Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 28, 2026

Automated 90Sr Separation and Preconcentration in a Lab-on-Valve System at Ppq Level
Published on: June 6, 2018
On-line sorbent extraction, preconcentration and determination of lead by atomic absorption spectrometry
Y P de Peña1, M Gallego, M Valcárcel
1Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Córdoba, E-14004 Córdoba, Spain.
Abstract:
A method for the quantitative preconcentration of lead based on an existing batch process was developed for implementation in a flow system including a flame AAS detector. Lead can be quantitatively preconcentrated as pyrrolidinedithiocarbamate or dithizonate on an activated carbon minicolumn. The chelates are eluted in methyl isobutyl ketone and introduced directly into the nebuliser-burner. An enrichment factor of 50 is typically obtained for a preconcentration time of 2 min (lead can be determined at concentrations between 15 and 400 ng/ml), which results in a throughput of ca. 25 samples per hr. The sensitivity achieved with the two reagents is similar, but the selectivity provided by APDC exceeds that of dithizone. Based on the results obtained in the determination of lead in reference materials (minerals and skim milk), the proposed APDC method is applicable to real samples.
Related Concept Videos
Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy: Lab
Solutions containing organic solvents, such as low-molecular-mass alcohols, esters, or ketones, enhance absorbances by increasing nebulizer...
Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy: Overview
When irradiated by EMR of a particular wavelength, these...
Atomic Emission Spectroscopy: Lab
Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy: Radiation and Light Sources
Two common narrow-range 'line' sources used in AAS are hollow-cathode lamps (HCLs) and...
Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy: Interference
Spectral interference occurs when signals from other elements or molecules overlap with the analyte signal, falsely elevating or masking the analyte's absorbance. This interference can be corrected using Zeeman,...
Atomic Emission Spectroscopy: Overview

