Determination of metals in waxes by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry using high-temperature nebulization of the molten wax

Abstract

A method is described wherein a Babington V-groove nebulizer and a heated spray chamber are utilized to nebulize molten waxes directly into an inductively coupled plasma (ICP) to determine the concentrations of metal in the waxes by ICP atomic emission spectrometry. Factors influencing the attainment of a maximum analytical signal are discussed. The method of standard additions is used for calibration and calibration graphs are linear for additions of the analytes in the range 0–10 µg g^–1. The following detection limits are reported: Fe, 0.47; Cu, 0.56; Cd, 0.31; and V, 0.87 µg g^–1. Problems are still experienced with nebulizer instability, leading to poor repeatability and possible courses of action are suggested.