FIA and the Future - On the drawing board, or already in the prototype stage, the next generation  FIA/SIA systems are emerging. This truly “cutting edge" technology already has an impact as a “front end” for the following techniques:

ETAAS –for automated analyte preconcentration and matrix removal. Using Bead Injection technique, the target elements are captured on the Sephadex beads with ion exchange or other functional groups. Following the capture of the target species, the beads are moved to another port, connected by a transfer line to a graphite furnace,  into which  20 microliters of beads with the adsorbed analyte are  transferred sandwiched by  air segments. Following water evaporation and ashing, target element is  atomized and measured. An enrichment factor 50 to 100 times is achievable.

Electrospray MS – for automated separation of target biomolecules, furnished with the biotin “handle’. Using avidin coated Sepharose beads, the target biomolecules will be captured from a complex mixture selectively, while the matrix is washed away. Next  the beads will be transferred the port connected to MS port and the avidin-biotin bond will be broken by a suitable eluent, directing the eluate, via splitter into an electrospray. The protocol will be optimized by measuring the effectiveness of the separation by monitoring the translucent beads by UV-VIS or fluorescence spectroscopy.

Capillary Electrophoresis has an “Achilles' Heel” – the  method of sample injection. LAB-ON-VALVE will automate this step , serving also as a tool for modification of sample and electrolyte concentration or composition. Automated derivatization of analyte molecules –such as attachment of a desired fluorescence label is yet another function that LAB-ON-VALVE system can automatically perform to improve performance of CE.

While the present research has been focused on applications of LAB-ON-VALVE to assays based on various spectroscopies, enhancement of electroanalytical techniques can undoubtedly be achieved as well.