{"id":40148,"date":"2025-07-31T13:34:37","date_gmt":"2025-07-31T11:34:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/membrapure.de\/?p=40148"},"modified":"2025-08-01T09:42:57","modified_gmt":"2025-08-01T07:42:57","slug":"determination-of-anions-and-monovalent-cations","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/membrapure.de\/de\/determination-of-anions-and-monovalent-cations\/","title":{"rendered":"Determination of Anions and Monovalent Cations in a Coal-Fired Power Plant Using the IONUS Ion Chromatograph"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-f5ee80a2a383498642b24d884d25431f wp-block-paragraph\">Coal-fired power plants depend on high-purity water and steam cycles to ensure efficient operation and minimize equipment degradation. The presence of trace-level anions, such as chloride, bromide, nitrate, phosphate, and sulfate, along with monovalent cations including sodium, Ammonium, and Potassium, can impact the performance and longevity of critical plant components.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-a43594a2fdec17d383d7cb80211b791e wp-block-paragraph\">Analyzing these ions in key systems, such as the condensate discharge pump, demineralization (demin) systems, and HRSG (Heat Recovery Steam Generator) steam drums is essential for maintaining water quality and ensuring overall operational reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-61ed27e3a3a3548198839108b22dfcdd wp-block-paragraph\">Chloride, bromide, nitrate, phosphate, and sulfate anions are critical to monitor due to their potential to cause corrosion, scaling, and fouling in boilers and turbine systems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-83c6e2605c56bf4fb9e8919927d03d0f wp-block-paragraph\">Chloride and sulfate can accelerate pitting and stress corrosion cracking in high-pressure environments, leading to costly repairs and downtime.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-fd81ec95b518c1753e9f3ff524cb4f57 wp-block-paragraph\">Phosphate, often added for pH control, must be carefully managed to prevent scaling or carryover into steam, which can damage turbine blades. Nitrate, though less common, may indicate contamination or degradation of water treatment processes, posing risks to system integrity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-0c4d95c93ad998d83d64a3ab912d8035 wp-block-paragraph\">Similarly, monovalent cations &#8211; sodium, Ammonium, and Potassium &#8211; are critical to monitor because they can form harmful deposits in boilers and turbines, reducing heat transfer efficiency and causing mechanical imbalances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-3dcf7e437ff8dd9ff16bfb6ebd2bcd68 wp-block-paragraph\">Ammonium, in particular, may be present due to water treatment processes or contamination, and its accumulation can alter pH levels, potentially exacerbating corrosion. Even at trace levels, these cations can indicate leaks in demin systems or other impurities, compromising water purity. Regular monitoring at the condensate discharge pump, demin systems, and drums ensures early detection of ionic contaminants, enabling timely corrective actions to maintain water chemistry within stringent operational limits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-17a4b1fdc61771795968e6dd53d5558d wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Analysis and Importance of Monitoring Trace Anions and Cations<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-c59080dcd21d7dae79f30f7fe55f8c3a wp-block-paragraph\">The <a href=\"https:\/\/membrapure.de\/de\/ionenchromatograph-ion\/\">membraPure IONUS Ion Chromatograph<\/a> is employed to separate and quantify trace anions (chloride, bromide, nitrate, phosphate, sulfate) and cations (sodium, Ammonium, Potassium) in power plant water samples. The system uses anion-exchange chromatography with the memSep300HC column and a membraPure Suppressor<sup>2<\/sup> to reduce background conductivity, enhancing the detection of low concentrations of anions via conductivity detection. For cations, cation-exchange chromatography is performed using the Repromer CAT column (Dr. Maisch), also with conductivity detection. Samples from HRSG drums, demin tanks, and condensate pump discharge are filtered (0.45&nbsp;\u00b5m) and injected directly or diluted as needed to minimize matrix effects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-94181d1b19616c70c35b93b000c8f8a4 wp-block-paragraph\">Monitoring these ions is essential for several reasons:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-7cc082514a97b69de45b8a33c668a5b4\"><strong>Corrosion Control<\/strong>: Chloride, sulfate, and sodium can accelerate corrosion of boiler tubes, turbine blades, and other metal components, leading to pitting or stress corrosion cracking.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-db897531d05dd2daa0c6ed9979dd50b6\"><strong>Scaling Prevention<\/strong>: Phosphate and sulfate may contribute to scale formation on heat transfer surfaces, reducing thermal efficiency and increasing maintenance costs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-10c22dc83ca885430b1a2e4c03095ac9\"><strong>System Integrity<\/strong>: Elevated levels of Ammonium or Potassium may indicate contamination or improper operation of demin systems, compromising water purity.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-bbc2b8a8fdc94f7771981c978cdffb51\"><strong>Regulatory Compliance<\/strong>: Power plants must adhere to guidelines (ASME or EPRI standards) that specify allowable limits for ionic impurities to ensure safe and efficient operation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-0abdd6fb5e5ecae78e7afc662efe9283\"><strong>Operational Efficiency<\/strong>: Trace impurities can reduce steam quality, impacting turbine performance and overall plant efficiency.