Development of Gradient Retention Model in Ion Chromatography. Part I: Conventional QSRR Approach

In this paper, the authors tested methodology that overcame the most common limitation of quantitative structure-retention relationship (QSRR) models: their limited applicability at the specific conditions for which models were developed. The modeling was performed on ion chromatographic analysis of “wood sugars”. Adaptive neuro-fuzzy interference system, an advanced artificial intelligence regression tool, was applied in combination with genetic algorithm scanning to obtain good and reliable QSRR models. The obtained QSRR models were applied for predicting data that were required for further development of general isocratic and gradient retention models. All three developed models (QSRR, isocratic, and gradient) indicated good prediction ability with root mean square error of prediction ≤0.1557. The performances of the methodology were compared with those presented in previous research—namely genetic algorithm in combinations with—stepwise multiple linear regression, partial least squares, uninformative variable elimination–partial least squares, and artificial neural network regression.