Application Finder

Reducing the analysis time is a demanding task because it is accompanied by a parallel reduction of peak resolution. With a Microbore column 100 mm in length, standard cations in tap water can be determined in only 5 minutes. Strontium can also be determined by simply extending the run time to 6.5 min.

Sample dilution is a work-intensive routine task in the analysis laboratory. An automatic two-step dilution exponentiates the dilution factor – 1:100 – thus incorporating a dilution factor of 10,000. The intelligent dilution is made possible by MagIC Net, which calculates the essential dilution steps, and by the dosing properties of the 800 Dosino and the Liquid Handling Station. The Application Note shows statistical results of a 1:10,000 dilution.

Cleanliness is indispensable in electronics production. Ionic contaminations in particular lead to a drastic worsening of the quality of the printed circuit boards. The present Application Note describes the determination of cations on printed circuit board surfaces. The intelligent Partial Loop Injection Technique (MiPT) used for this purpose permits the determination of cations and anions in the same sample. The determination of the anions is described in AN-S-317.

Fast IC means short run times on separation columns with a relatively high flow rate and the standard eluent. Here the standard cations are separated within eleven minutes on the Metrosep C 4 - 250/2.0. The sodium and ammonium peaks are separated from one another under these conditions.

Fast IC means short run times on separation columns with a relatively high flow rate. Separation with the Metrosep C 4 - 150/2.0 is even quicker than that in the AN-C-150 at 1.1 mL/min. Here, the standard cations are separated within five minutes. Under the selected conditions, sodium and ammonium are no longer completely separated.

Fast IC means short run times and a high sample throughput on columns with a relatively high flow rate and the standard eluent. Mono-, di- and tri-ethanolamine are separated with the Metrosep C 4 - 150/2.0 within 2.5 minutes.

Fast IC means short run times and a high sample throughput on columns with a relatively high flow rate and the standard eluent. Mono-, di- and trimethylamine are separated with the Metrosep C 4 - 150/2.0 within four minutes.

Fast and handsome IC! Outstanding peak shapes on columns with the standard flow rate and a strong eluent. When the high-capacity Metrosep C 6 - 250/4.0 is used, this usually means long retention times. A strong eluent allows however the determination of the cations in drinking water in a short run time with very symmetrical peaks.

The high-capacity Metrosep C 6 - 150/4.0 cation column convinces with outstanding separations, narrow peaks, and a multitude of available eluents. In this Note, the selectivity for alkali, earth alkali, and certain transition metals, in addition to methyl and ethanol amines, is shown using a nitric acid eluent and direct conductivity detection.

The column temperature influences the duration of the cation separation on the high-performance Metrosep C 6 - 150/4.0 column. The retention times of lithium, sodium, ammonium, magnesium, and calcium remain practically constant with increasing column temperature, whereas those of potassium, strontium, and barium are considerably shortened. This means that the temperature can be used to reduce analysis time considerably on the Metrosep C 6 - 150/4.0.

Polyols are important raw materials in polyurethane production. Contamination in the raw materials have a great influence on reactions and impair the quality of the end product. Alkali metals are particularly strong catalysts for linear or branched reactions. A rapid and precise method for their simultaneous determination is ion chromatography following Inline Matrix Elimination.

The column stability of the Metrosep C 6 - 250/4.0 was determined in long-term laboratory tests. Two injection series per day were run on each of six days in a row. Each series was comprised of nine tap water injections, three check standard injections and six tap water injections. The IC system was shut down on the seventh day of each series. As a whole, the system ran over 10 weeks and counted a total of 2,150 injections. The results show an outstanding reproducibility and verify the high column stability.

Intelligent Inline Preconcentration with Inline Matrix Elimination (MiPCT-ME) is used for trace determination of the six standard cations in addition to zinc and diethylamine. The analysis is completed within 24 minutes on the Metrosep C 4 - 250/2.0 Microbore column. The recovery rates are in excess of 95%. The detection limits calculated with the MagIC Net software are in the lower ng/L range for a preconcentration volume of 4 mL.

In order to extract aluminum from bauxite, the aluminum ore is exposed with a caustic soda solution under pressure in the temperature range of 150 to 200 °C. Dilution and pH value setting are implemented by the addition of 170 mmol/L citric acid prior to calcium determination with ion chromatography in the Bayer caustic soda. Doing so establishes a pH value of 4.5 and prevents precipitation of aluminum hydroxide. The IC separation takes place on the Metrosep C 4 - 150/4.0 column with a citric acid eluent.

Biogenic amines and trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) are indicators for the quality of grape fermentation. The consumption of amine-rich wines often leads to headaches, which is why the amine concentrations in wine must be monitored. This Application Note describes the determination of trimethylamine N-oxide, putrescine, cadaverine and histamine, in addition to various standard cations, with the aid of the Metrosep C 6 - 100/4.0 column and subsequent direct conductivity detection.

This Application Note describes the determination of N,N-diethylhydroxylamine (DEHA), triisopropanolamine (TIPA) and a cationic color developing component (CDC) in a developer solution. The analysis is performed on a high-capacity column such as Metrosep C - 250/4.0 with subsequent direct conductivity detection. To reduce the residence time of the strongly retained color developer components, the column flow rate is increased after the elution of the amines.

As a rule, brine samples are diluted extremely in order to avoid overloading the column. Manual dilution is very error-prone, which is why this application relies on injection with a 0.25 µL internal loop, thus saving an additional dilution step. Sodium, potassium, magnesium and calcium in brine are determined on a Metrosep C 6 - 150/4.0 column with subsequent direct conductivity detection.

In natural gas production, the removal of contaminants, and in particular acidic gases such as H2S and CO2, is exceptionally important. These acidic gases are removed in the amine wash through chemical treatment with amines or alkanol amines. This application shows a convenient and precise analysis with the separation of various amines and standard cations on a column of the Metrosep C 6 - 250/4.0 type with subsequent direct conductivity detection.

1,3,5-trioxane is a heterocyclic compound formed by trimerization of formaldehyde. Trioxane is used for the production of polyformaldehyde plastics such as poly(oxymethylene) (POM) and solid fuels. Aqueous 1,3,5-trioxane solutions frequently contain trace triethylamine that requires quantification. This is performed on the Metrosep C 3 - 250/4.0 column with subsequent direct conductivity detection.

Parallel anion and cation analysis is typically used when both anions and cation have to be analyzed in a sample. Here, the cation part of such an analysis is given. The sample is injected to the cation channel by the injector of the IC instrument bypassing the injector on the 889 IC Sample Center. The whole system is controlled by Empower applying the Metrohm IC Driver 2.0. For anion analysis, see AN-S-350.

Automatic dilution reduces manual work and improves the reproducibility and accuracy of the results. So far, the Inline Dilution Technique (MIDT) has been tested in a range of max. 1:100. Using a dedicated sample needle this range is enlarged significantly. This AN shows the performance of an Inline Dilution with a factor of 1:2000 as well as a comparison of manual and inline dilution for a dilution factor of 1:1000.

Ammonia is present in tobacco – either naturally or added – and is realesed during smoking. Ammonia increases the appeal of smoking, and is therefore considered to increase the addictive potential. The determination of ammonium in tobacco is performed by acid extraction and ion chromatographic separation followed by non-suppressed conductivity detection.

