Anion Exchange

Hamilton Anion Exchange Columns

Hamilton’s anion exchange columns are engineered for high-performance separations of ionic and ionizable analytes using strong, highly controlled ion-exchange interactions. In anion exchange chromatography, the stationary phase carries a positively charged surface that selectively retains negatively charged species. The greater the negative charge of the analyte, the stronger the interaction with the stationary phase—resulting in increased retention and enhanced resolution.

Elution is precisely modulated by adjusting the mobile phase pH, ionic strength, and, to a lesser degree, temperature. Raising ionic strength or altering pH disrupts the electrostatic interactions between analytes and the stationary phase, allowing compounds to elute in a predictable order. Because Hamilton uses robust polymeric substrates rather than silica, these columns withstand the full pH range (0–14) and elevated temperatures, providing greater flexibility, longer lifetimes, and compatibility with aggressive cleaning conditions.

To support diverse application needs, Hamilton offers six polymeric packing materials for anion exchange separations—each designed with distinct selectivity, capacity, and performance characteristics to optimize method development across environmental, industrial, pharmaceutical, and research laboratories.

Key Definitions ▸
Anion Exchange Chromatography
A chromatographic technique in which positively charged stationary phases retain negatively charged analytes through electrostatic interactions. Stronger negative charges lead to increased retention and improved separation power.
Ionic Strength
A measure of the concentration of ions in the mobile phase. Increasing ionic strength weakens analyte–stationary phase interactions, promoting elution and enabling controlled selectivity in ion-exchange methods.
pH-Dependent Elution
Modulating mobile phase pH alters analyte charge states and stationary phase interactions. This provides predictable elution profiles and supports fine control over ionic separations.
Polymeric Stationary Phase
A chemically durable chromatography substrate resistant to extreme pH and elevated temperatures. Polymeric materials outperform silica in harsh conditions and provide extended column lifetimes.
Selectivity
The ability of a stationary phase to differentiate among ions based on charge density, size, and chemical structure. Hamilton’s six polymeric packings offer distinct selectivity profiles to optimize method development.
Frequently Asked Questions ▸

What makes Hamilton anion exchange columns suitable for ionizable samples?

Hamilton’s polymeric stationary phases carry a strong positive charge, allowing them to selectively retain negatively charged analytes. Their ability to operate across the full pH range and at elevated temperatures provides exceptional flexibility and durability compared to silica-based alternatives.

How is elution controlled in anion exchange chromatography?

Elution is controlled by adjusting ionic strength, pH, and sometimes temperature. Increasing ionic strength weakens electrostatic interactions and promotes compound elution, while pH adjustments can alter analyte charge state for predictable separation behavior.

How many anion exchange options does Hamilton offer?

Hamilton offers six polymeric anion exchange packing materials, each with unique selectivity and retention characteristics to support a wide range of ion chromatography applications.