High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) plays an important role in analytical applications. To perform high-throughput analysis, especially multi-channel separation, numerous fractions need to be collected. However, multi-channel fraction collector has not been commercialized. Therefore, here we present a multi-channel fraction collector fabricated by 3D-printing technology that can adapt to various kinds of HPLC applications. The collector can perform high accuracy microliter-level fraction cutting for narrow-bore or capillary columns as well as conventional columns. Hundreds of fractions can be collected in a single LC run within 1 hour to meet the demands of high-throughput separation. The collector mainly consists of several environmental-friendly 3D-printed parts and other parts are also easy to purchase, making it possible for researchers to construct it in any kind of lab at a very low price. The automated integrated controller and programs are also introduced to fit different collecting and further analysis requirements. In this work, the structure, functions and automation process of the collector are described in detail, which offers a powerful tool for further development on high-throughput separation.
Keywords: 3D printing; Fraction collector; HPLC; High-throughput separation; Multi-channel separation.
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