I'm a very very new grower, but I have worked for a very large chemical company in the past. I have worked in their analytical chemistry department and have done quite a bit of TLC. What is your goal? If you are considering TLC for a quick analysis, then TLC is a reasonable approach. If you are considering TLC to separate and collect the purest form of TLC, cannabinoids, etc. for use afterwards, I would not recommend it. Extracting your desired product from TLC silica gel is normally not something you can do easily at home. You need the correct solvents. Different compounds require different solvents (usually some type of organic solvent) and preferably a hood vent to draw the solvent fumes up and out through a proper ventilation system. You don't want organic solvents dumped into the air. They aren't good for the atmosphere and they have a very noticeable smell. The smell of the solvents could bring you some very unwanted attention. Not to mention you need to properly dispose of the used solvents. So again, if you just want to test the composition of what you have, TLC is a reasonable way to go. Just follow the directions closely. Hope this helps.
