Dacapo DX-C18

Imtakt Dacapo DX-C18

  • Exceptional wide pH stability from 1–12
  • High-resolution 2.5 µm particles for sharp, efficient separations
  • UHPLC-compatible performance up to 500 bar
  • LC-MS–friendly operation using simple ammonium hydroxide eluents
  • Optimized for ESI-negative mode peptide analysis
  • Supports alkaline sample solutions and aggressive alkaline column washing

The Dacapo DX-C18 is the highest-pH-stable silica-based reversed-phase column available on the market, delivering unmatched durability under alkaline conditions. Its fully protected surface dramatically improves peak shapes by suppressing secondary interactions—especially those caused by exposed silanol groups—which commonly lead to tailing and poor chromatographic efficiency in conventional C18 columns.

Imtakt’s proprietary Dual-Matrix architecture makes the DX-C18 the first column in the world to merge the mechanical robustness of porous silica with the chemical stability of polymer-based phases. A continuous C18/organic polymer matrix envelops the silica surface, creating a hybrid structure that withstands high pressures, aggressive pH, and strong organic solvents while maintaining excellent hydrophobic retention and highly reproducible selectivity. This innovative design delivers superior performance for demanding UHPLC applications in pharmaceutical, peptide, metabolomics, and high-pH analytical workflows.

Key Definitions ▸
Dual-Matrix Structure
Imtakt’s hybrid design that combines porous silica for mechanical strength with a full organic polymer/C18 coating for extreme pH stability and improved peak shape by eliminating secondary silanol interactions.
High-pH Stability
The ability of the DX-C18 to operate in alkaline mobile phases up to pH 12 without silica dissolution or performance loss, enabling robust method development for challenging analytes.
Secondary Interactions
Unwanted interactions between analytes and exposed silanol groups on silica surfaces. The DX-C18’s complete surface coverage suppresses these effects, improving peak shape and reducing tailing.
UHPLC Compatibility
The DX-C18’s porous silica core provides the strength needed to withstand pressures up to 500 bar, making it suitable for high-speed, high-efficiency UHPLC workflows.
ESI-Negative Mode
A mass spectrometry detection mode particularly useful for acidic or deprotonated peptides. The DX-C18’s alkaline compatibility and stable chemistry make it ideal for LC-MS workflows requiring ESI-negative ionization.
Frequently Asked Questions ▸

What makes the Dacapo DX-C18 suitable for high-pH applications?

Its unique Dual-Matrix architecture—combining porous silica with a complete polymer/C18 surface coating—protects against silica dissolution and maintains performance even at pH levels up to 12.

Why does the DX-C18 provide better peak shapes than traditional silica columns?

The DX-C18’s fully covered surface eliminates exposed silanol interactions, which are a major cause of peak tailing. This results in sharper, more symmetrical peaks and improved sensitivity for LC-MS workflows.

Is the DX-C18 suitable for UHPLC systems operating at high pressure?

Yes. The column’s porous silica core provides the mechanical strength needed to withstand pressures up to 500 bar, making it fully compatible with UHPLC and fast gradient methods.