Abstract: A system for live compound visualization in column chromatography separation of compounds, including a shortwave UV transparent column configured to receive a crude mixture to be separated with an eluting solvent; a sorbent that is homogenously premixed with an inorganic UV indicator, wherein the fluorescent sorbent can be washed in-place and reusable; a shortwave UV light source that satisfies the following regarding its wavelength: 1) creates fluorescence on the inorganic UV indicator, 2) does not get absorbed by the eluting solvent, and 3) gets absorbed by the compounds; a detachable flow control valve rigidly fitted to an outlet end of the shortwave UV transparent column; a nozzle to the flow control valve configure to provide for eluent outflow of compounds separated from the crude mixture; and a hand-powered pressure bulb configured to provide low-pressure air flow into the shortwave UV transparent column attached to an inlet end of the quartz shortwave UV transparent column.