Buffer composition changes in background electrolyte during electrophoretic run in capillary zone electrophoresis

The electrophoretic behaviors of different analytes in capillary zone electrophoresis were studied by the Whole Column Imaging Detection (WCID). For capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE) in conventional buffer systems, non-constant sample plug movement characterized by progressive decrease of peak migration velocity was observed. The appropriate velocity decrease was correlated with a degree of ionization of the analyzed ion, thus the effect observed could be explained by fast buffer composition change resulting in the development of a non-linear pH gradient. To visualize the appropriate pH gradient, the concentration profile of initially uniformly distributed amphoteric substances was also monitored. The evolution of the concentration profile exhibited very complex dynamics. In addition, it was found that the nature of the electrode solutions strongly affect changes in the background electrolyte. In the case of traditional background electrolytes with an acid-base pair for electrode solutions a non-uniform ampholyte concentration developed quickly, leading finally to a quasi-stationary profile similar to those typical of IEF. Possible approaches to suppress a negative impact of the background electrolyte composition changes during electrophoretic run on CE-separation are presented herein. In particular it was observed that zwitterionic buffers are able to withstand prolonged electrolysis much better compared to traditional buffers.