Improved Method for the Trace Analysis of Anions in the Primary Circuit of a Pressurized Water Reactor using Ion Chromatography

Metrohm have improved their Inline Sample Preparation setup for Ion Chromatography (IC), so that it is now possible to determine easily and accurately the trace levels of anions in the primary circuit of a nuclear power plant. Utilizing inline matrix elimination to remove the high levels of boric acid and inline cation exchange to remove the disturbing cations, the MIC 6 Advanced Modular IC system can also resolve isocratically glycolate, acetate and formate all key indicators to the decomposition of organic compounds in addition to the standard anions.

In order to improve the reproducibility as well as the long-term reliability of the preconcentration technique in the hot zone, an improved setup using a Metrohm Dosino has been applied that also benefits reduced user intervention. The Dosino affords flexible, high-precision liquid handling and means that the precision of the preconcentration volume is similar to fixed loop injections.

The methodology is further improved through reduced interaction between the sample and the autosampler through the use of larger sample vials (customers' own) and custom sample racks (carousel). The use of a strictly separated delivery of ultra-pure water and an external cleaning position for the needle reduces cross contamination and a new trap column further eliminates impurities in the ultra pure water delivery. The Metrohm Inline Calibration technique allows the user to calibrate the IC System in the low ppb range using high ppb to ppm calibration solutions which helps prevents contamination as well as high blank values.

Sixty years of experience in Ion Analysis ensure that the reliability of the instrument and support from Metrohm are assured. The running costs of the IC system are minimal with no costly replacement of suppressor membranes or eluent cartridges required .

To learn more about the trace analysis of anions using Metrohm Inline Sample Preparation, then please contact 01280 824824 or enquiry@metrohm.co.uk, where our IC Applications Support Team will be delighted to provide further application information.