PerspectiveStability of bromate species immobilised on microcolumns of activated alumina†

Abstract

Microcolumns of activated alumina (n = 30) were charged with bromate standard solution (0.5 ml, 6.0 µg l^–1) and stored at 4 °C in a light-tight container. Microcolumns were removed at regular time intervals (1 h, 2 and 3 d and 1, 2, 3, 4 and 8 weeks) and bromate species were eluted and quantified by flow-injection ICP-MS. Analyte recoveries were found to be quantitative (96–101%) and reproducible over the 8 week period. These results indicate that for trace level determinations (µg l^–1) of bromate, a microcolumn format may provide a convenient and reliable route for delivery of external calibrants and reference materials.