Contactless conductivity detection for electrophoretic microseparation techniques

The technique of capacitively coupled contactless conductivity detection for electrophoretic separations is discussed. The position of the combination of the two techniques, which both rely on the control of the movement of ions in the electric field, is highlighted. A brief historical overview and an introduction into the fundamental mechanisms is also given, but this exploration focuses mainly on the unique aspects of the intimate interfacing between ionic conduction in the measuring cell and the electronic conduction in the electronic detector circuitry. The general scope of application of the method is discussed as well as the recently introduced use of hydrodynamic pumping, which is a special feature of capillary electrophoresis with contactless conductivity, not possible with the standard UV-detection method. DOI 10.1002/tcr.201100039