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-f341820dd489f540e11ab52c30565bf9 wp-block-paragraph\">Regular IC analysis enables early detection of ionic contaminants, allowing operators to take corrective actions such as adjusting chemical treatments or regenerating demin resins, thereby preventing equipment damage and optimizing plant performance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-d7f3e76d666c4e45ccec076d52712eab wp-block-paragraph\">In this application note, we examine the methodologies for determining trace-level anions and monovalent cations in coal-fired power plants. By implementing sensitive and reliable analytical techniques, operators can safeguard equipment, enhance efficiency, and ensure compliance with environmental and operational standards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-9805ae65853344245489939d901f9a09 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Inorganic Anions:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-72bc3c74d6905e82d7f716667d09a9d1 wp-block-paragraph\">The anions of interest\u2014chloride, bromide, nitrate, phosphate, and sulfate\u2014are critical to monitor in coal-fired power plant water systems due to their potential to cause operational issues. Below is an overview of their origins, roles, and implications:<br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-fe74966d92c10823531d8de00c9556f6 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Chloride (Cl\u207b)<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-8f00322481413415625cef80d6e52f87\"><strong>Origin<\/strong>: Chloride typically enters the system through raw water, coal combustion byproducts, or leaks in cooling water systems. It may also result from improper demin system operation or contamination from chemical treatments.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-87e052338fd6cfdafa625a201488276d\"><strong>Role\/Implications<\/strong>: Chloride is highly corrosive, particularly in high-temperature and high-pressure environments like HRSG drums. Elevated chloride levels can cause pitting corrosion and stress corrosion cracking in stainless steel components, leading to equipment failure. Its presence often indicates contamination or inadequate demineralization.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-67ecec595f1835fedcff22d795d63c06 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Bromide (Br\u207b)<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-cd5407fc91f791fe67b26f8fa28999b4\"><strong>Origin<\/strong>: Bromide is less common but may originate from raw water sources, especially in regions with brackish groundwater, or from coal ash residues. It can also be introduced through certain water treatment chemicals.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-ca25ce134d000ac2f248e5e1c67b48a5\"><strong>Role\/Implications<\/strong>: While bromide is less corrosive than chloride, its presence at elevated levels may indicate raw water intrusion or contamination. In some cases, bromide can form harmful disinfection byproducts if oxidants are used in water treatment, posing environmental concerns.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-1eac7de84386554f7d35c13536b9d344 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Nitrate (NO\u2083\u207b)<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-7320ba54cb80cfb3c87b06169e702ce5\"><strong>Origin<\/strong>: Nitrate typically enters via raw water or as a byproduct of ammonia oxidation in the system. It may also result from microbial activity in cooling water or environmental contamination.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-a0b4a9bd2ae37a47d917e0df72c021b6\"><strong>Role\/Implications<\/strong>: Nitrate is less corrosive than chloride or sulfate but can contribute to corrosion under certain conditions, particularly in the presence of oxygen. Its presence may indicate external contamination or inefficiencies in water treatment processes, requiring further investigation.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-6471712f95fea0c617f5ebae6ea205a4 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Phosphate (PO\u2084\u00b3\u207b)<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-9f5c52ffc4510cacc258a5f531bb95e6\"><strong>Origin<\/strong>: Phosphate is often intentionally added as a corrosion inhibitor or pH buffer in boiler water treatment programs. It may also enter through raw water or leaching from phosphate-based scale inhibitors.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-5d1d9912e569097a2179e825d514c0a0\"><strong>Role\/Implications<\/strong>: When used correctly, phosphate helps prevent corrosion by forming protective films on metal surfaces. However, excessive phosphate can lead to scale formation (calcium phosphate) on heat transfer surfaces, reducing efficiency. Its presence in condensate or demin tanks may indicate carryover or improper dosing.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-d868c58be09eb7b71caf0e96699be323 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Sulfate (SO\u2084\u00b2\u207b)<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-f8fcc33f9b0c8d482cdc1b021f550b39\"><strong>Origin<\/strong>: Sulfate originates from raw water, coal combustion (sulfur oxides dissolving into water), or oxidation of sulfites used in oxygen scavenging. It can also result from leaks in cooling systems or improper demin performance.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-55a2e3291a2c36d50100b65bcfb0435c\"><strong>Role\/Implications<\/strong>: Sulfate is highly corrosive and can form insoluble scales (calcium sulfate) that impair heat transfer. High sulfate levels in HRSG drums or condensate may indicate contamination or inadequate water treatment, posing risks to equipment longevity.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-8f45d960b058bb53e2c57a08d397587d wp-block-paragraph\">The presence of these anions, particularly at elevated levels, signals potential issues such as raw water intrusion, chemical carryover, or demin system failure. Regular IC monitoring ensures that these anions remain within acceptable limits (&lt; 10 ppb for chloride and sulfate in high-purity systems per EPRI guidelines), protecting critical plant components.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-358041394abd0659f35ea84e28bac7a5 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Inorganic Cations<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-149d774162deed17a2dfefea5a286ee4 wp-block-paragraph\">The cations of interest sodium, Ammonium, and Potassium are monitored to assess water purity and system performance. Their origins, roles, and implications are outlined below:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-65da04cdda40aa310121d182c2947e3e wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Sodium (Na\u207a)<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-8c0f038c59b218d296736d652d542601\"><strong>Origin<\/strong>: Sodium is a common impurity in raw water and can enter through leaks, improper demin resin regeneration, or contamination from sodium-based chemicals (ex. sodium hydroxide used for pH control).