Overview - ISO 19340:2017 (Water quality - Determination of dissolved perchlorate - Method using ion chromatography (IC))
ISO 19340:2017 specifies an analytical method for the determination of dissolved perchlorate in water using ion chromatography (IC) with suppressed conductivity detection. The standard applies to a wide range of water matrices - drinking water, mineral water, raw and surface waters, partially treated and swimming-pool waters, and waste water from drinking/swimming-pool treatment plants. With appropriate sample pre-treatment (for example matrix elimination), a direct determination of perchlorate ≥ 1 µg/l is achievable. The working range is constrained by the ion‑exchange capacity of the separator column; sample dilution or pre-concentration may be required.
Key technical topics and requirements
- Analytical principle: Separation on an anion-exchange (separator) column and detection by suppressed conductivity (IC + CD).
- Sensitivity: Direct determination down to 1 µg/l with correct pre-treatment and system configuration.
- Separator column: Use of high‑capacity separator columns enabling injection volumes up to ~4 ml; resolution must meet performance criteria (Clause 8.1).
- Sample pre-treatment / matrix elimination: Methods to remove interfering anions, metals, organics and solids are specified (Annex A, B, C include inline matrix elimination, re‑injection, and 2DIC concentration techniques).
- Interferences: Chloride, sulfate, nitrate, phosphate, carbonate/hydrogen carbonate, metals and co‑eluting species can affect retention, peak shape or recovery; standard addition checks and recovery (expected 85–115%) are recommended.
- Eluents and reagents: Degassed eluents (e.g., sodium hydroxide-based) and perchlorate standards are defined; manual prep example: NaOH 0.05 mol/L eluent.
- Calibration and validation: Calibration according to ISO 8466-1 / ISO 8466-2, control experiments, replicate determinations and validation of calibration function are required.
- Quality and instrument requirements: Precolumns, suppressor devices, degassing, autosamplers, and careful metal/organic management to protect columns and suppressors.
Practical applications and who uses this standard
ISO 19340:2017 is intended for:
- Environmental and water quality laboratories performing perchlorate analysis in water.
- Drinking water utilities and mineral water producers monitoring regulatory and safety parameters.
- Public health and regulatory agencies assessing contamination in surface and treated waters.
- Wastewater and treatment-plant labs evaluating perchlorate removal efficiency.
- Contract testing and research labs requiring standardized, traceable IC methods.
Benefits include reproducible results across labs, guidance on managing matrix effects, and options for inline concentration or cleanup for low-level determinations.
Related standards and references
- ISO 3696 - Water for analytical laboratory use
- ISO 8466-1 / ISO 8466-2 - Calibration and evaluation of analytical methods (statistical and calibration strategies)
- ISO 19340:2017 Annexes A–C - Detailed matrix elimination and 2DIC procedures
Keywords: ISO 19340:2017, perchlorate determination in water, ion chromatography (IC), water quality testing, suppressed conductivity detection, matrix elimination, separator column.