Tobacco additives may contain cations like ammonium (see AN-C-168) as well as other cations as counter ions of organic acids. These additives include components to retain moisture and flavor of the tobacco. Ammonium is added to increase the appeal of smoking, and is therefore considered to increase the addictive potential. The determination of cations in tobacco additives is performed by ion chromatographic separation followed by non-suppressed conductivity detection.

N-methyldiethanolamine and piperazine are used in scrubber solutions, e.g., in the natural gas process. Testing this type of samples by ion chromatography requires a good resolution and the separation of amines from standard cations. The separation is achieved on a Metrosep C 4 - 150/4.0 column applying direct conductivity detection.

Before the liquefaction process of the natural gas, carbonate and hydrogen sulfide need to be removed through a scrubber solution containing piperazine and N-methyl diethanolamine (MDEA). The concentration ratio of the two components is determined by ion chromatography on a Metrosep C 4 - 150/4.0 column applying direct conductivity detection.

Cation content in snow is greatly dependent on sampling site. Samples from remote areas are expected to exhibit lower cation concentrations. This application shows the analysis of a snow sample from an open field in an agricultural zone. Separation is performed on a microbore Metrosep C 6 - 100/2.0 column with direct conductivity detection. The relatively high ammonia content can be explained by animal husbandry in the vicinity of the sampling site.

Cation content in snow is greatly dependent on sampling site. Roadside samples are likely to exhibit a high sodium content caused by the use of road salt. This application shows the analysis of a snow sample from a roadside. Separation is performed on a microbore Metrosep C 6 - 250/2.0 column with direct conductivity detection. The 250 mm column was selected due to the large difference in concentrations between sodium and ammonia. This condition enables a baseline separation of the two cations.

Cation analysis in drinking water is a routine task in ion chromatography and can be achieved with a variety of separating columns. The use of a microbore Metrosep C 6 - 250/2.0 column with a high eluent concentration makes it possible to reduce analysis time to less than 12 minutes. Very symmetrical peaks with high sensitivity for the divalent cations are also achieved. Direct conductivity detection is applied.

2-amino-N-(2,2,2-trifluoroethyl)-acetamide is a organic building block for synthesis of pharmaceutical products. Its purity is crucial for the success of the respective synthesis step. 2,2,2-trifluoroethylamine, glycine, and inorganic cations are of interest. Their total peak area is required to be < 2 % of the peak area of all peaks above the reporting level. Separation and quantification is achieved on a Metrosep C 4 - 250/4.0 cation column.

Chipped wood and sawdust may be used in production of feed e.g., for ruminants. Melamine, a raw material for resins in wood adhesives, is limited to be used in feed. Therefore, the melamine concentration in sawdust has to be analyzed. Melamine determined after ion chromatographic separation with UV/VIS detection.

Abrasive machining of e.g., metal parts requires a cooling lubricant. Their purpose besides cooling and lubrication is to inhibit corrosion. Amines are added to the emulsion to keep the pH high. In the actual application, DCHA and MDCHA have to be analyzed besides other amine components and inorganic cations. To avoid oil contamination on the IC system, Inline Dialysis is applied. The detection is performed by direct conductivity detection.

A cardioplegic solution protects the ischemic myocardium from cell death. It is applied together with hypothermia e.g. in open heart surgery. Here the simultaneous determination of aspartic acid, glutamic acid, tris(aminomethyl)aminomethane (TRIS), sodium and potassium in such a solution is given. The two amino acids can be determined as they are partially in the triple protonated ammonium form at the eluent pH. Determination is achieved by direct conductivity detection.

Whey is the remaining liquid after cheese production. It is mainly used as feed. It is also used as dietary supplement as a beverage or in powder form. This application determines lactic acid as well as cations in one determination. The Metrosep C 6 - 250/4.0 column separates sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium by ion exchange. It also acts as an ion-exclusion column, which separates lactic acid. Both lactic acid and the cations can be determined in the same run applying direct conductivity detection. While cations typically elute as negative peaks, lactic acid elutes as an early positive peak. MagIC Net shows both in the usual positive direction.

Bicine (2-(Bis(2-hydroxyethyl)amino)acetic acid) is a corrosive component. It has to be avoided in acidic gas sweetening solvents. These solvents are based on organic amines. Bicine is amphoteric, holding a carboxylic and an amine group. Under the applied conditions, the amine groups are at least partially protonated and therefore may be separated by cation chromatography. The detection mode is direct conductivity detection.

Within the scope of the USP monograph modernization, potassium is determined in potassium bitartrate applying cation chromatography with direct conductivity detection. The USP41 monograph for “Potassium bitartrate” does not yet mention an assay for potassium. The separation is performed on a Metrosep C 6 - 150/4.0 column (L76). The assay of potassium is performed with two commercially available products according to USP definitions. All acceptance criteria are fulfilled.

Within the scope of the USP monograph modernization, potassium is determined in potassium sodium tartrate applying cation chromatography with direct conductivity detection. The USP41 monograph for “Potassium sodium tartrate” does not yet mention an assay for potassium. The separation is performed on a Metrosep C 6 - 150/4.0 column (L76). The assay of potassium is performed with two commercially available products according to USP definitions. All acceptance criteria are fulfilled.

Within the scope of the USP monograph modernization, potassium is determined in potassium bicarbonate effervescent tablets for oral suspension applying cation chromatography with direct conductivity detection. The separation is performed on a Metrosep C 6 - 150/4.0 column (L76). All acceptance criteria are fulfilled.

As an alternative to flame photometry, ion chromatography with non-suppressed conductivity detection has been approved by the USP as a validated method to quantify potassium and sodium content in potassium and sodium bicarbonates and citric acid effervescent tablets for oral solution. The present IC method has been validated according to USP General Chapter <621>.

As an alternative to flame photometry, ion chromatography with non-suppressed conductivity detection has been approved by the USP as a validated method to quantify potassium content in potassium bicarbonate and potassium chloride effervescent tablets for oral solution. The Metrosep C 6 - 150/4.0 column (L76) provides the required separation of potassium and magnesium. The present IC method has been validated according to USP General Chapter <621>.

Within the scope of the USP monograph modernization, sodium is determined in potassium sodium tartrate applying cation chromatography with direct conductivity detection. The USP41 monograph for «Potassium sodium tartrate» does not yet mention an assay for sodium. The separation is performed on a Metrosep C 6 - 150/4.0 column (L76). The assay of potassium is performed with two commercially available products according to USP definitions. All acceptance criteria are fulfilled. See AN-C-182 for the respective determination of potassium. Apllying this method allows to determine sodium and potassium simultaneously according to USP.

Natural liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is a mixture of hydrocarbon gases (e.g. propane and butane), but it also contains acidic contaminants (e.g. carbon dioxide or hydrogen sulfide). These gases need to be scrubbed from the petroleum gas as they are highly corrosive. This purification step, referred to as «sweetening», is often performed by using alkaline amine solutions. Thereby the amine solution absorbs the acidic gases, while the raw LPG is neutralized. To guarantee that amine residues in the sweetened gas do not influence the gas quality, the amines in the final LPG are determined by scrubbing the gas with acetic acid as described in UOP 936-96. The recent method enables the quantification of the amines dimethylamine (DMA), diethylamine (DEA), dipropylamine (DPA), and dibutylamine (DBA) by separation from standard cations.