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-a65a56b60328026da7c7da35685a61a8\"><strong>Role\/Implications<\/strong>: Sodium is highly undesirable in steam cycles as it can form corrosive sodium hydroxide in high-temperature environments, damaging boiler tubes and turbine blades. Its presence in demin tanks or condensate indicates demin system inefficiencies or contamination, necessitating immediate corrective action.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-534cb7f253373b3133ec11cb03622af9 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Ammonium (NH\u2084\u207a)<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-f51b5a28fd899900d74be24e9d164d29\"><strong>Origin<\/strong>: Ammonium is often intentionally added as ammonia or Ammonium hydroxide to control pH and minimize corrosion in the steam cycle. It may also result from decomposition of organic amines or microbial activity in raw water.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-147565dcfed2666c69ead909e9a48063\"><strong>Role\/Implications<\/strong>: When used as a pH conditioner, Ammonium helps neutralize acidic conditions, protecting metal surfaces. However, excessive Ammonium in condensate or demin tanks may indicate carryover from dosing systems or contamination. It can also interfere with demin resin performance, reducing water purity.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-818a635c5daefbfd4544dc7782e363bf wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Potassium (K\u207a)<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-c0dbbb4c60d037c84c878d9210c1ef3f\"><strong>Origin<\/strong>: Potassium is less common but may enter via raw water, coal ash, or Potassium-based treatment chemicals. It can also result from environmental contamination or leaks.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-a0fe696cea55aa4c273167b54a1b88af\"><strong>Role\/Implications<\/strong>: Like sodium, Potassium can contribute to corrosion by forming alkaline compounds in high-temperature environments. Its presence in HRSG drums or condensate often indicates external contamination or demin system failure, requiring investigation to prevent equipment damage.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-502703c95b8790861da4ad8accd19655 wp-block-paragraph\">Elevated levels of these cations, particularly sodium and Potassium, are red flags for water treatment system malfunctions or external contamination. Ammonium levels must be carefully controlled to balance corrosion protection with the risk of carryover. IC analysis with the Repromer CAT column provides the sensitivity needed to detect these cations at ppb levels, ensuring compliance with industry standards &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(ex. &lt; 2&nbsp;ppb for sodium in high-purity condensate).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-98c22ce0589c57a281710977644df22b wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Operating Conditions of the Method<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Anions<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol style=\"list-style-type:lower-alpha\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>IC System<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>IONUS Ion Chromatograph<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Column<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>memSep300HC (4 mm x 250 mm)<br><br><\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Eluent<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>2.5 mM Sodium Carbonate \/ &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;0.05 mM Thiocyanate<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Suppressor<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>membraPure IC Suppressor<\/strong><strong>\u00b2<\/strong><strong><\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Sample<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Filtration (0.45 \u00b5m), Dilution as applicable, 1:15<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Injection<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>400 \u00b5L<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Water Source<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Aquinity\u00b2 P10 Analytical &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(0.055 \u00b5S\/cm, Type I)<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-bd96142041b86bf4d14ff800de934684 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Cations<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>IC System<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>IONUS Ion Chromatograph<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Column<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Repromer Cat, 7 \u00b5m,&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;(4 mm x 250 mm) (Dr. Maisch)<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Eluent<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>3.5 mM Methane sulfonic Acid<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Sample<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Filtration (0.45 \u00b5m), &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Dilution as applicable, 1:15<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Injection<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>400 \u00b5L<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Water Source<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Aquinity\u00b2 P10 Analytical &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(0.055 \u00b5S\/cm, Type I)<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-3509bef52d6f0ad730f131df24678982 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Standards and Sample Preparation<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-881a0e3ed840f071c1c090bbfbcbea57 wp-block-paragraph\">Anion standards with concentrations are as follows:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Analyte<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Concentration<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Chloride<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>103 ppb<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Nitrite<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>103 ppb<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Bromide<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>102 ppb<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Nitrate<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>102 ppb<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Phosphate<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>202 ppb<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Sulfate<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>209 