UV Lamps in the Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC)

Thin-layer chromatography (TLC) is a chromatography technique that separates components in non-volatile mixtures. As the chemicals being separated may be colourless, UV light is often used to visualize the spots.

Two types of ultraviolet light are required for visualization in the TLC:

Longwave UV light 365 nm

Under longwave UV light, substances that can be excited to fluoresce appear as bright spots, often differently colored, on a dark background. The sensitivity of this detection method increases with the intensity of the UV light and also as more visible light is eliminated. A fluorescent indicator F254 contained in the layer neither contributes to nor interferes with this detection method.

Shortwave UV light 254nm

Under shortwave UV light, substances absorbing at that wavelength become visible, provided the TLC layer contains a fluorescent indicator, e.g. F254. These substances appear as dark spots on a bright background. For this detection method, UV intensity and complete elimination of visible light are less critical.

XEPU UV Lamps Designed for TLC

The Dual-Wavelength UV lamp XEPU-1328LS is designed for Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) and many other applications where objects are viewed under ultraviolet light. The lightweight and compact design makes XEPU UV lamps ideal for both handheld and stationary use.

1) Each XEPU-1328LS UV lamp is equipped with high-quality UV tubes which provide uniform and steady illumination. Reflector surfaces are mounted behind each tube. This ensures instantaneous illumination of the UV tubes at the selected wavelength as well as the absence of any flickering.

2) In order to reduce the user’s risk of exposure to UV radiation, each UV lamp is supplied with a pair of UV protective glasses XP-100. XEPU Scientific has a line of products for UV protection, including face shields, goggles and gloves.

3) An optional stand is available for TLC. The stand holds the UV lamp in a position optimized for viewing 20 x 20 cm objects. It shields off extraneous light from the back. The UV lamp can be easily lifted off the stand and directed against a larger object.

Photo below: XEPU-1328LS UV lamp used with a stand for TLC

Key Features of XEPU UV Lamps

● Combine any wavelengths (254/312/365nm) to customize a UV lamp for your applications

● Uniform and steady UV illumination

● Instantaneous ignition without flickering

● High-quality UV tubes with an average life of 5,000 hours

● Rugged housing for years of use

● Compact design to fit busy laboratory

● Optional stand designed for optimal viewing in the TLC

UV Lamps Order Information

XEPU Scientific offers mutiple UV lamps for TLC. The dual-wavelength UV lamps are available in two combinations of wavelengths. For greater versatility, choose three-wavelength UV Lamp XEPU-1338LMS.