Potassium bitartrate for pharmaceutical use must comply with USP requirements. The actual monograph (USP 42) uses a colorimetric method for the determination of ammonium impurities. Ion chromatography allows the measurement in a single determination under the same conditions used for the potassium assay (see AN-C-181). In the course of the USP monograph modernization, this ion chromatographic approach makes this type of analysis even easier.

The exploration and processing of lithium ores is gaining importance with the growing demand for lithium hydroxide. Lithium hydroxide is a key component in the manufacturing of rechargeable batteries for use in various applications including electric vehicles, home storage systems, power tools and consumer electronics. To ensure the efficiency for advanced processing of high purity lithium hydroxide, a fast and reliable quantitative detection technique is required. This application has been developed to monitor the lithium, sodium, and calcium content in the lithium processing samples and mineral concentrates.

Isopropylamine and dicyclohexylamine are used as emulsifiers and need to be determined in emulsions along with standard cations. However, emulsions must not be injected directly into the ion chromatograph as the organic components may damage the ion exchanger stationary phase in the separation column. Inline Dialysis as sample preparation is the perfect tool for such samples. The ions of interest are separated from the organic phase by diffusion through the hydrophilic membrane, thus protecting the column. Full automation makes the analyses even easier and more efficient for the user.

Lanthanum (La) is a transition metal which oxidizes easily in air to lanthanum(III) oxide. This oxide, as well as salts resulting from its dissolution in acid and recrystallization, is a component of different catalysts. Here, a lanthanum(III) acetate solution prepared by dissolution of lanthanum(III) oxide in acetic acid, has to be tested for a sodium contamination. The high concentration of La3+ is complexed by the dipicolinic acid in the eluent and forms anionic complexes. These complexes are eluted in the front and therefore do not interfere with the sodium impurity as well as other cations such as ammonium and calcium.

Wastewaters often contain high loads of sodium, making the determination of minor cations quite a challenge. In the present wastewater study, the determination of lithium, ammonium, zinc, strontium, and barium is requested. If the sodium concentration exceeds 2 g/L, this negatively influences the peak shape of closely eluting peaks. Applying a appropriate dilution factor to the sample enables the quantification of minor cations. Therefore zinc and barium can be properly quantified with a dilution ratio of 1:2, while lithium and ammonium require minimum dilution factors of at least 1:10 and 1:100, respectively.

Harmful industrial flue gases like H2S and CO2 cause corrosion of pipes and damage the environment. Adding the correct amount of amines in scrubber solutions, e.g. ethanolamines and methylamines, will neutralize these gases («gas sweetening»). Non-suppressed cation analysis with direct conductivity detection is a straightforward and robust technique for the quantification of monoethanolamine (MEA), diethanolamine (DEA), triethanolamine (TEA), monomethylamine (MMA), dimethylamine (DMA), and trimethylamine (TMA) via ion chromatography. Thanks to the high capacity of the Metrosep C 6 column, large volumes can be injected without compromising the peak shapes. The analytical technique can be used at laboratory scale but also for process analysis.

Calcium carbonate has a wide applicability in the pharmaceutical industry as an excipient and also as an active ingredient, and in the food industry as a major dietary supplement. The U.S. Pharmacopoeia (USP) monographs for calcium and magnesium carbonates tablets as well as calcium carbonate and magnesia chewable tablets currently describe manual titration as the assay procedure for calcium and magnesium. The USP has embarked on a global initiative to modernize many of the existing monographs across all compendia. In response to this initiative, two alternative analytical methods were developed to determine the analytes calcium and magnesium. This Application Note presents ion chromatography (IC) procedures using conductivity detection that provide better accuracy and specificity and are suitable for the intended purpose. These validated IC methods (according to USP General Chapter <1225>) offer a significant improvement to the existing assays because they can simultaneously determine both analytes calcium and magnesium, saving both time and effort.

Microbore ion chromatography offers better sensitivity, shorter retention times, and consumes less eluent, increasing sample throughput and reducing running costs.

Tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane (TRIS) is often used in life science applications and its purity must be monitored. This analysis is possible with ion chromatography.

Potassium citrate and citric acid oral solutions act as systemic alkalizers. Potassium assays, validated per USP <621> and <1225>, use IC with L76 cation-exchange columns.

The assay of calcium acetate, often used as a phosphate binder for dialysis patients, can be performed with ion chromatography (IC) as per USP <621> and <1225>.

Determination of chloride and sulfate (non-quantified) in a high-viscosity oil sample using combustion digestion and subsequent anion chromatography with conductivity detection following sequential suppression.Keyword: pyrohydrolysis

Determination of fluoride, chloride, bromide and sulfate in residual solvent using combustion digestion as sample preparation and subsequent anion chromatography with conductivity detection following sequential suppression. The analysis is significant for use in dividing waste products into non-halogenated and halogenated solvents.Keyword: pyrohydrolysis

The determination of halogens and sulfur in waste products is important. The inline combination of the Mitsubishi Combustion Module with the Metrohm IC is a suitable method for this type of samples. The recovery rates are analyzed with a certified reference material, e.g., a low-density polyethylene (LDPE).Keyword: pyrohydrolysis

Latex gloves are used in clean room environments in order to prevent contaminations. The use of gloves that release corrosive halogenides or sulfate is forbidden in nuclear power plants. The total content of halogen and sulfur is determined by means of Combustion Ion Chromatography. An eluate test is carried out to check the elutable percentage of halogens and sulfate from gloves. Sample preparation is comprised of preconcentration and matrix elimination (MiPCT-ME), as described in AN-S-304.Keyword: pyrohydrolysis

The iodine content in numerous iodized X-ray contrast media (ICM) is around 50% and is determined with great accuracy using Combustion Ion Chromatography. Large quantities of H2O2 (1,000 mg/L) are required for complete absorption of the iodine. Similarly, the concentration of the internal standard should be 50 mg/L. The water content of the X-ray contrast media is determined by means of Metrohm's Karl Fischer oven method and incorporated in the final calculation.Keyword: pyrohydrolysis

Combustion Ion Chromatography combines pro-hydrolytic sample combustion and the absorption of emerging combustion gases in an oxidizing, aqueous solution that is then channeled to an ion chromatograph for the analysis of halogenides and sulfur (as sulfate). The combustion and analysis of the certified reference materials (ZRM) makes clear the reliability of Metrohm Combustion Ion Chromatography.Keyword: pyrohydrolysis

This application describes the determination of fluoride, chloride, bromide and sulfur (as sulfate) in an ethanol standard solution with halo organic (4-halogen benzoic acids; F, Cl and Br) and sulfur organic compounds (3-(Cyclohexylamino)-1-propanesulfonic acid) by means of Metrohm Combustion Ion Chromatography with flame sensor and Inline Matrix Elimination.Keyword: pyrohydrolysis

Polyisobutene (PIB) is an important raw material for a large range of products. Quality control requires the determination of the fluorine content. This task is easily done by Metrohm Combustion IC applying flame sensor technology and Inline Matrix Elimination.Keyword: pyrohydrolysis

Cyclohexane is an important organic solvent. Recycled cyclohexane must be tested for trace substances, e.g., chloride and sulfate. Metrohm Combustion Ion Chromatography with flame sensor and Inline Matrix Elimination is the method of choice.Keyword: pyrohydrolysis

The Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive (RoHS) requires to reduce the halogen content in several organic materials used in electrical and electronic equipment. In this context, there is a huge interest for using halogen-free polymers. To check for halogens in polymers according to standard IEC 60754, Metrohm Combustion IC applying flame sensor technology and Inline Matrix Elimination is an indispensable method. The examined polymeric material contains halogens at a level of up to 1%.

