Speciation analysis by small-bore HPLC coupled to ICP-MS

•Elemental speciation involves the separation of several organometallic compounds.•Inductively-coupled plasma techniques require fast separation.•Small-bore columns have emerged as a good alternative to conventional columns.

Although high-performance liquid chromatography with inductively-coupled mass spectrometry (HPLC-ICP-MS) has established itself as the analytical technique of choice for elemental speciation analysis, there are remaining limitations, mainly concerning post-column dispersion effects and degradation of the ICP stability and ionization efficiency due to organic or saline mobile phases. The application of small-bore columns in conjunction with low dead-volume interfaces has proved very useful for overcoming these problems, since they can provide lower matrix load and reduced peak dispersion, along with minimization of sample size and solvent consumption, faster chromatographic separations, and better resolution and sensitivity. Since we expect more work to be reported in this area, we review recent research in the field of speciation analysis by small-bore HPLC-ICP-MS, with the emphasis on significant advances in methods and instrumentation, relevant applications and current limitations.