Seamless Solutions for Any
Macromolecular Analysis Needs
Agilent InfinityLab GPC/SEC Solutions

Agilent InfinityLab GPC/SEC Solutions

Seamless Solutions for Any
Macromolecular Analysis Needs
The Agilent InfinityLab GPC/SEC portfolio offers the most comprehensive
selection of products and services for macromolecule characterization.
Simplify your GPC/SEC analyses with instruments, columns, standards, andsoftware that work seamlessly together. If challenges arise, like needing
training, Agilent also offers tailored expert services.

See what’s possible with thelargest GPC/SEC portfolio
Systems

SoftwareA range of robust systems
is available, including forbiological polymers andhigh-temperature analysis.

Specialized software offers
flexibility to meet your needs, suchas compliance-enabling features
or preconfigured workflows.

See pages 4–92

See pages 10–11

Accurate results
for any application
From routine analysis of polystyrene
to complex engineering polymers,
InfinityLab GPC/SEC Solutions offer
the widest range of high-performance
instruments, delivering highest
sensitivity, baseline stability,
and signal-to-noise ratio, evenat high temperatures.

Broadening our offerings for GPC/SEC analysis
In 2022, Agilent acquired Polymer Standard Services (PSS, Germany).
The acquisition broadens and extends Agilent’s product portfolio andcustomer offerings, particularly in the chemical and biopharmaceuticalindustries for the analysis of natural and synthetic polymers.​

Columns and Standards

Services

Sustainability

A large selection of columns
and standards enable any
GPC/SEC analysis, from
aqueous to organic.

Experts are available
to offer dedicatedanalytical services
for macromolecularcharacterization.

Instruments areverified for low
environmental impact,from manufacture touse and end of life.

See pages 14–17

See page 18

See page 19

3

Agilent 1260 Infinity II GPC/SEC System

Robust, Precise Performancefor GPC/SEC Analyses
The 1260 Infinity II GPC/SEC System is ready to meet the needs of mostmacromolecular analyses. This versatile system combines proven Infinity II
technology with specialized GPC/SEC instrumentation. The combination
offers high performance with accurate results for GPC/SEC separations.

High-precision retention times
Throughout the day and from day
to day, the 1260 Infinity II GPC/SEC
System provides excellent retention
time reproducibility. Thermostattingof the columns ensures minimal
detector noise and baseline drift.

Styrene acrylonitrile sample
nRIU
25,00020,00015,000Day 2010,000Day 10

5,000

Day 5
Day 1

0
-5,000-10,000
0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

40

50

min

This overlay of 10 consecutive runs per day over 20 days
shows the remarkable day-to-day precision of retention times.

4

mV
8

High-precision temperature control
The 1260 Infinity II GPC/SEC Column
Thermostat offers high capacity for 30 cm
GPC/SEC columns with precise temperature
control to ensure the most accurate,
reproducible molecular weights. Bothheating and cooling options are available
to enable rapid column and detector
equilibration for reliable results.

Column temperature control
76

5
No temperature control
4
0

1

2

3

min

A stable baseline ensures accurate results.

≤ 0.07% RSD± 1% or 10 μL/min

50

Robust precision that lasts
GPC/SEC often includes harsh additives
and challenging solvents that might affectthe entire flow path of the LC system. To
maintain the excellent flow precision of the1260 Infinity II Isocratic Pump, the GPC/SECReady Kit offers peace of mind, ensuring
accuracy in analytical and preparative
GPC/SEC applications, even in the long run.

0
0

3

6

9

12

min

An accurate flow rate enables reproducible results. The value quoted
has been calculated from analyses performed in THF at 40 °C.

5Agilent 1260 Infinity II Multidetector GPC/SEC System

Improved Performance with
Advanced Detection Techniques
To cover an array of macromolecular analytes, including biological polymers like
proteins, Agilent offers a range of detection possibilities in the 1260 Infinity II
Multidetector GPC/SEC System. Choose from refractive index, light scattering,and viscometry. The 1260 Infinity II Bio-SEC System additionally features abio-inert flow path, which is ideal for the analysis of biological polymers whencombined with the 1260 Infinity II Multi-Angle Light Scattering Detector.

Advanced detection possibilities
The triple-detection in the 1260 Infinity II
Multidetector GPC/SEC System delivers stablebaselines and high signal-to-noise performance andenables determination of polymer properties thatcannot be measured by conventional concentrationbased detection techniques.

mV
2,500

LS 15°RI

LS 90°VS DP

UV 254nm

2,000

1,500

1,000

500

0
0

5

10

15

20

25

min

A low-dispersion setup and a 10 µL cell for light scattering
detection result in excellent peak shapes for all signals.

