Thin-layer chromatography of phenol and its derivatives on chitin layers with aqueous mobile phases

The possible use of chitin as a stationary phase for TLC of phenol derivati ves is demonstrated. The derivatives can be chromatographed in aqueous-orga nic (aliphatic alcohol or low organic acid) mobile phases. The effect on so lute chromatographic behavior of adding organic compounds such as low molec ular-weight carboxylic acids and aliphatic alcohols to the water are demons trated, The solutes investigated were also chromatographed with aqueous mob ile phases containing inorganic compounds such as strong acids and bases, a nd mineral salts.