AZURA® Analytical ULDC/UHPLC

Importance of the Topic

In modern analytical chemistry, high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and ultra high performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) play a crucial role in separating complex mixtures for applications in pharmaceuticals, environmental monitoring, food analysis and biochemistry.

Objectives and Overview

This document introduces the AZURA analytical HPLC/UHPLC platform by KNAUER, showcasing its modular design, flexible pump configurations, wide detector selection and support for diverse chromatographic modes including reversed phase, normal phase, HILIC, ion exchange and size exclusion.

Instrumentation

• Pumps: AZURA P 6.1L (HPG/LPG up to 862/1240 bar), P 8.1L UHPLC (up to 1240 bar)
• Detectors: UV/VIS (UVD, MWD, DAD), Refractive Index (RID 2.1L), ELSD (Sedex 85LT/90LT/100LT), Fluorescence (RF-20A), Electrochemical
• Autosampler: AS 6.1L with ILD valve for precise low-volume injections up to 5 ml and up to 1240 bar
• Column Thermostat: CT 2.1 forced air with optional eluent pre-heating, 5–85 °C range
• Columns: Eurospher II C18, CN, NH₂, Bioselect phases for biomolecules, Eurokat for carbohydrates
• Software: ClarityChrom®, OpenLAB® CDS, Chromeleon™, Mobile Control for touchscreen operation

Methodology

The platform supports binary high-pressure and quaternary low-pressure gradients, featuring microfluidic mixers to minimize dwell volume and adaptive pulsation compensation based on real-time compressibility monitoring. Injection modes include full loop, partial loop and microliter pick-up. K-Connect fittings and optional remote flow cells enhance system flexibility and maintenance.

Main Results and Discussion

Case studies demonstrate sub-two-minute separation of 14 polyphenols and alkaloids in chocolate, improved sensitivity and resolution through ultra-low dispersion chromatography, and robust analysis of carbonyl emissions via DNPH derivatization. The P 8.1L pump delivers superior flow precision and long seal life, while DAD and ELSD options extend detection capabilities.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Customizable configurations for routine HPLC to demanding UHPLC workflows
• Enhanced reproducibility from precise thermal control and stable piston-drive pumps
• Comprehensive detector portfolio covers UV, refractive index, light scattering, fluorescence and electrochemical
• Software integration accelerates method development, automation and data management
• Compact design and educational packages support training and QA/QC laboratories

Future Trends and Opportunities

Advances in biocompatible flow paths, online two-dimensional LC, AI-driven method optimization and integration with lipid nanoparticle production promise to further expand HPLC/UHPLC applications in drug delivery, proteomics and environmental analysis.

Conclusion

The KNAUER AZURA platform unifies high-pressure precision, modular flexibility and comprehensive software control to deliver robust, scalable solutions across small molecule, biomolecule and carbohydrate analyses.

References

No external literature references were cited.