Continuous flow vapor generation for inductively coupled argon plasma spectrometric analysis. Part 1: Selenium
Journal - Association of Official Analytical Chemists
|May 1, 1990
Summary
This study presents a new method for determining total selenium using inductively coupled plasma atomic emission and hydride vapor generation. The technique offers a low detection limit, making it ideal for analyzing small biological and environmental samples.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Environmental Science
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Accurate quantification of total selenium is crucial for biological and environmental monitoring.
- Existing methods may require larger sample sizes or offer less sensitivity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a sensitive method for total selenium determination.
- To establish a reliable analytical technique suitable for small sample volumes.
Main Methods:
- Wet acid digestion of samples followed by reduction of selenium to hydrogen selenide (H2Se).
- Hydride vapor generation coupled with inductively coupled plasma (ICP) atomic emission spectrometry.
- Quantification of selenium at 196.090 nm using a simplified continuous flow manifold.
Main Results:
- Instrument detection limit of 0.4 microgram/L.
- Sample detection limit of 4 micrograms/kg for a 1 g sample with 10:1 dilution.
- Linear range up to 4 mg/kg.
- Demonstrated statistical control for biological and environmental samples.
Conclusions:
- The developed method provides a sensitive and reliable approach for total selenium analysis.
- The technique is particularly well-suited for the analysis of small samples.
- This method supports accurate selenium monitoring in various matrices.
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