Abstract

This article presents an introduction to chromatography, a fundamental technology for separation of components of a mixture. The major chromatographic methods are described: gas chromatography, liquid chromatography, thin-layer chromatography, paper chromatography, supercritical fluid chromatography, and capillary electrophoresis. Major components of each type of chromatographic system are discussed, to enable the reader to understand each technology and its applications in chemistry and analysis. References to relevant books and articles are given to provide access to detailed information on each technology.