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Capillary electrochromatography (CEC) is a hybrid between capillary electrophoresis and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) that has gained popularity in recent years. CEC uses an electrically driven flow to transport the solutes through the chromatographic column. Separation can be achieved by differential partition between two phases, differential electromigration, or a combination of these two. Herein, the main features of CEC are presented, including basic principles and a literature overview on different practical approaches used.

A capillary-electrode holder was constructed for electrochemical detection in capillary electrophoresis (CE). The device allows for positioning of the working electrode at the end of the capillary column without the aid of micropositioners or microscopes. The design facilitates the exchange of electrodes and capillaries without the need of refabricating the entire capillary-electrode setup. The system can be assembled in a very short period of time. Alignment with the self-guided system proved to be reproducible for the electrodes used (carbon, nickel, copper). The advantages of reduced downtime and low cost, make the device very attractive for the routine analysis of electroactive species by CE with electrochemical detection.

Theoretical calculations and experimental data indicate that very high pressure HPLC can be performed using 1 and 1.5 mm id columns, and contrary to previous beliefs, the frictional heating generated does not appear to be detrimental to the separation.