CCDG is excited to launch its virtual LC School May 9-13th
Instructor: Merlin K. L. Bicking, PhD
Description: This multi-day course offers sufficient theoretical and practical background to perform independent work in liquid chromatography. Lectures encompass all major areas of liquid chromatography likely to be encountered by workers practicing in the field.
AACC ACCENT® Credit Hours will be awarded to the learner after completion of a short survey at the end of the course. 16 credit hours for the lecture and 2 credit hours for the optional lab. The course will be delivered in half-day sessions, lasting approximately four hours each. Each session involves a live instructor and opportunities for questions and discussion. Course notes will be delivered in PDF format to all students prior to the course.
The Chicago Chromatography Group invites you to its Annual Open Board Meeting.
If you are interested in serving on the board, or just want to learn more about how CCDG works, we would love for you to join us on Thursday, March 3rd at 6 PM.
Posters by: Edward G. Franklin, PhD, Technical Director of Chromatography Applications at Regis Technologies, Inc.
HPLC-UV Method Development for Baseline Resolution of 17 Cannabinoids
With ongoing discussions regarding the legalization of marijuana along with great interest in the potential medical benefits of hemp-derived products, there is increasing demand upon the cannabis testing industry for analytical determination of cannabinoid content. Current regulations concerning potency vary by jurisdiction, but usually require testing for the active forms of THC and CBD. In addition to those, California requires testing for the acid forms, THCA and CBDA, along with CBG and CBN. As regulations evolve, and as research interests in minor cannabinoids expand, it is important to have robust analytical methods in place that are capable of meeting needs. Herein, the baseline resolution of 17 cannabinoids by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with UV detection is described. Chromatographic method development was performed with particular attention to speed of analysis and means of affecting selectivity for the improved resolution of critical pairs.
Sample Loadability on Coated and Immobilized Polysaccharide-Based CSPs
Chiral stationary phases (CSPs) prepared by coating phenylcarbamate derivatives of amylose and cellulose on supporting silica gels have proven invaluable for the separation and purification of enantiomers in both high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and supercritical fluid chromatography (SFC). One notable limitation of coated polysaccharide phases is the restricted use of certain organic mobile phases, such as acetone, chloroform, ethyl acetate, tetrahydrofuran (THF), and toluene. These solvents must be avoided as they can swell or dissolve the polysaccharide and destroy columns packed with coated CSPs. Immobilized versions of the same chiral selectors have expanded the capabilities of these phases to allow for the use of such solvents in analysis and sample purification. For some applications, however, practitioners have observed important differences in selectivity and sample loading capacities between the coated and immobilized versions. Herein, three examples of chiral separations performed using HPLC and SFC are discussed with respect to how these differences may be manifested and overcome or exploited to advantage.
Edward G. Franklin, PhD, Technical Director of Chromatography Applications at Regis Technologies, Inc. Dr. Edward G. Franklin earned a B.S. in Biochemistry in 2006 and M.S. in Forensic Science in 2007 from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, PA. In 2012, he received a PhD in Analytical Chemistry from The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill under the direction of Dr. James Jorgenson. In over 10 years of HPLC-related experience, he has conducted research ranging from fundamental investigations of the kinetic performance of packed-bed HPLC columns, instrument and column development for ultra-high pressure separations of complex samples, and column stationary phase development for application-specific methods. In his current position as the Technical Director of Chromatography Applications at Regis Technologies, Inc., he develops new products and methods for chromatography solutions related to chiral and achiral separations using reversed-phase, normal phase, and supercritical fluid approaches.
CCDG proudly presents Merlin Bicking from ACCTA, Inc. as our speaker for our spring meeting that will take place on WebEx. Please click here for registration.
Your Autosampler Can Make Mixtures and Calibration Standards
Merlin K. L. Bicking, PhD, President and Senior Analytical Scientist, ACCTA, Inc.
