Best of the Week: 50 Years of Ion Chromatography, Onboarding New LC Users

This week, LCGC International published a variety of articles on hot topics in separation science. From an interview about the evolution of ion chromatography to an article about the top ten topics that new liquid chromatography (LC) users should know, we’ve highlighted some of the most popular articles that were published this week.

Fifty Years of Ion Chromatography: An Interview with Brett Paull

Stationary phase innovations and eluent generation have significantly improved ion chromatography’s (IC) separation efficiency, making it comparable to reversed-phase liquid chromatography (RPLC) (1). IC's evolution allows it to handle complex samples, with eluent generation technology enabling precise gradient programming for diverse applications. Electrolytic eluent generation and suppressed IC-MS have been pivotal in transitioning IC from a niche to a mainstream analytical tool (1). LCGC International sat down with Brett Paull, who is the Director of the ARC Training Centre for Hyphenated Analytical Separation Technologies (HyTECH) at the University of Tasmania, to talk about the evolution of IC, including how he future of IC involves embracing MS for detection.

The Future of Chromatography: AI, Data Quality, and Paradigm Shifts

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are transforming chromatography by enabling scientists to interpret complex data sets and uncover new chemical insights (2). Jacqueline Hamilton highlights ML’s power to reveal trends in high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) data, while Caroline Gauchotte-Lindsay envisions a paradigm shift toward viewing samples as evolving systems rather than collections of individual compounds (2). However, Diane Turner cautions that these technologies are only as reliable as the data they analyze, emphasizing the importance of rigorous quality assurance (2). Together, their perspectives underscore a future where advanced data analytics and uncompromising data integrity drive innovation in chromatography.

Onboarding New LC Users: A Top Ten List

Liquid chromatography (LC) is a versatile analytical technique used to characterize materials across a vast range of applications, from large polymers to trace pharmaceutical impurities. Despite its power, mastering LC operation and data interpretation can be challenging for new users (3). In this “LC Troubleshooting” column, columnist Dwight Stoll addresses the critical question of how to effectively train beginners in LC (3). He introduces ten essential topics that every new user should understand, regardless of the training format. By focusing on foundational knowledge and practical skills, this article aims to simplify onboarding and ensure users can confidently and accurately perform LC analyses across diverse applications (3).

50 Years of Ion Chromatography: An Interview with Chris Pohl

Chris Pohl, recipient of the 2025 LCGC International Lifetime Achievement Award, reflects on five decades of innovation in IC. He cites the development of high-capacity continuous suppression as the most transformative milestone, enabling broader eluent ranges and improved analysis of highly charged ions (4). Pohl highlights advancements such as hydroxide-selective stationary phases, eluent generators, and IC–MS coupling, which have expanded IC’s analytical reach (4). Widely used in environmental, pharmaceutical, and power industries, IC remains essential for trace-level ionic analysis. Pohl envisions continued progress through improved stationary phase chemistries and smaller particle technologies to sustain IC’s innovation and precision (4).

Breaking Barriers in Chromatography: Women Scientists Share Career Challenges and Advice

The founders of the International Women in Chromatography group, which include Diane Turner, Jacqueline Hamilton, and Caroline Gauchotte-Lindsay, share candid insights on navigating scientific careers, motherhood, and systemic barriers in academia and industry. Each followed a non-linear path into chromatography, highlighting resilience and adaptability (5). They discussed challenges such as balancing family and career, limited workplace flexibility, and biases in promotion and publishing that hinder women’s advancement (5). Despite slow progress, they emphasized practical strategies for success: building strong networks, embracing mentorship, maintaining a positive mindset, and seizing opportunities for growth (5).

References

1. Matheson, A. Fifty Years of Ion Chromatography: An Interview with Brett Paull. LCGC International. Available at: https://www.chromatographyonline.com/view/fifty-years-of-ion-chromatography-an-interview-with-brett-paull (accessed 2025-10-09).
2. Jones, K. The Future of Chromatography: AI, Data Quality, and Paradigm Shifts. LCGC International. Available at: https://www.chromatographyonline.com/view/the-future-of-chromatography-ai-data-quality-and-paradigm-shifts (accessed 2025-10-09).
3. Stoll, D. R. Onboarding New LC Users: A Top Ten List. LCGC Int. 2025, 2 (8). Available at: https://www.chromatographyonline.com/view/top-ten-tips-for-training-new-liquid-chromatography-users (accessed 2025-10-09).
4. Matheson, A. 50 Years of Ion Chromatography: An Interview with Chris Pohl. LCGC International. Available at: https://www.chromatographyonline.com/view/50-years-of-ion-chromatography-an-interview-with-chris-pohl (accessed 2025-10-09).
5. Jones, K. Breaking Barriers in Chromatography: Women Scientists Share Career Challenges and Advice. LCGC International. Available at: https://www.chromatographyonline.com/view/breaking-barriers-in-chromatography-women-scientists-share-career-challenges-and-advice (accessed 2025-10-09).