PolyAnalytik is equipped with the most up-to-date GPC/SEC technology available. We constantly modernize our facilities adding the latest state-of-the-art instrumentation. In fact, both PolyAnalytik locations in Canada and Brazil proudly serve as a demonstration laboratories for Viscotek Corporation, the most advanced and comprehensive manufacturer of GPC/SEC systems and detectors.

The facilities employ Viscotek TDAmaxTM systems, Triple and Tetra Detector GPC/SEC, and Viscotek Model 270 Dual Detector Array, the latest Light Scattering and Viscometer combination platform. The systems and individual detectors are capable of running with aqueous buffer solutions and polar/non-polar organic solvents.

All GPC/SEC systems are comprised of the most accurate solvent delivery mechanisms that are routinely validated by procedures developed according to ISO 17025 guidelines and high standard laboratory practices. Most of the systems possess three or four complementary detectors in series: Refractive Index Detector, UV/VIS Detector, Laser Light Scattering Detector and Viscosity Detector.

All PolyAnalytik GPC/SEC systems are equipped with Viscotek’s revolutionary light scattering development, LOW ANGLE Laser Light Scattering detector which measures the scattered light at 7o angle, the closest possible to incident beam. Thanks to the innovative design where the incident beam is discarded before making the low angle measurement, exceptional signal to noise quality is obtained every time.

This technology requires no measurement of the angular dissymmetry for absolute molecular weight calculations and therefore eliminates traditional multi-angle extrapolations and data fittings. Low Angle Light Scattering is the most accurate and the most direct method of molecular weight determination. The design also incorporates a 90o angle measurement for smaller macromolecules and determination of Radius and Gyration, Rg, where applicable.

Solution viscosity analysis of macromolecules reveals tremendous hydrodynamic properties of the molecular chains in solutions. From determination of hydrodynamic radius, Rh, to conformational analysis of proteins and branching analysis of polymers, online solution viscosity measurement is certainly a key element in understanding the behavior of such molecules. Viscotek introduced the first Four Capillary Differential GPC/SEC Viscometer approximately 25 years ago in a Whitstone Bridge arrangement. As opposed to the traditional glass capillary viscometers, this concept measures the solution viscosity parameters of a sample solution at the same time, at the same flow rate, and at the same temperature as the reference solvent. In addition, the measurements are performed using highly sensitive pressure transducers which relate the pressure drop across capillaries to viscosity of the solution according to Poiselle’s law.

PolyAnalytik’s GPC/SEC setups are combined with Viscotek’s most recent viscosity detectors with superior sensitivity and unparalleled stability. The detectors are capable of monitoring conformational changes down to a fraction of a nanometer making them a critical element in multiple detection GPC/SEC characterization.