BOC Sciences offers comprehensive Ion Chromatography (IC) services, supporting a wide range of analytical testing needs across pharmaceutical, chemical, environmental, and materials research. Our capabilities include method development, sample preparation, ion separation, and detailed quantitative and qualitative analysis for both inorganic and organic ions. Leveraging advanced IC instrumentation and high-sensitivity detectors, coupled with our experienced analytical team, we ensure precise, reproducible, and actionable results. We can handle complex matrices, trace-level ions, and multi-component mixtures, providing clients with clear chromatograms, concentration data, and expert interpretation. Our IC services enable researchers and manufacturers to gain critical insights, optimize workflows, and make informed decisions across drug development, chemical synthesis, environmental monitoring, and industrial applications.
Ion Chromatography is a powerful analytical technique used to separate and analyze ions and polar molecules in a sample. It operates on the principle of ion exchange, utilizing ion-exchange media, such as ion-exchange resins, to separate and detect the ions present. IC enables rapid and accurate identification and quantification of ions in complex mixtures, including inorganic ions, organic ions, proteins, nucleic acids, and amino acids.
Ion Chromatography is a form of liquid chromatography (LC). Its core principle relies on the interactions between sample ions and the stationary phase, such as an ion-exchange resin. Ions move through the chromatography column at different rates depending on their charge, size, and affinity, achieving effective separation. Detection is typically carried out using a conductivity detector, which measures changes in conductivity to determine ion concentrations.
Our Cation Exchange IC Testing separates and quantifies positively charged ions in complex mixtures. It is especially valuable for analyzing metal cations in pharmaceutical intermediates, environmental water, and chemical research, providing clear separation and accurate quantification for informed experimental design and process optimization.
Anion Exchange IC Testing targets negatively charged ions using selective stationary and mobile phases. This method is ideal for inorganic anions, organic acids, and food or environmental matrices, delivering reliable qualitative and quantitative results for research and industrial applications.
HPIEC-IC (High-Performance Ion Exclusion) Testing uses ion exclusion principles to separate weak acids and bases in complex samples. It is particularly useful for food, beverage, and environmental samples containing organic acids, enabling rapid profiling and accurate measurement.
Our IP-RP IC Testing combines reversed-phase and ion-pair mechanisms to analyze polar or weakly ionic compounds. This service is suitable for pharmaceutical compounds, organic acids, and challenging natural products, ensuring precise identification and quantification.
Mixed-Mode IC Testing integrates multiple stationary phase interactions to enhance selectivity for complex matrices. It is ideal for multi-component environmental, chemical, or biological samples, providing high-resolution chromatograms and actionable data.
Gradient IC Testing varies mobile phase composition to separate closely eluting ions in high-complexity samples. This approach improves peak resolution and quantitative accuracy for advanced research and industrial sample analysis.
Don't see the IC Testing service that fits your unique sample or project? Contact our team to develop a personalized analysis plan and receive a detailed quotation.
At BOC Sciences, our IC Testing services accommodate a broad range of sample types, reflecting the versatility of ion chromatography and our analytical expertise:
At BOC Sciences, our IC Testing services support a wide variety of sample types, demonstrating the adaptability of ion chromatography and our technical expertise. We handle pharmaceutical intermediates and ionic compounds, including small inorganic and organic ions, as well as synthetic chemicals and laboratory-prepared mixtures. Our services extend to environmental samples such as water, soil, and sediment, food and nutritional components, natural extracts, and materials including polymers and industrial chemicals containing ionic or polar species.
To ensure accurate and reliable IC Testing results, we provide guidance on sample preparation and handling. We analyze samples in different physical states, including liquids and solids, with solids potentially requiring dissolution or extraction. IC-compatible solvents such as water, dilute acids, or buffers are recommended. Typical sample amounts range from micrograms to milligrams. Samples should fall within the instrument's detection range, and we provide dilution guidance for low-concentration or trace ions. Labile or reactive species may require cold-chain transport or protective packaging.
To facilitate smooth processing and accurate results, clients should provide clear sample identification, including sample ID, composition, and target analytes. For hazardous or high-risk materials, a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is required. Sharing information about sample purity and matrix composition helps us select optimal columns, mobile phases, and detectors. Additionally, polar, non-volatile, or complex matrix samples may require special handling, such as ion-exchange pre-treatment, derivatization, or solid-phase extraction. These steps allow us to deliver high-quality, reliable IC Testing results tailored to each client's research needs.
Provide your sample name, type, quantity, and analysis requirements. Include any special handling instructions or preferred report format. Our team will review your submission promptly and provide a personalized quote.
Our laboratory provides comprehensive chromatographic testing reports that deliver actionable insights for research and quality control. Reports typically include the following sections:
Pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies require strict control of ionic impurities in raw materials and intermediates, as well as monitoring of ion levels during processes. Our IC testing provides high-sensitivity quantitative analysis, cation-anion balance, and total ionic strength evaluation. Customized methods and traceable reports are available to support research, development, and production with reliable data.
