Thin Layer Chromatography Lab Report

Task 3:
How could Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) have been used to prepare a pure sample of aspirin?
The method of using thin layer chromatography is easy, quick and relatively cheap to carry out this makes it ideal for preparing pure samples of aspirin.
Equipment Required:
• Thin Layer Chromatography Paper
• Ruler
• Pencil
• Solvent
• Beaker
• Micro Capillary
• Access to a fume cupboard
• UV light
• Clingfilm
• Individuals sample of aspirin
• Pure sample of aspirin
• Sample of salicylic acid
Method:
1. Firstly mark a line across the TLC paper approximately 0.5cm from the bottom, then mark three spots along the line ensuring to label them according to whether they are your own individual sample, the pure sample of aspirin or the sample of salicylic acid during the part of the experiment be sure not to press down too hard on the paper as it could affect the absorbance and therefore the results.
2.
Next using the micro capillary dip into the sample collecting a small amount of the liquid and spotting on the TLC paper in the appropriate location of your individual sample, when doing this it is important to ensure that the dot of sample is not too large as it could cause it to spread and therefore contaminate other samples.
3. Then repeat step 2 using a clean micro capillary for the pure sample and the same again for the sample of salicylic acid, when doing this it is important to uphold hygiene and reduce contamination by using new and cleaned equipment for each