The stronger a compound is bound to the adsorbent , the slower it moves up the TLC plate. Non-polar compounds move up the plate most rapidly (higher Rf value), whereas polar substances travel up the TLC plate slowly or not at all (lower Rf value).

Is TLC polar or nonpolar?

This very polar stationary phase is paired with a relatively nonpolar mobile phase (an organic solvent or solution), in what is referred to as “normal phase” TLC.

Does TLC have a polar stationary phase?

TLC most often uses polar silica gel, a form of silicon dioxide, as the stationary phase. The stationary phase forms hydrogen bonds due to the OH groups on its surface.