Advantages and disadvantages of Chromatography

Chromatography is a technique of physical separations that are applying for the separation and identification of different solutes or components, it consists of the mobile phase and stationary phase, the mobile phase can be a gas or a liquid (Water, Methanol, nitrogen, etc.) whereas the stationary phase is either a liquid or a solid (TLC plate of silica, HPLC column etc.).Here are some advantages and disadvantages of chromatography.The Advantages of Chromatography:

Chromatography is the simplest method for the separation of components.
Chromatography can be controlled by a single person.

Components from a complex mixture can separate using chromatography method.
The small amount of sample (Gram, PPM, and ng/ml) can be detected by this chromatography.

It is a rapid and precise method of separation.
Very few sample volume/quantity is required for analysis.
It works on a broad range of samples.
In some chromatography techniques, it is possible to separate different components of a complex mixture.
Continuous operation possible on a large scale
The separation of components can be achieved in different methods.
Different kinds of chromatography tools are available for the separation of the compounds. Some examples are liquid chromatography, Gas chromatography, High-performance liquid chromatography, Column Chromatography, Solid Chromatography, Liquid-liquid Chromatography, Solid-liquid Chromatography, Thin Layer Chromatography.

The disadvantages of Chromatography:

The chromatography equipment can only be operated by a trained person.
Chromatography instruments are expensive.
An error occurs due to the overloading of the samples.
Chromatography equipment must be handled with care because of these parts are expensive and sensitive.
Some of the chromatography techniques require more solvent to separate the analytes.
Periodic maintenance and parts need to be changed
Some of the chromatography methods require high power consumption.
High operational pressure may be required to achieve efficient separation.