Mikrofluidics: New Method of Treatment and Introduction of Samples for Mass Spectrometry

Abstract

Microfluidics is of special interest for handling very small samples without dead-volume connections and danger of sample cross-contamination typical of standard liquid couplings. Although the majority of the current systems is designed with optical or electrochemical detection coupling, those with mass spectrometry have been also demonstrated. The instruments for automated sample infusion analysis are now commercially available and microdevices utilizing chromatographic or capillary electrophoresis separation are developed. Background information on microchip manufacturing and microfluidic designs for interfaces to MS is presented. In addition to selected applications, potential future directions are also discussed.