Abstract: Apparatus and method for the repetitive use of a single packed chromatographic column for the separation of a first solute from at least one second solute of differing polarity, said solutes being commingled in a sample solution. The sample solution is introduced into the inlet end of a single re-usable chromatographic column packed with a charge of porous adsorbent material suited to preferentially adsorb the first solute. A series of different eluants are then passed through the stationary phase to selectively stepwise elute the second solute, and the first adsorbed solute, and to regenerate the stationary phase before introduction of a subsequent sample solution into the column. A control means coordinates the respective sequential processing of each of a plurality of sample solutions through the same charge of porous adsorbent material in the column.