We have automated or improved nearly every step in most chromatography methods, except for the preparation of calibration standards. High precision and accuracy methods still require Class A pipets and volumetric flasks, and large volumes of high purity solvents. This presentation will describe a simple procedure that uses a typical HPLC autosampler to prepare single or as multi-component mixtures of calibration standards at multiple levels. The method is most efficient when you have the ability to program the autosampler directly, but there are simple variations that can be developed without such programming. Multiple applications will be shown that demonstrate the ability to prepare standards that match manual preparations. This on-demand procedure has been successfully validated for GMP use and is an excellent alternative for high-cost standards.
Dr. Bicking has extensive analytical chemistry experience in academia, contract research, independent testing laboratories, consulting, and technical training. His professional history includes development of two EPA methods, as well as numerous methods in other regulated and non-regulated industries. His publications and presentations cover a wide range of topics, including liquid chromatography theory, derivatization, method optimization, and the use of experimental design strategies in analytical chemistry. He also develops and presents technical training seminars for analytical laboratory staff. He has been teaching the CCDG LC School for the last four years.
CCDG is proud to present Fred Foster from GERSTEL, Inc. as our next speaker. This meeting will take place on WebEx. Please click here for registration.
Automation: The next critical tool for scientists’ survival during the pandemic and during recovery.
Fred Foster, GERSTEL, Inc. Baltimore, MD
The pandemic forced everyone to learn how to continue to be productive while existing in a remote environment. As scientists, we were able to quickly adapt to virtual meetings, web conferences, and online connections, however, our workloads and the samples needing analyzed did not stop. There is still laboratory work to perform that is harder to complete remotely. When the vaccines are available to all, everyone has been vaccinated, and the ever-present “curve” has finally been flattened, the brick-and-mortar work environment will open again. Once that occurs, all the work that was delayed because of shutdowns, partial work weeks, and working from home will be waiting for all of us. We will need a way to do a lot more with less resources. That is why automating as much as possible will be critical.
This seminar, given in the first month of what will hopefully be the year in which we see the light at the end of the tunnel, will discuss how GERSTEL helps its customers automate their sample preparation and sample introduction methods in order increase throughput, get through the backlog of samples, and ultimately free up resources when they are needed most. The MPS roboticPRO is a highly efficient LC or GC autosampler with extended robotic functionality. It provides reliable processing of complex tasks including automation of liquid-liquid and solid phase extraction procedures and as well as other liquid handling methods. Syringe holders and syringes are integrated in special syringe modules, which can be exchanged automatically within a running sequence when using the MPS roboticPRO for maximum flexibility. The entire system is controlled using the proven GERSTEL MAESTRO software in a simple and efficient manner. Examples of some of the automated sample preparation options and how they are used to provide increased productivity will be highlighted.
Fredrick D. Foster, GERSTEL, Inc., 701 Digital Dr., Suite J, Linthicum, MD 21090, USA
Fredrick D. Foster received his B.S in Chemistry from Juniata College and his M.S. in Biotechnology from Johns Hopkins University. Mr. Foster has more than 25 years experience in analytical and bio-analytical method development and analysis, working closely with industry and various U.S. Federal and State agencies. Application fields include clinical, food safety and environmental analysis, mainly based on HPLC and LC-MS/MS. Mr. Foster currently works as an Applications Scientist for GERSTEL, Inc. located in Baltimore, MD, helping to develop, demonstrate and train customers on automated sample preparation methods coupled to either HPLC or LC/MS/MS.
Due to the current status of COVID-19 and CDC recommendations, the CCDG board has decided to postpone in-person activities until further notice. This includes our annual Introductory to Liquid Chromatography and Gas Chromatography courses.
Fortunately, we are continuing our lecture series in virtual space. Our next lecture/poster session on January 20, 2021 (see website for more information) is a joint activity with the Chicago Mass Spectrometry Discussion Group. We plan to have another lecture/poster session in the spring.
We thank you for your understanding, and we sincerely hope everyone stays safe and healthy at this critical time.
Regards, James V. DeFrancesco, PhD CCDG President jdefrancesco@luc.edu
Pittcon, the world’s leading annual conference and exposition on laboratory science will be held March 1-5 at Chicago’s McCormick Place.