ppb<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-4693a420153a2d9a98114099bae6a1a5 wp-block-paragraph\">The cation standard with concentrations are as follows:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Analyte<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Concentration<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Sodium<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>96 ppb<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Ammonium<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>188 ppb<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Potassium<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>95 ppb<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-490b267bbf3bf0398e7d96b5ad37e102 wp-block-paragraph\">The samples were obtained from a Coal-Fired Power Plant as follows:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Sample # Assigned<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Description<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>01<\/td><td>HRSG1 HP Drum<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>02<\/td><td>HRSG1 IP Drum<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>03<\/td><td>HRSG1 LP Drum<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>04<\/td><td>HRSG2 HP Drum<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>05<\/td><td>HRSG2 IP Drum<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>06<\/td><td>HRSG2 LP Drum<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>07<\/td><td>Demin Tank 1<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>08<\/td><td>Demin Tank 2<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>09<\/td><td>Condensate Discharge Pump<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-39a246f0ff0b46e6d890ced2cb5935cd wp-block-paragraph\">The samples (HP = High Pressure; LP = Low Pressure; IP = Intermediate Pressure) were assigned an internal laboratory tracking number upon arrival at our facility. The samples were filtered through a 0.45 \u00b5m syringe filter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-deadf7c3ff1bfac15139c0d6a2c3b2af wp-block-paragraph\">Most samples were analyzed without dilution, however, as applicable, several were diluted in ultra-high purity deionized water from the Aquinity\u00b2 P10 water purification system, filtered through a 0.45 \u00b5m IC filter into a 2 mL vial with a septa cap. All standards, samples, and final quality control checks were loaded into the membraPure autosampler for analysis. The results were evaluated and calculated by the software Clarity, DataApex.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-9bc5d9cf688fcdb783a5458918c1efbe wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The Results<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-8e31ed7bdf759ca1ec1e7a0f71f1a04f wp-block-paragraph\">Please see the full result of the sample analysis in the Table 1 below. All results are reported in ppb. The corresponding chromatograms can be found in the appendix. Figure 2 shows the standard used with all possible components for comparison. Figure 3 shows the results from the three samples with regard to HRSG1. As the chromatography curves for HRSG2 are similar, these data are not shown. Figure 4 summarises the results from the analysis of the two demin unit tanks. Figure 5 shows the chromatogram of the sample taken from the condensate of the discharge pump.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-b06ee4b2e35091292e1aa55fae096ac7 wp-block-paragraph\">The following figures show the results of the cation analyses in the same order as the anions. Only sodium, Ammonium and Potassium were of interest for this project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-fadcd20662444abae9f1c37d75be70ed wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Conclusion<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-64fa36e8490add18eeb2d9bc88cb5302 wp-block-paragraph\">The membraPure IONUS Ion Chromatograph, equipped with the memSep300HC column and membraPure Suppressor<sup>2<\/sup> for anions and the Repromer CAT column for cations, offers a robust and sensitive solution for monitoring trace anions (chloride, bromide, nitrate, phosphate, sulfate) and cations (sodium, Ammonium, Potassium) in coal-fired power plant HRSG drums, demin tanks, and condensate pump discharge. By providing rapid and accurate quantification of these ionic impurities, the IONUS system enables power plant operators to detect contamination, prevent corrosion and scaling, and maintain compliance with industry standards. Regular IC analysis is a critical tool for ensuring water and steam purity, protecting valuable equipment, and optimizing plant efficiency. This method is particularly valuable for its ability to handle complex aqueous matrices with minimal sample preparation, making it an essential component of modern power plant water chemistry programs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"485\" src=\"https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/image.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-40149\" srcset=\"https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/image.png 800w, https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/image-600x364.png 600w, https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2025\/07\/image-300x182.png.webp 300w, https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2025\/07\/image-768x466.png.webp 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" data-smush-webp-fallback=\"{&quot;srcset&quot;:&quot;https:\\\/\\\/membrapure.de\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/07\\\/image.png 800w, https:\\\/\\\/membrapure.de\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/07\\\/image-600x364.png 600w, https:\\\/\\\/membrapure.de\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/07\\\/image-300x182.png 300w, https:\\\/\\\/membrapure.de\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/07\\\/image-768x466.png 768w&quot;}\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><sup><strong>Figure 1: Ion Chromatograph IONUS<\/strong><\/sup><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-9ac00cf961d1ea846fe5a532228b76c6 wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-efe6f49eca070646ea40805e9dd84232 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The membraPure IONUS IC Advantage<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-c01da83d7fc62850017d8654776f55e8 wp-block-paragraph\">Accurately measuring trace anions and trace cations in a coal-fired power plant is crucial for proper operations and equipment maintenance. The membraPure IONUS Ion Chromatograph stands out as the ideal solution for this demanding application.