Characterization of Flow Through HPLC Columns by NMR Imaging

Matching funds are provided in this award for Dr. Bruce Hammer to extend the use of NMR imaging techniques to the measurement of perfusive flow through and intersticial flow about the beads in a packed HPLC column. Application of transverse magnetic field gradients followed by gradient reversal will allow flowing molecules to be labeled and their displacement with time followed. Information about the flow field will be shared with corporate scientists at 3M to improve HPLC packing materials and their use in bioseparations. Separation and purification of pharmaceutical drugs constitutes a large portion of the costs in their manufacture. Improvements in powerful purification techniques like HPLC should lower costs and improve the quality of medications.