3D-Printed Modular Chromatography System: An Introduction to Instrumentation

Abstract

Liquid chromatography (LC) systems are prohibitively expensive for undergraduate education and research. To more broadly introduce liquid chromatography, we are developing a modular open-source chromatography system. Fluid flow is provided by a 3D-printed peristaltic pump that utilizes common hobbyist robotics motors, 3D-printer stepper motors, and motor driver circuits. The development of a conductivity sensor and a fraction collector is underway. Weak signals from various detectors are amplified using a modular amplifier, capable of amplifying up to two signals at once. In this chapter we will focus on our progress towards the development of a UV detector composed of a 3D-printed flow cell with glass coverslip windows, a UV LED, and a UV photodiode that does not require focusing lenses. Furthermore, we describe several open-ended activities that enable students to optimize detector performance for specific experimental needs, and to introduce key concepts of analytical instrumentation. 3D models are developed online through Tinkercad and illustrate an indispensable role of 3D-printing in enabling instrumentation projects. All 3D printing files, electronic schematics, and Gerber files are available on GitHub under a GNU 3.0 license. Ultimately, we aim to introduce this work into undergraduate teaching and research labs. This report will be most helpful for faculty interested in introducing analytical instrumentation activities into their curriculum and will highlight educational and research opportunities enabled by 3D-printing.