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## **Meet the editor**

Dr Muhammad Akhyar Farrukh received PhD in Chemistry and completed two post doctorates in Brazil and Malaysia on a fellowship awarded by TWAS. He has been duly awarded with three gold medals for his outstanding academic performance. He has been honored with a number of international awards, including Young Chemist Award by IUPAC in Italy, and selected as the

Young Scientist by TWAS in Egypt, and IAP in Germany. He was nominated as the Junior Scientist by PAS, selected by IAP and invited by World Economic Forum to participate in the annual conference of new champions, China. He participated as a representative of Pakistan in the first Assembly of the UNESCO - affiliated World Association of Young Scientists (WAYS) in Morocco. He is a member of 12 international professional bodies and author of numerous papers/books published on international and national level. He was also selected as Productive Scientist of Pakistan. He has served different organizations including University of Karachi, PCSIR, PCST and GC University Lahore.

Contents

**Preface IX** 

Chapter 1 **Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS) 1** 

**in Atomic Absorption Spectrometry 13** 

de Alcântara and André Luís de Castro Peixoto

Chapter 3 **Elemental Profiling: Its Role and Regulations 37**  Ajai Prakash Gupta and Suphla Gupta

> **Preparation Step for Metal Analysis 61**  Pourya Biparva and Amir Abbas Matin

**Determination of Metal Nanoparticles in Organic-Inorganic Nanocomposites 89**  Roozbeh Javad Kalbasi and Neda Mosaddegh

**of Refractory Oxide Single Crystals 105** 

**Sr on Mg Absorbance During Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry: Characterization in Terms of a Simplified Collisional Rate Model 131**  Mark F. Zaranyika, Albert T. Chirenje and Courtie Mahamadi

Chapter 4 **Microextraction Techniques as a Sample** 

Chapter 5 **Application of Atomic Absorption for** 

T.V. Sheina and K.N. Belikov

Chapter 7 **Interference Effects of Excess Ca, Ba and** 

Chapter 8 **Nutritional Metals in Foods by AAS 143** 

Mary Millikan

Chapter 6 **Flame Spectrometry in Analysis** 

Hélcio José Izário Filho, Rodrigo Fernando dos Santos Salazar, Maria da Rosa Capri, Ângelo Capri Neto, Marco Aurélio Kondracki

R. García and A. P. Báez

Chapter 2 **State-of-the-Art and Trends** 

### Contents

#### **Preface** XI


### Preface

Spectroscopy is the study of absorption and emission of electromagnetic radiation due to the interaction between matter and energy, which depends on the wavelength of the respective radiation.

Analytical Chemistry is the branch of chemistry that deals with the study of qualitative, as well as quantitative analysis, of samples. Different spectroscopic techniques like UV-Visible, Atomic Absorption, Flame Emission, Molecular Fluorescence, Phosphorescence, Chemiluminescence, Infrared, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance, Raman, X-Ray, Mass, Electron, Mössbauer are being used for this purpose.

Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) is one of the spectroscopic and analytical techniques, used for the qualitative and quantitative determination of elements employing the absorption of electromagnetic energy of a particular wavelength, usually ultraviolet or visible region, by free atoms in the gaseous state. The technique is being used for the determination of metals in different samples like food, drugs, nanomaterials, biomaterials, environmental, forensics and industrial wastes.

There is a dire need to provide scholars all over the world with the recent advancements going on in research using analytical techniques. This book is an effort of the authors in the field of AAS, covering topics from basic to advanced levels.

The chapters in this book have been organized to keep the sequence in reading. In the first two chapters, introduction, history and basic principle of AAS have been described with detail instrumentation of all parts and sample preparation. Chapter 3 deals with elemental profiling, functions, dietary source, biochemistry and potential toxicity of metals along with comparative techniques used for the analysis. As sample preparation techniques are the most beneficial for proper analysis, chapter 4 discusses the microextraction techniques which are characteristics for an ideal sample preparation. Keeping in view the importance of nanomaterials and refractory materials, chapter 5 and 6 highlight the ways to characterize these materials by using AAS. The interference effects between elements can be characterized using a simplified rate model and through thermodynamic equilibrium approach as explained in chapter 7. The importance of metals in food and biological samples and their characterization with AAS have been given in chapters 8-11. Carbon capture and

#### XII Preface

mineral storage, leaching experiments and estimation of metal contents by comparative techniques have been explained in chapter 12.

The book will provide a good resource for teaching and research purposes.

