Optimization of HPLC-ICP-AES for the determination of arsenic species

High performance liquid chromatography coupled to ICP-AES detection provides a rapid, reliable and sensitive method for arsenic speciation. The separation of As(III), As(V), DMA and MMA was achieved with ion exchange chromatography coupled to an axially-viewed sequential ICP-AES. After optimization of the chromatographic parameters (pH and concentration of the mobile phase), a careful study of the interface was conducted. Five nebulizers associated to three spray chambers were tested. Response of the ICP to each arsenic species was strongly affected by the selection of the nebulizer and spray chamber, however similar responses were obtained for each arsenic species. Best signal-to-noise ratios were obtained by using a microconcentric nebulizer and a cyclone spray chamber and did not affect the chromatographic resolution. Detection limits better than 10 microg L(-1) were obtained for As(III), DMA, MMA and 20 microg L(-1) for As(V), which is a significant improvement over previously published results.