Even though it is a semi-quantitative method, thin layer chromatography (TLC) is especially suitable for analyzing amino acid derivatives. TLC is a remarkably versatile analytical tool due to the large choice of elution systems and plate development methods, which can be optimized for each individual product and/or the detection of traces of its possible contaminants (e.g. unreacted educts). Contrary to column chromatography, a number of samples can be run side by side on a TLC plate, which allows for a better comparison.