Stability of surfactant coated columns for ion chromatography

Ionic surfactant coatings are a popular means to convert reversed-phase columns into ion-exchange phases with adjustable ion-exchange capacity and selectivity. However, the perceived lack of stability of surfactant coatings has hindered their use for routine separations. Coating conditions (acetonitrile content, ionic strength, surfactant concentration and temperature) were varied to determine their effect on coating stability. Under all coating conditions, cetyltrimethylammonium (CTAB) coated columns exhibited an initial decrease in ion retention. However, after the initial 1 L flush, both retention times and efficiency remained stable for >or=3000 column volumes. Greatest column stability and control of column capacity are achieved if the surfactant in the coating solution is below its critical micelle concentration.