April 2008, Sunnyvale, CA—Dionex has developed an automated method for the determination of corrosive impurities in boric acid-treated power plant water. Application Note 185: Determination of Trace Inorganic Anions and Organic Acids in Boric Acid-Treated Power Plant Waters Using an Automated Reagent-Free Ion Chromatography System describes the use of a Reagent-Free™ IC system with Eluent Generation (RFIC-EG™ system), automated matrix elimination, and on-line sample spiking with calibration standards to reduce contamination and lower detection limits for the analysis of waters used in pressurized water reactors (PWRs). Boric acid is used in some nuclear power plant waters as a neutron absorber. Impurities such as inorganic anions and organic acids in these waters can accumulate over time, serving as catalysts for stress corrosion cracking and other corrosion mechanisms. To limit maintenance costs, prevent plant shutdowns, and ensure electricity supply, these power plants must monitor water quality to prevent contamination. The new automated method takes much of the labor and uncertainty out of this essential test method. Eluent generation and electrolytic suppression reduce chemical preparation time and decrease potential contamination, allowing lower detection limits. On-line standard addition further reduces exposure to potential contaminants from glassware and the atmosphere. Boric acid and lithium matrix elimination reduces column loading, improving separation. Dionex (NASDAQ:DNEX) is a global leader in the manufacturing and marketing of liquid chromatography and extraction systems, consumables, and software for chemical analysis. The Company's systems are used worldwide in environmental analysis and by the life sciences, chemical, petrochemical, food and beverage, power generation, and electronics industries. Our expertise in applications and instrumentation helps analytical scientists to evaluate and develop pharmaceuticals, establish environmental regulations, and produce better industrial products. Reagent-Free, RFIC, and RFIC-ER are trademarks of Dionex Corporation.
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