Ion Chromatography/IC Services

Ion Chromatography is another newly added capability that we have added at ECA. We currently perform both Anion Chromatography and Cation Chromatography.

Anion Chromatography:

For Anion Chromatography analysis the charged ions and the eluent (usually sodium carbonate or sodium hydroxide) are carried through the column which allows the ions to separate based on charge and size characteristics. The separated ions are carried through the suppressor which removes the eluent ions to increase sensitivity. The analyte ions are then carried to the conductivity detector and the signal is recorded. The signals of each ion in the sample are compared with signals from certified standards and the concentration is calculated. The following anions can be analyzed using our Anion Chromatography system:

bromide, chloride, fluoride, nitrate, nitrite, phosphate, sulfate, acetate, formate, chlorate, bromate, carbonate, malonate, selenite, oxalate, iodide, thiosulfate, chromate, fumarate, arsenate, perchlorate, lactate, propionate, pyruvate, galacturonate, cis-aconitate, malate, citrate, isocitrate, succinate

Cation Chromatography:

The principle of Cation Chromatography is identical to Anion Chromatography except the suppressor is made to suppress the acidic eluent and the columns are made to separate the cations. We usually use ICPMS for cation analysis, however, when multiple ions are present in the samples at higher concentrations, ion chromatography is the method of choice. The following ions are commonly analyzed using cation chromatography:

ammonium, calcium, lithium, magnesium, sodium, potassium

We have extensive experience with the analysis of ionic mixtures of all types, please let me know if we can provide a quotation for your project.