chromnil: An affordable, all-in-one HPTLC system for effect-directed screening of food and supplements

The application step in HPTLC involves the precise and controlled deposition of sample solutions onto the 10 × 10 cm chromatographic plate. Using an automated sample applicator, samples are applied as narrow bands, areas, or spots to ensure uniform distribution and reproducibility. A proper sample application is critical for achieving sharp and well-resolved chromatographic zones, which directly influence the separation efficiency and quantification accuracy in subsequent steps. chromnil one has a rack that can store up to 9 samples with 1–2 mL each. Choose between a rack that fits reusable glass vials or one-way plastic vials.

Development is the core step in the separation of sample components. Instead of using a development chamber, chromnil continuously releases the appropriate mobile phase (solvent system) below the applied samples. As the solvent front moves upward by capillary action, the sample components partition between the stationary phase and the mobile phase based on their polarity and affinity. Optimizing development conditions, such as solvent composition, saturation, and development distance, ensures high resolution between zones and reproducibility of the separation.

Derivatization enhances the detection and visualization of analytes that may not be naturally detectable under standard detection modes. This step involves our nebulizer, which uniformly applies specific reagents onto the developed plate. Through reaction with the analytes, the reagents may produce colored or fluorescent derivatives. The choice of derivatization reagent depends on the nature of the analytes and the desired detection method, allowing for selective and sensitive detection.

Incubation is performed after the homogeneous nebulization of a biological cell suspension or substrate solution to enable effect-directed detection. In our customized incubator, the seeded HPTLC plate is exposed to controlled temperature and time conditions, depending on the selected bioassay. Zones with an effect light up; all other compounds stay dark. Proper incubation ensures a quantitative and sensitive detection of beneficial or hazardous compounds.

Detection is the final step, where the separated and derivatized components are visualized and quantified. Detection includes UVA 365 nm, UVC 265 nm, visible light, and white light back illumination. The integrated 12 MP camera enables automated, high-resolution detection for reliable identification and quantification of analytes. This step completes the analysis by providing the necessary data for interpretation and reporting.