**Muhammad Akhyar Farrukh** Department of Chemistry G.C. University Lahore Pakistan

### **Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS)**

#### R. García and A. P. Báez

*Centro de Ciencias de la Atmósfera, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, Mexico City Mexico* 

#### **1. Introduction**

Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS) is a technique for measuring quantities of chemical elements present in environmental samples by measuring the absorbed radiation by the chemical element of interest. This is done by reading the spectra produced when the sample is excited by radiation. The atoms absorb ultraviolet or visible light and make transitions to higher energy levels. Atomic absorption methods measure the amount of energy in the form of photons of light that are absorbed by the sample. A detector measures the wavelengths of light transmitted by the sample, and compares them to the wavelengths which originally passed through the sample. A signal processor then integrates the changes in wavelength absorbed, which appear in the readout as peaks of energy absorption at discrete wavelengths. The energy required for an electron to leave an atom is known as ionization energy and is specific to each chemical element. When an electron moves from one energy level to another within the atom, a photon is emitted with energy **E**. Atoms of an element emit a characteristic spectral line. Every atom has its own distinct pattern of wavelengths at which it will absorb energy, due to the unique configuration of electrons in its outer shell. This enables the qualitative analysis of a sample. The concentration is calculated based on the Beer-Lambert law. Absorbance is directly proportional to the concentration of the analyte absorbed for the existing set of conditions. The concentration is usually determined from a calibration curve, obtained using standards of known concentration. However, applying the Beer-Lambert law directly in AAS is difficult due to: variations in atomization efficiency from the sample matrix, non-uniformity of concentration and path length of analyte atoms (in graphite furnace AA).

The chemical methods used are based on matter interactions, i.e. chemical reactions. For a long period of time these methods were essentially empirical, involving, in most cases, great experimental skills. In analytical chemistry, AAS is a technique used mostly for determining the concentration of a particular metal element within a sample. AAS can be used to analyze the concentration of over 62 different metals in a solution.

Although AAS dates to the nineteenth century, the modern form of this technique was largely developed during the 1950s by Alan Walsh and a team of Australian chemists working at the CSIRO (Commonwealth Science and Industry Research Organization) Division of Chemical Physics in Melbourne, Australia. Typically, the technique makes use of a flame to atomize the sample, but other atomizers, such as a graphite furnace, are also used. Three steps are involved in turning a liquid sample into an atomic gas:

Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS) 3

trace metals in atmospheric deposition cannot be determined from a simple consideration of global mass balance; rather, accurate data on net air or sea fluxes for specific regions are needed. Particles in urban areas represent one of the most significant atmospheric pollution problems, and are responsible for decreased visibility and other effects on public health, particularly when their aerodynamic diameters are smaller than 10 µm, because these small particles can penetrate deep into the human respiratory tract. There have been many studies measuring concentrations of toxic metals such as Ag, As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Ni, Pb in rainwater and their deposition into surface waters and on soils. Natural sources of aerosols include terrestrial dust, marine aerosols, volcanic emissions and forest fires. Anthropogenic particles, on the other hand, are created by industrial processes, fossil fuel combustion, automobile mufflers, worn engine parts, and corrosion of metallic parts. The presence of metals in atmospheric particles are directly associated with health risks of these metals. Anthropogenic sources have

The instrument used for atomic absorption spectrometry can have either of two atomizers. One attachment is a flame burner, which uses acetylene and air fuels. The second attachment consists of a graphite furnace that is used for trace metal analysis. Figure 1

Fig. 1. The spectral, or wavelength, range captures the dispersion of the grating across the

Flame and furnace spectroscopy has been used for years for the analysis of metals. Today these procedures are used more than ever in materials and environmental applications. This is due to the need for lower detection limits and for trace analysis in a wide range of samples. Because of the scientific advances of Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission

substantially increased trace metal concentrations in atmospheric deposition.

depicts a diagram of an atomic absorption spectrometer.

linear array.


To measure how much of a given element is present in a sample, one must first establish a basis for comparison using known quantities of that element to produce a calibration curve. To generate this curve, a specific wavelength is selected, and the detector is set to measure only the energy transmitted at that wavelength. As the concentration of the target atom in the sample increases, the absorption will also increase proportionally. A series of samples containing known concentrations of the compound of interest are analyzed, and the corresponding absorbance, which is the inverse percentage of light transmitted, is recorded. The measured absorption at each concentration is then plotted, so that a straight line can then be drawn between the resulting points. From this line, the concentration of the substance under investigation is extrapolated from the substance's absorbance. The use of special light sources and the selection of specific wavelengths allow for the quantitative determination of individual components in a multielement mixture.

#### **2. Basic principle**

The selectivity in AAS is very important, since each element has a different set of energy levels and gives rise to very narrow absorption lines. Hence, the selection of the monochromator is vital to obtain a linear calibration curve (Beers' Law), the bandwidth of the absorbing species must be broader than that of the light source; which is difficult to achieve with ordinary monochromators. The monochromator is a very important part of an AA spectrometer because it is used to separate the thousands of lines generated by all of the elements in a sample.

Without a good monochromator, detection limits are severely compromised. A monochromator is used to select the specific wavelength of light that is absorbed by the sample and to exclude other wavelengths. The selection of the specific wavelength of light allows for the determination of the specific element of interest when it is in the presence of other elements. The light selected by the monochromator is directed onto a detector, typically a photomultiplier tube, whose function is to convert the light signal into an electrical signal proportional to the light intensity. The challenge of requiring the bandwidth of the absorbing species to be broader than that of the light source is solved with radiation sources with very narrow lines.

