Application of sulfonate polymer for detection of cations in industrial wastewater by capillary liquid chromatography

Poly(3-sulfopropylmethacrylate) was obtained and used for the separation of monovalent inorganic cations (Na+, NH4+ and K+) in industrial ion exchange chromatography of wastewater. The influence of monomer, porogen and polymerization time on the performance of the capillary column was investigated. The cation exchange capacity (CEC) and back pressure in high flow rate systems were determined. Optimal column preparation conditions were obtained using 40% monomer (30% SP: 10% EDMA), 60% porogen, 60°C temperature and 24-hour polymerization time.