While there, stop by the CCDG booth and be sure not to miss the 2020 Separations Community Mixer, Tuesday evening, March 3, 5:30-9:30 pm, at Buddy Guy’s Legends.
Contact your chromatography supplier listed below to score a ticket to the hottest party at Pittcon.
The Chicago Chromatography Discussion Group has added a poster session at the beginning of each dinner meeting to provide an opportunity for chromatographers to present, demonstrate, and discuss their most recent achievements, practical experiences, novel ideas and challenges. The goal of the poster track is to encourage and facilitate the exchange within the chromatography community, foster collaboration, and, therewith strengthen the community as a whole.
At the end of the year, the governing board will award one poster $250 and a one year membership.
Submissions to the website should include either:
A draft of the actual poster including author(s) and affiliation(s); or
An extended abstract of the presented contribution comprising the following contents:
Title
Motivation and goals
Background information if needed to understand the contribution
Deadline for posters is February 7th. Our next Networking, Dinner & Presentation Meeting is Tuesday February 11, 2020
Send your submission to chicagochromatography@gmail.com
The introduction of commercially available UHPLC systems in 2004 and the rapid adoption of its methodology and instrumentation fundamentally altered the landscape of the separations laboratory. While the rules that govern the practice of UHPLC are no different than those that govern HPLC, a much stricter adherence to those rules is necessary. In addition, the proliferation of mass spectrometers as LC detectors has required analysts to think carefully when transferring optical detector-based methods to LCMS platforms. This presentation will review best practices for UHPLC and UHPLC MS. Specific topics of discussion will include tubing & connections, sample diluents, solvent purity, glassware cleanliness, contaminant ions as well as other tips & tricks to make a day in the lab less stressful.
Rich DeMuro, Principal Technical Support Specialist, Waters Corporation Rich joined Waters as a Technical Support Specialist in 2008. Based in the Chicago area, he is responsible for the regional support of Waters separation, MS and informatics platforms as well as their applications. During his 30+ year career in the analytical instrument industry he has worked extensively with a broad range of techniques while specializing in the field of liquid chromatography. During his time at Shimadzu from 1987 – 2007, Rich’s focus was on LC hardware/software operational support & training. That focus has been maintained at Waters while also expanding to include separations development & mass spectrometry. Rich earned a BS in Nutrition from the University of Delaware and is a past president of the Chicago Chromatography Discussion Group
Upcoming Events
CCDG GC School
Posponed until we can meet in person
“I now have a better understanding of how HPLC works and why column choice is so important.”
“It is a fantastic course for learning the theory of LC and method development”
“The instructor, Merlin Bicking, is very helpful. It was great to see how wiling he is to answer questions and all the variety of methods he worked on.”
“I am just beginning my position from out of school. I found the course very insightful in terms of preparation for my future career”
“It is very useful for me because having hands on experience, which helped me to understand more of HPLC.”
“Great class. Would easily take again and recommend Dr. Merlin anytime. Would love to take his other courses. If he had a book would quickly buy for reference.”
Last Updated: October 25, 2022 by CCDG Leave a Comment
CCDG’s Virtual Liquid Chromatography School
CCDG is excited to launch its virtual LC School May 9-13th
Instructor: Merlin K. L. Bicking, PhD
Description: This multi-day course offers sufficient theoretical and practical background to perform independent work in liquid chromatography. Lectures encompass all major areas of liquid chromatography likely to be encountered by workers practicing in the field.
AACC ACCENT® Credit Hours will be awarded to the learner after completion of a short survey at the end of the course. 16 credit hours for the lecture and 2 credit hours for the optional lab. The course will be delivered in half-day sessions, lasting approximately four hours each. Each session involves a live instructor and opportunities for questions and discussion. Course notes will be delivered in PDF format to all students prior to the course.
Last Updated: January 6, 2023 by CCDG
Election Results
On 3/3/22 CCDG held its open board meeting and the following are the results of the election;
President
James DeFrancesco, Ph.D.
President Elect
Stephanie Collins
Secretary
Sara Plowman
Secretary Elect
Olivia Cavazos
Treasurer
Robin Sutka, Ph.D.
