SilcoTek has become a pivotal player in the field of analytical chemistry, known for our innovative surface coatings that enhance the performance and durability of analytical instruments. But how did we get here? Understanding the journey of SilcoTek is not only a tale of technological advancement but also a narrative of commitment to solving some of the most pressing challenges in the analytical sciences. Let’s delve into the history of SilcoTek and explore how we’ve shaped, and continue to shape, the world of analytical chemistry.
The Beginning: Identifying the Need
SilcoTek’s origins are deeply rooted in the realization that analytical instruments often faced performance limitations due to surface interactions. Many traditional materials used in instrumentation would degrade or introduce contaminants into samples, leading to inaccuracies. In the analytical industry, the need for highly accurate and reliable data was paramount. However, the existing tools and materials could not consistently meet these high standards.
Recognizing this gap, Restek set out to revolutionize surface treatments. By leveraging chemical vapor deposition (CVD) technology, Restek (then known as Restek Performance Coatings) developed coatings that provided superior inertness, corrosion resistance, and durability.
Quickly blossoming into a successful new division, SilcoTek broke off from Restek and began its own endeavor in 2009.
The Breakthrough: SilcoNert® and Beyond
One of SilcoTek’s first major successes was SilcoNert® (formerly called Silcosteel), a groundbreaking coating that addressed the issue of adsorption and reactivity on metal surfaces. This inert coating quickly became a game-changer in gas chromatography (GC), where even trace-level adsorption could compromise results. Analysts found that with SilcoNert-coated components, they could achieve unparalleled sensitivity and reproducibility.
Following this breakthrough, SilcoTek expanded its portfolio with coatings like Dursan® and Dursox®, each designed to tackle specific challenges such as corrosion resistance and wear protection. These innovations not only improved the longevity of analytical instruments but also enabled scientists to explore new frontiers in ultra-sensitive and harsh-environment applications.
Growth and Industry Impact
SilcoTek’s impact grew exponentially as more industries adopted our coatings. Environmental labs relied on our technology to detect minute levels of pollutants, ensuring regulatory compliance and protecting public health. Petrochemical companies utilized our coatings to analyze sulfur compounds, overcoming the challenges posed by corrosive and reactive substances. The medical and pharmaceutical sectors benefited from reduced contamination risks and improved biocompatibility.
What set SilcoTek apart was not only the performance of its coatings but also our commitment to collaboration. By working closely with customers, we continuously refined our technologies to meet evolving analytical needs. Our approach fostered a culture of innovation and trust that continues to drive us today.
Today: Changing the Game in HPLC with Dursan®
SilcoTek’s journey from a niche surface technology company to a global leader in analytical chemistry is a testament to our dedication to solving real-world problems. Today, our coatings are used in a myriad of applications, from detecting greenhouse gases to ensuring the purity of pharmaceutical products.
With a strong focus on research and development, SilcoTek remains at the forefront of technological advancement. By anticipating future challenges and maintaining close partnerships with our customers, we aim to empower scientists and engineers with tools that enable groundbreaking discoveries.
SilcoTek's coatings have opened up a whole new world of analytical applications in HPLC. Many of our customers have taken to coating HPLC hardware to ward off the same types of enemies as in GC. SilcoTek-coated hardware has many of the same benefits such as reduced analyte adsorption, enhanced corrosion resistance, improved signal sensitivity, lower maintenance costs, and a broad compatibility. One of the most significant advantages of SilcoTek coatings is our inert, non-metallic surface. Unlike untreated stainless steel, SilcoTek-coated surfaces prevent any interaction between metal ions and the mobile phase. This ensures the separation process is clean and unaffected by these interactions, which is especially critical in the analysis of biomolecules, organic acids, or chelating agents that can react with metal ions.
In HPLC, consistent, repeatable results are essential. Metal ions in the system can lead to peak broadening, tailing, or even complete analyte loss, all of which compromise reproducibility. By coating critical parts of the HPLC system — such as columns, flow paths, and injection valves — with SilcoTek’s Dursan or Silcolloy®, you eliminate these unwanted interactions and ensure more accurate, reliable data.
The Road Ahead
As we look to the future, one thing is certain: SilcoTek will continue to innovate and adapt to meet the demands of an ever-changing analytical landscape. Whether it’s enhancing existing coatings or venturing into entirely new applications, our mission remains clear—to make the world a better place through our coatings.
In the realm of analytical chemistry, where precision and reliability are non-negotiable, SilcoTek stands as a trusted partner, a trailblazer, and a problem solver. Our journey so far has been remarkable, and the best is yet to come.
Have questions about your application? Reach out to our technical experts!
