Reversed-phase thin-layer chromatography of chlorophyll derivatives

A reversed-phase thin-layer chromatographic (TLC) procedure using layers of Kieselguhr G impregnated with triolein, castor oil or paraffin oil is described. Eighteen identified and eight unknown derivatives of chlorophylls a, b and c can be resolved from the parent compounds. These include allomers, isomers, pheophytins, pheophorbides and chlorophyllides. In addition, at least six derivatives of bacteriochlorophyll a and a variety of algal and bacterial carotenoids can also be fractionated.