The manufacture of ultrapure water for the pharmaceuticals industry or the semiconductor industry requires high-quality ion exchangers. Metrohm Combustion Ion Chromatography is an indispensable tool in this connection for testing the purity of anion exchange material. The output sample was wet and had to be dried at 105 °C in a special oven with waste air evacuation.Keyword: pyrohydrolysis

Clay is used for the manufacture of roofing tiles. Quality controls during this process require the determination of halogen and sulfur content. This is ideally accomplished using Metrohm Combustion IC. With this method, the sulfur is determined as sulfate and the halogens as halogenides. Because clay often contains high contents of alkali and earth alkali metal ions that attack the pyrolysis tube, tungsten oxide is added prior to combustion.Keyword: pyrohydrolysis

This Application Note looks at the determination of fluorine and sulfur in certified liquefied gas using Metrohm Combustion IC. Sequential determinations proceed in parallel to a certain extent: While the absorption solution of a sample that has already been combusted is being analyzed with IC, the combustion of the next sample is already underway.Keyword: pyrohydrolysis

Paraffin and lubricating oils are yielded from the wax fraction of raw oil distillation. The chloride content of both should be low. This Application Note describes chloride determination after inline combustion. Although it does not happen in this application, this method can also be used to quantify the sulfur content.Keyword: pyrohydrolysis

The EU directive for limiting the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic devices and IEC 61249-2-21 define limit values for halogen contents in materials that are used in electronics. Metrohm Combustion IC with ion chromatography determination permits precise, rapid and automated halogen determination in raw materials that are used in printed circuit boards according to IEC 61189-2.Keyword: pyrohydrolysis

The burning of coal contaminates the atmosphere with halogens. Fluorine and chlorine are natural components of coal, whereas the bromide that is found therein is often adulterated as calcium bromide in order to reduce mercury emissions. This Application Note shows the results of combustion digestion with Combustion IC for three coal samples, each with a different bromide content.Keyword: pyrohydrolysis

Copper concentrate is an important raw material for copper mills. The concentrate is often contaminated with corrosive fluorine, which is why the fluorine concentration must be checked at regular intervals. A convenient and reliable determination method is Combustion IC in combination with sacrificing vial technology. The sample is placed inside the quartz combustion pipe in a horizontally positioned quartz vial, both ends of which are sealed with glass wool. During combustion, the quartz-destroying components (e.g., fluoride, alkali and earth alkali metals) that are released are captured by the quartz vial and the quartz wool, ensuring that they are thus unable to reach the quartz combustion pipe at all.Keyword: pyrohydrolysis

This Note addresses the determination of the fluorine and chlorine content of a liquefied gas sample (LPG, Liquid Petroleum Gas), i.e. halogens in a mixture of propane and butane. Fluorine originates from perfluorobutane and chlorine from methyl chloride. LPG/GSS modules are used to introduce 50 µL of sample into the combustion system. The halogens released during combustion are determined using ion chromatography with intelligent partial loop injection technique following Inline Matrix Elimination.Keyword: pyrohydrolysis

Palm oil is a vegetable oil that is used not only in the food industry but also for the manufacture of soaps and body care products. It is furthermore an important raw material for the generation of biodiesel. Depending on the degree of refinement, palm oil can be red, reddish or even colorless in appearance. The carotenes responsible for the color are removed during refinement and the oil becomes increasingly clear. In this Note, the chlorine and sulfur content of various palm oils are determined using Combustion IC.Keyword: pyrohydrolysis

Coal contains a certain amount of fluorine, chlorine, and sulfur compounds. During combustion of the coal, these components release corrosive acids (e.g., fluorine compounds form hydrofluoric acid). Thermal power plants therefore request low-fluorine coal to avoid massive hydrofluoric acid production. In this application note, fluorine content in coal is determined by ion chromatography after pyrohydrolysis.

Halobutyl rubber is frequently used in the production of pharmaceutical stoppers. It is ideal for this application due to its low permeability to gases and its chemical resistance. Chlorinated and brominated butyl rubber stoppers are analyzed for their halogen and sulfur content. Halogen and sulfur compounds are released by pyrohydrolysis and analyzed by subsequent ion chromatography (IC).

Polystyrol is brominated to increase flame retardation. The brominated polystyrene finally consists of 25 to 35% of bromine. The determination of bromine by combustion ion chromatography (CIC) requires a specially optimized absorption solution to trap all bromide. This work shows the optimization of the absorption solution for high-bromine samples.

ASTM D7994 - 17 describes the determination of fluorine, chlorine, and sulfur in liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) by oxidative pyrohydrolytic combustion followed by ion chromatography. A synthetic butane sample is analyzed. 50 µL of the sample is injected into the combustion system using the LPG Module. The combustion products are analyzed by IC applying intelligent Partial Loop Injection Technique after Inline Matrix Elimination.

The content of organic chloride in crude oil is determined according to ASTM D8150 in the naphtha fraction after distillation. The naphtha fraction is washed with caustic and water, respectively, to remove hydrogen sulfide and inorganic halides. Here, the determination of organic chloride after inline combustion is presented. Although the sulfur content was of no interest in this application, the same setup allows sulfur quantification.

Ezetimibe is a cholesterol-reducing drug. It reduces the cholesterol resorption in the small intestine. The molecule holds two fluorophenyl groups. Applying Combustion IC the amount of fluorine in the drug is determined. To avoid an excessive introduction of fluoride into the system, Ezetimibe is dissolved in ethanol prior to the combustion.

Polymer materials that are used for building and decoration purposes need to be flame resistant. To reach the required level of resistance flame-retardants are added to the plain polymer. Flame-retardants are often haloorganic compounds. The use of such components and the respective concentration of introduced halogens can be determined by Combustion IC. The recovery over the full system is tested with acertified reference material (CRM).

Iron ore is an important resource for steel production. Its natural content of halogens is a quality characteristic due to the corrosiveness of the respective halogenides. Combustion IC applying the sacrificial vial technology is used for the analysis of fluorine and chlorine in ore. WO3 usually is added to improve the release of SO2 and therefore sulfur recovery. In this application, it also significantly improves the recovery of fluoride.

Crude oil typically contains no organic halides. These are introduced at production sites, in pipelines, or in storage tanks. These components produce HF, HCl, and other acids in reforming and hydro-treating processes, leading to corrosion and catalyst poisoning. Speciation of the halides is an important parameter to measure in order to trace the contamination source. The current specifications expect to find less than 2 mg/kg organic chlorine in crude oil. Sulfur in crude oil could be quantified on the fly. Due to the specific request in this application, only the halogens are determined.

