Decreasing Retention times: Causes and Solutions

 

 

                          Possible Cause                                                                                           Solution
 
 
Active sites on column packing  Use mobil-phase modifier, competing base (basic compounds), or increase buffer strength; use higher coverage column packing.
Column overloaded with sample Decrease sample amount or use larger-diameter column
Increasing flow rate Check and reset pump flow rate.
Loss of bonded stationary phase or base silica Use mobile-phase pH between pH 2 and pH 8
Varying column temperature Thermostat or insulate column; ensure laboratory temperature is constant.