Direct methods for the determination of lead in whole blood by anodic stripping voltammetry

Two methods for the direct determination of lead in whole blood by anodic stripping voltammetry (ASV) are described. The procedure in both methods involved the mixing of micro blood samples with a metal releasing reagent, Metexchange, and electrochemical analysis using carbon electrodes. A multiple Anodic Stripping Analyzer equipped with composite graphite mercury electrodes and a Charge Transfer Analyzer equipped with a mercury film electrode were employed. The standard addition method was used to minimize the matrix effects of whole blood. The ASV results correlated well with those obtained by flameless atomic absorption analysis. The methods are simple, reliable, and suitable for applications in the clinical field. The procedure using the Charge Transfer Analyzer is recommended because of its sensitivity and rapidity.