Abstract: Interest In using ion exchange resin as a means to study plant nutrient availability and environmentally monitor soil and other media has increased in recent years. Various types of resin products can be seen in the market. It is essential to learn how to select an appropriate resin system for a specific research use or practical application. This paper provides: (1) a brief history of ion exchange resin used in agricultural and environmental research, (2) a concise description of resin types and their properties. (3) discussion of two major resin systems used in soil-related studies and (4) importance and principal of choosing a proper resin system. This paper also states the current development of ion exchange resin in bead form and introduces the finalized product of this system-resin capsule which, as a universal bioavailability environment/soil test, has shown much of its potential commercial value.