Automation in ion chromatography

Importance of the Topic

In ion chromatography, analysis of anions, cations, carbohydrates and other polar species across diverse sample matrices demands consistent reproducibility, high throughput and minimal contamination. Automating sample introduction and preparation significantly enhances reliability and traceability.

Objectives and Overview

This whitepaper reviews Metrohm’s portfolio of automated platforms designed to facilitate complete workflows for ion chromatographic analysis. It covers sample processors and autosamplers capable of handling volumes from microliters to liters, highlighting inline sample preparation and intelligent injection strategies that improve accuracy and reduce manual intervention.

Methodology and Instrumentation

Key components include:

• 800 Dosino for precise micro-volume dosing (±0.2 µL)
• Metrohm Inline Sample Preparation (MISP) modules: ultrafiltration, dialysis, dilution, extraction, matrix elimination, neutralization, preconcentration and calibration
• Automated sample processors and autosamplers: 858 Professional Sample Processor, 919 IC Autosampler plus, 863 Compact IC Autosampler, 889 IC Sample Center with optional cooling, 814 USB Sample Processor, 815 Robotic USB Sample Processor XL and Soliprep for solid samples
• Software control via MagIC Net, viva and tiamo™, supporting multi-channel operation and full traceability

Main Results and Discussion

Integration of inline sample preparation and automated injection results in high precision, low carryover (<0.001%) and reproducible workflows. Unique modules protect the chromatographic system against matrix-related issues (e.g. proteins, colloids, emulsions). Configurable sample racks and robotic handling allow processing of large series, including multi-day unattended operation. Cooling/heating options and solid sample processing expand applicability to temperature-sensitive and heterogeneous samples.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Minimized manual steps enhance repeatability and reduce operator error
• Fully traceable workflows support QA/QC requirements in regulated environments
• Parallel processing and intelligent dosing deliver time and cost savings
• Broad applicability across environmental, pharmaceutical, petrochemical, food, biotechnology and clinical testing

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Future developments will focus on further integration of upstream sample prep, online monitoring, automated method optimization using AI, and miniaturized flow-based systems. These advances will enable ultratrace environmental monitoring, high-throughput pharmaceutical screening and decentralized testing in field and clinical settings.

Conclusion

Metrohm’s automated solutions for ion chromatography provide flexible, reliable and fully traceable workflows. By combining precise dosing, inline sample preparation and intelligent sample handling, laboratories can achieve higher confidence in results, reduce operational costs and address evolving analytical challenges.

Reference

• Metrohm. Automation for Ion Chromatography. Whitepaper, 2020.