Abstract: In one embodiment, a matrix elimination apparatus for eliminating an acidic matrix includes: at least one column packed with a weak anion exchange resin; a source of samples, each sample having an acidic matrix; a basic solution source; a weakly acidic metal complexing reagent source, and an at least one pump, wherein the matrix elimination apparatus is configured such that the at least one pump can sequence through the acts of: a) pumping the basic solution through the column to regenerate the column, b) pumping the weakly acid metal complexing reagent through the column to activate the column; and c) pumping one of the samples through the activated column to provide a processed sample whose acidic matrix is eliminated.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a method of neutralizing the matrix of an acidic solution including at least one metal using a weak anion exchange resin is provided. The method includes the acts of: activating the weak anion exchange resin with a weakly acidic metal complexing reagent, the weakly acidic metal complexing reagent partially disassociating into protons and metal complexing anions, whereby some functional groups in the weak anion exchange resin are protonated and bind with the metal complexing anions; and neutralizing a sample of the acidic solution with the activated weak anion exchange resin.

Abstract: An electrolytic method and apparatus for treating a solution sample allowing for the accurate and substantially real-time and on-line analysis of trace contaminants in the solution sample. The method of the present invention includes two stages. The solution sample is electrolyzed during a first stage to decompose the matrix, thereby substantially neutralizing the matrix, while during a second stage deposited or precipitated metals are recovered and/or stabilized in solution. An apparatus for carrying out the method is also disclosed.

Abstract: An electrodialysis method and apparatus are provided for treating a sample including trace metals in a matrix. Advantageously, the present invention allows for highly accurate detection of trace contaminants in a solution sample, in particular trace metals, substantially in real-time and on-line. The present invention includes flowing a carrier solution through a carrier solution channel separated from a sample channel by a membrane. A component of the carrier solution is diffused through the membrane into the sample channel to stabilize trace metals in the solution sample for subsequent analysis. Simultaneously, the matrix is eliminated, neutralized, and/or modified for enhanced analysis.