Determination of Sulfur in Grape and Apricot Samples Using High-resolution Continuum Source Electrothermal Molecular...

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Food Science

Background:

• Accurate sulfur determination is crucial for food quality assessment.
• Existing methods may have limitations in sensitivity or sample preparation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a novel method for sulfur quantification in apricot and grape samples.
• To compare sulfur content in apricots dried using different methods.

Main Methods:

• High-resolution continuum source electrothermal molecular absorption spectrometry (HR-CS EMAS).
• Vaporization of carbon monosulfide (CS) molecule for sulfur detection.
• Utilized a palladium and magnesium chemical modifier with potassium sulfate calibration.

Main Results:

• Achieved a limit of detection of 23 ng for sulfur.
• Demonstrated linearity between 50 and 1600 ng of sulfur.
• Sulfur content in chemically dried apricots (1987 ± 45 mg/kg) was significantly higher than in sun-dried apricots.

Conclusions:

• The HR-CS EMAS method provides a sensitive and accurate approach for sulfur determination in food matrices.
• Drying methods significantly impact the measurable sulfur content in apricots.
• This technique offers a valuable tool for food analysis and quality control.