Chiral compounds, or enantiomers have identical molecular structures that are related as mirror images of one another much like a left hand is related to a right hand. Rapid and accurate stereochemical resolution of enantiomeric molecules has become a challenge in various aspects of pharmaceuticals and drug discoveries. A chiral column may contain one form of an enantiomeric compound immobilized on the surface of a packing material.
The following is a list of some of the most important features for adequate separation with chiral columns:
- At least three points of simultaneous interaction between the chiral phase and one analyte enantiomer, with at least one point of stereochemical dependence
- One of the enantiomers have differing degrees of interaction with the stationary phase, so that one will be more strongly retained than the other
SMT manufactures ultra-stable chiral columns for normal and reversed-phase chromatographic separation modes. SMT uses derivatives of optically active polysaccharides that are chemically bonded on silica in the synthesis of its ChiralSep packings. Bimodal separation is made possible due to the nature of the chiral surface and the proprietary bonding technique that ensures strong chemical linkage between the chiral ligand and the silica substrate.