Parameters affecting sensitivity and precision in the combination of flow injection analysis with flame atomic-absorption spectrophotometry

Abstract

Factors affecting sensitivity and precision in combined flow injection analysis and atomic-absorption spectrophotometry were investigated. Provided the nebuliser aspiration rates and carrier stream flow-rates are carefully chosen, better precision and sensitivity than in conventional manual techniques can be achieved. To obtain high flow-rates into the nebuliser a boost to the carrier stream, immediately prior to the nebuliser, is proposed. For applications such as the ion-exchange pre-concentration of heavy metals, this allows a low rate of flow for the main carrier stream whilst maintaining a higher rate into the nebuliser.