Detergent Removal
Detergent removal before LC or LC/MS analysis starts with the type of detergent and what the trapping step needs to retain. In one method, the detergent binds to the trap while the sample passes through. In another, the target is retained while detergent is washed away. Choose the packing for that method first, then confirm pressure, sample load and the appropriate cartridge configuration.
Find the right trap in five steps
Detergent & method → Packing material → Operating pressure → Sample load & capacity → Product configuration
1. Start with the detergent-removal method
SDS and non-ionic detergents use different trapping approaches. The documented removal mechanisms determine the appropriate packing, rather than the name of the cartridge family.
SDS removal
What stays on the trap: The SDS detergent is retained by an anion-exchange packing, while the protein or peptide passes through for further processing or analysis.
Documented packing option: Small Molecule SDS Removal Trap in the OPTI-TRAP product selector.
Non-ionic detergent removal
What stays on the trap: The target protein or peptide is temporarily retained while the non-ionic detergent is washed to waste, then the target is eluted.
Documented packing option: NID (Non-Ionic Detergent) Removal Trap in the OPTI-TRAP product selector.
Other detergent types: For non-SDS ionic, zwitterionic or unidentified detergents, the correct retention chemistry depends on the specific method. Optimize's LC or LC/MS Trapping Guide discusses ion-exchange approaches, but a generic SAX, SCX or NID phase is not automatically a substitute for either application-specific removal trap. Get help selecting the method.
2. Match the packing to your system and sample
Once the removal method and packing have been identified, use operating conditions and sample requirements to choose the hardware. The documented OPTI-TRAP removal phases above are a starting product path, not proof that similarly named packings in other families are equivalent.
Operating pressure
The OPTI-TRAP system is rated up to 1,500 psi. If your method requires a different pressure range, confirm an appropriate packing and system combination before changing families.
Sample load and conditions
Consider detergent amount, target recovery, sample volume, loading and wash conditions, and packed-bed capacity. For non-ionic removal, protein retention can also depend on pH relative to the target's isoelectric point (pI).
Cartridge and holder
Choose an available phase, cartridge size and pack quantity on the product page. Confirm the matching holder and connections with the Trap Compatibility & Holder Reference.
Exploring another trap family? Browse the Trap Columns category for available systems and packings. Confirm method suitability and pressure limits before selecting an alternative; similar phase names do not establish equivalent detergent-removal performance.
3. Technical references and related applications
Need help choosing the right packing?
Tell Optimize the detergent type, what you need to retain or remove, your approximate sample load and operating pressure. For uncertain chemistry, protein pI/pH questions or a nonstandard configuration, contact Optimize Technologies.