Electronic-grade nitric acid may not contain more than the slightest traces of anion contaminations (in the mg/L range). The ion chromatography determination of these kinds of anion traces requires not only a high-capacity column but also an eluent that allows the nitrate to be eluted by the column, although only after all of the other ions of interest have been eluted. This separation is achieved on a column of the Metrosep A Supp 16 - 250/4.0 type with the aid of a strong carbonate/hydrogen carbonate eluent.