Novel stationary phases for high-performance liquid chromatography analysis of cyclodextrin derivatives

Novel stationary phases were prepared for separation of cyclodextrins and cyclodextrin derivatives by bonding substituted aromatic groups (phenyl and naphthyl) to the silica gel matrix. Both the electron-withdrawing (nitro) and the hydrogen-donor/acceptor (amide or carbamide) substituents of the phenyl group play essential role in the separation of cyclodextrins and cyclodextrin derivatives. On the basis of the comparison of experimental data obtained on different columns the N-(4-nitrophenyl)-carbamide group bonded silica gel stationary phase was selected as the most effective one for analysis of cyclodextrin derivatives. Improved separation potency was observed for hydroxypropylated, methylated and several other cyclodextrin derivatives compared with the previously and presently used stationary phases. Owing to the strong retention of cyclodextrins and its derivatives on the selected column, detection of their decomposition products was easily achieved. Determination of unsubstituted, natural cyclodextrin as an impurity in the cyclodextrin derivatives was implemented. Identification and characterization of cyclodextrin derivatives in industrial products could also be performed. (c) 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.