Custom HPLC method development and optimization for compounds, matrices, and separations that don't fit an off-the-shelf method.
SDE Chemicals provides custom HPLC-UV method development for small molecules, chemical intermediates, reaction mixtures, research compounds, and other samples where an established analytical method is unavailable or unsuitable.
Complex matrices, overlapping peaks, and unfamiliar compounds can require additional method development before reliable quantitation is possible. This is especially common for novel compounds, research formulations, and reaction mixtures without a published or standard test method.
Method development and method optimization are related but different services. Development builds a method from scratch when none exists; optimization improves or troubleshoots a method that already exists but isn't performing the way it should.
Method development works through a sequence of chromatographic parameters, adjusting each until your target compound is reliably separated, detected, and quantified.
Evaluate solvent systems and buffer conditions to find a phase that resolves your target compound from other peaks in the sample.
Test whether an isocratic run is sufficient or a gradient method is needed to separate compounds with different polarities.
Identify an appropriate HPLC-UV detection wavelength that provides sufficient analyte response while minimizing matrix or solvent interference.
Evaluate stationary-phase chemistry and column dimensions based on analyte polarity, selectivity requirements, sample matrix, and separation goals.
Adjust flow rate to balance resolution, run time, and system backpressure.
Develop a sample prep approach — dilution, filtration, extraction — that's compatible with your matrix and the method.
Confirm baseline resolution between your target compound and neighboring peaks, impurities, or matrix interferences.
Establish an external calibration approach appropriate for the compound and the reporting range you need.
Method development is typically the right starting point when an existing method doesn't hold up under your specific compound, matrix, or analytical goal. Common signs include:
| Method Development | Method Optimization |
|---|---|
| No suitable method currently exists | An existing method is available |
| Separation built from initial conditions | Existing conditions are modified |
| Appropriate column, mobile phase, and detection wavelength investigated | Resolution, run time, and sensitivity are improved |
| Useful for novel compounds or matrices | Useful for problematic or inefficient methods |
Describe your compound, sample matrix, and what's not working with your current method (or that none exists yet).
We review the compound and matrix, identify the likely parameters to investigate, and provide a scope and price.
We evaluate chromatographic conditions and refine the method until separation and quantitation are reliable.
You receive documented method conditions, representative chromatograms, and a summary of the work performed.
If your compound has never been run before, involves an unusual matrix, or overlaps with other peaks under a standard method, method development is likely the right starting point. If you're not sure, tell us about your sample and we'll advise.
Method development builds a method from scratch when none exists. Method optimization refines or troubleshoots a method you already have — for example, poor resolution, long run times, or inconsistent results.
Yes. Send us your existing method conditions and describe what isn't working, and we'll evaluate what can be adjusted to improve it.
Documented method conditions (mobile phase, gradient, column, wavelength, flow rate), representative chromatograms, and a summary of the development work performed.
This depends on the complexity of your compound and matrix. See our HPLC analysis pricing & service tiers for starting prices, or request a quote for your specific project.
Tell us about your compound, sample matrix, current method (if any), and what you're trying to achieve.
SDE Chemicals provides R&D analytical services, based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, with samples accepted nationwide.