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This section provides an overview for ion chromatographs as well as their applications and principles. Also, please take a look at the list of 14 ion chromatograph companies and their company rankings. Here are the top-ranked ion chromatograph companies as of December, 2024: 1.Science and Health with Chemistry Co.,Ltd., 2.Curtiss-Wright. IMR Test Labs, 3.Drawell Instrument Co., Ltd.
Table of Contents
An ion chromatograph, a type of liquid chromatography, is a separation analysis method mainly focused on the analysis of low-molecular-weight ions.
The pioneering work on ion chromatography dates back to 1975 when H. Small published the paper "Novel Ion Exchange Chromatographic Method Using Conductivity Detection" in the Analytical Chemistry journal. H. Small and his colleagues separated ions using ion exchange resins and detected them with a conductivity detector.
While ion chromatography can measure various ions, its unparalleled field lies in the simultaneous analysis of anions. Halide ions (F-, Cl-, Br-), NO2-, NO3-, SO42-, PO43-, and others can be measured at ppb (μg/L) levels. Moreover, by selecting specific measurement conditions, simultaneous analysis of polyatomic oxyacids ions like ClO2-, ClO3-, BrO3-, and others is also achievable. It is estimated that 70% of IC users perform analysis of these anions.
In cation analysis, alkali metal ions such as Li+, Na+, K+, and alkaline earth metal ions like Mg2+, Ca2+, Ba2+ can be measured.
Organic ions can also be measured. Low-molecular-weight aliphatic amines such as methylamine, dimethylamine, ethylamine, and ethanolamine can be measured using the same cation exchange separation and conductivity detection as alkali metal ions. Additionally, aliphatic organic acids like formic acid, acetic acid, propionic acid, lactic acid, tartaric acid, malic acid, and citric acid can be measured in ion exclusion mode.
The mobile phase (eluent [Na2CO3]) is pumped through the chromatograph, and the sample solution (a solution containing NaCl) is introduced in a fixed amount from the injector (sample introduction device) and sent to the column.
The column is filled with anion exchange resin, and ion separation occurs through ion exchange interactions. Subsequently, counter ions (Na+) in the mobile phase are removed by the suppressor, and Na2CO3 is converted to weakly ionized H2CO3, resulting in lower electrical conductivity.
Simultaneously, counter ions of the sample, NaCl, are also ion-exchanged, transforming into highly conductive HCl.
The suppressor has two functions: ① reducing the electrical conductivity of the mobile phase and ② increasing the electrical conductivity of the target ions.
The conductivity detector examines the ease with which electricity passes through the solution. The signal from the conductivity detector is sent to the data processing device, and a waveform (chromatogram) corresponding to ion concentration is drawn.
By observing the time elapsed from sample injection to peak appearance (retention time, elution time), you can determine qualitatively what ions are present. The peak height (or area) allows quantitative measurement of the concentration.
Ion chromatography is particularly powerful for measuring ions in water samples, and as a result, it is widely adopted in various official test methods for industrial water testing, factory wastewater testing, drinking water testing methods, sewage testing methods, and sanitary testing methods.
Therefore, its predominant use is in fields related to the environment, water supply and sewerage, wastewater, and it is extensively employed by many public testing agencies and contract analysis companies.
Furthermore, due to its capability to measure inorganic ions at the ppt (ng/L) level, ion chromatography is used in water quality analysis for semiconductors, ultrapure water, and nuclear-related applications.
Beyond water samples, ion chromatography can be utilized for ion measurement in extraction solutions, absorption solutions, and can even measure ions in solids and gases.
IC extends beyond water quality and environmental applications; it is used in various fields such as food, chemistry, and pharmaceuticals for raw material management, process control, product management, quality inspection, and more.
*Including some distributors, etc.
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As a leading company in ion chromatography, Science and Health with Chemistry Co.,Ltd. (Kaken-Kagaku) are engaged in import/export/agency sales of scientific and medical instruments and consumables and also in technical consulting and technology trade. We supply high-quality yet cost-effective products to our customers around the world, and we are committed to solving the various scientific and health problems they face from the viewpoint of chemistry.
Curtiss-Wright Corporation, founded in Davidson, North Carolina, in 1929 is a manufacturer of components for actuators, aircraft controls, valves, and surface-treatment services. The company's product portfolio includes aircraft components, including structural parts, engine components, landing gear components, and hydraulic systems, navigation systems, communication equipment, flight control systems, and cockpit displays. The company serves industries such as Oil and Gas, Aerospace and Defense, Automotive and Transportation, Construction, and Power Generation. The company also offers customer services that include support, custom research projects and customized services.
Eurofins EAG, established in 1978 and based in San Diego,CA, is a supplier of materials testing services. The services of the company include microelectronics testing and engineering, litigation support, and expert testimony. The products are used in aerospace, automotive, and medical and consumer electronics. The company’s testing laboratories are registered with the DDTC and it’s scientists and employees are knowledgeable about military, ITAR, and EAR data security regulations. It is certified to ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 17025:2017. The company provides a multidisciplinary consulting approach to resolving your product's materials and engineering-related issues.
