Empower Tip: Working with GPC/SEC data in Empower

In this tip, we will continue the discussion about using Custom Fields for GPC/SEC data by discussing the use of Molecular Weight Markers found on the Slicing tab of the Processing Method.

Those that export polymers report data needed for premanufacture notification submission which includes low value exemption. This includes the reporting of the percentage of the polymer below a specified molecular weight. This is easily accomplished by using Molecular Weight Markers.

Let’s see how it’s done!

On the Slicing tab in the Processing Method you will find 6 Molecular Weight Markers. Molecular Weight markers 1 through 3 are used to calculate the percentage area of the molecular weight distribution above a molecular weight. Markers 4 through 6 are used to calculate the percentage area of the molecular weight distribution below a molecular weight. In this example, I’ve entered 20000 for Molecular Weight Marker 4.

STEP 2Once the data is processed, we can see the Molecular Weight Marker value and the percent of the polymer below the molecular weight in the Peaks table in Review.

STEP 3The molecular weight distribution plot can display any Molecular Weight Markers that have been added by turning on Molecular Weight Markers in the plot options.

It’s that easy!