A Multiple Variable-Angle Light Scattering Detector for Gel Permeation Chromatography

A light scattering detector has been designed and constructed for use with gel permeation chromatographs. The detector measures light scattered from the eluting sample simultaneously at nine scattering angles, and is connected to a computer-controlled display which exhibits the angular dependence of the scattering in real time while the sample is eluting. Use of the light-scattering detector in conjunction with the usual concentration-sensitive detector allows the direct determination of molecular weight as a function of elution volume, thereby making the chromatographic system “self-calibrating.” Tests of the system with a series of linear and branched polystyrenes suggest that it will be a useful tool for the study and characterization of branched polymers.