An ion-exchange resin or ion-exchange polymer is an insoluble matrix (or support structure) normally in the form of small (1-2 mm diameter) beads, usually white or yellowish, fabricated from an organic polymer substrate. The material has highly developed structure of pores on the surface of which are sites with easily trapped and released ions.

Acrylic resins are a group of related thermoplastic or thermosetting plastic substances derived from acrylic acid, methacrylic acid or other related compounds.[1] Polymethyl acrylate is an acrylic resin used in an emulsed form for lacquer, textile finishes, adhesives and, mixed with clay, to gloss paper. Another acrylic resin is Polymethyl methacrylate which is used to make hard plastics with various light transmitting properties.

a plastic (synthetic resin) made from amino compounds; used as an adhesive and as a coating for paper and textiles.

Chelating resins (or chelating sorbents) are usually perceived as s subgroup of ion exchange resins. However, in the case of chelating resins counter ions are bound to resin by coordinate covalent bond or by its combination with electrostatic interactions. While the case of ion exchange, electrostatic force between oppositely charged functional group and ion in solution plays the main role.