Environmental testing and water treatment companies need to analyze cations and anions in drinking water, wastewater, and industrial water, including trace forms of ions. Our IC testing provides low-concentration ion analysis, cation-anion balance verification, and conductivity reconstruction to ensure data accuracy. Method validation and quality control metrics (MDL/LOQ, recovery, RSD) are provided to support process optimization and water quality analysis.
Food and beverage companies focus on the content of minerals, salts, and additives in raw materials and finished products. Our IC testing offers ion concentration and speciation analysis, optimized sample pretreatment for complex matrices, and combined qualitative and quantitative reports, providing support for research, formulation development, and product quality management.
Chemical and materials companies are highly sensitive to ion distribution and speciation in raw materials and products, which can affect performance and process stability. Our IC testing provides precise ion concentration measurement, cation-anion balance, and total ionic strength/conductivity evaluation. Customized method development and analytical solutions are offered, along with traceable reports to support research, development, and process optimization.
Academic and research institutions require high-sensitivity, speciation-specific ion analysis, with a focus on method development and data reproducibility. Our IC testing delivers high-resolution analysis, accurate quantification, and complete raw records, including chromatograms and peak identification tables. Guidance on experimental design and method development is also provided to support research and data analysis.
Energy and power companies require precise monitoring of ionic species in process water, cooling systems, and fuel cells to ensure operational efficiency and equipment longevity. Our IC testing provides accurate measurement of cations and anions, conductivity evaluation, and species-specific analysis. Customized methods and detailed reports help optimize processes, prevent scaling or corrosion, and support research and development in energy applications.
Clients submit samples to the laboratory. Samples are received, assigned unique identification numbers, and registered with detailed information such as sample type, source, batch, and any special handling requirements to ensure full traceability.
Depending on the sample type (liquid, solid, or complex matrix), appropriate pretreatment is performed, including dilution, filtration, dissolution, or extraction. Suppressors or standardization may be applied to ensure the sample is suitable for IC analysis.
The appropriate IC method is selected based on the target cations and anions, concentration range, and separation mode. Instrument parameters—including column type, flow rate, gradient program, and suppressor model—are configured, and initial calibration is performed.
Prepared samples are injected into the ion chromatograph, and chromatograms and peak data are collected. Key metrics such as retention time, peak area, and resolution are recorded, and quantitative analysis is performed using internal or external standards.
Analysis results are validated through quality control measures, including method blanks, parallel samples, spike recoveries, and standard curve verification. Cation-anion balance, total ionic strength, and reconstructed conductivity are calculated, and data are organized and statistically analyzed to ensure accuracy and reliability.
Analysis data, chromatograms, peak identification tables, and QC records are compiled into a complete testing report. The report includes qualitative and quantitative results, method descriptions, quality metrics, and actionable conclusions, which are delivered to the client along with technical interpretation as needed.
The most commonly used IC detector measures changes in solution conductivity to detect separated cations and anions. Suitable for most inorganic ions and simple organic acids.
An enhanced conductivity detector that uses a suppressor to reduce background conductivity and improve sensitivity and signal-to-noise ratio. Especially suitable for trace ion analysis, such as water quality and environmental monitoring.
Detects ions or ion complexes by measuring absorbance at specific wavelengths. Ideal for organic anions or transition metal complexes that are UV/Vis active.
An electrochemical detector that measures oxidation-reduction current at the electrode. Suitable for trace analysis of electroactive species, such as nitrate, nitrite, and sugar alcohols.
Detects ions based on mass-to-charge ratio after ionization. Suitable for complex matrices and ultra-trace analysis, providing both qualitative and quantitative information, especially for organic cations and anions.
Measures the fluorescence signal of ions or derivatized ions, offering high sensitivity. Suitable for trace organic acids, transition metal ions, and analytes requiring derivatization.
BOC Sciences utilizes advanced suppressed conductivity and mass spectrometry IC to detect ions down to ppb levels, delivering reliable data for R&D and production.
The workflow includes method blanks, parallel samples, and standard curve verification, ensuring minimal deviation and fully traceable results for every report.
We offer multiple platforms, suppressed conductivity, UV/Vis, amperometric, MS, fluorescence, and tailor methods and sample preparation to meet demanding analytical requirements.
Our senior analytical chemists provide method optimization, technical consultation, and data interpretation, ensuring accurate results and actionable insights for R&D and process improvement.
Access essential chromatography resources, including guidance on column selection, mobile phase optimization, method setup, data interpretation, and detector usage tips.
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Client: A leading pharmaceutical R&D company in North America
Challenge: The client needed precise quantification of trace inorganic ions in drug intermediates to support process optimization and ensure batch-to-batch consistency.
