THIN LAYER CHROMATOGRAPHY Introduction Thin layer chromatography (TLC) is a technique in which a solute undergoes distribution between two phases, a stationary phase, acting through adsorption and a mobile phase in the form of liquid. The adsorbent is relatively thin, uniform layer of dry, finely powdered material applied to glass, plastic or metal sheet. Glass plates are most commonly used. Separation may also be achieved on the basis of partition or a combination of partition and adsorption, depending on a particular type of support, its preparation and its use with different solvent. Identification can be effected by observation of spots of identical Rf value and about equal magnitude obtained respectively, with an unknown and reference sample chromatograph on the same plate. Apparatus required Flat glass plates of appropriate dimensions. b) An aligning tray or plate surface on which the plates can be aligned and ...