6For bioanalysis
and beyond
InfinityLab LC Solutions can be adapted tomeet all your bioanalysis needs and more.
Biocompatible systems contain iron-free sample
flow paths, while bio-inert systems featuresample flow paths that are free of metal.

Multi-angle light scattering
Multi-angle light scattering is a powerful techniqueto gain insights about absolute molecular weight,
size, and conformation of macromolecules insolution. With larger molecules, the scattered
light is not independent of the detection angle.
Adding the 1260 Infinity II Multi-Angle Light
Scattering Detector to the 1260 Infinity II Bio-SEC
System or 1260 Infinity II GPC/SEC System offers
the possibility to measure the intensity of thescattered light at multiple angles to gain more
precise and reliable data.

7

Agilent 1290 Infinity II GPC/SEC System

Highest Resolution for Microscale
to Analytical GPC/SEC Analyses
The Agilent 1290 Infinity II GPC/SEC System is capable of both analytical andmicroscale operation. The high-performance pump can operate at pressures up
to 1,300 bar. Coupling with a 2 μL low-volume refractive index detector (RID) and0.075 mm tubing enables microscale operation. Key benefits include shorter run
times for higher sample throughput, ultralow dispersion for improved resolution,and lower solvent consumption for reduced running costs.

Accurate molecular weight

Sample:Column temperature: 30 °C
Columntemperature:
RID
temperature:
35 °C 30 °C
RI
frequency:
RID
temperature: 18.5 Hz
35 °C

polystyrene 2 mixed B,

Sample:	polystrene
× mixedB,
7.5 ×2300
mm
Flow rate:
1 mL/min7.5 × 300mm
Flow rate: 1 mL/min

RI frequency:

Mn

Conventional RID
Micro RID

227000Mp
224000227,000

96000
Mn
97000
96,000274000Mw
270000274,000

2.85
PD
2.77
2.85

Ratio ValuesRID
Conventional

1.01
224,000

0.99
97,0001.01
270,000

1.03
2.77

Ratio values

1.01

0.99

1.01

1.03

Micro RID

Mw

18.5 HzMp

PD

To use the same system for both analytical and microscale work, it is important that thetwo different scales deliver consistent results in terms of molecular weight. A comparisonof results illustrates how, even at microscale, you can be sure that molecular weights arecorrect and consistent.** Data courtesy of H. Eghbali et al., Analytical Science, The Dow Chemical Company

8Increase resolution

Reduce solvent consumption and run times
1260 Inﬁnity II RID
1290 Inﬁnity II RID
1,270

min
60

40
580

20

0

2.5

4 × Conventional 7.5 × 300 mm

min

Flow rates can be increased for higher sample throughput. Using
shorter, smaller internal diameter InfinityLab GPC/SEC columns
with the 1290 Infinity II GPC/SEC System can reduce run times by
up to 70%.

Used at microscale, the 1290 Infinity II RID has a low-volume detector
cell and a reduced system delay volume relative to the 1260 Infinity
II RID. This ultralow dispersion gives improved resolution, with theadvantages of shorter run times and increased sample throughput.

Improve calibration

2 × ResiPore 250 × 4.6 mm

Retain peak shape

Log Mw
6.5
6.0

5.0

Polypore mixed-bed column

4.0

Dislocation

3.0

Individual pore size

2.0
4.0

6.0

8.0

Retention time/min

InfinityLab PlusPore columns feature mixed, multiporous
stationary phases. These columns enable extremely linear
calibrations. When coupled with the micro RID, it is possible
to achieve excellent peak shapes and very high resolution.

6.0

10.0

14.0

18.0 Retention time/min

Serial connection of individual pore size columns, shear degradation,
and adsorption to packing material can cause peak dislocations, peaktailing, and inaccurate results varying by as much as 10–20% from thetrue value. InfinityLab PlusPore columns can eliminate these issues.

9Agilent GPC/SEC Software

Tailored GPC/SEC Software
for Your Workflows
Agilent offers the software for GPC/SEC analyses that fits your lab environment.
WinGPC Software and the GPC/SEC Software for OpenLab CDS provide thefunctionality required for conventional and advanced GPC/SEC.

