Ion chromatography (IC) combined with condensation nucleation light scattering detection (CNLSD) is shown here to be a highly sensitive method for cationic species determination, with limits-of-detection (LODs) at ng/mL levels. Furthermore, unlike the common conductivity detection method, higher than normally used acid concentration eluents can be used, resulting in faster elution of the analytes. The use of a suppressor is also eliminated since CNLSD is mainly dependent on the involatility of the analyte relative to the mobile phase, making the detection method universal for most cationic species.