Rapid chloride analysis using miniaturised isotachophoresis

A new design of miniaturised separation device for performing isotachophoresis (ITP) has been produced. The device contains a simple arrangement of channels comprising a single separation channel with a ‘double T’ injection geometry. The device was produced in poly(methyl methacrylate) and incorporates an on-column conductivity detector. A new electrolyte system was developed to enable the rapid determination of chloride to be made. This electrolyte system uses a leading ion of 3.5 mM nitrate at pH 3.0 with 0.5 mM indium(III) added as a complexing agent. Use of this electrolyte system with the new separation device allowed chloride samples to be analysed in under 100 s, with a limit of detection (LOD) calculated to be 2.2 mg l−1.