Thin Layer Chromatography

Abstract Thin layer chromatography (TLC) is a quick, sensitive, and inexpensive technique used to determine the number of components in a mixture, verify the identity and purity of a compound, monitor the progress of a reaction, determine the solvent composition for preparative separations, and analyze the fractions obtained from column chromatography. This unit is mainly aimed at novice experimenters, describing in detail the strategies and principal steps for performing a TLC experiment, with illustrations of the relevant instruments, as well as approaches for obtaining and understanding results. Valuable practical tips and troubleshooting solutions are also provided throughout the unit. Curr. Protoc. Essential Lab. Tech . 8:6.3.1‐6.3.18. © 2014 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.