High Performance Thin Layer Chromatography (HPTLC) has various applications in fields like herbal, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, cosmetics and forensics. Forensic science relies on chromatographic techniques for identification. The separation of complex mixtures is an essential tool in forensic science that can be achieved by HPTLC.

HPTLC application in forensic science such as identification and comparison of banned drugs, explosives, inks and biological samples. In suicide cases to HPTLC proves to be an essential tool for identification. It can handle a complex matrix of biological samples such as urine, viscera, etc. HPTLC can be a preferred technique as it has a very low operational price hence making it easier for all to use it. It is also useful in testing on thermo-labile compounds, explosives, organic nitro compounds where separation and quantification can be achieved easily.

Advances in chromatography technology facilitate the identification of compounds used in explosives, chemical weapons, and illicit drugs. HPTLC chromatography applications in India have enabled crackdowns on synthetic methamphetamines and Mephedrone (M-Cat) drugs, using only trace sample amounts for identification. The computerization and portability of HPTLC instrumentation allow on-scene analysis that previously required a dedicated laboratory.

·   HPTLC is used in forensic labs such as Regional Forensic Labs, State Forensic Labs & Forensic Science Universities. There are multiple application notes and methods on the Forensic Application notes using HPTLC, you can contact us at hptlc@anchrom.in for access to the same.

One example of HPTLC forensic application is as follows:

Anchrom Lab was approached by a lab for a recovery study of Methenamine Hippurate from a biological sample. Lab simulated the experiment and used egg white as a sample for recovery studies of methenamine Hippurate from protein matrix. The method was developed using CAMAG HPTLC. Methenamine Hippurate has been observed under UV 254nm. The plate was scanned using Scanner 4. HPTLC absorption spectra were taken in the UV range 190nm to 450 and the maximum absorption wavelength was found to be 233nm. The recovery of the sample was 100% and thus we can conclude that a method for recovery studies of Methenamine Hippurate was developed at Anchrom’s India-specific HPTLC Application Center in Mumbai.

Please send us an email at hptlc@anchrom.in for technical support related to HPTLC.