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-31848870b668c55d05681f4ee7e0b2c1 wp-block-paragraph\">The IONUS stands out for its exceptional precision, setting a new benchmark in anion analysis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-515cdd0154ef70bfb4579e1834b3872d wp-block-paragraph\">At the core of its performance is an advanced eluent delivery system that ensures a consistent flow of eluent, an essential factor for achieving reliable separation of various anions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-95ab7566895ec29c0d7e31fd201c8f30 wp-block-paragraph\">Complementing this is precise temperature control, which keeps the column at a stable temperature, enabling optimal peak resolution for accurate identification and quantification.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-b52963729b1d44aa9c2a6f8cb4e3998e wp-block-paragraph\">Additionally, the instrument\u2019s accurate sample injection mechanism delivers a consistent sample volume with every run, minimizing errors and enhancing reproducibility. Finally, the advanced detector cell offers outstanding signal stability, ensuring dependable and consistent detection of anions throughout the analytical process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-5b8df66bb0c73e388d6b50cb13aa363b wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Optimized Separations:<\/strong>&nbsp;The IONUS goes beyond precision with its:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-20f7948b44a2a2027b13b2262299df97\"><strong>Next-Generation IC Suppressor:<\/strong> This innovative technology significantly enhances the separation of anions commonly found in amine solutions. The suppressor improves the analysis of Chloride, Nitrite, Bromide, Nitrate, Phosphate, and Sulfate in the various power plant waters.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-bb1ca0d8f8e40369332544d7cd873123\"><strong>Proven Analytical Column:<\/strong>&nbsp; The robust and reliable column ensures efficient separation and long-lasting performance for trace level Ion Analysis.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-174f12ccb687c9187235c0b1ec763099 wp-block-paragraph\">By combining exceptional precision with optimized separations, the membraPure IONUS empowers you with the confidence to make informed decisions about plant operations and matinenance requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-ac0d6daacdb47d600a31710953e4ccc0 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Benefits of Utilizing the IONUS Ion Chromatograph for this Application<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-cb4efef86174a17bd1a771bb03a4589b wp-block-paragraph\">The membraPure IONUS Ion Chromatograph is best suited for the application of measuring trace anions and cations in various power plant waters because of the following:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-042a59df16ad7f8c5f3a2e26af0ece3d\"><strong>Performance:<\/strong> The precision delivery of the eluent, the stable temperature of the column temperature, the accurate delivery of the sample into the system, and the stability of the detector cell all contribute to the quality analysis of the low level anions. With the introduction of our new IC Suppressor and the utilization of a rugged, proven, analytical column, the separation is optimal for this application on the IONUS.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-2ac3e62dc3c72ae1f6bd4b459c25c6a3\"><strong>Reliability:<\/strong> Measuring trace anions in various power plant waters is critical to the proper operations and matinenance oft he power plant. The instrument selected needs to perform when needed without issue. The IONUS is the proven performer as it automatically rinses and equilibrates itself prior to the first injection, assuring the analysis is reliable from the start.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-c4c7164658d94461d7228dc7df852bd2\"><strong>Easy to Use:<\/strong> The IONUS will be installed by a qualified engineer. Once operational, the analysis will be as simple as Filter, Dilute, Load, and Go. Many labs are manned by technicians, not degreed chemists. Therefore, the more simple and reliable the operation, the faster qualified data can be produced. It really is just that simple.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-8caddc457abc46e5e705e78b3f7d250a\"><strong>ROI:<\/strong> Yes, companies want an instrument that delivers optimal return on their investment, and the IONUS is the choice Ion Chromatograph to deliver, not just the best result, but the best ROI! The German-made, German-produced IONUS will be working and producing quality data long after others are being replaced.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-9e1f960a39d557d5a3ee4aab8db3d053 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Appendix<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Table 1: Results of the different samples (all results are reported in ppb)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td>&nbsp;<\/td><td><strong>Cl<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>NO<sub>2<\/sub><\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Br<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>NO<sub>3<\/sub><\/strong><\/td><td><strong>PO<sub>4<\/sub><\/strong><\/td><td><strong>SO4<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Na<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>NH<sub>4<\/sub><\/strong><\/td><td><strong>K<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>01<\/strong><\/td><td>51<\/td><td>nd<\/td><td>4<\/td><td>nd<\/td><td>10<\/td><td>12<\/td><td>22<\/td><td>842<\/td><td>nd<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>02<\/strong><\/td><td>5<\/td><td>nd<\/td><td>2<\/td><td>Nd<\/td><td>nd<\/td><td>3<\/td><td>13<\/td><td>657<\/td><td>nd<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>03<\/strong><\/td><td>723<\/td><td>nd<\/td><td>3<\/td><td>3<\/td><td>nd<\/td><td>86<\/td><td>309<\/td><td>826<\/td><td>14<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>04<\/strong><\/td><td>12<\/td><td>nd<\/td><td>5<\/td><td>3<\/td><td>nd<\/td><td>8<\/td><td>8<\/td><td>1244<\/td><td>nd<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>05<\/strong><\/td><td>5<\/td><td>nd<\/td><td>3<\/td><td>3<\/td><td>25<\/td><td>nd<\/td><td>12<\/td><td>785<\/td><td>nd<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>06<\/strong><\/td><td>1085<\/td><td>nd<\/td><td>3<\/td><td>3<\/td><td>nd<\/td><td>123<\/td><td>444<\/td><td>908<\/td><td>20<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>07<\/strong><\/td><td>5517<\/td><td>nd<\/td><td>nd<\/td><td>14<\/td><td>nd<\/td><td>543<\/td><td>2280<\/td><td>64<\/td><td>260<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>08<\/strong><\/td><td>7<\/td><td>nd<\/td><td>nd<\/td><td>nd<\/td><td>nd<\/td><td>nd<\/td><td>16<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>2<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>09<\/strong><\/td><td>5184<\/td><td>nd<\/td><td>3<\/td><td>12<\/td><td>nd<\/td><td>434<\/td><td>2073<\/td><td>138<\/td><td>167<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>QC<\/strong><\/td><td>103<\/td><td>104<\/td><td>93<\/td><td>103<\/td><td>197<\/td><td>201<\/td><td>90<\/td><td>184<\/td><td>95<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>QC