Anion Analysis using Ion Chromatography (IC) is a highly sensitive and accurate analytical technique used for the qualitative and quantitative determination of inorganic and organic anions in aqueous samples. It is widely applied in environmental monitoring, drinking water quality assessment, wastewater analysis, food safety, pharmaceuticals, and industrial quality control. Ion Chromatography (IC) separates ionic species based on their interaction with an ion-exchange column. The separated anions are detected using a conductivity detector with chemical suppression, providing excellent sensitivity and selectivity. The technique allows simultaneous determination of multiple anions in a single analysis with minimal sample preparation. It is recognized worldwide for regulatory compliance testing, environmental monitoring, research, and industrial quality assurance.
Test specification
- Methodology
- Ion Chromatography (IC) - Ion Exchange Separation - Suppressed Conductivity Detection - External Calibration with Certified Standards - Quantitative Peak Area Analysis
- Standards followed
Testing is performed in accordance with internationally recognized standards where applicable, including: - EPA Method 300.0 – Determination of Inorganic Anions by Ion Chromatography - EPA Method 300.1 – Determination of Inorganic Anions in Drinking Water - ISO 10304-1 – Water Quality – Determination of Dissolved Anions by Ion Chromatography - ASTM D4327 – Standard Test Method for Anions in Water by IC - APHA Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater - ISO/IEC 17025 Laboratory Practices
- Equipment used
- Metrohm 930 Eco Ion Chromatography System - Autosampler (where applicable) - Anion Separation Column - Chemical Suppressor - Conductivity Detector - Eluent Delivery System - MagIC Net Software
- Parameters measured
Simultaneous determination of common anions including: - Fluoride (F⁻) - Chloride (Cl⁻) - Bromide (Br⁻) - Nitrite (NO₂⁻) - Nitrate (NO₃⁻) - Phosphate (PO₄³⁻) - Sulfate (SO₄²⁻) - Carbonate (CO₃²⁻)* - Organic Acids (Method dependent) *Depending on analytical method and column selection.
- Measurement range
| Parameter | Typical Range | |--|--| | Concentration | 0.01–1000 mg/L* | | Number of Analytes | Up to 10+ anions per run | | Injection Volume | 10–100 μL | | Analysis Time | 10–30 minutes | *Range depends on analyte, column, and calibration.
- Accuracy / detection limit
### Accuracy - Typically **±2% Relative** under validated analytical conditions. - Excellent repeatability using certified calibration standards. ### Detection Limit Typical Method Detection Limits (MDL): - Fluoride: **0.01 mg/L** - Chloride: **0.02 mg/L** - Nitrite: **0.01 mg/L** - Nitrate: **0.02 mg/L** - Sulfate: **0.05 mg/L** - Phosphate: **0.02 mg/L** Detection limits depend on sample matrix and analytical conditions.
Suitability
- Applications
- - Drinking Water Quality Analysis - Wastewater Monitoring - Surface Water Analysis - Groundwater Analysis - Food Safety Testing - Pharmaceutical Quality Control - Chemical Manufacturing - Fertilizer Analysis - Environmental Monitoring - Industrial Process Control - Research and Development # Industries Served - Universities & Research Institutions - Environmental Laboratories - Water Treatment Plants - Pharmaceutical Industries - Food & Beverage Industries - Chemical Industries - Fertilizer Industries - Power Plants - Electronics Industry - Quality Control Laboratories - Government Regulatory Agencies
- Advantages
- Simultaneous analysis of multiple anions. - High sensitivity and selectivity. - Excellent precision and reproducibility. - Minimal sample preparation. - Suitable for trace-level analysis. - Automated operation with high sample throughput. - Internationally accepted analytical technique. - Ideal for environmental, industrial, and research applications.
- Limitations
- Applicable primarily to ionic compounds. - High concentrations may require sample dilution. - Complex sample matrices may require additional preparation. - Organic solvents may require specialized analytical methods. - Regular calibration and maintenance are essential for optimum performance.
Submitting a sample
- Turnaround time
| Service | Estimated Time | |-|-| | Standard Analysis | 3–5 Working Days | | Priority Service | 24–48 Hours (Subject to availability) |
- Deliverables
Clients will receive: - Official IC Test Report - Anion Concentration Table - Chromatogram - Calibration Summary - Analytical Results - PDF Report - Optional Raw Data Files - Data Interpretation (Optional)
Request this test
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