Determination of arsenic in whole blood by graphite platform-in-furnace atomic absorption spectrometry with nitric acid de-proteinisation and nickel fortification

Abstract

The effect on the charring temperature of arsenic in blood with wall and platform atomisations of a number of matrix modifiers, such as cobalt, copper, nickel and palladium, has been studied. Based on this study, a nitric acid de-proteinisation-nickel matrix modification-graphite platform-in-furnace atomic absorption spectrometric method was developed for the determination of nanogram per millilitre levels of arsenic in whole blood samples after a systematic evaluation of the temperature programme of the atomiser. The method of standard additions is mandatory. The detection limit (three times the standard deviation of the blank) for arsenic is 0.83 ng ml^–1. Data are presented on the degree of accuracy and precision of the method. At least 15 samples can be analysed per hour. The method is simple, rapid and free from problems of carbonaceous residue build-up.