Determination of lead in blood by atomic-absorption spectroscopy with electrothermal atomisation

Abstract

A method is described for the determination of lead in blood by atomic-absorption spectroscopy with electrothermal atomisation. The addition of orthophosphoric acid together with pre-coating the graphite tube with molybdenum is effective in minimising matrix interference and in promoting stable routine operation. No special oxidative treatment is necessary to prevent loss of lead during the drying and ashing steps of the procedure. The range of the method is 5–50 µg dl^–1.