Optimization of analytical conditions for catecholamines determination by capillary electrophoresis with electrospray mass spectrometry detection

This paper deals with optimization of analytical processes in a hyphenated system of capillary electrophoresis - quadrupole mass spectrometer with electrospray ionization (CE-ESI-MS) applied to determination of catecholamines (CA). Conditions of electrophoretic separation and electrospray ionization of model CA mixtures were studied. Optimal buffer composition for CE separation and ESI-MS detection conditions were obtained both for the electrospray chamber and mass analyzer. Determination of CA using the model mixture under optimal analytical conditions the was demonstrated.