After preparing the chamber and spotting the samples, the paper is ready to be developed. Be careful to handle the paper only by its edges to prevent contamination. Also, leave the development chamber uncovered for as little time as possible to sustain a saturated environment.
Initially, the chromatogram should be suspended in the chamber without touching the solvent. To suspend the chromatogram, thread a piece of string through a paper clip at the top of it. Then tape the string to the outside of the chamber to hold the chromatogram in place.
After the chromatogram has hung in the chamber for 10 minutes, immerse the paper's bottom edge into the developing solvent.
Immersing the paper Remove the tape that holds the string in place. Lower the bottom edge of the paper into the developing solution, making sure the spots do not touch the liquid. Again, tape the string to secure the chromatogram.
Removing the chromatogram After the solvent front is within half of an inch of the top of the paper, remove the chromatogram. First, open the lid of the development chamber. Then gently lift the string and the chromatogram out of the chamber. Be sure to handle the chromatogram only by the sides. Carefully mark the solvent front with a penciland allow the chromatogram to dry in a well-ventilated area.
