Why can thin-layer chromatography use stronger solvents than paper chromatography?

Thin-layer chromatography (TLC) is able to use stronger solvents than paper chromatography because of the physical composition of the stationary phase.

In thin-layer chromatography, the stationary phase consists of a thin layer of finely ground adsorbent—such as silica gel or alumina—that is bound to a rigid, inert support like a glass plate or plastic sheet using a binder such as plaster of paris or calcium sulfate. This construction provides the mechanical strength necessary to withstand the use of aggressive or strong solvents, as well as the application of reactive color-forming agents used to identify separated components.12

In contrast, paper chromatography relies on a sheet of filter paper as the stationary phase, which lacks the structural durability to remain intact when exposed to similarly harsh chemical solvents.32