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Author Spotlight: Technologies and Challenges in Elemental Analysis of Food Samples
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A simple method for the multi-elemental analysis of beer using total reflection X-ray fluorescence.
Ednilton M Gama1, Clésia C Nascentes2, Roberta P Matos1
1Department of Chemistry, Federal University of Minas Gerais, PO Box 702, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil; Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology of North of Minas Gerais, IFNMG Campus Almenara, Brazil.
Talanta
|July 26, 2017
Summary
A new Total Reflection X-Ray Fluorescence (TXRF) method accurately quantifies 15 inorganic elements in beer. This fast, simple technique is suitable for routine analysis and quality control, detecting elements like arsenic and lead.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Materials Science
Background:
- Beer quality control requires accurate quantification of inorganic elements.
- Traditional methods can be time-consuming and involve complex sample preparation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a direct analysis method for 15 inorganic elements in beer using Total Reflection X-Ray Fluorescence (TXRF).
- To compare TXRF with acid digestion and assess its suitability for routine beer analysis.
Main Methods:
- Direct analysis of beer samples using optimized TXRF conditions.
- Validation using certified reference materials (CRMs) for accuracy and precision assessment.
- Comparison with acid digestion to evaluate matrix effects.
Main Results:
- The TXRF method demonstrated satisfactory accuracy and precision (RSD% 2.4-10%) for 15 elements (P, S, Cl, K, Ca, Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, Br, As, Rb, Sr, Pb).
- Low detection limits were achieved, adequate for trace element determination and quality control of As and Pb.
- Analysis of 30 beer samples revealed concentrations of As and Pb exceeding Brazilian legal limits in some cases.
Conclusions:
- TXRF is a simple, fast, and reagent-efficient method for simultaneous multi-element analysis in beer.
- The developed TXRF method is effective for routine quality control and identifying potential safety concerns in beer products.
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