Shimadzu Corporation, founded in 1875 and based in Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, is a Japanese manufacturer and supplier specializing in precision instruments, measuring instruments, and medical equipment. The company's products and solutions cater to various industries, including pharmaceuticals, environmental, and research institutions. For instance, Shimadzu produces analytical and measuring instruments like chromatographs and spectrometers, utilized for quality control as well as research and development in the environment, life science, and pharmaceutical fields. Furthermore, Shimadzu's medical products and systems aid in early disease detection and treatment, particularly for conditions like cancer. Additionally, Shimadzu supports manufacturing activities by providing vacuum equipment and industrial machinery.
Qingdao Shenghan Chromatograph Technology Co. Ltd. (SHINE), established in 2002 and based in Qingdao, China, is a manufacturer of ion chromatograph equipment and related parts. It also stocks other products like scientific and environmental measurement instruments. The company is ISO 9001 and ISO 24001 certified, and in 2019, it became one of China’s top 500 patent enterprises. It has four ion chromatograph (IC) series, including online, portable, and customized ICs, used in several industries, including environmental protection, petrochemical, and hydrogeology. It has exported to over 70 countries and has about 100 independent intellectual property rights.
Metrohm, founded in 1943 and headquartered in Herisau, Switzerland, is a manufacturer of precision instruments for chemical analysis. They offer products such as dispensing tools, Stripping Analysis (CVS) instruments, ion chromatography systems, related accessories, and more. Their products cater to various sectors, including pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and defense, which are used for the analysis and handling of chemicals. Metrohmy holds IQNet and EcoVadis Silver Recognition award for sustainability and is compliant with GDPR standards.
Anhui Wanyi Science and Technology Co. Ltd. is a Chinese manufacturer of analysis equipment and instruments established in Hefei, Anhui in 2003. The company's specialized product lineup includes helium mass spectrometer leak detectors, flue gas emissions monitoring systems, and leak detectors for sealed products. It also offers liquid chromatographs and atmospheric aerosol laser radar mounted mobile vehicles. These are mainly used by clients in the power generation, water treatment, and mining sectors. Aside from its products, the company offers personnel training and maintenance services for customers needing additional support.
Drawell Instrument Co., Ltd. was founded in 1999 in Yuzhong District, Chongqing, China, as a manufacturer and seller of laboratory equipment and scientific instruments. The product list of the company consists of a digital viscometer, laboratory refrigerator, flame photometer, and anaerobic workstation, among others. The equipment serves diverse industries, ensuring liquid viscosity for quality, controlling temperature-sensitive materials, measuring element concentrations, and supporting anaerobic bacteria research. The company caters to various industries, including petroleum, chemical, electric power, textile, metallurgy, and textile.
Nittoseiko Analytech Co., Ltd, founded in April 1979 and based in Yamato, Kanagawa, is a manufacturer and supplier of measurement and analysis equipment and devices. The company's product range includes Karl Fischer moisture meters, elemental analyzers, automatic titrators, combustion ion chromatography (C-IC), and resistivity meters. These products are used for various analytical and measurement tasks. They primarily serve industries such as electronics, energy, food & beverage, and manufacturing. In addition to manufacturing, the company offers services like research and development, retailing, and maintenance for its equipment.
DKSH Holding Ltd. established in 1865 and based in Zurich, Switzerland, is a distributor and supplier of Food and Beverage Ingredients. The company's product range includes Food and beverage Ingredients, Personal Care Ingredients, Pharmaceutical Ingredients, Specialty Chemicals, and Luxury and lifestyle. These products are used in food and beverage production, personal care formulation, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and specialty chemical processing. It serves the professional services, consumer goods, technology, and healthcare industries. Additionally, the company provides services such as sourcing, market insights, marketing and sales, and distribution and logistics.
Ranking as of December 2024
Derivation Method| Rank | Company | Click Share |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Science and Health with Chemistry Co.,Ltd. |
47.7%
|
| 2 | Curtiss-Wright. IMR Test Labs |
7.7%
|
| 3 | Drawell Instrument Co., Ltd |
7.7%
|
| 4 | Nittoseiko Analytech Co., Ltd |
6.9%
|
| 5 | DKSH Holding Ltd. |
5.4%
|
| 6 | Eurofins EAG |
4.6%
|
| 7 | Conquer Scientific LLC |
3.8%
|
| 8 | Tosoh Corporation |
3.1%
|
| 9 | Anhui Wanyi Science and Technology Co.,Ltd. |
3.1%
|
| 10 | EM Topco Limited |
2.3%
|
Derivation Method
The ranking is calculated based on the click share within the ion chromatograph page as of December 2024. Click share is defined as the total number of clicks for all companies during the period divided by the number of clicks for each company.Number of Employees
Newly Established Company
Company with a History
*Including some distributors, etc.
*Including some distributors, etc.
| Country | Number of Companies | Share (%) |
|---|---|---|
|
China
|
3 | 37.5% |
|
United States of America
|
2 | 25.0% |
|
JAPAN
|
1 | 12.5% |
|
Japan
|
1 | 12.5% |
|
Switzerland
|
1 | 12.5% |
