Paper chromatography is an inexpensive method for analyzing some types of chemical mixtures. Here are our recommendations for paper and readily available solvents for experiments involving paper chromatography.
You can find these solvents at grocery, drug, and /or hardware stores.
| Solvent |
Polarity (arbitrary scale of 1-5) |
Suitability |
Comments |
| Water |
1 – Most polar |
Good |
|
| Rubbing alcohol (ethyl type) or denatured alcohol |
2 – High polarity |
Good |
POISONOUS!
Primary ingredient is ethyl alcohol (ethanol), but it is mixed with other ingredients to make it poisonous. |
| Rubbing alcohol (isopropyl type) |
3 – Medium polarity |
Good |
POISONOUS!
Primary ingredient is isopropyl alcohol (isopropanol). |
| Vinegar |
3 – Medium polarity |
Good |
|
| Nail polish remover (acetone) |
4 – Low polarity |
Good |
POISONOUS!
USE OUTSIDE or with good ventilation. You might be able to find pure acetone at a hardware store. |
| Turpentine |
5 – Least polar |
Good |
POISONOUS!
USE OUTSIDE or with good ventilation-it really smells bad. |
| Vegetable oil |
5 – Least polar |
Poor |
Too thick / viscous |
| Mineral oil |
5 – Least polar |
Poor |
Too thick / viscous |
