On-line sample preparation techniques for ion chromatography

Abstract

New on-line sample preparation techniques using electrochemically-regenerated ion suppression and sample neutralization are described. These techniques describe the removal of matrix interferences and the neutralization of acidic and basic samples before ion chromatographic analysis. Both methods treat samples on-line as they are being analyzed, simplifying sample preparation. Time and cost associated with off-line solid-phase extraction techniques are eliminated. The device for sample neutralization also can be used for on-line sample preconcentration of ultra-trace level samples for ppb and ppt levels detections. All sample pretreatment and concentration techniques described can be easily automated for continuous operation with any ion chromatography system. Several applications are presented to show the capabilities of on-line sample preparation. Linearity, reproducibility, and recovery data are presented.