Quantitative evaluation of thin-layer chromatograms by means of the solvatochromic fluorescence of 8-phenylamino-1-naphthalenesulfonate

Polarity dependent fluorescence of 8-(phenyl-amino)-1-naphtalene sulfonate (8.1 ANS) was used to develop a quantitative evaluation method for thin-layer chromatograms (TLCs). After the compounds have been separated the dye is applied to the chromatogram where it is extracted by the substances and shows - upon exitation - a significant fluorescence. This is a way to quantify photophysically inactive molecules without preceding derivatization. Fluorescence intensity correlate well with the amount of the compounds as is shown in the cases of three wax components.