Value<\/strong><\/td><td>103<\/td><td>102<\/td><td>102<\/td><td>102<\/td><td>202<\/td><td>209<\/td><td>96<\/td><td>188<\/td><td>95<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Notes: <\/strong>nd = Non-Detect<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Chromatograms: Anions<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"828\" height=\"286\" data-src=\"https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/image-1.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-40151 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/image-1.png 828w, https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/image-1-600x207.png 600w, https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2025\/07\/image-1-300x104.png.webp 300w, https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2025\/07\/image-1-768x265.png.webp 768w\" data-sizes=\"auto\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 828px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 828\/286;\" data-original-sizes=\"(max-width: 828px) 100vw, 828px\" data-smush-webp-fallback=\"{&quot;data-srcset&quot;:&quot;https:\\\/\\\/membrapure.de\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/07\\\/image-1.png 828w, https:\\\/\\\/membrapure.de\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/07\\\/image-1-600x207.png 600w, https:\\\/\\\/membrapure.de\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/07\\\/image-1-300x104.png 300w, https:\\\/\\\/membrapure.de\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/07\\\/image-1-768x265.png 768w&quot;}\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><sup><strong>Figure<a> <\/a>2: The Standard anion chromatogram of the analysis of the trace anions in power plant water, used as a quality control check. The system was stable throughout the experiment inspite of the appearance of acetate preceeding chloride.<\/strong><\/sup><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"849\" height=\"294\" data-src=\"https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/image-9.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-40200 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/image-9.png 849w, https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/image-9-600x208.png 600w, https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2025\/07\/image-9-300x104.png.webp 300w, https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2025\/07\/image-9-768x266.png.webp 768w\" data-sizes=\"auto\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 849px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 849\/294;\" data-original-sizes=\"(max-width: 849px) 100vw, 849px\" data-smush-webp-fallback=\"{&quot;data-srcset&quot;:&quot;https:\\\/\\\/membrapure.de\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/07\\\/image-9.png 849w, https:\\\/\\\/membrapure.de\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/07\\\/image-9-600x208.png 600w, https:\\\/\\\/membrapure.de\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/07\\\/image-9-300x104.png 300w, https:\\\/\\\/membrapure.de\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/07\\\/image-9-768x266.png 768w&quot;}\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><sup><strong>Figure 3: Chromatograms of \u00a0the anions of the samples HRSG1 HP Drum (blue line), HRSG1 IP Drum (green line) and HRSG1 LP Drum (purple line). \u00a0The measurements show that even very low concentrations can be analysed with the IONUS. The magnification of the chromatograms allows for a better visualisation of the results with the low concentrations of chloride, bromide, nitrate, and phosphate.<\/strong><\/sup><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"826\" height=\"284\" data-src=\"https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/image-2.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-40153 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/image-2.png 826w, https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/image-2-600x206.png 600w, https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2025\/07\/image-2-300x103.png.webp 300w, https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2025\/07\/image-2-768x264.png.webp 768w\" data-sizes=\"auto\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 826px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 826\/284;\" data-original-sizes=\"(max-width: 826px) 100vw, 826px\" data-smush-webp-fallback=\"{&quot;data-srcset&quot;:&quot;https:\\\/\\\/membrapure.de\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/07\\\/image-2.png 826w, https:\\\/\\\/membrapure.de\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/07\\\/image-2-600x206.png 600w, https:\\\/\\\/membrapure.de\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/07\\\/image-2-300x103.png 300w, https:\\\/\\\/membrapure.de\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/07\\\/image-2-768x264.png 768w&quot;}\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><sup><strong>Figure 4. Chromatograms of the Demin unit tank 1 (blue) and demin unit tank 2 (green). Both high concentrations (tank 1) and low concentrations (tank 2) of chloride can be analysed with the IONUS. The magnification of the chromatograms allows for a better visualisation of the results with the low concentrations of chlorides and bromides.<\/strong><\/sup><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"833\" height=\"280\" data-src=\"https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/image-3.