Nanoparticles in modern separation science

•Nanoparticles have shown promising effects in chromatography and electrophoresis.•In the nanometer range, quantum-dot effects can be exploited.•The positive effects of nanoparticles in separation science are explored.•Some of the latest, exciting applications of nanoparticles are highlighted.•The theory behind the use of nanoparticles in separation science is outlined.

This review article covers the concepts and the theory behind using nanoparticles (NPs) in separation science. Recent examples show the use of NPs in capillary electrophoresis and electrochromatography. Specific examples involve the use of NPs in liquid, gas and ion chromatography, along with recent applications showing the use of NPs in microchip electrophoresis. Future trends and conclusions are also covered.