In textiles, the water-repelling effect may be introduced by different treatments, such as the application of fluorochemicals. These compounds, especially perfluoroorganic substances, are extremely persistent in the environment and are therefore listed as emergent contaminants. Combustion IC with pyrohydrolysis and subsequent ion chromatographic determination is applied to analyze the fluorine content in fabrics.

Sulfur species are critical contaminants in ammonia gas. They can cause high-temperature sulfidation of metals, form aggressive complexes with other elements, or react subsequently in processes where the ammonia gas is used. The concentration of such impurities tends to be very low, but they may not exceed critical levels of 0.5 mg/L. Although this level is very close to the system blank of the Combustion IC system, the setup can be used to prove that such critical limits are not exceeded.

Cellulose ester foils are produced using chlorinated solvents. The residual amount of the solvent used in production evaporates within a few days in ambient conditions. The residual solvent is determined by combustion IC, through the conversion of organically bound chlorine to chloride by pyrohydrolysis. The final product needs to be free of all chlorinated solvents. Therefore, critical contents of such compounds can be detected in quality control analysis. Application of MiPT in this study has enabled an automated and precise calibration out of a single standard.

AOF (adsorbable organic fluorine) is used to screen for per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances in aqueous matrices via pyrohydrolytic combustion and ion chromatography.

Combustion ion chromatography (CIC) measures AOX (adsorbable organically bound halogens, i.e., AOCl, AOBr, AOI) and AOF as well as CIC AOX(Cl) according to DIN 38409-59 and ISO 18127.

Organic halides must be monitored in the environment. Combustion ion chromatography (CIC) is used for accurate halogen analysis in solids following EN 17813:2023.

Corrosion refers to a process that involves deterioration or degradation of metal. The most common example of corrosion is the formation of rust on steel. Most corrosion phenomena are of electrochemical nature and consist of at least two reactions on the surface of the corroding metal.

Electrochemical methods provide an alternative to traditional methods used to determine the rate of corrosion. For example, corrosion rates, the rates at which a specimen corrodes, can be calculated from simple electrochemical measurements like a linear sweep voltammetry (LSV).

Polarization resistance (Rp) can quantify the corrosion resistance of metals as an alternative to Tafel analysis. Its methodology and practical use as described in ASTM G59 are discussed.

Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy or EIS has been used effectively to measure the polarization resistance for corrosion systems and for the determination of corrosion mechanisms.

A corrosion inhibitor is a substance that reduces the corrosion rate of a metal. A corrosion inhibitor is usually added in a small concentration to the corrosive environment. This application note shows how Metrohm Autolab instruments can be used to check the quality of inhibitors.

This Application Note is based on the ASTM standard G150, developed to test the resistance of stainless steel, and otheralloys related to stainless steel, on pitting formation at elevated temperature. This is achieved by determining the potential-independent critical pitting temperature (CPT), defined as the lowest temperature at which pitting evolution occurs. The CPT experiment consists of applying a potential to the specimen while the cell temperature is raised and recording the current.

In this Application Note, stepwise dissolution measurement (SDM) is applied to aluminum samples coated with different materials, in order to gain insights in corrosion protection. The combination of the Autolab PGSTAT204 with the 1 L Autolab corrosion cell and the NOVA software provides the suitable setup to perform SDM and other corrosion experiments.

In this Application Note, EIS is applied on three coated aluminium samples, before and after the stepwise dissolution measurement (SDM). This technique has been reviewed in the Application Note AN-COR-08.

Corrosion of metals is a problem seriously affecting not only many industrial sectors, but also private life, resulting in enormous costs. In this application note, the results gained during electrochemical corrosion studies on different metals are compared to literature data.

The ASTM standard G100 is an electrochemical method to test localized corrosion of aluminum 3003-H14 and other alloys. A cyclic galvanostatic staircase polarization (galvanostaircase) is composed of an upward and a downward scan. The potential values at the end of each step are collected and linearly fitted, and the potential values at zero current are found.

This Application Note evaluates corrosion in Type 430 stainless steel according to ASTM G5 with VIONIC powered by INTELLO and an ASTM-compliant corrosion cell setup.

The rotating cylinder electrode (RCE) is a technique used in corrosion research to simulate in a laboratory environment the turbulent flow which usually occurs when liquids are transported through pipelines. The RCE is used to generate a turbulent flow at the surface of a sample, simulating the pipe flow conditions. Experiments that involve an RCE are regulated by the ASTM G185 standard. In this application note, The RCE with a 1018 carbon steel cylinder sample was used with the linear polarization (LP) measurement technique.

The rotating cylinder electrode (RCE) is successfully used in a laboratory environment to generate a turbulent flow at the surface of a sample, simulating realistic pipe flow conditions. In this application note, the corrosion rate is measured and compared between quiescent and turbulent flow conditions, while keeping all the other experimental conditions unchanged. The linear polarization (LP) technique was used together with the RCE (with and without rotation).

This Application Note details ASTM G61-compliant corrosion measurements performed with VIONIC powered by INTELLO using Metrohm’s ASTM-compliant corrosion cells.

The ASTM B825 is used to determine the corrosion and tarnish film on metal surfaces. This is achieved by using the so-called cathodic reduction method. With the help of a Metrohm Autolab PGSTAT302N and a Metrohm Autolab 1 L corrosion cell, a procedure to replicate the ASTM B825 is shown.

The International Standard ISO 17463 describes the determination of the anticorrosive properties of high impedance organic protective coatings on metals. This technique uses cycles composed of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurements, cathodic polarizations and potential relaxation. This application note shows the compliance of the Metrohm Autolab PGSTAT M204 and flat cell with the standard ISO 17463.

Tafel analysis is an important electrochemical technique used to understand reaction kinetics. By studying the Tafel slope, it reveals the rate-determining steps in electrode reactions, aiding fields like corrosion and fuel cell research. This method helps industries optimize processes and improve device performance by tailoring materials and conditions for greater efficiency.

Cation chromatography with sequential suppression enables the determination of cations in their hydrogen carbonate form. The eluent – usually nitric acid – is converted into carbonic acid. Following its decomposition into carbon dioxide and water, the former is continuously removed by the CO2 suppressor. The reduction of baseline noise thus achieved permits the lowering of the detection limits and improves reproducibility, even at very low cation concentrations. This Note shows the reproducibilities determined for cation concentrations of 10 µg/L.

Ammonium determination after sequential suppression frequently exhibits non-linear calibration curves. The reason for this is the ammonium hydroxide that arises and that is present in a form characterized by low dissociation. The sequential cation suppression forms the more highly dissociated ammonium hydrogen carbonate. Ammonium and the other standard cations exhibit linear calibration curves (R > 0.9997).

The concentrations of toxic, biogenic amines in foods, particularly in fish and wine, are an important quality characteristic. The present Application Note shows the separation of putrescine, cadaverine and histamine in addition to the standard cations. Separation takes place on a Metrosep C Supp 1 - 250/4.0 with Dose-in Gradient; quantification via conductivity detection following sequential suppression.

Choline is important for the biosynthesis of numerous molecules, e.g., the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, and exists as an intermediate product in the human metabolism. Concentration determination takes place after microwave digestion. Separation is performed on the Metrosep C Supp 1 - 250/4.0 column following sequential suppression. Separation from the standard cations is outstanding.

