Ion Chromatography (IC)

What is Ion Chromatography?

Ion chromatography (IC) is the separation and quantitative analysis of anions and cations in an ionic solution using the ion exchange method of liquid chromatography (LC). The chromatographic process separates the different ions within the sample. The amount of an anion/cation is measured by the change in conductivity as the species passes through the detector.  Solutions containing unknown ions are run through an ion chromatography column where ions of various types flow at different rates.  As the unknown ions travel through the column, they are separated from the other ions in solution.  A conductivity detector (CD) then measures how many ions are present and the amount of time it took for the ions to travel through the column.  We compare this information to standard data, allowing us to identify the ion and calculate its concentration.

Our Equipment

FAI Materials Testing uses two Dionex systems. One for Anion Chromatography and the other for Cation Chromatography. Tests are run in duplicate for consistency.

Anion Chromatography Analysis

One Ion Chromatography instrument at FAI is dedicated exclusively to analyzing and identifying anions (molecules with negative charge).  We have a wide variety of standards that we can use to give you a quantitative and qualitative analysis of your sample.  Furthermore, we are always acquiring new standards and expanding our identification capabilities.  Common Anions tested:

If you are looking test for other anions, we can assist you.