Design of a 3D-printing fluorescence detector for HPLC separation: a prototype device

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Instrumentation
• Materials Science

Background:

• High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) systems require sensitive and cost-effective detectors for accurate chemical analysis.
• Existing fluorescence detectors can be expensive and complex, limiting their accessibility and adaptability.
• Miniaturization of analytical instrumentation is crucial for developing portable and field-deployable systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and characterize a novel, 3D-printed fluorescence detector for HPLC.
• To demonstrate the detector's ease of assembly, cost-effectiveness, and high adaptability.
• To evaluate the detector's performance in terms of sensitivity, linear range, and stability.

Main Methods:

• A fluorescence detector was designed and fabricated using 3D-printing technology, integrating components like a laser diode, flow cell, filter, and phototube.
• Structural configuration and component positioning were optimized to enhance detection sensitivity and stability.
• The detector's performance was assessed by determining its limit of detection (LOD), linear detection range, and inter-day/intra-day stability.
• Practical utility was validated by analyzing a mixture of rhodamine 6G and rhodamine B using HPLC.

Main Results:

• The 3D-printed fluorescence detector achieved a limit of detection (LOD) of 5 μg mL⁻¹.
• A linear detection range of 5–60 μg mL⁻¹ was established.
• The detector exhibited reasonable inter-day and intra-day stability.
• Successful separation and detection of rhodamine 6G and rhodamine B mixtures were achieved.

Conclusions:

• The developed 3D-printed fluorescence detector is a cost-effective, adaptable, and highly functional alternative for HPLC systems.
• The compact and miniaturized design facilitates integration and potential for portable analytical devices.
• The detector's performance metrics and successful application in analyzing dye mixtures highlight its practical utility and potential for broader scientific applications.