Optimization of single-column anion chromatography with indirect ultraviolet photometric and fluorimetric detection

Optimization of single-column anion chromatography with indirect photometric and indirect fluorimetric detection is described. A simplex algorithm is used for signal maximization with eluent concentration, pH and flow rates as dependent variables. Absolute detection limits obtained for chloride, nitrite, nitrate and sulphate by indirect photometric detection were 1.0, 1.2, 1.4, and 2.0 ng, respectively. The use of single-beam indirect fluorimetric detection of these anions is also demonstrated. The method was applied to the detection of anions arising from gaseous acids or atmospheric aerosols.