Atorvastatin is a medication that is used for reducing cholesterol levels. A sensitive and reliable method for TBA detection is required, given that trace amounts of tetrabutylammonium (TBA) are to be found in the presence of atorvastatin and its derivatives. One such method is ion chromatographic separation on the Metrosep C Supp 1 - 250/4.0 with subsequent conductivity detection and sequential suppression.

This Application Note shows the selectivity of the Metrosep C Supp 1 - 250/4.0 column for alkyl and ethanol amines in addition to standard cations under isocratic conditions. Quantification takes place using conductivity detection following sequential suppression.

With the advent of electric automobiles, the demand for lithium batteries and with it the demand for lithium material will increase sharply. Brine lakes and hard silicate minerals are numbered among the most important sources of lithium. This Application Note addresses cation determination in seepage water from lithium minerals. Alkali and earth alkali metals are separated in the lithium digestions on the Metrosep C Supp 1 - 250/4.0 column, with subsequent conductivity detection after sequential suppression.

Meropenem is a beta-lactam antibiotic that is classed among the carbapenems; it suppresses murein biosynthesis and thus the buildup of the bacterial cell wall. Dimethylamine is an important precursor in meropenem synthesis and must therefore be monitored as an impurity. Detection is performed on the Metrosep C Supp 1 - 250/4 column with subsequent conductivity detection after sequential suppression.

Sequential suppression in cation chromatography significantly improves detection limits. The determination of the blank value of the sample vial being used is thus essential for being able to achieve such low detection limits. The leaching tests of various sample vials proceed with the intelligent Preconcentration Technique with Matrix Elimination on the Metrosep C Supp 1 - 250/4.0 column with conductivity detection following sequential suppression. The 50 mL Corning® Cell Culture Flasks from Sigma-Aldrich (CLS430168) exhibit the lowest blank values.

Boiler feed water is a working medium in thermal power plant. To keep corrosion low, the pH value should be in the slightly alkali range, which is why amines are added to the feed water. This addition must be monitored regularly. Also important is the monitoring of the sodium concentration, because an increase of this indicates that cooling water is seeping into the condenser. Ion chromatography with conductivity detection following sequential suppression is the optimum system for monitoring, particularly in combination with intelligent Sample Preconcentration and Matrix Elimination.

Lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPF6) is used as an electrolyte in rechargeable batteries. Its high solubility in non-polar solvents and its non-coordinating character in particular make lithium hexafluorophosphate the ideal salt for use in lithium-ion cells. This Application describes the determination of cation traces in LiPF6 with conductivity detection following sequential suppression.

Hydrogen peroxide is available in different purity grades depending on its use. High purity H2O2 (electronic grade) requires very low contamination levels, e.g., less than 1 μg/L of trimethylamine (TMA). This application describes the determination of trimethylamine in a high-purity H2O2 solution (30%). Analysis is performed using Inline Preconcentration with Matrix Elimination (MiPCT-ME) applying conductivity detection after sequential cation suppression.

Trace cation analysis in high purity water (sub-μg/L range) requires cation chromatography after sequential suppression and intelligent Preconcentration Technique (MiPCT). Trace cations in deionized water (DI) are determined and the method detection limit (MDL according to US EPA) as well as the limit of detection (LOD = 3 x S/N) is calculated. MDL and LOD are very similar in the lowest ng/L range for this setup with 6 mL preconcentration volume.

Biogenic amines are released during the winemaking process. In wine, they are present as odorless salts. However, in the mouth their flavor is partially liberated, influencing the appearance for the wine taste. Besides this, biogenic amines have been related to lack of hygiene or poor manufacturing practices. The biogenic amines are determined applying suppressed cation chromatography.

Succinylcholine is a short-term paralyzing agent used e.g., for tracheal intubation. Choline is a building block of the drug and needs to be determined as an impurity. USP applies cation chromatography with conductivity detection after suppression. Eluent composition and column type do not exactly comply with the USP method. However, the results fulfill the respective requirements. The choline concentration of the sample is out of USP specifications.

The Metrosep C Supp 2 column family is polystyrene/divinylbenzene based and therefore sequential cation suppression may be applied. This AN shows the separation and detection of different amines on the 150 mm version of the column with subsequent conductivity detection after sequential cation suppression.

Acidic solutions used as scrubber solutions for ammonium typically have a pH of 2 or lower. This pH value is too low for silica based IC columns typically applied in direct conductivity detection of cations. The Metrosep C Supp 2 - 250/4.0 is polymer based and allows injecting low pH samples. An acidified drinking water sample spiked with ammonium is analyzed. The results indicate that such acidic solutions can be analyzed with conductivity detection after sequential cation suppression.

Cation analysis by IC in wastewater is a proven method. Limiting factor is often the Na/NH4 separation. High sodium concentrations may make ammonium determination impossible due to peak overlapping. The use of sequential suppression and a Dose-in gradient improve the Na/NH4 separation and enables determination of low ammonium concentrations.

Determination of trace levels of cations and amines in hydrogen peroxide is important in quality determination of high-grade semiconductor chemicals. In particular, some manufactures look for 1 ppb trimethylamine or less in hydrogen peroxide samples. Ion chromatography after MiPCT-ME* with conductivity detection after sequential cation suppression is applied.

The short Metrosep C Supp 2 - 100/4.0 allows applying a higher eluent flow. Together with a more concentrated eluent (7.0 instead of 5.0 mmol/L nitric acid) the run time of the four cations, sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium can be reduced to 5 minutes. Conductivity detection after sequential suppression is applied.

Compounded injections of sodium bicarbonate are sterile solutions for correcting metabolic acidosis and other conditions requiring systemic alkalinization. Compounded injections of sodium phosphates serve as a phosphate source to either prevent or correct hypophosphatemia in patients with restricted oral intake. Ion chromatography (IC) with suppressed conductivity detection is the standardized way to accurately quantify sodium in these solutions.

This application focuses on the simultaneous analysis of cations and suppressed anions with a dual channel Metrohm IC operated by OpenLab CDS.

This Application Note presents ion chromatography as a precise method to analyze anions in beer as well as cations with non-suppressed conductivity. Automation with Inline Ultrafiltration is also discussed.

Ion chromatography (IC) provides an automated, fast, and sensitive solution to accurately quantify cationic and anionic components including acetate simultaneously. This comprehensive approach makes IC an economic alternative to traditional techniques for the quality control of pharmaceutical solutions like haemodialysis concentrates. Ease-of use, accuracy, and the high-throughput of IC increase productivity and comply with the demands of modern routine and research labs.

Electrochemistry, spectroscopy, and spectroelectrochemistry (SEC) are widely used techniques in many fields. However, the data curves obtained from these analyses are quite varied, and not all electrochemical peaks and spectroscopic bands can be measured with the same procedures. This Application Note examines four tools included in the DropView 8400 and DropView SPELEC softwares to facilitate the measurement and analysis of the collected curves and data. The following measurement options are explained in detail: automeasurement, set on curve measurement, set free measurement, and set step measurement.

The mass transport characteristics of the diffusion controlled oxidation and reduction of the ferri/ferro cyanide couple was studied using the Autolab RDE with a low noise liquid Hg contact.

