[Application of capillary electrophoresis in speciation analysis]

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Environmental Science
• Biogeochemistry

Context:

• Chemical and biological behaviors vary significantly between species, influencing toxicity.
• Element speciation is critical for diverse applications in environmental monitoring, biological systems, geological studies, and medical diagnostics.
• Capillary electrophoresis (CE) has emerged as a powerful technique for speciation analysis due to its high efficiency and rapid analysis times.

Purpose:

• To review the application of capillary electrophoresis (CE) coupled with UV detection (CE-UV) and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (CE-ICP-MS) for element speciation analysis.
• To discuss the advantages and challenges associated with using CE-based techniques in speciation studies.
• To highlight the importance of speciation analysis in various scientific disciplines.

Summary:

• This review examines the utility of capillary electrophoresis (CE) for element speciation, a critical factor in determining chemical behavior and toxicity.
• It covers the application of CE coupled with UV detection (CE-UV) and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (CE-ICP-MS).
• The paper discusses current problems and advancements in CE-based speciation analysis.

Impact:

• Provides a comprehensive overview of CE applications in element speciation, aiding researchers in selecting appropriate methodologies.
• Highlights the significance of speciation analysis for accurate risk assessment and understanding of elemental behavior in complex matrices.
• Facilitates the advancement of analytical techniques for environmental, biological, geological, and medical research by addressing existing challenges in CE speciation.