Reaction flow chromatography is a new separation technique especially useful in the analysis of complex samples where selective detection may be required to reduce the sample complexity. In reaction flow chromatography, parallel segmented flow chromatography columns are employed in a manner that enables post column derivatisation (PCD) to be undertaken without the need to incorporate reaction coils, thus minimising the post column dead volume.

To showcase the power of this separation technique various PCD reactions selective for phenolic compounds and anti-oxidants are utilized. Natural product, environmental, drugs, food and beverage samples are analysed to gain information selective of specific constituents, dependant on the PCD approach. Such selective separations would provide excellent information for further metabolomic profiling and encapsulation of phenolic antioxidants that are known to have positive impacts fighting against oxidative-related human diseases e.g. coronary heart disease.