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A sensitive atomic-absorption spectrometric method for the determination of tin with atomization from impregnated
H Fritzsche1, W Wegscheider, G Knapp
1Institute for General Chemistry, Micro- and Radiochemistry, Technical University Graz, Austria.
Impregnating graphite tubes with carbide-forming elements enhances tin (Sn) atomization in graphite furnaces. This method improves stability and detection limits for accurate Sn analysis in various materials.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Materials Science
Background:
- Tin (Sn) atomization from graphite surfaces can be limited by surface reactions.
- Graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry (GFAAS) requires stable atomization conditions for accurate analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of impregnating graphite tubes with carbide-forming elements on tin atomization.
- To improve the stability, lifetime, and detection limits for tin determination using graphite furnaces.
Main Methods:
- Impregnation of graphite tubes with tungsten (W), zirconium (Zr), tantalum (Ta), and molybdenum (Mo).
- Testing of two graphite furnace designs (HGA 72 and HGA 76).
- Utilizing the "gas stop" mode to minimize ionic interferences.
Main Results:
- Impregnated graphite surfaces exhibit enhanced stability over pyrolytic graphite, even after 100 cycles.
- Achieved a detection limit of approximately 15 pg for Sn in the HGA 72.
- Demonstrated prolonged furnace lifetime and stable signals in the HGA 76.
- The "gas stop" mode effectively minimized ionic interferences.
Conclusions:
- Impregnation with carbide-forming elements significantly improves graphite furnace performance for tin atomization.
- The developed method allows for sensitive and reliable determination of tin in complex matrices like slag and alloys.
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