In an embodiment, a method for manufacturing a thin layer chromatography (“TLC”) plate is disclosed. The method includes forming a layer of elongated nanostructures (e.g., carbon nanotubes), priming the elongated nanostructures with one or more adhesion priming layers, and at least partially coating the elongated nanostructures with a coating. The coating includes a stationary phase and/or precursor of a stationary phase for use in chromatography. The stationary phase may be functionalized with hydroxyl groups by exposure to a base or acid. The stationary phase may further be treated with a silane (e.g., an amino silane) to improve the performance of the TLC plate. Embodiments for TLC plates and related methods are also disclosed.