The chiral separation of eight racemic compounds has been investigated on a
cellulose tris(3,5-dimethylphenylcarbamate) chiral column under reversed-p
hase conditions. The discrimination mechanism under reversed-phase conditio
ns is discussed. Addition of acid to the mobile phase is necessary for reso
lution of acidic racemic compounds. The presence of ion-pair reagent in the
mobile phase is a key factor in the resolution of basic racemic compounds.
Retention of the racemates is also affected by addition of acid or salt. T
he anion in buffer not only interacts wit the racemate, but also with the p
olysaccharide derivative on the silica gel surface.