COURSE OVERVIEW:

The meaning of this course lies in the mastery of ionic separation for the analysis of anions, cations, and polar molecules in complex matrices. Ion Chromatography (IC) is a specialized subset of liquid chromatography that relies on ion-exchange mechanisms and sophisticated suppression technology to achieve parts-per-billion sensitivity. This program provides the advanced expertise necessary to develop, optimize, and troubleshoot IC methods for environmental, industrial, and pharmaceutical applications where traditional HPLC fails to provide adequate resolution.

The scope of the training addresses the high-level engineering of the IC system, focusing on the critical role of "Suppression" in reducing background conductivity and enhancing analyte signals. It covers the chemistry of various stationary phases, including hydroxide and carbonate-selective resins, and the use of electrolytic eluent generation for "Reagent-Free" IC. Participants will explore the implementation of multi-dimensional IC (Heart-cutting) and the coupling of IC with Mass Spectrometry (IC-MS) for definitive identification of unknown ions.

The coverage includes detailed instructions on the quantitative analysis of oxyhalides, organic acids, and trace metals through post-column derivatization. The course emphasizes the troubleshooting of "Baseline Noise," "Pressure Spikes," and "Loss of Suppression," which are common challenges in high-sensitivity ICs. By mastering these advanced IC principles, participants will be able to manage the entire analytical workflow, from complex sample preparation and matrix elimination to the final validation of high-fidelity ionic data.

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

After completion of this course, the participants will be able to:

• Define the advanced chemical principles of ion-exchange chromatography.
• Optimize "Electrolytic Eluent Generation" for gradient separations.
• Master the maintenance and troubleshooting of electronic suppressors.
• Select the optimal stationary phase for complex anionic mixtures.
• Implement IC methods for the analysis of trace oxyhalides.
• Perform quantitative analysis of organic acids and amino acids.
• Utilize "Matrix Elimination" techniques for high-salinity samples.
• Configure and troubleshoot high-pressure pumps and autosamplers.
• Execute multi-point calibrations for trace quantitative analysis.
• Interpret "Baseline Conductivity" signatures for system diagnosis.
• Validate IC methods according to EPA and ISO standards.
• Document IC performance and "System Suitability" data effectively.

TARGET AUDIENCE:

This course is intended for Senior Analytical Chemists, IC Specialists, Environmental Scientists, and Quality Control Managers.

TRAINING COURSE METHODOLOGY:

A highly interactive combination of lectures, discussion sessions, and case studies will be employed to maximize the transfer of information, knowledge, and experience. The course will be intensive, practical, and highly interactive. The sessions will start by raising the most relevant questions and motivating everybody to find the right answers. The attendants will also be encouraged to raise more of their questions and to share in developing the right answers using their analysis and experience. There will also be some indoor experiential activities to enhance the learning experience. Course material will be provided in PowerPoint, with necessary animations, learning videos, and general discussions.

The course participants shall be evaluated before, during, and at the end of the course.

COURSE CERTIFICATE:

National Consultant Centre for Training LLC (NCC) will issue an Attendance Certificate to all participants completing a minimum of 80% of the total attendance time requirement.