Method optimisation and environmental analysis of methanesulfonic acid (MSA) in rainwater by ion chromatography

Authors

Thomas Levett

Document Type

Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences Article

Abstract

This research optimised a method of analysis for methanesulfonic acid (MSA) alongside common inorganic anions using ion chromatographic (IC) apparatus developed at the University of Plymouth. The aim was to assess whether MSA could be more easily and routinely monitored alongside common rainwater anions. The method’s analytical quality was evaluated through each development stage of the research and its limitations found. Historical rainwater samples collected at Penlee Point, Plymouth, UK (2015–2018) were also used for testing. The method successfully provided detectable ranges of MSA between 0.001 – 5 mg/L for F^-, Cl^-, NO_2-, Br^-, NO_3-, PO₄^3-, SO₄^2-, at suitable concentration ranges. Robustness was assessed through interference studies and operational limits. However, MSA detection in rainwater proved challenging, affecting instrument performance and preventing full evaluation of its environmental significance. However, common seasonal trends of F^-, Cl^-, Br^-, NO_3- and SO₄^2- are presented and environmental significance discussed. Overall, the method demonstrates promise for routine environmental monitoring, with further optimisation required to improve long term MSA detection.

Publication Date

2025-12

Publication Title

The Plymouth Student Scientist

Volume

18

Issue

2

ISSN

1754-2383

Deposit Date

2025-12

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

Recommended Citation

Levett, Thomas (2025) "Method optimisation and environmental analysis of methanesulfonic acid (MSA) in rainwater by ion chromatography," The Plymouth Student Scientist: Vol. 18: Iss. 2, Article 16.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.70156/1754-2383.1526
Available at: https://pearl.plymouth.ac.uk/tpss/vol18/iss2/16