Simultaneous Ion Chromatographic Analysis of Anions and Mono- or Divalent Cations*

A technique for the simultaneous analysis of both anions and cations using single injection ion chromatography is d i s c u s s e d. The technique involves the use of a cation separator column, a conductivity detector, an anion sepa rator column, an anion suppressor column, and a second conductivity detector in sequence. With the use of three different eluants, it is possible to detect monovalent cat ions and anions or divalent cations and anions. When an eluant with a basic pH is used, such a s lithium carbonate-lithium acetate, N a + and K + can be detected in the pres ence of high concentrations of ammonia. When the pH of the eluant is acidic, a s with a lithium hydrogen phthalate eluant, it is possible to detect N a +, K +, and N H 4 + in the same solution. The simultaneous analysis of divalent ca