Designed for ion chromatography applications requiring very low detection limits or handling complex detection scenarios.
This detection technique—which is generally more complex—is employed when conductivity detection yields only very small peaks (resulting in low sensitivity) or when optical detection offers significantly higher sensitivity.
For instance, this can lower the detection limit for bromate to below 1 ppb.
The IONUS Post-Column Derivatization (PCD) system does not feature a built-in conductivity detector; instead, it utilizes a derivatization reactor followed by a single-wavelength photometer.
Different wavelengths are required for these specific applications and the associated color reactions. Compared to variable UV/VIS detectors, these single-wavelength photometers offer superior sensitivity and are easily interchangeable by the user.
Wavelength selection depends on the chosen color reaction—such as the determination of bromate at 440 nm or 355 nm in accordance with EPA methods 317 or 326.
The IONUS PCD can detect Chromium(III)/Chromium(VI) at 340 nm or 530 nm.
Additionally, the IONUS PCD offers the advantage of compatibility with IC columns from all manufacturers and works with all common eluents used in anion and cation chromatography.
Key system specifications
Method
Analysis via post-column derivatization and UV/VIS detection for bromate, chromium (III/VI), or transition metals
Conductivity detection
Noise: 0.02 µS, 1 s | Linearity:
Reproducibility
0.1% RSD at 100 µL/min
Flow diagram
The IONUS Post-Column Derivatization (PCD) system does not feature a built-in conductivity detector. Instead, there is a reactor for derivatization followed by a single-wavelength photometer.
Different wavelengths are required for these specific applications and the color reactions employed. Compared to a variable UV/VIS detector, these single-wavelength photometers are highly sensitive and can be easily swapped by the user.
Wavelength selection depends on the chosen color reaction—such as the determination of bromate at 440 nm or 355 nm in accordance with EPA 317 or 326.
MethodIon-exchange chromatography with post-column derivatization
Manual injection20 µL; additional injection loops (50 µL, 100 µL, 200 µL) available upon request
Autosampler2 racks (each accommodating 48 vials [1.5 mL] or 12 vials [6 mL]), sample cooling, 100 µL loop, 3 injection modes (full loop, partial loop, microliter pickup)
ColumnStainless steel / PEEK
Temperature stability / range~ 0.5 °C / ambient temperature up to 50 °C
DetectionApplication-dependent
Post-column derivatization (PCD) with single-wavelength photometer in the UV-VIS range (440 nm, 355 nm, 530 nm)
Isocratic pump systemMax. pressure: 400 bar | Flow rate: 0.01 – 10.00 mL/min
Flow rate reproducibility0.1% RSD at 100 µL/min
Maximum operating pressure120 bar
Control software and data acquisitionClarity (21 CFR Part 11 compliant) or AminoPeak
Dimensions, weight, power1000 x 350 x 375 mm*, 60 kg, 110 – 230 V, 50/60 Hz