WinGPC Software: mostcomprehensive software formacromolecular analysis

WinGPC: the one-stop solution for GPC/SEC
WinGPC is developed by experts to cover all GPC/SEC
workflows in a versatile, future-proof, and easy to use
software. WinGPC Software is a complete software packagethat can include compliance and/or client/server capabilities.
Whichever edition you choose, optional add-ons are available
to suit your specific analysis and laboratory requirements.
Get precise and accurate results for your polymers andthe data in the right format with WinGPC unique reportingand data display options. Identify potential for improvements
in your workflows by integrating system and analyte
run information.

Lightscattering/viscosity
add-onCopolymer
analysis
add-onMS analysis
add-on3D spectra
add-on2D-GPC/SEC
analysis
add-onScreenshot of the WinGPC Software showing a 3D contour
plot of consecutive GPC/SEC runs.

10

GPC/SEC Software for OpenLab CDS
OpenLab CDS features a compliance-enabling, versatile
software package for both HPLC and GPC/SEC. Including
all the functionality of OpenLab CDS for HPLC, it iscombined with an add-on to process the collected datausing GPC/SEC calculations.
This software has been designed to support two
configurations. You can use it in a standalone workstation
setup, or you can support multiple GPC/SEC systems
within a client/server solution.

– Perform calculations on signals from concentration
detectors (for example, refractive index and UV).
– Generate GPC column calibrations using narrow
distribution standards or broad Hamielec andintegral methods.
– Overlay data from samples, molecular weights, anddistributions for comparison.
– Design your own reports to fit your individual needs,
or simply use one of the predefined reports from thecomprehensive range.

Screenshot of the GPC/SEC software for OpenLab CDS showing thechromatogram and molecular weight distribution for a polystyrene sample.

11

Agilent InfinityLab Solutions for High-Temperature GPC

The Industry Standard for Routine, HighTemperature Analysis of Engineering Polymers
The 1260 Infinity II High-Temperature GPC System with the 1260 Infinity II High-Temperature
Sample Prep System gives you full confidence in data integrity and operator safety. Together,with a choice of optional detectors including light scattering, viscosity, and ELS detection, thesystem can provide comprehensive characterization of the polymer to be analyzed.

Everything you need for sample preparation
A wide range of accessories, such as sample vials andfilters, are available for the 1260 Infinity II High-Temperature
Sample Prep System. Correct filtering of samples prior to
analysis is vital to ensure high-quality results. This sample
prep system includes a custom-built pipettor unit thatallows for the filtration of samples at high temperature
through either stainless steel or glass fiber filters withminimal user interaction.

1260 Infinity II High-Temperature Sample Prep System

Ultimate flexibility for high-quality HT GPC results
The 1260 Infinity II HT GPC System is a fully integrated
solution. The dual-zone autosampler ensures your polymers
are protected against degradation. When ready for analysis,
the sample vial is transported to the oven for equilibration,
ensuring stable baselines and reproducible results. The entire
sample flow path can be heated up to 220 °C to maintainsample solubility, eliminating sample precipitation and costly
downtime. Also, dual-angle light scattering or viscometry
detectors give you flexibility to use the system in a wide
range of GPC/SEC applications, especially polyolefin analysis.

1260 Infinity II High-Temperature (HT) GPC System

12Sensitive high-temperature evaporative
light scattering detection
The 1260 Infinity II High-Temperature ELSD brings
a new dimension to polyolefin molecular weight
determination, detecting low concentrations ofpolyolefins (polyethylene and polypropylene) at
elevated temperatures in high-boiling solvents.
Typically, an order of magnitude more sensitive thanRID, high-temperature ELSD is ideal for polymers
that require lower column loading to reduce therisks of degradation (such as ultrahigh-molecularweight polyethylene, UHMWPE). Rapid equilibration
times and excellent signal stability make selectionof baselines and integration limits straightforward,
improving accuracy and reproducibility of results.

dw/d Log M
1.0

Log IV
1.5

0.8

1.0
0.5

0.6

0
0.4

HDPE, linear polymer,
no branching
LDPE #1, branched
LDPE #2, morebranching

-0.5

0.2

-1.0

0

-1.5
2

3

4

5

2

6 Log M

3

4

5

6

7

Log M

8

Molecular weight distributions (left) and Mark-Houwink plots(right) for three different grades of polyethylene.

Polypropylene (0.2% w/v)
mV
700
600
500
400
300
200
100
0
-100

ELSD
RID
2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

18

20

22 minHigh-temperature ELSD can be significantly more sensitive
than RID.

