Sol-gel carbon composite electrode as an amperometric detector for liquid chromatography.

The performance characteristics of an electrochemical detector for liquid chromatography based on a sol-gel carbon composite working electrode in a wall-jet configuration are described. The new detector combines the versatility of sol-gel processes with several favorable characteristics, including fast electron-transfer kinetics, mechanical rigidity and renewability. Factors influencing the amperometric response are explored and optimized. Detection limits of 58-170 pg are reported for various neurotransmitters. Repetitive injections yield peak heights with relative standard deviations of 2.6-3.7%. The prospects of using sol-gel derived electrochemical detectors are discussed.