Use of nanoparticles in capillary and microchip electrochromatography

Applications of nanoparticles are of rising interest in separation science, due to their favorable surface-to-volume ratio as well as their applicability in miniaturization. A stationary phase with large surface area in combination with an electroosmotic flow-driven system has great potential in a highly efficient separation system. This review covers the use of various nanoparticles as stationary or pseudostationary phase in capillary and microchip electrochromatography. The use of nanoparticles in pseudostationary phase capillary electrochromatography and open-tubular capillary electrochromatography are thoroughly discussed. The stationary and pseudostationary phases that are described include polymer nanoparticles, gold nanoparticles, silica nanoparticles, fullerenes and carbon nanotubes.