Chromatography and Analytical Techniques

Chiral Separation Methods

Chiral separation is essential in the analysis and production of enantiomerically pure compounds, particularly in the pharmaceutical and agrochemical industries. As enantiomers can exhibit markedly different biological activities and toxicological profiles, the ability to separate and quantify each enantiomer is critical. Advances in chromatographic chiral separation methods, including chiral stationary phases (CSPs) and chiral mobile phase additives, have enabled faster, more efficient, and selective separations. Techniques such as supercritical fluid chromatography (SFC), HPLC, and capillary electrophoresis (CE) with chiral selectors have expanded chiral analysis beyond traditional approaches. The emergence of polysaccharide-based CSPs and protein-based phases has increased versatility, allowing high enantioselectivity across diverse analyte classes. Method development and validation remain central in ensuring regulatory compliance, particularly under FDA and EMA guidelines. Innovations in column chemistry, automation, and integration with MS detection are propelling chiral analysis into more dynamic and robust workflows. The importance of chiral separation spans across drug development, quality control, and biosimilar research, making it an indispensable tool in analytical science.