Awards Chair
Sara Plowman
Communications Chairs
Olivia Cavazos & Mary Jones
GC School Chair
Vacant
LC School Chair
Rich DeMuro
Membership Chair
Natasha Banke, Ph.D.
Programs Chair
Kristin Sulaiman
Sponsorship Chair
Joe Jones, Ph.D.
Congratulations to all!
Last Updated: March 7, 2022 by CCDG Leave a Comment
Virtual Open Board Meeting: Thursday, March 3rd at 6 PM
The Chicago Chromatography Group invites you to its Annual Open Board Meeting.
If you are interested in serving on the board, or just want to learn more about how CCDG works, we would love for you to join us on Thursday, March 3rd at 6 PM.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER!
*Special Treat: All attendees will receive a Starbucks gift card and a chance for additional prizes.
Last Updated: April 12, 2021 by CCDG Leave a Comment
Posters to Precede Presentation: April 22, 2021 6:00 PM CST
Posters by: Edward G. Franklin, PhD, Technical Director of Chromatography Applications at Regis Technologies, Inc.
HPLC-UV Method Development for Baseline Resolution of 17 Cannabinoids
With ongoing discussions regarding the legalization of marijuana along with great interest in the potential medical benefits of hemp-derived products, there is increasing demand upon the cannabis testing industry for analytical determination of cannabinoid content. Current regulations concerning potency vary by jurisdiction, but usually require testing for the active forms of THC and CBD. In addition to those, California requires testing for the acid forms, THCA and CBDA, along with CBG and CBN. As regulations evolve, and as research interests in minor cannabinoids expand, it is important to have robust analytical methods in place that are capable of meeting needs. Herein, the baseline resolution of 17 cannabinoids by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with UV detection is described. Chromatographic method development was performed with particular attention to speed of analysis and means of affecting selectivity for the improved resolution of critical pairs.
Click here to view poster.
Sample Loadability on Coated and Immobilized Polysaccharide-Based CSPs
Chiral stationary phases (CSPs) prepared by coating phenylcarbamate derivatives of amylose and cellulose on supporting silica gels have proven invaluable for the separation and purification of enantiomers in both high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and supercritical fluid chromatography (SFC). One notable limitation of coated polysaccharide phases is the restricted use of certain organic mobile phases, such as acetone, chloroform, ethyl acetate, tetrahydrofuran (THF), and toluene. These solvents must be avoided as they can swell or dissolve the polysaccharide and destroy columns packed with coated CSPs. Immobilized versions of the same chiral selectors have expanded the capabilities of these phases to allow for the use of such solvents in analysis and sample purification. For some applications, however, practitioners have observed important differences in selectivity and sample loading capacities between the coated and immobilized versions. Herein, three examples of chiral separations performed using HPLC and SFC are discussed with respect to how these differences may be manifested and overcome or exploited to advantage.
Click here to view poster.
Edward G. Franklin, PhD, Technical Director of Chromatography Applications at Regis Technologies, Inc. Dr. Edward G. Franklin earned a B.S. in Biochemistry in 2006 and M.S. in Forensic Science in 2007 from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, PA. In 2012, he received a PhD in Analytical Chemistry from The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill under the direction of Dr. James Jorgenson. In over 10 years of HPLC-related experience, he has conducted research ranging from fundamental investigations of the kinetic performance of packed-bed HPLC columns, instrument and column development for ultra-high pressure separations of complex samples, and column stationary phase development for application-specific methods. In his current position as the Technical Director of Chromatography Applications at Regis Technologies, Inc., he develops new products and methods for chromatography solutions related to chiral and achiral separations using reversed-phase, normal phase, and supercritical fluid approaches.
Last Updated: January 4, 2022 by CCDG Leave a Comment
Virtual Meeting: April 22, 2021 6:00 PM CST
CCDG proudly presents Merlin Bicking from ACCTA, Inc. as our speaker for our spring meeting that will take place on WebEx. Please click here for registration.
Your Autosampler Can Make Mixtures and Calibration Standards
Merlin K. L. Bicking, PhD, President and Senior Analytical Scientist, ACCTA, Inc.
