For some, getting started with countercurrent chromatography (CCC) can be intimidating at first, but getting over this hurdle is exactly why our company exists. The theory behind CCC is actually quite simple, and we are dedicated to making it even easier.  Here are a few the basic steps to consider for getting started with CCC.

Learn

The first step of your journey should be to learn the basics of CCC. Check out our resources page, which contains content, links, and references to nearly every source of CCC knowledge on the planet. Also, consider giving us a call so we can setup an introduction course or training session.

Choose an Instrument Type

As you may already know, there are several types of CCC instruments to choose from, namely CPC (FCPC, SCPC, etc.) and Type-J (aka HSCCC, HPCCC, Ito coil, etc.). The capabilities and features of these instruments do overlap to some extent, but obviously one should choose the best instrument type based on its intended use. Our specialists are more than willing to help you determine what type of instrument is right for you.

Choose an Instrument

Matching a CCC column (or complete system) to your budget and throughput requirements is the main task in this step. CCCs can separate material ranging from milligrams to hundreds of grams per run depending primarily on the column volume, and the instrument is usually chosen in accordance to the desired injection size. As a very rough rule of thumb, 1 g of sample corresponds to 1000 ml total CCC instrument volume; but be careful, this 1:1000 ratio can be higher or substantially lower depending mainly on the solubility of your sample.  Also, you will want to consider if you wish to purchase only a CCC column for use with an existing LC system, or a full CCC system.  Again, our team can help you choose the right machine for your needs, and can even do preliminary work in our lab to ensure your success.

Solvents/Glassware

You will need to stock appropriate solvents for your applications (e.g. hexane, ethyl acetate, methanol, and deionized water are sufficient to purify a broad polarity range of small molecules), as well as some basic glassware and lab accessories.

Delivery, Installation and Training

Getting your new instrument setup and working for you is Cherry's first priority. To this end Cherry Instruments includes installation, training, and service packages with every instrument.  Our primary goal is to create CCC success stories!