STEP 2. Once the discussion has been finalized, a form will be sent out to the email address you used for the query OR you may download the form here. Kindly fill out the form completely with all the details. INCOMPLETE FORMS WILL NOT BE PROCESSED. Carefully read the Terms and Conditions indicated on the last page of the sample analysis form (Note: ONE FORM PER SAMPLE). For questions regarding the form kindly contact [email protected].

STEP 3. A confirmation email will be sent to you once the form(s) have been received and checked. A quotation will be sent to you depending on the number of samples and consumables that will be used from our inventory (if any).

STEP 4. Get the billing form. Billing forms can be requested ahead of time so that estimates can be made. 

STEP 5. Pay the corresponding fee to this bank account:

Bank: Metrobank
Branch: LTI – Biñan Laguna Branch
Account name: De La Salle University
Account #: 609-3-609-00167-7
You may pay either via cash or cheque.

STEP 6. Prepare the samples. Please see the sample preparation protocol. Options in submitting samples for analysis:

  1. If you do not have 2 mL vials for HPLC: send samples in centrifuge tubes. Please follow sample requirements and sample preparation protocol. We will prepare the samples in 2 mL HPLC vials. Note that consumables will incur additional costs.
  2. If you have 2 mL HPLC vials: prepare the samples in the HPLC vials following the sample preparation protocol.
  3. If you cannot perform sample preparation: ensure to properly label samples and wrap them securely to prevent cross-contamination. For light-sensitive samples, kindly wrap them in aluminum foil or in amber containers. For samples requiring a specific temperature for storage, ensure to store them in ice boxes with the temperature requirement. Label “fragile” when necessary.

STEP 7. Once the payment has been confirmed, you may send the samples to the address below (Note: SAMPLES WILL NOT BE PROCESSED UNLESS COMPLETE PAYMENT IS RECEIVED).

Chromatography Laboratory (℅ Dr. Anna Karen Laserna)
[email protected]
Central Instrumentation Facility RM 205
George TY Advanced Instrumentation Building
Spine Rd. Brgys. Biñan and Malamig, Biñan City, Laguna 4024

STEP 8. Please send a photocopy of the receipt to the Chromatography personnel for record-keeping. Receipts are required before the results are released. 

Can I observe during the Semi-Preparative HPLC analysis?

Yes. We can accommodate 1-2 observers. Please coordinate with us for the gate pass and schedule.

Is your Semi-Preparative HPLC equipped with an auto-sampler?

Yes. The Semi-Preparative HPLC is equipped with an autosampler and can hold up to 36 samples. It can be programmed for continuous analysis.

Do you offer rush analysis?

Yes. Rush analysis is available for twice the published rate. Please contact us for rush analysis at [email protected]

Do you process the chromatogram after the analysis?

Yes. We process the chromatogram and do integrations and expansions as we see fit. We send a pdf of the processed data through your e-mail. You can request for more detailed integrations and expansions.

Do you interpret the chromatogram after the analysis?

No. We do not provide chromatogram interpretation, but we may perform a comparison if you have provided us with standards or depending on the standard’s availability in our inventory (note that a separate rate will be charged for the use of chemicals from our inventory).

Do you perform quantitative analysis?

Yes, we may perform quantitative analysis if you have provided us with standards or depending on the standard’s availability in our inventory (note that a separate rate will be charged for the use of chemicals from our inventory).

Do you give the raw data after the analysis?

Yes. We can send the raw data (pdf file) through your e-mail. 

Do you have lab space for lab work prior to Semi-Preparative HPLC analysis?

Yes. For cases where laboratory space is required to do prior work (e.g. extraction), separate fees are required for the use of the lab and equipment. Please contact us for details at chromatographyl[email protected].

 Do you offer block time usage?

Yes. We offer block time usage for Chromatography analysis at a discounted rate. Block time usage is offered to academic principal investigators/research groups by blocking the Chromatography time for their sample analysis after depositing a specific amount. Please contact us for details at chromatographylab@dlsu.edu.ph.

Do you offer discounted rates for students?

Yes. Discounted rates are offered for accounts/research groups who signed a block-time usage with us. For more details, please contact us at chromatographyl[email protected].

Your contact information is not working, is there an alternative e-mail?

Contact us at these alternative e-mails: [email protected], [email protected], or [email protected]

Can we visit the Chromatography facility anytime?

As a university policy, we require that we are informed of the full names of the visitors, date and time of the visit, car information such as the color, make, and plate number at least 2 days prior to the Chromatography facility visit to process the campus entry permit. An RT-PCR negative test result taken 1-3 days prior to campus entry should be submitted to the CIF staff. All visitors should have a proper host inside the university while visiting. Note that we will only be accepting a limited number of visitors to comply with physical distancing.

Do you have a parking space at DLSU Laguna?

Yes, parking spaces are available at DLSU Laguna. Please coordinate with us before coming for the gate pass. We need information such as the full names of the visitors, date and time of the visit, car information such as the color, make and plate number.

How can we go to DLSU Laguna?

For directions, you can use the Google Maps app or the Waze app and input “DLSU NMR Laboratory”.

From Manila by car, use the SLEX, exit at Sta. Rosa (or Eton), proceed to Paseo de Sta Rosa. At the intersection of Sta. Rosa-Tagaytay Road and Laguna Blvd, proceed to Laguna Blvd going to Laguna Technopark. After Laguna Technopark Gate 2, continue straight until you see a DLSU star signage (on the right). Turn left and pass under the CALAX road and continue straight until the rotunda. DLSU Laguna gate is at the second exit.

From Manila by public transportation. Take a bus going to Sta. Rosa. Get off after the Sta. Rosa exit toll gate. Take a tricycle going to Shopwise Paseo de Sta. Rosa. Hail a tricycle for a special trip to DLSU Laguna.

Do you have accommodation at DLSU Laguna for an overnight stay?

There is a dormitory on campus that accepts transient stays. Please contact us for details at chromatography[email protected].

Semi-Preparative HPLC Analysis Form (doc)
Semi-Preparative HPLC Analysis Form (pdf)

DLSU Chromatography Laboratory

Central Instrumentation Facility
205 George Ty (GT) Building
De La Salle University Laguna Campus
Laguna Boulevard, LTI Spine Road, Barangays Biñan and Malamig, Binan, Laguna
e-mail: chromatographylab@dlsu.edu.ph