Due to the better understanding of the processes taking place at the surface of the stationary phases, the number of ion-exchange materials for ion chromatography (IC) has increased tremendously over recent years. As a result, the multitude of commercially available columns today with their different selectivities for anion and cation chromatography is almost confusing. Hence, the aim of this article is to describe the different principles determining selectivity and ion-exchange capacity and to classify the various ion-exchange materials accordingly. To ensure a fair comparison of these columns, the selectivity differences are illustrated by showing separations of standards rather than individual samples.
Keywords Ion chromatography · Stationary phases · Support materials · Inorganic anions and cations · Organic anions and cations
Anion exchangersPolymer-based anion exchangers Styrene/divinylbenzene copolymers, polymethacrylate, and polyvinyl resins are the most important organic polymers that are used as substrate materials in the manufacturing process for polymer-based anion exchangers.