A reference electrode has a stable and well-defined electrochemical potential (at constant temperature), against which the applied or measured potentials in an electrochemical cell are referred. A good reference electrode is therefore stable and non-polarizable. In other words, the potential of such an electrode will remain stable in the used environment and also upon the passage of a small current. This application note lists the most used reference electrodes, together with their range of use.

This application explains ohmic iR drop in electrochemical cells, its causes, and strategies to minimize its impact for accurate and reliable potential measurements.

This application introduces two tools (current interrupt and positive feedback) that measure and compensate for up to 90% of the ohmic iR drop, a common error in electrochemistry.

The Autolab Electrochemical Quartz Crystal Microbalance (EQCM) is an optional module for the Autolab PGSTAT which can be used to control a 6 MHz crystal oscillator. This technique can be used to perform electrogravimetric measurements with detection limits in the sub μg range.

This document describes a very simple procedure that can be used to produce small deposits of platinum on a goldsubstrate. This simple procedure is based on an electrochemical process known as displacement deposition, during which the deposition of a noble metal occurs by the oxidation of a precursor metal adlayer deposited on the substrate, at open circuit potential (OCP).

In this Application Note, analog and digital staircase potential signals are applied to a platinum working electrode in an acidic solution. The differences in measured currents are highlighted and compared with a similar experiment where the current is being calculated from the measured charge.

A basic overview of the working principle of a potentiostat/galvanostat is presented. Depending on the application, the connections of the instrument to the electrochemical cell can be (or must be) set up in different ways. Below, the three commonly used electrochemical cell setups are discussed together with the role of the electrodes used in electrochemical measurements.

In this application note, the combination between electrochemistry and spectroscopy is shown, with the oxidation of ferrocyanide to ferricyanide monitored with IR spectra taken at defined potential steps. The increase in absorbance at 425 nm corresponding to the formation ferricyanide.

To improve the performance of electrochemical energy storage devices like batteries and supercapacitors, one can focus on enhancing the ion conductivity (ƠDC) of the electrolyte. It is a common method for obtaining ƠDC values of different electrolyte systems, to carry out electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) experiments, at different temperatures, in a 2-electrode setup.

Copper is arguably one of the most technologically relevant metals, especially for the semiconductor industry. The deposition process used in this industry is known as the dual-damascene process and it involves the electrodeposition of copper from an acidic cupric compound, in the presence of additives.This Application Note illustrates the use of the Autolab rotating ring disc electrode (RRDE) for the study of electrodeposition of copper and the detection of the Cu+ intermediate.

The relative permittivity εr, also known as dielectric constant, is of great importance in materials characterization. It can be defined as the ratio between the amount of electrical energy stored in a material and the amount of electrical energy stored in a vacuum. One of the easiest way to obtain the relative permittivity is to calculate it from capacitance values. In this Application Note, five techniques to retrieve capacity values have been compared.

In this application note, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) is used to test a commercial battery connected in two different ways. In the first EIS measurement, the battery is connected in a two-terminal sensing configuration. In the second EIS measurement, the battery is connected in a four-terminal sensing (Kelvin sensing) configuration. The difference in how the leads are connected results in different measured impedance values for the battery.

The oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is important to the functional readiness of a fuel cell. Rotating ring disk electrode (RRDE) experiments allow the reaction to be studied in hydrodynamic conditions to determine kinetic properties via the Levich and Koutecký-Levich equations. Mechanistic information is simultaneously obtained from the reaction of intermediates at the secondary (ring) electrode. This application note describes how the RRDE from Metrohm Autolab can be used to study the ORR.

The determination of heavy metal ions in a solution is one of the most successful application of electrochemistry. In this application note, anodic stripping voltammetry is used to measure the presence of two analytes, in a sample of tap water.

The TSC SW Closed and TSC Battery cells are compact systems designed for measurements on air or moisture-sensitive materials, such as those used in batteries. In this document, two testing procedures are explained. The first procedure is withpotentiostatic cyclic voltammetry (CV), while the second is via electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS).

The way low-impedance devices, like fuel cells and battery, are connected to a load influences their performances. In this document, a comparison of EIS results on a commercial Li-ion battery is shown. Different EIS measurements have been performed, changing the way the battery has been connected to the potentiostat.

Convolution voltammetry consists essentially of a voltammetric, chronoamperometric, or chronocoulometric experiment followed by a mathematical transformation - convolution. Using a convolution method, the effect of the decrease of the concentration gradient can be eliminated from the total response of the electrode. This application note explains how the convolution in NOVA works.

In order to calculate the conductivity of an electrolyte, the cell constant of the cell must be known. The combination of the Metrohm Autolab PGSTAT204 equipped with the FRA32M module in combination with the Autolab Microcell HC setup was used for the determination of the conductivity cell constants of TSC1600 temperature controlled electrochemical cell.

The proton conductivity of membranes made of a proton conductive material is an essential quantity to be determined. In this application note, we present the results of an exemplary study of σDC(T) determined by impedance spectroscopy for a novel solid proton conductor in its dry state.

The kinetic and mass transfer parameters of the electro-oxidation reaction of TEMPO were measured using the TSC Surface measuring cell for the Autolab Microcell HC system. The cell allows the study of electrochemical processes in liquid electrolytes in a three electrode configuration under temperature control.

The study of the electrochemical behavior of platinum in acidic media is of crucial importance in fundamental electrochemistry and electrocatalysis. Most electrocatalytic processes occurring at Pt electrodes are highly sensitive to the structure of the platinum surface. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) is a widely used rapid measurement technique that provides both a qualitative and quantitative fingerprint of platinum surfaces. A comparison of results given by linear and staircase CVs is presented in this Application Note.

Capacitors are electronic components necessary for the success of the electronics industry. They have also become essential components of both electric and hybrid vehicles. Electrochemical tests, such as potentiostatic cyclic voltammetry, are used to check the performance of capacitors. VIONIC powered by INTELLO can perform both staircase and linear cyclic voltammetries (CV). This Application Note gives a comparison between the linear and the staircase potentiostatic cyclic voltammetries and highlights the necessity of using the linear CV to best study the performance of capacitors.

Many different configurations are made possible when using two-, three-, or four-electrode cell setups in research. Depending on the experimental requirements, one setup may be preferred over another. Therefore, the proper electrode arrangements for these three situations are defined in this Application Note. As an example, the potential at the counter electrode is measured during the platinum oxidation in acidic media, with the second sense (S2) of VIONIC powered by INTELLO. Since dissolved Pt in solution could bias the results, it is important to be able to monitor the potential of the counter electrode.

In this Application Note, hydrogen permeation experiments are conducted following the procedure described in the ASTM standard G148.

In this Application Note, the electrochemical properties of electrodes with a micrometer-size surface area are compared with the electrochemical properties of electrodes with millimeter-size surface area. The comparison is made through cyclic voltammetry in a Fe3+/Fe2+ (ferro/ferri) solution, and the differences in the voltammograms are explained with the different diffusion profiles at the electrode-electrolyte interface.

This Application Note highlights the use of Metrohm Hyphenated EC-Raman Solutions to monitor the reversible oxidation of ferrocyanide at a gold electrode.

