Objective To compare the consistency between the ion selective electrode method and ion chromatography in determination of fluorine in water.

Methods The fluoride contents in water assessment samples and water monitoring samples were determined by ion selective electrode method and ion chromatography, respectively, and the consistency of the fluoride concentrations measured by the two methods were analyzed by calibration curve, detection limit, limit of quantification, accuracy and precision.

Results The standard curves of the two methods showed a relatively good correlation coefficient, both reaching above 0.999. Ion chromatography method has better detection limit, limit of quantification, and range of measurement than the ion selective electrode method, while the ion selective electrode method has better precision and measurement reliability. There is no significant difference between the two methods, and both methods meet the analysis requirements for fluoride in drinking water.

Conclusion The two methods have their own advantages and have become the main methods for laboratory detection. Instruments and methods could be selected according to the specific conditions and samples during the determination of fluoride in domestic water.