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-40155 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/image-3.png 833w, https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/image-3-600x202.png 600w, https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2025\/07\/image-3-300x101.png.webp 300w, https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2025\/07\/image-3-768x258.png.webp 768w\" data-sizes=\"auto\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 833px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 833\/280;\" data-original-sizes=\"(max-width: 833px) 100vw, 833px\" data-smush-webp-fallback=\"{&quot;data-srcset&quot;:&quot;https:\\\/\\\/membrapure.de\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/07\\\/image-3.png 833w, https:\\\/\\\/membrapure.de\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/07\\\/image-3-600x202.png 600w, https:\\\/\\\/membrapure.de\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/07\\\/image-3-300x101.png 300w, https:\\\/\\\/membrapure.de\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/07\\\/image-3-768x258.png 768w&quot;}\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><sup><strong>Figure 5: Chromatogram of the anion analysis of the condensate discharge pump. Small amounts of bromides and nitrates can also be detected here.<\/strong><\/sup><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-0579daef8d09204a77f6f2c9f63e3bbc wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Chromatograms: Cations<br><\/strong>Below are representative chromatograms for the cations analyzed. We were only interested in the Sodium, Ammonium, and Potassium. We detected a late eluting peak, but did not attempt to identify or quantitate it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"848\" height=\"287\" data-src=\"https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/image-4.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-40157 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/image-4.png 848w, https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/image-4-600x203.png 600w, https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2025\/07\/image-4-300x102.png.webp 300w, https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2025\/07\/image-4-768x260.png.webp 768w\" data-sizes=\"auto\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 848px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 848\/287;\" data-original-sizes=\"(max-width: 848px) 100vw, 848px\" data-smush-webp-fallback=\"{&quot;data-srcset&quot;:&quot;https:\\\/\\\/membrapure.de\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/07\\\/image-4.png 848w, https:\\\/\\\/membrapure.de\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/07\\\/image-4-600x203.png 600w, https:\\\/\\\/membrapure.de\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/07\\\/image-4-300x102.png 300w, https:\\\/\\\/membrapure.de\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/07\\\/image-4-768x260.png 768w&quot;}\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><sup><strong>Figure 6: The Standard cation chromatogram of the analysis of the trace cations in power plant water, used as a quality control check. (Only Sodium, Ammonium, and Potassium were of interest for this project).<\/strong><\/sup><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"847\" height=\"304\" data-src=\"https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/image-5.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-40159 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/image-5.png 847w, https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/image-5-600x215.png 600w, https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2025\/07\/image-5-300x108.png.webp 300w, https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2025\/07\/image-5-768x276.png.webp 768w\" data-sizes=\"auto\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 847px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 847\/304;\" data-original-sizes=\"(max-width: 847px) 100vw, 847px\" data-smush-webp-fallback=\"{&quot;data-srcset&quot;:&quot;https:\\\/\\\/membrapure.de\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/07\\\/image-5.png 847w, https:\\\/\\\/membrapure.de\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/07\\\/image-5-600x215.png 600w, https:\\\/\\\/membrapure.de\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/07\\\/image-5-300x108.png 300w, https:\\\/\\\/membrapure.de\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/07\\\/image-5-768x276.png 768w&quot;}\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong><sup>Figure 7: Chromatograms of the samples HRSG1 HP Drum (blue line), HRSG1 IP Drum (green line) and HRSG1 LP Drum (purple line).&nbsp; The measurements show that even very low concentrations can be analysed with the IONUS. The magnification of the chromatograms allows for a better visualisation of the results with the low concentrations of Sodium and Potassium.<\/sup><\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"838\" height=\"289\" data-src=\"https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/image-6.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-40161 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/image-6.png 838w, https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/image-6-600x207.png 600w, https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2025\/07\/image-6-300x103.png.webp 300w, https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2025\/07\/image-6-768x265.png.webp 768w\" data-sizes=\"auto\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 838px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 838\/289;\" data-original-sizes=\"(max-width: 838px) 100vw, 838px\" data-smush-webp-fallback=\"{&quot;data-srcset&quot;:&quot;https:\\\/\\\/membrapure.de\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/07\\\/image-6.png 838w, https:\\\/\\\/membrapure.de\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/07\\\/image-6-600x207.png 600w, https:\\\/\\\/membrapure.de\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/07\\\/image-6-300x103.png 300w, https:\\\/\\\/membrapure.de\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/07\\\/image-6-768x265.png 768w&quot;}\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong><sup>Figure 8: Chromatograms of cation analysis of the Demin unit tank 1 (blue) and demin unit tank 2 (green). Both high concentrations (tank 1) and low concentrations (tank 2) of Ammonium and Potassium can be analysed with the IONUS. The magnification of the chromatograms allows for a better visualisation of the results with the low concentrations of Potassium. Although Lithium was not the focus of the study, it was nevertheless included. Only the quantitative evaluation was neglected. The signal at 9.24 min is assumed to be Magnesium or Calcium. However, as it was not part of the study, it is neglected here.