Method for improving the sensitivity and reproducibility of hydride-forming elements by atomic absorption spectrometry

Abstract

The positive effect of oxygen on the atomisation of hydride-forming elements at temperatures above 800 °C is indicated. Several different materials of construction for gas transport tubing were tested and their influence on the transportation of hydrides and on radical production was studied in order to ascertain their operating efficiency. Silanised glass and FEP tubing gave the highest sensitivity and reproducibility and silicone-rubber and nylon tubing the lowest. The combination of the above, together with the use of 2 M nitric acid as a rinsing agent for the reaction vessel, allows the convenient use of peak areas for the measurement of arsenic, selenium, bismuth, antimony and tin signals at levels of a few nanograms.