The electron-capture detector as a detector in liquid chromatography

In recent years, high-performance column liquid chromatography (LC) has emerged as an analytical technique that is equivalent in performance to gas chromatography (GC). A particular drawback in LC is the lack of detectors that can match the sensitivity of GC detectors. A variety of detectors has been developed for use in LC but many of these devices do not provide the level of sensitivity that is generally required for use with modern LC. Some however, have important applications in specific instances. Amongst these can be classified the electron-capture detector (ECD), which displays excellent sensitivity and selectivity towards electron-capturing species such as chlorinated aromatic hydrocarbons and nitroaromatic compounds. Unfortunately, however, the detector has severe limitations as regards its use in practice. This chapter gives a brief discussion of the design of the ECD for use in LC and outlines the potential and inherent problems of the LC-ECD system. (Auth.)