Simultaneous multi-element analysis by carbon furnace atomic-emission spectrometry

Abstract

The application of carbon furnace atomic-emission spectrometry (CFAES) to simultaneous multi-element analysis has been investigated using a direct-reading spectrometer system. A computer-controlled wavelength modulation system employing a quartz refractor plate is used to provide automatic background correction in both the single and multi-element modes. Detection limits obtained using a three-step square-wave modulation waveform with this system are comparable to those previously obtained using the rotating sector method of modulation. The linear range of calibration graphs has been extended to 4–5 orders of magnitude by measurement of emission intensities off the centre of the line profile. The potential of CFAES as a technique for simultaneous multi-element analysis is demonstrated by the determination of trace elements in NBS standard reference materials and orange and pine-apple juice samples.