Solution: BOC Sciences applied high-resolution IC systems with advanced conductivity detectors, optimizing sample preparation and ion separation conditions. Our team developed a customized method tailored to the complex matrices, producing detailed chromatograms and accurate quantitative reports.
Outcome: The client obtained reproducible, trace-level ion data, enabling improved process control, reduced impurities, and confident decision-making in drug development.
Client: A European environmental monitoring laboratory
Challenge: The client required rapid detection and quantification of multiple anions and cations in river and wastewater samples, including trace contaminants, while maintaining high analytical accuracy.
Solution: BOC Sciences implemented an IC workflow with optimized columns and mobile phases for simultaneous anion and cation detection. High-sensitivity detectors ensured low-level ion detection, while our team validated the method for complex matrices.
Outcome: The client received high-resolution chromatograms and quantitative reports, enabling precise monitoring and analysis of water quality.
Client: A multinational food and beverage company
Challenge: The client sought detailed profiling of mineral ions and electrolytes in complex beverage formulations, including trace ions that affect taste and nutritional labeling.
Solution: BOC Sciences applied customized IC methods with precise sample preparation, ion separation, and conductivity detection. Multiple calibration and quality checks ensured reliable, reproducible data across different product matrices.
Outcome: The client obtained actionable quantitative data, supporting product formulation optimization, nutritional labeling accuracy, and high confidence in ingredient quality.
IC separates analytes based on their differential interactions with a charged stationary phase, typically a high-capacity ion-exchange resin. Cations or anions in the sample bind electrostatically, and their elution is controlled by an eluent gradient or ionic strength modification. Separation efficiency depends on factors such as resin particle size, crosslinking density, functional group type, and the mobile phase composition. Optimizing these parameters allows resolution of complex mixtures, simultaneous analysis of multi-ion samples, and trace-level detection while maintaining reproducible retention times and peak shapes.
Although both IC and HPLC are liquid-phase techniques, IC is specifically designed for ionic species, using ion-exchange interactions rather than hydrophobic or polarity-driven retention. IC can accurately separate and quantify both inorganic anions/cations and organic acids, while HPLC often struggles with low-molecular-weight ions without specialized columns. Furthermore, IC frequently employs suppressed conductivity detection to enhance sensitivity and lower background noise, providing superior reproducibility for trace-level ion quantification in complex matrices.
The resin provides the selective binding sites necessary for ion retention and separation. Key parameters, functional group type, ion-exchange capacity, polymer backbone, and particle size, directly affect selectivity, resolution, and peak symmetry. For example, a strong cation-exchange resin ensures robust retention of polyvalent cations in pharmaceutical or environmental samples, while weak anion resins enable rapid separation of labile organic acids. Selecting and conditioning the proper resin is crucial for reproducible results, trace detection, and reliable quantitative analysis across diverse sample types.
Conductivity detectors measure the ionic strength change as each analyte elutes from the column. When combined with suppression techniques, background conductivity from the eluent is minimized, improving detection limits for trace ions. Quantitative analysis is achieved via peak area integration, while qualitative identification relies on retention time matching with standards. Advanced IC setups can integrate multiple detectors for cross-validation or detect multiple ion types simultaneously, ensuring comprehensive analysis of complex matrices, including environmental, pharmaceutical, and food samples.
IC is ideal for inorganic and organic ions, including chloride, sulfate, phosphate, nitrate, organic acids, amino acids, and nucleotides. Samples can range from aqueous environmental matrices, drug intermediates, food and beverage extracts, to complex biopolymer digests. For challenging matrices, techniques such as sample dilution, pre-concentration, filtration, or solid-phase extraction are applied prior to injection. Optimized method parameters, resin selection, and detector configuration allow trace-level detection, multi-ion profiling, and reproducible quantification, making IC a versatile tool for research and quality control.
The IC Testing service from BOC Sciences consistently provides accurate and reproducible ion quantification. Their meticulous method development and data validation enabled us to confidently interpret complex sample matrices. This reliability has been essential for supporting our internal R&D and analytical projects.
— Dr. S., Senior Scientist, Pharmaceutical Development Company
BOC Sciences' IC Testing delivers precise detection of trace inorganic and organic ions. The team's expertise in sample preparation and chromatographic separation allowed us to gain detailed compositional insights for challenging matrices.
— Dr. M., Head of Analytical Chemistry, Food and Beverage Research Lab
The IC services provided by BOC Sciences offered thorough ion profiling across multiple sample types. Their systematic approach and careful calibration ensured data consistency and high interpretability, greatly assisting our experimental workflow.
— Dr. T., Principal Scientist, Environmental Monitoring Institute
BOC Sciences' IC Testing not only generates precise chromatographic results but also includes insightful data analysis. Their team's expertise in method optimization and signal processing enhanced our understanding of sample composition, supporting confident decision-making.
— Dr. R., Analytical Director, Chemical Research Facility
