In the performance of several chemistry monitoring programs for pressurized water reactors sponsored by the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), integrating sampling devices are employed to concentrate low-level impurities present in the power-generation cycle. The devices employ a conventional Millipore membrane for collection of filterable species and separate cation and anion ion-exchange columns for ionic species. The preparation for the ion-exchange columns involves resin pretreatment aimed at complete regeneration of resins, and in situ regeneration to ensure resin cleanliness and uniformity following column assembly.

To complement and expand on results from the integrating ion-exchange columns, ion chromatography and specific ion electrode techniques were employed during short-term studies. These alternative techniques allow transient conditions to be monitored, whereas the integrated sampling system is deficient in this respect. Sodium, chloride, and sulfate concentrations determined with the different techniques were compared, and agreement was considered adequate for achieving program goals.