Simultaneous multi-element analysis by continuum source atomic-absorption spectrometry with graphite probe electrothermal atomisation

Abstract

An automatic graphite probe atomiser has been used in conjunction with a continuum source atomic-absorption spectrometer system (SIMAAC) for the simultaneous determination of up to 15 elements. The influence of the atomisation stage temperature on the magnitude and precision of peak-height and peak-area signals has been investigated for a range of elements. A compromise atomisation temperature of 2700 °C was found to give efficient atomisation and good peak-height sensitivity for all the elements studied. In comparison with tube-wall and platform atomisation, probe-SIMAAC detection limits (0.01–7.0 µg l^–1) are equivalent or superior, except for the less volatile elements (e.g., V, Mo). Analysis of NBS Standard Reference Materials (bovine liver, rice flour and wheat flour) indicated that the probe procedure was more accurate than tube-wall atomisation methods, but less precise than platform atomisation methods.