Laser-Based Ultraviolet Absorption Detection in Capillary Electrophoresis

Abstract

Laser-based UV absorption in capillary electrophoresis is demonstrated. The use of vacuum photodiodes and an all-electronic noise canceller provides adequate baseline stability despite the large inherent intensity noise in UV lasers. A 4-fold improvement in the detection limit is achieved in comparison to that of commercial instruments. The main advantage here is the better optical coupling with small capillary tubes, maximizing the available optical pathlength for absorption.