Configuring a High-Pressure Integrated Capillary IC System

Importance of the Topic

The integration of high-pressure capillary ion chromatography addresses the growing demand for faster, higher-resolution separations while minimizing solvent consumption and waste. Such systems are especially valuable in pharmaceutical, environmental, and industrial analysis where sensitivity and cost efficiency are critical.

Objectives and Study Overview

This technical note demonstrates the installation, configuration, and method development for the Thermo Scientific Dionex ICS-4000 HPIC system with suppressed conductivity detection. The focus is on hardware plumbing, software setup in Chromeleon 7.1, and establishing reliable operational workflows.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The Dionex ICS-4000 HPIC platform comprises a compact capillary pump capable of 5000 psi, modular detectors (conductivity, electrochemical, charge), and low-flow autosampler. Key consumables include degas cartridges, trap and suppressor columns, electrolysis cells, and precision-cut PEEK tubing with high-pressure fittings to minimize dead volume. Software configuration involves adding the IC Cube and autosampler into Chromeleon Services Manager, assigning serial numbers, firmware, and device roles.

Used Instrumentation

• Dionex ICS-4000 HPIC integrated capillary system
• Dionex IC Cube with conductivity detector
• Dionex AS-AP capillary autosampler
• Eluent generator cartridges (EGC-KOH, EGC-MSA)
• Electrolytic trap columns and suppressors (CES 300, ACES 300, CCES 300)
• CRD 200 carbonate removal and bypass devices
• High-pressure PEEK tubing and fittings
• Chromeleon Chromatography Data System version 7.1 SR2 MUa or later

Main Results and Discussion

The system achieved stable baselines and reproducible injections at 0.010 mL/min, consuming only 15 mL of water per day. Proper alignment of the autosampler needle and careful priming of trap columns prevented air bubbles and ensured consistent peak shape. Software method creation using push-cap injection and recommended wash protocols yielded precise timing and volume control.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Ultra-low flow rates reduce eluent waste and operational costs.
• High pressure capability allows the use of sub-2 μm and core-shell capillary columns for enhanced resolution.
• Modular detector options support diverse analyte classes, from anions and cations to compounds requiring electrochemical detection.
• Automated Chromeleon workflows streamline method setup, calibration, and maintenance.

Future Trends and Applications

Ongoing developments in miniaturized valves, advanced suppressor technologies, and integrated mass spectrometry coupling are expected to further improve sensitivity and expand the applicability of capillary IC. Emerging applications include on-site environmental monitoring, single-cell metabolomics, and biotherapeutic quality control.

Conclusion

This note provides a comprehensive guide for installing and configuring the Dionex ICS-4000 HPIC system, emphasizing best practices for hardware plumbing, software setup, and method development. Following these recommendations ensures high performance, low waste, and reliable analyses in routine and research laboratories.

References

1. Thermo Fisher Scientific. Dionex Technical Note 113, Practical Guidance to Capillary IC. LPN 3043, Sunnyvale, CA, 2012.
2. Thermo Fisher Scientific. Product Manual for the Continuously Regenerated Trap Column (CR-TC). Doc No. 031910, 2010.
3. Thermo Fisher Scientific. Product Manual for CES 300 Suppressors. Doc No. 065386, 2010.
4. Thermo Fisher Scientific. ICS-4000 Operator’s Manual. Doc No. 065468, 2013.
5. Thermo Fisher Scientific. AS-AP Operator’s Manual. Doc No. 065361, 2012.