The Devanathan-Stachurski cell (or «H cell») is successfully used to evaluate the permeation of hydrogen through sheets or membranes. As small amounts of hydrogen pass through the sheet or membrane, a very sensitive potentiostat is required for its detection. A study of the hydrogen permeation properties of different iron sheets is discussed in this Application Note while taking the instrumental requirements into account.

This Application Note presents a walkthrough of an experiment on 4-nitrothiophenol using hyphenated EC-Raman, a combination of Raman spectroscopy and electrochemistry.

Advances in polymeric membranes and screen-printed technologies have enabled miniaturized, portable potentiometric sensors ideal for point-of-care analysis.

By using an enzymatic sensor with a screen-printed electrode, producers can measure lactic acid production, thereby monitoring fermentation processes.

This Application Note explains manual and automated iR drop correction with electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and cautions against using less accurate methods.

Differential electrochemical mass spectrometry (DEMS) is used to monitor gaseous and volatile species during electrochemical reactions in situ.

Using disposable 11COND screen printed electrodes and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, conductivity in drinking water can be measured using only 100 µL samples.

Spectro electrochemiluminescence experiments comparing photodiode and microspectrometer detectors, showing how each sensor captures ECL signals for the analysis of single and dual luminophore systems.

This Application Note presents an electrochemiluminescence (ECL) method for a fast, accessible, and cost-effective alternative method to detect fentanyl.

This application note demonstrates EQCM D for simultaneous mass and dissipation analysis of Ni(OH)₂ electrodeposition.

Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) is a widely used multidisciplinary technique for characterizing the behavior of complex electrochemical systems. EIS is employed in the study of a range of complex systems including batteries, catalysis, and corrosion processes. This Application Note focuses on the basic principles of EIS measurements.

A typical electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) experimental setup consists of an electrochemical cell, a potentiostat/galvanostat, and a frequency response analyzer (FRA). This Application Note introduces common EIS experimental setups as well as details of the main experimental parameters.

Here, the most common circuit elements for EIS are introduced which may be assembled in different configurations to obtain equivalent circuits used for data analysis.

Explore how to construct simple and complex equivalent circuit models for fitting EIS data in this Application Note. Nyquist plots are shown for each example.

In the application note AN-EIS-004 on equivalent circuit models, an overview of the different circuit elements that are used to build an equivalent circuit model was given. After identifying a suitable model for the system under investigation, the next step in the data analysis is estimation of the model parameters. This is done by the non-linear regression of the model to the data. Most impedance systems come with a data-fitting program. In this application note, the way NOVA is uses to fit the data is shown.

In this application note, the advantage of recording the raw time domain data for each individual frequency during an electrochemical impedance measurement is described.

Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) is a powerful technique which provides information about the processes occurring at the electrode-electrolyte interface. The data collected with EIS are modeled with a suitable electrical equivalent circuit. The fitting procedure will change the values of the parameters until the mathematical function matches the experimental data within a certain margin of error. In this Application Note, some suggestions are given in order to get acceptable initial parameters and to perform an accurate fitting.

This Application Note presents the Mott-Schottky measurement, an extension of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), on a popular semiconducting material.

A fuel cell is an electrochemical energy conversion device that produces electricity and heat by electrochemically combining a fuel (typically hydrogen) and an oxidant (typically oxygen). The higher efficiency also results in much lower carbon dioxide emissions and negligible amounts of SOx and NOx (when reformed fuel is used) compared with fossil fuel-based technologies for the same power output.

To overcome the various technical problems, many different fuel cell types have been developed. In this Application Note, proton exchange membrane, direct methanol and solid oxide fuel cells are discussed in more detail.

In this Application Note the use of Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) for the characterisation of PEM fuel will be demonstrated. It will be shown that EIS is a powerful diagnostic tool for the determination of the following factors that can influence the performance of a PEM fuel cell.

In this application note, a combination of PGSTAT and electronic load is use to perform electrochemical impedance spectroscopy in a fuel cell operating at high currents.

The use of impedance measurements on fuel cells under load makes it possible to study the influence of the different fuel cell elements on the behavior and (if detectable) on the ageing of the fuel cell. To perform high current density measurements, the Autolab systems can be connected to a third party electronic load. This extends the measurable range of the instrument by several current decades.

The operational behavior of a fuel cell stack is usually evaluated by determining the polarization and power density curves of the cell. These curves provide a quick characterization of the stack performance and an assessment of its optimal operating conditions (temperature, humidity, electrocatalyst, ion-exchange membrane).

In recent years, field-effect transistors (FETs) have become more commonly used as a sensing platform for a multitude of electrochemical and biological applications. These devices are promising bioelectronic transducers that allow both low-potential operation and stable potentiometric measurements. FETs are now seen as an attractive alternative to using conventional electrochemical detection systems in the scientific community. This Application Note gives in-depth guidance about how to operate Metrohm DropSens bipotentiostat devices for the characterization of FETs and their use as transducers. A single μStat-i 400 device, a small and portable bipotentiostat and galvanostat, is used to demonstrate the experiments.

In this Application Note, the Metrohm DropSens SPELEC instrument is used with the FLUORESCENCE KIT for time-resolved monitoring of electrochemical reactions in a semi-infinite diffusion regime by performing fluorescence spectroelectrochemistry of the [Ru(bpy)3]2+/3+ redox couple.

Alamar Blue is monitored with fluorescence spectroelectrochemistry during its irreversible reduction to resorufin and further reversible reduction to dihydroresorufin.

Determination of Total Acid Number (TAN) values in mineral oils and similar fluids.

Determination of the sulfate content of wet process phosphoric acid.

This Application Note explains how fluoride determination in acid etching baths can be performed with thermometric titration.

Determination of cuprous ions in the presence of ferrous ions in electrochemical copper leaching solutions.

Determination of a nonionic surfactant of the alkyl propylene oxide derivative type in commercial mixtures containing anionic surfactants.

Standardisation of sodium tetraphenylborate (NaTPB) solution for the determination of potassium and for nonionicsurfactants.

Determination of soluble orthophosphate ions, for example soluble phosphate in fertilizers such as DAP.

Determination of the sulfate content of brines.

Thermometric titration quickly and accurately assesses the total solids content of fluids employed in drilling oil and gas wells within minutes.

Thermometric titration is presented as a simple, fast, and reliable method to determine calcium content in various drilling fluids.

Determination of ferrous ions in heat exchanger and vessel acid wash solutions, for measuring the effectiveness of acid inhibitors used in the solutions. Depending on the condition of the sample, the lower practical limit for the determination will vary from approximately 20-100mg/Kg Fe2+. Samples with high silicic acid contents require relatively large amounts of dilution water to render them mobile, and this limits the aliquot size and hence the amount of Fe2+ which can be analyzed.

Determination of water in moist particulate solids such as cobalt oxyhydroxide.

Determination of free acid in solutions containing metal ions, particularly Fe(III).

Determination of acetic anhydride in the presence of acetic acid in acylation mixtures.

Determination of mixtures of phosphoric, nitric, and acetic acids used in etching aluminum in the manufacture of semiconductor devices.

Determination of bromide and chloride in photographic developer solutions.

Determination of chloride in oil well drilling fluids.

Determination of chlorine in household bleaches.