Analysis of amphetamine-type substances by capillary zone electrophoresis using capacitively coupled contactless conductivity detection

CE with capacitively coupled contactless conductivity detection ((CD)-D-4) was employed for the separation and detection of seven amphetamine analogues as well as amphetamine, dextroamphetamine, methamphetamine and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine. The separation electrolyte was 30 mM hydroxypropyl-beta-cyclodextrin (HP beta CD) in a 75 mM acetic acid + 25 mM sodium acetate buffer adjusted to pH 4.55. Conductivity detection was compared with UV detection using this same electrolyte. Average detection limits for (CD)-D-4 and UV were 1.3 and 1.0 ppm, respectively. The effects of HP beta CD concentration and BGE composition on the selectivity of the separation were also investigated. An illicit, street-grade sample of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (Ecstasy) and a prescription dextroamphetamine tablet were also analysed.