Sample introduction hydrodynamic method

Problems related to sample introduction, high voltage isolation, or other typical of other gradient methods are avoided. Samples can be injected in both electro-kinetic and hydrodynamic mode without affecting other aspects of the instrument operation or causing sample waste. 

The sample can be introduced into the capillary by several methods. The simplest approach is to remove the end of the capillary from the anode buffer reservoir and place it in the sample vial that has been elevated slightly above the level of the cathode buffer container. Gravity flow for several seconds will move some of the sample in the separation capillary. Another approach is to place the anode end of the capillary into the sample vial and apply pressure to the analyte solution. The next method involves placing the anode end of the capillary in the sample vial and applying a vacuum to the cathodic side of the capillary to draw solution into the tube. The previous three means of sample introduction are referred to as hydrodynamic modes of injection. The last method involves placing the anodic end of the capillary in the sample vial and applying alow voltage for several seconds. This approach is referred to as electrokinetic injection. 

Two introduction methods are commonly employed in capillary electrophoresis. Hydrodynamic injection is based on siphoning, or gravity feeding the sample into the anodic end of the capillary. The anodic end is removed from the buffer reservoir and placed in the sample solution. The capillary end is then raised so that the liquid level in the sample vial is at a height Ah above the level of the cathodic buffer, and is held in this position for a fixed time t. This process has been automated for reproducibility, and the hydrodynamic flow rate has been shown to obey Eq. 12.9 ... 

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