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An analytical protocol for the determination of total mercury concentrations in solid peat samples
F Roos-Barraclough1, N Givelet, A Martinez-Cortizas
1Geological Institute, University of Berne, Switzerland. fiona.roos@geo.unibe.ch
The Science of the Total Environment
|July 11, 2002
Summary
High temperatures and milling can cause mercury loss in peat samples. Air-drying and specific plant species minimize mercury loss, leading to a new analytical protocol for accurate mercury determination in peat.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Geochemistry
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- Traditional peat sample preparation methods (high-temperature drying, milling) risk losing volatile mercury species.
- Accurate mercury (Hg) concentration determination in peat is crucial for environmental monitoring and historical reconstruction.
- Natural variations in peat composition (vegetation, water content, bulk density) can influence Hg measurements.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of sample preparation techniques on mercury concentrations in peat.
- To identify peat components and environmental factors that influence mercury retention and loss.
- To develop a reliable analytical protocol for mercury determination in solid peat samples.
Main Methods:
- Peat samples were subjected to various drying temperatures (room temperature to 105°C) and mechanical homogenization.
- Mercury concentrations were measured using the Leco AMA 254 analyzer.
- Variations in water content, bulk density, and Hg concentration within peat cores were quantified.
Main Results:
- High-temperature drying (>60°C) and milling led to significant mercury loss.
- Air-drying at room temperature and 30°C, and analyzing frozen samples, showed minimal mercury loss.
- Certain plant species (e.g., Pinus mugo, Sphagnum recurvum) demonstrated efficient mercury retention.
- Fertilizing peat increased mercury loss compared to unfertilized samples.
Conclusions:
- Air-drying is recommended over high-temperature drying for mercury analysis in peat.
- Species-specific mercury uptake and sample preparation methods significantly impact measured concentrations.
- A revised analytical protocol using air-dried samples and the Leco AMA 254 is proposed for accurate mercury determination, accounting for sample variations.
