Metal ions were determined chromatographically as their metal chelates after complexation with 2,6-diacetylpyridine bis(N-methylenepyridiniohydrazone). At a pH of 7 it was possible to separate and determine eight metal complexes, in a single run, under gradient conditions on a polyestyrene-divinylbenzene polymer-based column. Possible separation of rare earth complexes and ion-pairing behavior were also investigated. Linear calibration ranges and detection limits are presented for the metal complexes of Sn(II), Ti(IV), Mn(II), Co(II), Cd(II), Sb(III), Cu(II), Ni(II) and U(VI). Interferences due to the presence of other metal ions in solution were also investigated. © 1990.