1260 Infinity II HT GPC System with 1260 Infinity II HT ELSD

13

Agilent GPC/SEC Columns and Standards

Complete Analytical Solutions from thePolymer/Macromolecule Analysis Experts
If you’re seeking to improve your GPC/SEC analysis of macromolecules—or develop new
applications for challenging polar or charged macromolecules—Agilent can help. Our GPC/SEC
portfolio has expanded to include new columns and chemical standards for macromolecule
applications. And, they’re all backed by decades of characterization knowledge and expertise.

High-quality columns
Agilent offers a comprehensive range of GPC/SEC columns thatcover diverse applications and can be used with organic, aqueous,and polar solvents. These columns include high-quality PLgel,
PL aquagel-OH, PolarGel, SUPREMA, NOVEMA Max, and GRAM,
along with specialty columns for specific applications.

Quality standards for successful calibration
Our standards are manufactured using ISO 9001 certification
and are traceable with a unique batch number and a certificate
of analysis, detailing the method and characterization results.
Options include:– Individual molecular weight polymer standards in powder form
– Time-saving, prepared InfinityLab EasiVial and EasiCal standards
as well as the ReadyCal and EasyValid validation kits
– Ultranarrow molecular weight standards, available in 1, 5,
and 10 g quantities

14Columns selection tips

HFIP

ola
rity
ple
p

se

PMMA

ity
lar
po

Sa
m

Organic-soluble polymers
ha
ep
bil
Mo

PS
PE/PP

DMAc

Organic
GPC/SEC

oDCB
THF/TCB
ToluenePET ink triangle: Compounds onlyP
soluble in strong solvents, like THF
 range triangle: Compounds solubleO
in medium-polar solvents, like DMAc
 lue triangle: Compounds solubleBin higher-polar fluorinated solvents,
like HFIP
Note: For organic applications, a systemof balanced polarities is recommended.

PLgel/SDV
PLgel Olexis
POLEFIN

GRAM
PolarSil
PolarGelPFG
PL HFIP gel

Stationary phase polaritych

Neutralmacromolecules

lue
va

Ion
ic

pH

ara

cte
r

Polycations

Aqueous
GPC/SEC

Weak
polyanions

To learn more and to accessordering information for the GPC/SEC
columns and standards, go to:www.agilent.com/chem/gpc-sec-columns

Strongpolyanions

NOVEMA Max

SUPREMA
PL aquagel-OH

MCX

Stationary phase

15

Agilent GPC/SEC Columns and Standards

Easy Reference Guide: Expanded Portfolio of
Agilent GPC/SEC Columns and Standards
The expanded Agilent portfolio for polymer analysis delivers a complete solution that supports
your unique analytical needs and ensures robust, reliable outcomes.

Organic solvent-soluble polymers

Neutral Polymers,
Polycarbonate,
PVC

PL RapidePLgel
SDV
PLgel MIXEDSDV Linear
SDV Lux
PLgel MIXED-LS*

Polycarbonates,
Polyurethanes,
Epoxy Resins,
Polyester Resins,
Siloxanes,
Silicone Fluids

InfinityLab PolyPore
InfinityLab ResiPore
InfinityLab OligoPore
InfinityLab MesoPore

Nylons,Polylactides,
Polyesters, PET

PL HFIPgelPFG
PFG Lux*– Individual pore sizes andmixed-bed or linear columns– Next generation of InfinityLab GPC/SEC
columns, available in smaller ids– New high-efficiency media withimproved pore volumes– Maximizes overall separation
performance in shorter run times
with less solvent consumption– Compatible with fluorinated solvents– Available in 5 µm particles forhigher efficiency– High-temperature GPC

16

Food Films,
PE, PP,
Polymers

InfinityLab PLgel Olexis
POLEFIN– Particle and pore sizes optimized
for analysis of large molecules inviscous eluents under demanding
analysis conditions

Epoxy,
Polyurethanes,
Polysulfones,
Celluloses

PolarGel
PolarSil
GRAM
GRAM Lux*– Medium-polar organic solvents– PolarSil available in 3 µm particle
sizes for higher efficiency

Water-soluble polymers

Dextran, Saccharides,
Hyaluronic Acid,
Acrylates, Acrylamides,
Heparin, Gum

PL aquagel-OH
PL Multisolvent
PL Rapide Aqua
SUPREMA
SUPREMA Lux*

– Individual pore sizes andmixed-bed columns– SUPREMA compatible with
100% organic modifiers– Charged anionic polymers

