Three ion chromatography (IC) retention models, namely the linear solvent strength model (LSSM), empirical end points model (EEPM) and three-point curve fitting using DryLab from LC Resources were evaluated in terms of their ability to predict retention factors for inorganic anions separated on a Dionex AS11 column using electrolytically generated hydroxide eluents. Extensive experimental retention data were gathered for 21 anions (fluoride, acetate, formate, bromate, chloride, nitrite, methanesulfonate, bromide, chlorate, nitrate, iodide, thiocyanate, succinate, sulfate, tartrate, oxalate, tungstate, phthalate, chromate, thiosulfate and phosphate) using hydroxide eluents of varying concentration. Although the purely theoretical LSSM was found to give adequate performance, the EEPM (in which a linear relationship is assumed between the logarithm of retention factor and the logarithm of eluent strength, but the slope is determined empirically) and DryLab performed better, with DryLab giving the best accuracy and precision of the three models. The EEPM and DryLab were also shown to have advantages in terms of their low knowledge requirements and ease of solution. Compared with IC using dual eluent species, the retention behaviour in IC using single eluent species was found to be easier to model by both theoretical and empirical approaches.

The optimized reversed-phase HPLC separation of 14 different samples is reported, based on simultaneous changes in temperature and gradient steepness. Four experimental runs are required for each sample, following which preferred conditions can be predicted using computer simulation software (DryLab). The overall accuracy and effectiveness of this method development approach is discussed, with particular attention to the use of resolution maps provided by the software. These maps are useful for maximizing resolution for the total sample, for optimizing the separation of a smaller number of selected sample compounds, and as an initial step in the separation of more demanding samples.

The preceding paper (Part I) suggests that simply optimizing temperature and gradient steepness will often provide an adequate reversed-phase HPLC separation. In some cases, however, this procedure will prove unsuccessful, and then further method-development experiments (involving change in other separation conditions) will be required. One strategy is to change a variable other than temperature or gradient steepness, followed by re-optimization of the latter two variables. The present paper examines the application of this approach with the aid of computer simulation to several samples.