Are columns with embedded polar groups different from SIELC mixed mode columns?
Polar or polarizable groups are significantly different from ionizable groups which we have in every SIELC mixed-mode column. There are a lot of very polar groups in the RP system within the stationary phase and in the mobile phase. Water and silanol groups are examples. So embedded polar groups can not significantly effect the column performance in a reverse phase environment. Ionization is extreme case of polarization, when the separation of charges is equal to infinity. This is a very significant difference with a charge separated only by a few bonds in polar functional groups. Having an ionizable group is a new interaction electrostatic interaction becomes possible.
