Rapid and selective detection of Hg(ii) in water using AuNP in situ-modified filter paper by a head-space solid phase extraction Zeeman atomic absorption spectroscopy method

Abstract

In this work, Au nanoparticle (AuNP)-modified filter paper as a highly sensitive mercury extractant was successfully prepared in situ and applied in the head-space solid phase extraction (HS-SPE) of Hg(II) in water. The microstructure of the modified filter paper was characterized by using X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy (XRD/SEM), and the results showed that AuNPs were well distributed on the fiber surface of the filter paper. Combined with portable Zeeman atomic absorption spectroscopy (ZAAS), the modified filter paper was successfully applied to Hg detection in water samples. Specifically, it can easily achieve in situ sample collection and detection under negative pressure in the field, which was reported for the first time. Several influencing factors such as extraction temperature, time, stirring speed, pH value, reductants, inorganic ions, and organic interfering and complexing agents were all investigated thoroughly. The limit of detection (LOD) for Hg(II) was 0.09 μg L⁻¹, with linearity ranging from 0.09 to 50 μg L⁻¹. Good recoveries were also obtained between 82 and 106% with RSDs below 7% in real water samples. The established method provided a convenient route for mercury detection in environmental water with a low amount of sample required (1 mL) and good detection performance, which is comparable to that of ICP-MS.