Ion Chromatography

Ion Chromatography (Ion exchange Chromatography) is the separation of molecules and ions based on their affinity to the analytical column. This method can be used for almost all charged molecules, including anions, cations proteins, carbohydrates, organic acids. Various methods of detection are used and can be optimized for the analytes of interest.

Ion Chromatography (IC) Services

Cornerstone Analytical Provides The Following Ion Chromatography (IC) Services

Anion Scans

Anions are atoms or radicals (groups of atoms), that have gained electrons.

Cation Scans

Cations are single atom or polyatomic species that have an overall positive charge.

Organic Acids

Organic Acids are organic molecules with acidic properties, usually from carboxylic acid function.

Sugar Analysis

Sugar Analysis is the identification and quantification of mono- and disaccharides in a wide range.

Transition Metals

Transition metal analysis is a technique for determining speciations of metal in a sample.

What Is Ion Chromatography Used For?

Ion chromatography is used for water chemistry analysis. Ion chromatographs are able detect and measure concentrations of major anions, such as fluoride, bromide, chloride, nitrate, nitrite, phosphate and sulfate, as well as major cations such as lithium, sodium, ammonium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium in the parts-per-billion (ppb) range. Concentrations of organic acids and amines can also be measured through ion chromatography.

How Does Ion Chromatography Work?

Ion chromatography, a form of liquid chromatography, measures concentrations of ionic species by separating them based on their interaction with a chromatographic column stationary phase. Ionic species separate differently depending on species type and size. Sample solutions pass through a pressurized chromatographic column where ions are retained by column constituents due to ionic interactions. As an ion extraction liquid, known as eluent, runs through the column, the retained ions begin separating from the column and eventually reach the detector where it produces a change in the signal which is represented by a peak in the chromatogram. Ions of interest can be identified based on their retention time and quantitated based on the detectors response to those ions.

Applications

Some typical applications of ion chromatography include:

Drinking water analysis for pollution and other constituents
Determination of water chemistries in aquatic ecosystems
Analysis of residual limits in pharmaceuticals
Determination of additives and components in foods and beverages
Isolation of select proteins
Trace anions in organic solvents
Determination of ammonium, amines and other ions in industrial wastewater
Trace ion analysis in electronics