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Continuous flow vapor generation for inductively coupled argon plasma spectrometric analysis. Part 2. Arsenic
M L Tracy1, E S Littlefield, G Moller
1University of California, California Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory System, Davis 95616.
Journal - Association of Official Analytical Chemists
|May 1, 1991
Summary
This study presents a new method for determining total arsenic using inductively coupled plasma atomic emission. The technique is sensitive, accurate, and suitable for analyzing small biological samples.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Environmental Science
Background:
- Accurate determination of total arsenic is crucial for environmental monitoring and biological sample analysis.
- Existing methods may require larger sample sizes or lack sensitivity for trace levels.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a sensitive method for total arsenic determination.
- To optimize the method for small sample volumes and biological matrices.
Main Methods:
- Inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES) coupled with hydride vapor generation (HVG).
- Acid digestion using nitric, sulfuric, and perchloric acids.
- Arsine (AsH3) generation via sodium borohydride reduction and quantification by ICP-AES at 193.756 nm.
Main Results:
- Instrument detection limit of 0.4 µg/L.
- Method detection limit of 4 µg/kg for a 1 g sample with a 10:1 dilution.
- Linear range up to 4 mg/kg.
- High recoveries (99-104%) across three matrices with a typical relative standard deviation (RSD) of 2%.
Conclusions:
- The developed ICP-AES with HVG method provides accurate and precise total arsenic quantification.
- The method is statistically controlled and well-suited for analyzing small samples of biological interest.
- This technique offers a reliable approach for environmental and biological arsenic monitoring.
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