Abstract

The extensive application of monolithic columns for HPLC is severely hindered by a lack of column-to-column reproducibility. EMμ (Electroactive Monolithic mChip) is a new concept that solves the significant reproducibility problems, as well as allowing miniaturization and improving overall efficiency through electrochemically controlled dynamic separations. This novel μchip has a micro-structured monolith fabricated from intelligent, electroactive polymer. By application of a specific potential, conducting polymers such as polyaniline (PANI) can be reproducibly grown and readily fine-tuned in terms of porosity, hydrophobicity and ionic capacity. This unique chip provides for an Electroactive Monolithic μchip capable of multi-dimensional chromatographic separations. Additionally, EMμ can exploit on-chip electrodes permitting incorporation of contactless conductivity detection (C4D). The monolith microstructuring (provided by templating) will provide reproducibility and improve efficiency by decreasing the A term of the Van Deemter equation. Furthermore, the use of these intelligent materials will enable gradient control and redox reactions to be exploited during separations of larges biomolecules.