[Design and evaluation of a confocal laser-induced fluorescence detector]

A portable laser-induced fluorescence detector, based on confocal configuration detection system has been developed. This is assembled from commercially available components. All the components of the detector are domestic, which makes it low cost. The routine alignment procedure is simplified by using a skillful and visual alignment system and requires minimal experience for operation. The module design makes it possible for high performance liquid chromatographic, capillary electrophoretic and microfluid chip applications. The performance of the detector, including the sensitivity, noise, linear range and detection limit, was evaluated by capillary electrophoresis and flow injection analytical technique using a red-absorbing cyanine derivative (Cy5) and Cy5 labeled tryptophan as test samples. The results show that the background signal is very low and the peak-to-peak noise level is 0.002 mV. The detection limit and the linear dynamic range are 3.7 nmol/L and 10(3), respectively.