Initiating Method Development with Scouting Gradients—Where to Begin and How to Proceed?

Abstract

With so many options for method parameters to adjust during method development, identifying a starting point can be intimidating. Starting with scouting gradients can simplify the process, and yield rich results that inform subsequent method development steps. In this installment, we discuss how to design scouting gradients, how to use the resulting data to make decisions about next steps (including whether to use isocratic or gradient elution), and how to improve the separation once an elution mode has been chosen.