Open tubular columns with mixed-mode reversed-phase and weak anion-exchange stationary phase for capillary electrochromatography

Columns for open tubular capillary electrochromatography, coated with a mixed-mode (RP/ion-exchange) stationary phase, were prepared by using the sol–gel method. The synthetic procedure was optimized by changing the ratios of tetraethoxysilane, octyltriethoxysilane, and 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane in the initial sol. SEM studies reveal that a coating with about 400 nm thickness can be obtained. The inner surface properties of these capillaries were probed by measuring the EOF as a function of pH. The surface of this stationary phase contains octyl, amine, and residual silanol moieties; the amine and silanol groups determine the net charge on the inner surface of the capillary and can produce a switchable EOF (anodal/cathodal). The performances of the columns were evaluated by open tubular capillary electrochromatography using a wide range of compounds (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, aromatic acids, and aromatic amines).