The use of solid-phase supports for derivatization in chromatography and spectroscopy

Derivatization, or chemical modification of analytes, is often required for species that are only weakly detectable by common spectroscopic methods. Derivatization is most commonly performed in homogeneous solution or using phase-transfer catalyzed reactions. However, the use of solid phase supports for performing the same reactions has a number of advantages. The sample can be "cleaned up" on the same phase, eliminating interfering matrix components or excess reagent. The process naturally concentrates the analyte, providing higher sensitivity, but also, under favorable circumstances, provides for more efficient reactions relative to solutions of the same original concentration. This review explores the uses to which such supports have been put, primarily in fluorescence derivatization for chromatographic applications. Some of the considerations in applying these techniques are described, and they are shown to be an extremely useful format for derivatization.