Chromatographic conditions detection strategies

The most frequent, reliable approach for element speciation in real samples today uses combined - or hyphenated - techniques, where species are selectively separated (e.g., by a chromatographic technique) and then the elements in the various chemical forms are selectively detected. To enhance the quality of measurements, molecule-selective detection is also coupled to separation devices. These combinations provide extended flexibility and broad applicability. Disadvantages are that, as complexity increases, the risk increases of system failure. Besides, species equilibrium can be drastically altered during separation due to dilution, some components can be removed, and so on. Under such conditions, species transformation and destruction is a likely consequence. Therefore, the total separation time should be shorter than the transformation rate of species. Figure 17.1 gives an overview of the strategy and various speciation methods mostly used for element speciation in human milk. 

---