Abstract
The objective of this article is to provide an overview and critical evaluation of the use of carbon
nanotubes and related carbon-based nanomaterials for microchip chromatography. The unique
properties of carbon nanotubes, such as a very high surface area and intriguing adsorptive behaviour,
have already been demonstrated in more classical formats, for improved separation performance in
gas and liquid chromatography, and for unique applications in solid phase extraction. Carbon
nanotubes are now also entering the field of microfluidics, where there is a large potential to be able
to provide integrated, tailor-made nanotube columns by means of catalytic growth of the nanotubes
inside the fluidic channels. An evaluation of the different implementations of carbon nanotubes and
related carbon-based nanomaterials for microfluidic chromatography devices is given in terms of
separation performance and ease of fabrication.
nanotubes and related carbon-based nanomaterials for microchip chromatography. The unique
properties of carbon nanotubes, such as a very high surface area and intriguing adsorptive behaviour,
have already been demonstrated in more classical formats, for improved separation performance in
gas and liquid chromatography, and for unique applications in solid phase extraction. Carbon
nanotubes are now also entering the field of microfluidics, where there is a large potential to be able
to provide integrated, tailor-made nanotube columns by means of catalytic growth of the nanotubes
inside the fluidic channels. An evaluation of the different implementations of carbon nanotubes and
related carbon-based nanomaterials for microfluidic chromatography devices is given in terms of
separation performance and ease of fabrication.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Journal | Lab on a Chip |
| Volume | 12 |
| Pages (from-to) | 1951–1958 |
| ISSN | 1473-0197 |
| Publication status | Published - 2012 |