There are several types of HPLC, each tailored for specific applications:
1. Normal Phase HPLC: Uses a polar stationary phase and a non-polar mobile phase, suitable for separating polar compounds. 2. Reverse Phase HPLC: Uses a non-polar stationary phase and a polar mobile phase, ideal for non-polar or moderately polar compounds. 3. Size-Exclusion HPLC: Separates molecules based on their size, commonly used for protein and polymer analysis. 4. Ion-Exchange HPLC: Separates ions and polar molecules based on their affinity to ion exchangers, useful for analyzing charged biomolecules. 5. Affinity HPLC: Utilizes the specific interactions between an analyte and a ligand attached to the stationary phase, often used for purifying proteins and antibodies.