Journal of Applied Polymer Science, Vol.56, No.1, 65-72, 1995
Size-Exclusion Chromatography with 2-Angle Laser Light-Scattering (SEC-Talls) of High-Molecular-Weight and Branched Polymers
The accuracy and precision of results obtained from light-scattering detection at two angles (TALLS) for size-exclusion chromatography (SEC) are examined for linear narrow molecular weight distribution polystyrenes between 1,290,000 and 20,000,000 MW and for branched polyesters. The ratio of light-scattering intensities at 15 degrees and 90 degrees is used to calculate weight-average molecular weight, (M) over bar(w), and an average root-mean-square radius, (r) over bar(gu), equivalent to the z-average radius. A shape for the polymer molecule is assumed and an analytical relationship for the particle-scattering function is required. It is shown that analysis of the data using the particle-scattering function for a random coil is valid for both high molecular weight, linear polystyrenes and long-chain branched polyesters. The radius, (r) over bar(gu) is determined with high precision by using the ratio of light-scattering signals, which is insensitive to errors in sample concentration and changes in the eluent flow rate. The correct average radius for the whole polymer is obtained despite using low-efficiency, large-particle diameter SEC columns; however, axial dispersion significantly affects molecular weights and radii calculated at each retention volume that can limit the utility of plots used to deduce polymer conformation.
Keywords:STRATEGY