Principle
4.1.2.
Unlike conventional chromatographic techniques, SIC is based on the programmable flow of the mobile phase, which allows convenient selection of injected sample volume and a simple formation of elution gradient. The result is simplified instrumentation and reduced consumption of reagents.
For most applications, the system is initially filled with an eluent solution, into which a zone of sample is aspirated by a well-defined flow reversal (A). The multi-position valve is then switched from sample port to the column port, and the sample is delivered to the column for separation and detection (B). Next eluent is aspirated by flow reversal (C) and used for elution of analytes (D).
Flow programming allows selection of injected sample volume and facilitates precolumn derivatization, generates elution gradients, and speeds up column regeneration. Flow programming also accelerates the assay by fast column flushing.
