CAMAG Scientific hosts national workshop on high-performance thin-layer chromatography at CFCC

Wilmington, NC – CAMAG Scientific, Inc., a global leader in instrumental thin-layer chromatography, hosted a two-day workshop at Cape Fear Community College (CFCC) on May 23-24. The event brought together professionals from across the United States to explore the latest advancements in high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC).

HPTLC instrumentation analyzes complex mixtures by separating their components. This technology allows analysts to establish the identity and quantity of various products using chemical fingerprints. Guest speakers at the workshop discussed the application of HPTLC in fields such as herbal drugs, dietary supplements, illicit drugs, botanicals, and essential oils.

The event highlighted CFCC’s Chemical Technology program, which, with the support of CAMAG Scientific, Inc., is the only community college program in North Carolina equipped with HPTLC technology. Workshops included a presentation on current research by industry leaders and CFCC students, showcasing practical applications and innovations in HPTLC. These presentations emphasized the developments from research conducted by CFCC interns, supervised by Dr. Wilmer Perera, CAMAG Scientific, Inc., Lab Director.

“Hosting this workshop highlights the strong partnership we have built with CAMAG Scientific,” said Tracy Holbrook, CFCC Chemical Technology Program Director. “Our students benefit immensely from access to industry-leading equipment and the opportunity to develop new techniques and applications for this instrumentation.”

“Since 2020, CFCC students have engaged in HPTLC-related projects, including the authentication of herbal drugs and mushrooms, the identification of synthetic dyes, and the monitoring of polysaccharide breakdown during the fermentation process,” said Dr. Perera. “They have also supported the development of the HPTLC method, which can be used as part of monographs. This collaboration provides students with hands-on experience, enriching their educational journey and preparing them for successful careers in chemical technology.”

For more information on CFCC’s Chemical Technology program, visit cfcc.edu/chemical-technology/ .