We have automated or improved nearly every step in most chromatography methods, except for the preparation of calibration standards. High precision and accuracy methods still require Class A pipets and volumetric flasks, and large volumes of high purity solvents. This presentation will describe a simple procedure that uses a typical HPLC autosampler to prepare single or as multi-component mixtures of calibration standards at multiple levels. The method is most efficient when you have the ability to program the autosampler directly, but there are simple variations that can be developed without such programming. Multiple applications will be shown that demonstrate the ability to prepare standards that match manual preparations. This on-demand procedure has been successfully validated for GMP use and is an excellent alternative for high-cost standards.
Click here to view a poster preview of the presentation.
About the presenter:
Dr. Bicking has extensive analytical chemistry experience in academia, contract research, independent testing laboratories, consulting, and technical training. His professional history includes development of two EPA methods, as well as numerous methods in other regulated and non-regulated industries. His publications and presentations cover a wide range of topics, including liquid chromatography theory, derivatization, method optimization, and the use of experimental design strategies in analytical chemistry. He also develops and presents technical training seminars for analytical laboratory staff. He has been teaching the CCDG LC School for the last four years.
Last Updated: March 21, 2021 by CCDG
Virtual Meeting: January 20, 2021 6:00 PM CST
CCDG is proud to present Fred Foster from GERSTEL, Inc. as our next speaker. This meeting will take place on WebEx. Please click here for registration.
Automation: The next critical tool for scientists’ survival during the pandemic and during recovery.
Fred Foster, GERSTEL, Inc. Baltimore, MD
The pandemic forced everyone to learn how to continue to be productive while existing in a remote environment. As scientists, we were able to quickly adapt to virtual meetings, web conferences, and online connections, however, our workloads and the samples needing analyzed did not stop. There is still laboratory work to perform that is harder to complete remotely. When the vaccines are available to all, everyone has been vaccinated, and the ever-present “curve” has finally been flattened, the brick-and-mortar work environment will open again. Once that occurs, all the work that was delayed because of shutdowns, partial work weeks, and working from home will be waiting for all of us. We will need a way to do a lot more with less resources. That is why automating as much as possible will be critical.
This seminar, given in the first month of what will hopefully be the year in which we see the light at the end of the tunnel, will discuss how GERSTEL helps its customers automate their sample preparation and sample introduction methods in order increase throughput, get through the backlog of samples, and ultimately free up resources when they are needed most. The MPS roboticPRO is a highly efficient LC or GC autosampler with extended robotic functionality. It provides reliable processing of complex tasks including automation of liquid-liquid and solid phase extraction procedures and as well as other liquid handling methods. Syringe holders and syringes are integrated in special syringe modules, which can be exchanged automatically within a running sequence when using the MPS roboticPRO for maximum flexibility. The entire system is controlled using the proven GERSTEL MAESTRO software in a simple and efficient manner. Examples of some of the automated sample preparation options and how they are used to provide increased productivity will be highlighted.
Fredrick D. Foster, GERSTEL, Inc., 701 Digital Dr., Suite J, Linthicum, MD 21090, USA
Contact details: fdfoster@gerstelus.com
About the presenter:
Fredrick D. Foster received his B.S in Chemistry from Juniata College and his M.S. in Biotechnology from Johns Hopkins University. Mr. Foster has more than 25 years experience in analytical and bio-analytical method development and analysis, working closely with industry and various U.S. Federal and State agencies. Application fields include clinical, food safety and environmental analysis, mainly based on HPLC and LC-MS/MS. Mr. Foster currently works as an Applications Scientist for GERSTEL, Inc. located in Baltimore, MD, helping to develop, demonstrate and train customers on automated sample preparation methods coupled to either HPLC or LC/MS/MS.
Last Updated: January 14, 2021 by CCDG
COVID-19 Update
Hello CCDG Members and Friends,
Due to the current status of COVID-19 and CDC recommendations, the CCDG board has decided to postpone in-person activities until further notice. This includes our annual Introductory to Liquid Chromatography and Gas Chromatography courses.
