Analytical condition for the determination of copper, zinc and nickel in silicates by atomic absorption spectrometry

Abstract

In order to determine trace elements in silicates by atomic absorption spectrometry, the interference of major elements in the digested solution can not be neglected. Practically, the addition of one major element, such as Ca, to a series of standard solutions (proposed by TERASHIMA) is effectively adopted for the compensation of this interference. In this study, detailed observation of this effect was performed by changing the flame conditions and utilizing the response-surface plot method. Copper and Zn were found to give accurate results at a comparatively wide range of flame condition, while Ni was at a strict flame condition. According to our investigation, the analytical condition, especially that of flame, should be carefully considered, when solutions which contain large amount of other elements are measured by atomic absorption spectrometry.