Determination of trace amounts of barium in calcium-containing matrices by atomic-absorption spectrophotometry following solvent extraction with polyethylene glycol

Abstract

Polyethylene glycol (PEG) 1540 shows a high efficiency (almost 100%) for the extraction of barium from a calcium matrix under appropriate conditions. This has permitted trace amounts of barium in a calcium matrix to be determined by flame atomic-absorption spectrophotometry without interference from calcium. The effectiveness of PEG is noteworthy because of its ready availability and cheapness compared with the 18-crown-6 used in existing procedures. Further, the extraction process may be completed successfully in one step without subsequent washing of the organic phase.