Metrohm 940 Professional IC Vario and 942 Extension Module Vario

Importance of the Topic

Ion chromatography is a fundamental analytical technique for sensitive and selective determination of anions and cations in environmental, industrial, and research samples. Accurate ion analysis underpins water quality monitoring, process control, pharmaceutical testing, and biochemical research. Flexible, reliable, and automated IC systems help laboratories meet diverse analytical challenges efficiently and reproducibly.

Study Objectives and Overview

This summary reviews the Metrohm 940 Professional IC Vario system—a fully modular, high-performance ion chromatography platform. The system aims to deliver maximum flexibility in configuration, complete automation of sample and eluent handling, and superior reliability through intelligent component monitoring. Key features include customizable suppression, multiple detectors, gradient options, and inline sample preparation modules.

Methodology

The 940 Professional IC Vario employs a serial dual-piston high-pressure pump (0.001–20 mL/min) with digital signal processing for stable flow. Gradient elution modes (high-pressure, low-pressure, Dose-in) mix up to five eluents. Suppression is achieved chemically or sequentially via Metrohm Suppressor Modules (MSM, MSM-HC, MSM-LC) with STREAM technology for efficient regenerant reuse. Detection options include high-precision conductivity (0–15 000 μS/cm), UV/VIS diode array (190–900 nm), and amperometric modes (DC, PAD, flexIPAD, CV). Method parameters are self-monitoring and integrated via MagIC Net software to prevent operator errors and ensure traceability.

Used Instrumentation

• 940 Professional IC Vario modular IC system
• 942 Extension Module Vario (for filtration, gradients, and parallel channels)
• 858 Professional Sample Processor or 863 Compact IC Autosampler
• 800 Dosino units for reagent dosing and suppressor regeneration
• 941 Eluent Production Module for inline eluent preparation
• Detectors: Conductivity, UV/VIS, Amperometric
• MagIC Net Professional ion chromatography software

Main Results and Discussion

The 940 Professional IC Vario demonstrates exceptional adaptability, supporting over 125 device configurations and inline integration of MISP sample preparation techniques (filtration, dilution, dialysis, preconcentration). Intelligent components (iPump, iDetector, iColumn, iCell) are automatically recognized by software, enabling self-monitoring of method parameters. STREAM suppression and inline eluent production minimize maintenance and reagent consumption. Swiss-engineered robustness delivers long instrument lifetime, low operating costs, and unique warranties (3 years instrument, 10 years suppressor).

Benefits and Practical Applications

The system’s complete automation reduces manual handling and improves throughput for routine analyses in QA/QC, environmental monitoring, and industrial process control. High sensitivity supports trace and ultratrace determinations (ng/L to % range). Modular design allows rapid adaptation between anion, cation, UV/VIS, amperometric, and MS-IC applications. Inline sample preparation expands sample compatibility to complex matrices such as emulsions, organics, and nuclear power plant solutions.

Future Trends and Possible Applications

Emerging developments include deeper integration with mass spectrometry (MS, ICP-MS), multi-dimensional separation workflows, and AI-driven method optimization. Remote monitoring and cloud-based data management will further enhance laboratory efficiency. Continued innovation in inline sample preparation and greener suppression strategies will reduce waste and running costs.

Conclusion

The Metrohm 940 Professional IC Vario sets a new benchmark for modular, automated, and reliable ion chromatography. Its intelligent design, extensive expandability, and full traceability meet the evolving demands of research and routine laboratories. With its robust Swiss quality and future-proof architecture, the system delivers unmatched performance across a broad spectrum of applications.