Fortunately, we are continuing our lecture series in virtual space. Our next lecture/poster session on January 20, 2021 (see website for more information) is a joint activity with the Chicago Mass Spectrometry Discussion Group. We plan to have another lecture/poster session in the spring.
We thank you for your understanding, and we sincerely hope everyone stays safe and healthy at this critical time.
Regards,
James V. DeFrancesco, PhD
CCDG President
jdefrancesco@luc.edu
Last Updated: March 2, 2020 by CCDG
CCDG at Pittcon
Pittcon, the world’s leading annual conference and exposition on laboratory science will be held March 1-5 at Chicago’s McCormick Place.
While there, stop by the CCDG booth and be sure not to miss the 2020 Separations Community Mixer, Tuesday evening, March 3, 5:30-9:30 pm, at Buddy Guy’s Legends.
Contact your chromatography supplier listed below to score a ticket to the hottest party at Pittcon.
Last Updated: January 20, 2020 by CCDG
Call for Posters
The Chicago Chromatography Discussion Group has added a poster session at the beginning of each dinner meeting to provide an opportunity for chromatographers to present, demonstrate, and discuss their most recent achievements, practical experiences, novel ideas and challenges. The goal of the poster track is to encourage and facilitate the exchange within the chromatography community, foster collaboration, and, therewith strengthen the community as a whole.
At the end of the year, the governing board will award one poster $250 and a one year membership.
Submissions to the website should include either:
A draft of the actual poster including author(s) and affiliation(s); or
An extended abstract of the presented contribution comprising the following contents:
Deadline for posters is February 7th. Our next Networking, Dinner & Presentation Meeting is Tuesday February 11, 2020
Send your submission to chicagochromatography@gmail.com
Posted: January 14, 2020 by CCDG
Dinner Lecture, February 11, 2020
The Chicago Chromatography Discussion Group Presents:
Rich DeMuro
Waters Corporation
Best Practices for UHPLC & UHPLC MS
Tuesday, February 11, 2020
6:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Mickey Finn’s Brewery
345 North Milwaukee Ave
Libertyville, IL
Get your tickets HERE
The introduction of commercially available UHPLC systems in 2004 and the rapid adoption of its methodology and instrumentation fundamentally altered the landscape of the separations laboratory. While the rules that govern the practice of UHPLC are no different than those that govern HPLC, a much stricter adherence to those rules is necessary. In addition, the proliferation of mass spectrometers as LC detectors has required analysts to think carefully when transferring optical detector-based methods to LCMS platforms. This presentation will review best practices for UHPLC and UHPLC MS. Specific topics of discussion will include tubing & connections, sample diluents, solvent purity, glassware cleanliness, contaminant ions as well as other tips & tricks to make a day in the lab less stressful.
Rich DeMuro, Principal Technical Support Specialist, Waters Corporation Rich joined Waters as a Technical Support Specialist in 2008. Based in the Chicago area, he is responsible for the regional support of Waters separation, MS and informatics platforms as well as their applications. During his 30+ year career in the analytical instrument industry he has worked extensively with a broad range of techniques while specializing in the field of liquid chromatography. During his time at Shimadzu from 1987 – 2007, Rich’s focus was on LC hardware/software operational support & training. That focus has been maintained at Waters while also expanding to include separations development & mass spectrometry. Rich earned a BS in Nutrition from the University of Delaware and is a past president of the Chicago Chromatography Discussion Group
Upcoming Events
CCDG GC School
Posponed until we can meet in person
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LC School Reviews
“I now have a better understanding of how HPLC works and why column choice is so important.”
“It is a fantastic course for learning the theory of LC and method development”
“The instructor, Merlin Bicking, is very helpful. It was great to see how wiling he is to answer questions and all the variety of methods he worked on.”
“I am just beginning my position from out of school. I found the course very insightful in terms of preparation for my future career”
“It is very useful for me because having hands on experience, which helped me to understand more of HPLC.”
“Great class. Would easily take again and recommend Dr. Merlin anytime. Would love to take his other courses. If he had a book would quickly buy for reference.”