Comprehensive classification of liquid chromatography column packing materials: A standardized review from matrix materials to pore structure

Liquid chromatography column packing materials are functional particles or continuous porous media loaded inside liquid chromatography columns. Through precisely controlled particle size, pore size/specific surface area, and surface chemistry (e.g., bonded stationary phases or ion-exchange groups), they enable selective retention and elution of different components in a mixture under the propulsion of the mobile phase—thereby achieving high-resolution separation, qualitative/quantitative analysis, and purification. The core challenge they address is: for complex samples containing multiple components that are structurally similar, differ greatly in concentration, and suffer from strong matrix interference, how can target compounds be reliably distinguished from impurities and interferences—under reproducible and verifiable conditions—while simultaneously balancing analytical efficiency, peak shape, loading capacity, resistance to contamination, and chemical stability. Historically, liquid-phase separation technology evolved from early low-pressure column chromatography. With advances in high-pressure delivery, precise injection, and detection technologies, high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) matured into a systematic analytical platform. Correspondingly, packing materials progressed from irregular, coarse particles toward highly uniform microspheres with controllable pore structures. Porous silica microspheres have long dominated as the primary matrix material, and modern methodological foundations were established through surface chemistries such as reversed-phase bonding layers. Subsequently, to meet demands for stability and reproducibility under challenging operational conditions—including high aqueous content, wide pH ranges, high-salt buffers, and stringent cleaning protocols—alternative matrix formats emerged: polymeric matrices, silica-hybrid materials, core-shell particles, and monolithic columns. Likewise, mechanism-driven stationary phases—including hydrophilic interaction, ion exchange, and mixed-mode chemistries—have continuously expanded capabilities, enabling chromatographic columns to maintain transferable, auditable performance in high-throughput, highly complex sample analyses and strictly regulated compliance environments. Upstream supply chains typically comprise two major systems: matrix materials and surface chemistry. Matrix-related inputs include high-purity silica sources or monomers/polymers, porogens/templates, catalysts, dispersants, and cleaning solvents; surface chemistry inputs encompass coupling/bonding reagents, end-capping reagents, reaction solvents, and inert gases. Supporting 'components/accessories' include materials for size fractionation and filtration; inert-lined reactors and drying equipment parts; column tubing and end fittings (metal or PEEK); sintered frits/screens; seals and connectors; as well as reference standards and analytical consumables required for quality control and characterization of particle size, pore structure, and surface functional groups. In 2025, the global market for liquid chromatography column packing materials reached USD 612 million, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR-6) of 3.8%. Total production capacity stood at 300 metric tons, sales volume at 214.1 metric tons, average unit price at USD 2,860 per kilogram, and enterprise gross margins ranged between 55% and 70%. Key enterprises: Agilent Technologies (USA, listed on NYSE: A) Daicel Corporation (Japan, listed on TSE: 4202) GLTECHNO HOLDINGS, INC. (Japan, listed on TSE: 255A) Merck Group (Germany, listed on XETRA: MRK) Mitsubishi Chemical Group (Japan, listed on TSE: 4188) Osaka Soda Co., Ltd. (Japan, listed on TSE: 4046) Shimadzu Corporation (Japan, listed on TSE: 7701) Suzhou NanoMicro Technology Co., Ltd. (China, listed on SSE STAR Market: 688690)

Hanyao News | Major Announcement! New Authorization: Hanyao HKing Officially Appointed Exclusive Distributor for Osaka Soda Chromatography Columns in China

Authoritative authorization, enhanced capability! We proudly announce that Shanghai Hanyao HKing has officially received official authorization from Osaka Soda Co., Ltd. (Japan) to serve as the exclusive distributor for the full DAISOPAK series and CAPCELLPAK SEC series of chromatography columns across mainland China! Effective immediately, Hanyao will assume full responsibility for genuine product sales, marketing promotion, and technical support for both product lines within China—delivering original-equipment, high-quality chromatographic separation solutions to domestic research institutions, biopharmaceutical enterprises, and industrial testing laboratories. Brand Introduction Founded in 1915, Osaka Soda Co., Ltd. is a globally renowned manufacturer of silica-based materials for liquid chromatography. In 2017, it acquired Shiseido’s liquid chromatography-related assets, integrating DAISOGEL packing material technology with CAPCELLPAK surface modification processes to establish a complete value chain—from packing material manufacturing to analytical columns, preparative columns, and industrial purification systems. DAISOGEL silica-based packings are celebrated for rigorous quality control and exceptional batch-to-batch consistency. Both DAISOPAK and CAPCELLPAK columns are manufactured entirely in Japan and widely applied across pharmaceuticals, food, environmental monitoring, and scientific research fields. Officially Authorized Product Portfolio This authorization covers two core product lines: ✅ Full DAISOPAK Series Chromatography Columns The DAISOPAK series of liquid chromatography columns utilize DAISOGEL packings and are manufactured under GMP-compliant conditions. Based on distinct packing types, this series offers customizable analytical, semi-preparative, and preparative columns tailored to user requirements. Coverage includes SP-P, SP-BIO, and SP-ODS series: ODS-BIO: Designed specifically for biopharmaceutical analysis; its unique bonding technology ensures superior tolerance under acidic and basic conditions; ODS-P: Higher specific surface area delivers greater sample loading capacity; ODS-BP: Lower carbon content enables effective separation of hydrophilic or highly polar compounds under 100% aqueous conditions; ODS-RPS: Excellent acid resistance, ideal for organic compound analysis; C8-BIO: A novel C8-bonded packing featuring unique bonding technology ensuring robust performance under both acidic and basic conditions;

Osaka Soda Breaks Ground on Silica Gel Expansion in Japan

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Osaka Soda has commenced construction on a silica gel manufacturing expansion at its Matsuyama plant to meet rising pharmaceutical demand, with completion expected by February 2028. The ¥10 billion investment aims to double combined output capacity across its Japanese facilities.

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Osaka Soda Breaks Ground on Silica Gel Expansion in Japan

Osaka Soda Breaks Ground on Silica Gel Expansion in Japan

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