Please share your insights on how to deal with the arc generated in capillary electrophoresis while using high voltages. What are the ways to handle it?
Too many possible answers to list here, but something very basic is being ignored. Arcing indicates no connection (poor conduction). Start with the simple things: Clean the system. Make up FRESH buffer solutions (Replace ALL of them. Make them up daily, filter before use. Do not use old solutions!). Look for leaks at the many connections (buffer salts on surfaces indicate leaks or problems). Clean all connections, check that the electrodes and capillary are clean, the cap has a nice clean, square cut, check voltage values are within normal ranges... Basic things.
- "Capillary Electrophoresis (CE) Troubleshooting Tips"; https://hplctips.blogspot.com/2020/10/capillary-electrophoresis-ce.html
William Letter Thanks a lot William for answering the question. I will go through the link for troubleshooting tips. Can I connect with you through email in the future too?
I had to deal with arcing as well. As I do microchip CE you can really observe spectacular arcing events. When arcing happens it normally evaporates your buffer / BGE immediately. This vapor phase has basically no conductivity and all but stops the CE.
I can diminish the likelihood of this happening by working really clean. The system is very sensitive for local spots of higher electric resistance. A more conductive buffer or a lower voltage would solve it as well.
Guenther Kriechhammer wow !! that's insightful. Thanks a lot for adding this aspect to my knowledge. I will keep it in mind.
- Badges
- Science topic
- Similar topics
- Instrumentation Engineering
- Instruments