ABSTRACT
Conductance detectors with flow-through cells are commonly used for the detection of inorganic ions and organic acids following separation by high-performance liquid chromatography. Strong electrolytes are substances that completely ionize in solution. They include ionic solids and strong acids. Commercial instruments for the measurement of conductance come in the form of meters, probes, and sensors. The majority of instruments in today’s market for the measurement of electrolytic conductance are self-contained electronic units providing a digital readout. Conductance measurements can be useful in following the kinetics of reactions that involve a change in ionic content or mobility. The concentration of electrolytes not participating in the titration reaction should be kept low to minimize background conductance and improve sensitivity. Conductance detectors are routinely used with ion-exchange and similar types of chromatography, including ion chromatography. Conductance measurements can be made without physical contact between the solution and any metallic conductors. The electrodeless conductivity technique using low-frequency cells has been used since 1951.
