V3I9P43

A Review on Paper Chromatography: Principle, Types, Procedure and Pharmaceutical Applications

Ferujul Hoque^1*, Kaja Reshma²

Abstract

Paper chromatography is considered a simple, inexpensive, and effective chromatographic technique used for the separation, identification, and analysis of different components present in a mixture. It is a type of planar chromatography in which a sheet of specially prepared paper acts as the supporting medium. Separation occurs mainly because different components of a mixture have different affinities for the stationary and mobile phases. When a suitable solvent moves through the paper by capillary action, the components travel at different rates and form separate spots. The technique can be performed by different methods such as ascending, descending, circular, and two-dimensional paper chromatography. The separated components can be identified by comparing their migration distances and calculating the retention factor (Rf) value. Paper chromatography has applications in pharmaceutical analysis, the identification of drugs, the examination of plant pigments, the separation of amino acids, the analysis of dyes, and research laboratories. Although modern instrumental techniques provide greater sensitivity and accuracy, paper chromatography remains valuable due to its simplicity, low cost, and ease of operation. This article discusses the principle, types, procedure, Rf value, factors affecting separation, applications, advantages, limitations, and precautions associated with paper chromatography.

Keywords:

Paper chromatography, chromatography, stationary phase, mobile phase, separation, retention factor, Rf value, pharmaceutical analysis.