Sulfonated
Polyanions,
Lignins

MCX

Chitosan,Food Ingredients,
Cationic Polymers

NOVEMA Max
NOVEMA Max Lux*

Proteins, Peptides,
EnzymesAdvanceBio SEC*
Bio SEC-3
Bio SEC-5
PROTEEMAPROTEEMA Lux*

– Robust at high pH– Compatible with organic modifiers– Available in 5 µm particle sizes– Charged cationic polymers– Robust at low pH– Compatible with organic modifiers– Available in 5 µm particle sizes– Pore size options from 100 to 2,000 Å

Monoclonal
Antibodies(mAbs)

AdvanceBio SEC*
Bio SEC-3
Bio SEC-5
MAB*–O ptions for UV, light scattering,and MS detection–A dvanceBio SEC has a hydrophilic
coating for low secondary interactions–P ROTEEMA Lux is a diol SEC phaseavailable in bio-inert hardware– Options for UV, light scattering,and MS detection– AdvanceBio SEC has a hydrophilic
coating for low secondary interactions– MAB is a mixed-bed, diol SEC phaseavailable in bio-inert hardware* Light scattering ready: low-noise columns suitable for immediate use with light scattering detection

17

Focus On What You Do BestAt Agilent, we look for ways to optimize your lab’s performance. That is why you
can rely on us to provide the tools you need and protect your investment with abroad portfolio of services, backed by a global network of experienced Agilentcertified service professionals dedicated to the productivity of your lab.

Service plans

Virtual tech support

The CrossLab services provide
laboratories with comprehensive
maintenance coverage to suit their
specific needs and budget. We offer a
range of service plans so that you canchoose the level of coverage desired.​

Get live technical help via the latest videocommunication tools. Our Virtual Assist
application uses a secure connection andsupports digital annotations, enabling
clear instructions for remote problem
solving to reduce your downtime.

The Agilent Service
Guarantee
If we cannot fix an
instrument covered bya CrossLab service plan,
regardless of manufacturer,
our escalation process will
resolve the issue up to andincluding replacing yourinstrument for free.** Conditions apply.

Compliance service

Flexible payment plans

Agilent offers a comprehensive setof laboratory compliance services,
including instrument operational
qualification based on USP <1058>,
analytical instrument qualification(AIQ), and custom validation services.

Considering flexible payment plans?
Agilent can help you acquire yournext instrument without the capital
expenditure. We can design a payment
plan that conserves cash and reduces
the risk of instrument obsolescence.

Learn more at:www.agilent.com/chem/crosslab

18

Unlock your lab’s fullpotential with CrossLabagilent.com/chem/crosslab

Greener GPC/SEC

Get Your Results the Sustainable Way
Solvent consumption in GPC/SEC is substantial and may also involve environmentally
harmful substances and additives in large volumes. To lower the environmental impactof your lab operations, smart instrument, column, and software choices are needed.
Smaller dimension columns and smart injection methods, combined with InfinityLab LC
instruments, can significantly reduce solvent consumption for your GPC/SEC analyses.

30%
Verified sustainability

Ecofriendly software

Greener GPC methods

The InfinityLab LC portfolio hasreceived My Green Lab ACT(Accountability, Consistency,
Transparency) labels after
independent audits to verify
environmental impact throughout
the product life cycle.

By smart injection modes
available in WinGPC Software,
it is possible to save up to
30% of the solvent in yourGPC/SEC analyses.

With micro-GPC methods, it ispossible to achieve faster run times
and lower solvent consumption at
the same, or even better, polymer
separation performance.

Learn more at:www.agilent.com/chem/my-green-lab

19Reliable, efficient, always innovating for your best result
You can rely on Agilent InfinityLab LC instruments, columns, and supplies
to deliver rugged quality and robust analytical results. But our promise to
you does not stop there. Every component of the Agilent InfinityLab family
is designed to work together to help you improve your workflow, increasing
efficiency and reducing operational costs.
Learn more about InfinityLab: www.agilent.com/chem/infinitylab

Learn more:
www.agilent.com/chem/gpc-sec
Buy online:
www.agilent.com/chem/store
Get answers to your technical questions andaccess resources in the Agilent Community:community.agilent.com
U.S. and Canada
1-800-227-9770
agilent_inquiries@agilent.com
Europeinfo_agilent@agilent.com
Asia Paciﬁcinquiry_lsca@agilent.com

DE59453964
This information is subject to change without notice.
© Agilent Technologies, Inc. 2023
Published in the USA, November 1, 2023
5994-6072EN