Application of size-exclusion chromatography to polymers of ultra-high molar mass.
This article describes the experimental conditions that should be applied to avoid molecular degradation in size-exclusion chromatography of polymers of ultra-high molar mass (weight-average molar mass M(w)>5000 kg/mol). The applicability of the optimized experimental conditions is demonstrated using polystyrene as a model substance, but also by using polymers of biochemical and biophysical interest, such as polyethylene of ultra-high molar mass, suitable, e.g., for articulating surfaces in joint endoprotheses, and natural rubber, the most important commercial source for products like septa or medical gloves.
Aust
Nicolai
N
Department of Chemistry of Polymeric Materials, University of Leoben, Franz-Josef-Str. 18, A-8700, Leoben, Austria. aust@unileoben.ac.at
D002850:Chromatography, Gel / Q000379:methods*; D008422:Materials Testing / Q000379:methods*; D008970:Molecular Weight; D011095:Polyethylenes / Q000032:analysis / Q000737:chemistry; D011108:Polymers / Q000032:analysis* / Q000737:chemistry*; D011137:Polystyrenes / Q000032:analysis / Q000737:chemistry; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D012408:Rubber / Q000737:chemistry; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity
D011095:Polyethylenes; D011108:Polymers; D011137:Polystyrenes; C111601:ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene; D012408:Rubber