<\/sup><\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"822\" height=\"286\" data-src=\"https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/image-7.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-40163 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/image-7.png 822w, https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/image-7-600x209.png 600w, https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2025\/07\/image-7-300x104.png.webp 300w, https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2025\/07\/image-7-768x267.png.webp 768w\" data-sizes=\"auto\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 822px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 822\/286;\" data-original-sizes=\"(max-width: 822px) 100vw, 822px\" data-smush-webp-fallback=\"{&quot;data-srcset&quot;:&quot;https:\\\/\\\/membrapure.de\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/07\\\/image-7.png 822w, https:\\\/\\\/membrapure.de\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/07\\\/image-7-600x209.png 600w, https:\\\/\\\/membrapure.de\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/07\\\/image-7-300x104.png 300w, https:\\\/\\\/membrapure.de\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/07\\\/image-7-768x267.png 768w&quot;}\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong><sup>Figure 9: Chromatogram of the cation analysis of the condensate discharge pump. The sample had high Sodium but we were able to quantitate the Ammonium. Lithium was detected, but not part of the project as was a peak at 9.24 minutes, Only Sodium, Ammonium, and Potassium were of interest in this project.<\/sup><\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Coal-fired power plants depend on high-purity water and steam cycles to ensure efficient operation and minimize equipment degradation. The presence of trace-level anions, such as chloride, bromide, nitrate, phosphate, and sulfate, along with monovalent cations including sodium, Ammonium, and Potassium, can impact the performance and longevity of critical plant components. Analyzing these ions in key [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":19,"featured_media":40197,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"wds_primary_category":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[165],"tags":[204,201,198,194,205,209,195,208,175,199,203,206,210,207,202,196,187,197,200],"class_list":["post-40148","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-power-generation","tag-ammonium-monitoring","tag-bromide-detection","tag-chloride-analysis","tag-coal-fired-power-plants","tag-corrosion-prevention","tag-demineralization-system-monitoring","tag-high-purity-water","tag-hrsg-water-analysis","tag-ion-chromatography","tag-nitrate-analysis","tag-phosphate-monitoring","tag-potassium-analysis","tag-power-plant-water-treatment","tag-scaling-prevention","tag-sodium-detection","tag-steam-cycle-chemistry","tag-sulfate-analysis","tag-trace-anion-monitoring","tag-trace-cation-monitoring"],"rttpg_featured_image_url":{"full":["https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/App-Notes-Feature-Images-600-x-450-2.png",1200,900,false],"landscape":["https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/App-Notes-Feature-Images-600-x-450-2.png",1200,900,false],"portraits":["https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/App-Notes-Feature-Images-600-x-450-2.png",1200,900,false],"thumbnail":["https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/App-Notes-Feature-Images-600-x-450-2-150x150.png",150,150,true],"medium":["https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/App-Notes-Feature-Images-600-x-450-2-300x225.png",300,225,true],"large":["https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/App-Notes-Feature-Images-600-x-450-2-1024x768.png",800,600,true],"1536x1536":["https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/App-Notes-Feature-Images-600-x-450-2.png",1200,900,false],"2048x2048":["https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/App-Notes-Feature-Images-600-x-450-2.png",1200,900,false],"woocommerce_thumbnail":["https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/App-Notes-Feature-Images-600-x-450-2-300x300.png",300,300,true],"woocommerce_single":["https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/App-Notes-Feature-Images-600-x-450-2-600x450.png",600,450,true],"woocommerce_gallery_thumbnail":["https:\/\/membrapure.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/App-Notes-Feature-Images-600-x-450-2-100x100.png",100,100,true]},"rttpg_author":{"display_name":"Annalena Bittner","author_link":"https:\/\/membrapure.de\/de\/author\/annalena\/"},"rttpg_comment":0,"rttpg_category":"<a href=\"https:\/\/membrapure.de\/de\/onlineshop\/cat\/power-generation\/\" rel=\"category tag\">Power Generation<\/a>","rttpg_excerpt":"Coal-fired power plants depend on high-purity water and steam cycles to ensure efficient operation and minimize equipment degradation. The presence of trace-level anions, such as chloride, bromide, nitrate, phosphate, and sulfate, along with monovalent cations including sodium, Ammonium, and Potassium, can impact the performance and longevity of critical plant components. Analyzing these ions in key&hellip;","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/membrapure.de\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/40148","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/membrapure.de\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/membrapure.de\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/membrapure.de\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/19"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/membrapure.de\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=40148"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/membrapure.de\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/40148\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/membrapure.de\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/40197"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/membrapure.de\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=40148"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/membrapure.de\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=40148"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/membrapure.de\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=40148"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}