A standard gel chromatography system typically includes:
Pump:
Delivers a steady flow of the mobile phase (often a buffered aqueous solution).
Sample Injector:
Introduces the sample into the mobile phase. Automated injectors provide reproducibility and accuracy.
Column:
Packed with porous beads made from agarose, dextran, polyacrylamide, or polystyrene. Column size and pore characteristics are chosen based on the target separation.
Detectors:
Refractive Index Detector: Common for detecting carbohydrates and general solutes.
UV Detector: Ideal for biomolecules (proteins, nucleic acids) absorbing at specific UV wavelengths.
Light Scattering Detector: Enables direct determination of molar mass.
Temperature Control Unit:
Maintains stable temperature conditions to preserve sample integrity or improve resolution.
Data System (Recorder/Software):
Modern chromatography systems interface with computers for real-time data acquisition, peak integration, and molecular weight determination.