Simultaneous determination of multiple anions and cations

Simultaneous determination of anions like chloride, nitrate, nitrite, bromide and sulfate and cations of alkali, alkaline earth and transition metals using single column ion chromatographic technique, is described. Low conductivity eluents are used for separation of the ions. The choice of the eluent, concentration of exchanging ions in the eluent and pH of the eluent in attaining optimum separation and sensitivity is discussed. Application of this technique for estimation of anions and cations in water and trace metal impurities in sodium metal is investigated.