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Analytical performance testing of an atrazine immunoassay system
S D Comber1, C D Watts, B Young
1WRc Medmenham, Marlow, Buckinghamshire, UK.
The Analyst
|October 1, 1996
Summary
This study validates an enzyme immunoassay (EIA) kit for detecting atrazine in water. The EIA kit demonstrates high precision and a low detection limit, suitable for modern analytical needs.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Chemistry
- Analytical Chemistry
- Water Quality Analysis
Background:
- Atrazine is a widely used herbicide, and its presence in water requires accurate monitoring.
- Reliable analytical methods are crucial for ensuring drinking water safety and regulatory compliance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To rigorously evaluate the performance of an enzyme immunoassay (EIA) kit for atrazine determination in water samples.
- To assess the kit's precision, bias, limit of detection, and potential interferences.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of eleven batches of standard and spiked drinking water samples.
- Statistical analysis to measure precision, bias, and limit of detection.
- Interference testing across a range of pH values and common drinking water matrix components.
Main Results:
- The EIA kit achieved a limit of detection of 9.2 ng l-1.
- Performance criteria, including a total standard deviation <5% or 2.5 ng, were met.
- No statistically significant bias was found in drinking water samples; minimal interference from matrix components and pH variations.
Conclusions:
- The enzyme immunoassay (EIA) kit is a precise and reliable method for atrazine quantification in water.
- The kit demonstrates robustness against common drinking water constituents and pH fluctuations.
- Potential cross-reactivity with simazine warrants consideration for comprehensive water quality monitoring.