Solvents to avoid

Consult this list of solvents to avoid using in your system.

Avoid the following substances:

• Solvents that contain halogens:
  • Bromine
  • Chlorine
  • Fluorine
  • Iodine
• Warning: Peroxide contaminants in THF can spontaneously and destructively explode when you partially or completely evaporate the THF.
  Compounds that form peroxides, such as ultraviolet (UV)-grade ethers, non-stabilized THF, dioxane, and diisopropylether (If you must use compounds that form peroxides, be sure to filter them through dry aluminum oxide, to adsorb formed peroxides. Do not allow them to remain on a system for more than 24 hours.)
• Solutions that contain strong concentrations (greater than 0.1% wt) of complexing agents like EDTA
• Note: The standard pH operating range for your system is 1.0 to 13.0. Operating the system below pH 1.0 or above pH 13.0 for more than brief periods can result in increased wear on system components not included in preventive maintenance kits and the need for more frequent routine preventive maintenance.
  Strong acids and strong bases
  • For strong acids, unless using them as cleaning agents, use them only in weak concentration. Avoid using acids as mobile phases when their pH is less than 1.0.
  • For strong bases, use them only in weak concentration. Avoid using bases as mobile phases when their pH is greater than 10.0 (or greater than pH 12.0 when using the high pH tubing kit).
  • When operating the Alliance iS Bio HPLC System above pH 10, ensure that you are using the optional high pH kit. For further assistance, contact Waters.

Contents

• Material limitations for strong acids and bases