Interface for the coupling of capillary electrophoresis and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry

The coupling of capillary electrophoresis and inductively coupled plasma (ICP) mass spectrometry is described using a new direct injection nebulizer designed for liquid flow-rates of 1-15 mu l min(-1) (aqueous solutions). The liquid flow-rate working range was found to depend on the nebulizer design. An extra flow of electrolyte was used to complete the electrical circuit. This design was found to work better than the conductive paint and crack hole designs. The CE-ICP-MS system was tested by analysing mixtures of alkali/alkaline earth metals and Cr(III)/Cr(VI), using electrokinetic injection. With ICP-MS detection an optimal internal standard, with the same electrophoretic mobility as the analyte, can be used. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.