Phenyl Silica Gel
The Phenyl terminal group bonded phase has sp2 character and is frequently used when the main differences between the analytes involve π-π interactions. However, keep in mind that π-π bonds are quite weak in comparison with hydrogen bonds, van der Waals forces, and electrostatic bonds.
If water is in the mobile phase, as it usually is in Reversed Phase mode, the π-π interactions will be very weak by comparison and not contribute much to the separation.
In Normal Phase mode, the π-π interactions make a significantly greater contribution to retention so separations designed to exploit the differences between molecules based on π-π interactions will be more significant.
Recommended Applications:
- Aflatoxins from food
- Caffeine from beverages
- Flavors
- Phenols from water
- Trace elements from water