Reversed-phase ion-pair thin layer chromatography of some alkaloids

The retention behaviour of some alkaloids, as test samples, on reversed-phase pre-coated thin layer chromatography in the presence of different ion-pair reagents was investigated. Trifluoroacetic acid (TFA), pentafluoropropionic acid (PFPA), and heptaflluorobutyric acid (HFBA) were used as counter ions. The dependence of R-F, values on the eluent composition, the chain length of the ion-pair reagent and the ratio of two ion-pair reagents in the eluent is described. The retention values of the tested alkaloids after impregnation of the plate with the counter ion, were investigated.