SEC-MALS analysis

Size exclusion chromatography with multi-angle light scattering (SEC-MALS) is a technique used to separate and analyze macromolecules based on their mass, size, and shape. SEC-MALS analysis provides a useful way of dealing with large molecules that are conventionally difficult to characterize and is therefore used across the fields of biological and material science.

SEC-MALS for large molecule analysis
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Some of our SEC-MALS services

SEC-MALS of high molar weight polymers

SEC-MALS (size exclusion chromatography with multi-angle light scattering) is a polymer analysis method that is used to characterize the molar masses and branching properties of polymers. This analysis gives information about a high molecular weight polymer's mass-average molar mass (Mw), numeric-average molar mass (Mn), polydispersity index (PDI), and information about branching.
2,520 €
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Molecular weight of UHMW polymers with AF4-MALS

Asymmetric flow field flow fractionation (AF4) of polymers using a multi-angle light scattering (MALS) detector. This analysis is suitable for polymers of ultra-high molecular weight (UHMW) >1E6 g/mol. This includes polymers such as polyisoprene (synthetic and natural rubber), polybutadiene, styrene-butadiene rubbers, polyisobutylene, or acrylic and methacrylic emulsion copolymers. AF4-MALS also provides superior separation of branched polymers. The technique will measure the molecular weight distribution of polymer samples in a graphical format, the dispersity, Đ, and determine the actual molecular weight averages, Mn, Mw, and Mz. The samples must be soluble or able to be measured from a solution at room temperature. The type of polymer and the necessary solvent will affect the cost. Please contact our experts for a quote tailored to your needs.
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Molecular weight of polymers with GPC/SEC-MALS

Gel permeation chromatography (GPC), a.k.a. size exclusion chromatography (SEC), of polymers using a multi-angle light scattering (MALS) detector. This technique will measure the molecular weight distribution of polymer samples in a graphical format, the dispersity, Đ, and determine the actual molecular weight averages, Mn, Mw, Mz. In contrast to other techniques using RI detectors and calibration standards, the MALS method will determine the true molecular weight of the sample. The samples must be soluble or able to be measured from a solution at room temperature. The type of polymer and the necessary solvent will affect the cost of the analysis. Please contact our experts for a quote tailored to your needs.
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What is SEC-MALS used for?

SEC-MALS is primarily used to determine the spread of different molecular weights in a solution and is therefore mostly used with large macromolecules. These might be in the form of biomolecules, such as proteins, or high-molar-weight polymers.

SEC-MALS helps determine molecule sizes, shapes, and conformations, making it an essential technique in the biopharmaceutical and medical fields. The method is also used in polymer characterization to determine the various molecular weights of the polymer chains, which gives insight into the progression of reactions and provides information on how molecular weight impacts the physical properties and applications of industrial polymers.

How does SEC-MALS analysis work?

SEC-MALS analysis begins by passing the solution through a chromatography column, which acts as a molecular filter and hinders the movement of the solution. This causes the individual components in the solution to be separated according to various factors, such as their physical size and molecular weight.

As the components leave the column, they are exposed to a laser. Upon passing through the sample, the light from the laser is scattered and picked up by a detector. The intensity of the scattered light is directly linked to the weight of the molecule and can, therefore, be used to accurately determine the different spreads of molecular weights in the molecules. Through further calculations, this data can also provide information on things like levels of branching, conformation, and conjugation in the molecule.

Sample requirements and preparation

SEC-MALS is performed in a solution; therefore, any solid sample matter is dissolved in a suitable solvent appropriate for the column. Some samples, especially biomolecules, may need an additional buffer solution, which must be matched with the column. Large particulates can block the column, so solutions may need to be filtered to ensure they are free of solid debris before analysis.

Advantages and limitations of SEC-MALS analysis

The main advantage of SEC-MALS is that it can interpret a wide range of different molecular masses, which means it can be used to analyze even some of the largest macromolecules. This makes it stand out compared to conventional techniques, which historically struggle with very large molecules. It can also be used to provide additional information, such as conjugation, levels of branching, and stoichiometry, all things that cannot be measured with SEC alone.

The main limitation of SEC-MALS is its inability to easily distinguish between molecules of the same size. This makes it difficult to analyze some oligomers or isomers with very similar sizes. Furthermore, to achieve the best separation, it is sometimes necessary to run several columns in succession to determine the best flow characteristics and calibrate the system accordingly. This trial-and-error operational style can sometimes lead to relatively long processing times.

Need an analysis?

Measurlabs offers laboratory testing with SEC-MALS for biopharmaceuticals and polymers with the capacity to handle even large sample batches. With fast turnaround times, advanced instrumentation, and personalized support from experienced method experts, Measurlabs ensures accurate and reliable results and is trusted by over 700 clients across industries.

Suitable sample matrices

  • Proteins
  • Biochemical aggregations
  • Pegylated molecules
  • Polymers
  • Polymerization mixtures

Ideal uses of SEC-MALS

  • Determining average molecular weights of polymers
  • Monitoring the reaction progress of polymerization
  • Determining molecular masses of biomolecules
  • Measuring conjugation in biochemical systems
  • Analyzing levels of polymer branching

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Frequently asked questions

What is SEC-MALS commonly used for?

SEC-MALS is often used to analyze the physical properties of large macromolecules, like proteins and polymers, in the fields of biological and material science. It provides a wide range of information from molecular weight and size to branching properties and conjugation.

What are the limitations of SEC-MALS analysis?

As SEC-MALS separates molecules by size, it may be difficult to analyze similarly sized analytes. The apparatus also requires time-consuming calibration.

What is Measurlabs?

Measurlabs offers a variety of laboratory analyses for product developers and quality managers. We perform some of the analyses in our own lab, but mostly we outsource them to carefully selected partner laboratories. This way we can send each sample to the lab that is best suited for the purpose, and offer high-quality analyses with more than a thousand different methods to our clients.

How does the service work?

When you contact us through our contact form or by email, one of our specialists will take ownership of your case and answer your query. You get an offer with all the necessary details about the analysis, and can send your samples to the indicated address. We will then take care of sending your samples to the correct laboratories and write a clear report on the results for you.

How do I send my samples?

Samples are usually delivered to our laboratory via courier. Contact us for further details before sending samples.