Development of some stationary phases for reversed-phase HPLC

The availability of a variety of stable organic stationary phases for columns has been a key factor in the development of HPLC as a major scientific tool. This paper explores the history and rationale used in the development of some important stationary phases and attempts to identify some of the strengths and limitations of these materials. Some of the authorʹs experiences in stationary phase development illustrate approaches leading to present-day columns that exhibit a broad range of selectivity coupled with a high degree of reproducibility. Suggestions also are made for additional stationary phases that may be needed to complete column selectivity potential for HPLC separations.