The study of trace metals in wet and dry precipitation has increased in recent decades because trace metals have adverse environmental and human health effects. Some metals, such as Pb, Cd and Hg, accumulate in the biosphere and can be toxic to living systems. Anthropogenic activities have substantially increased trace metal concentrations in the atmosphere. In addition, acid precipitation promotes the dissolution of many trace metals, which enhances their bioavailability. In recent decades, heavy metal concentrations have increased not only in the atmosphere but also in pluvial precipitation. Metals, such as Pb, Cd, As, and Hg, are known to accumulate in the biosphere and to be dangerous for living organisms, even at very low levels. Many human activities play a major role in global and regional trace element budgets. Additionally, when present above certain concentration levels, trace metals are potentially toxic to marine and terrestrial life. Thus, biogeochemical perturbations are a matter of crucial interest in science.

The atmospheric input of metals exhibits strong temporal and spatial variability due to short atmospheric residence times and meteorological factors. As in oceanic chemistry, the impact of

3. Volatilization – the compounds that compose the sample are broken into free atoms. To measure how much of a given element is present in a sample, one must first establish a basis for comparison using known quantities of that element to produce a calibration curve. To generate this curve, a specific wavelength is selected, and the detector is set to measure only the energy transmitted at that wavelength. As the concentration of the target atom in the sample increases, the absorption will also increase proportionally. A series of samples containing known concentrations of the compound of interest are analyzed, and the corresponding absorbance, which is the inverse percentage of light transmitted, is recorded. The measured absorption at each concentration is then plotted, so that a straight line can then be drawn between the resulting points. From this line, the concentration of the substance under investigation is extrapolated from the substance's absorbance. The use of special light sources and the selection of specific wavelengths allow for the quantitative

The selectivity in AAS is very important, since each element has a different set of energy levels and gives rise to very narrow absorption lines. Hence, the selection of the monochromator is vital to obtain a linear calibration curve (Beers' Law), the bandwidth of the absorbing species must be broader than that of the light source; which is difficult to achieve with ordinary monochromators. The monochromator is a very important part of an AA spectrometer because it is used to separate the thousands of lines generated by all of the

Without a good monochromator, detection limits are severely compromised. A monochromator is used to select the specific wavelength of light that is absorbed by the sample and to exclude other wavelengths. The selection of the specific wavelength of light allows for the determination of the specific element of interest when it is in the presence of other elements. The light selected by the monochromator is directed onto a detector, typically a photomultiplier tube, whose function is to convert the light signal into an electrical signal proportional to the light intensity. The challenge of requiring the bandwidth of the absorbing species to be broader than that of the light source is solved with radiation

The study of trace metals in wet and dry precipitation has increased in recent decades because trace metals have adverse environmental and human health effects. Some metals, such as Pb, Cd and Hg, accumulate in the biosphere and can be toxic to living systems. Anthropogenic activities have substantially increased trace metal concentrations in the atmosphere. In addition, acid precipitation promotes the dissolution of many trace metals, which enhances their bioavailability. In recent decades, heavy metal concentrations have increased not only in the atmosphere but also in pluvial precipitation. Metals, such as Pb, Cd, As, and Hg, are known to accumulate in the biosphere and to be dangerous for living organisms, even at very low levels. Many human activities play a major role in global and regional trace element budgets. Additionally, when present above certain concentration levels, trace metals are potentially toxic to marine and terrestrial life. Thus, biogeochemical

The atmospheric input of metals exhibits strong temporal and spatial variability due to short atmospheric residence times and meteorological factors. As in oceanic chemistry, the impact of

1. Desolvation – the liquid solvent is evaporated, and the dry sample remains;

2. Vaporization – the solid sample vaporizes to a gas; and

determination of individual components in a multielement mixture.

**2. Basic principle** 

elements in a sample.

sources with very narrow lines.

perturbations are a matter of crucial interest in science.

trace metals in atmospheric deposition cannot be determined from a simple consideration of global mass balance; rather, accurate data on net air or sea fluxes for specific regions are needed.

Particles in urban areas represent one of the most significant atmospheric pollution problems, and are responsible for decreased visibility and other effects on public health, particularly when their aerodynamic diameters are smaller than 10 µm, because these small particles can penetrate deep into the human respiratory tract. There have been many studies measuring concentrations of toxic metals such as Ag, As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Ni, Pb in rainwater and their deposition into surface waters and on soils. Natural sources of aerosols include terrestrial dust, marine aerosols, volcanic emissions and forest fires. Anthropogenic particles, on the other hand, are created by industrial processes, fossil fuel combustion, automobile mufflers, worn engine parts, and corrosion of metallic parts. The presence of metals in atmospheric particles are directly associated with health risks of these metals. Anthropogenic sources have substantially increased trace metal concentrations in atmospheric deposition.

The instrument used for atomic absorption spectrometry can have either of two atomizers. One attachment is a flame burner, which uses acetylene and air fuels. The second attachment consists of a graphite furnace that is used for trace metal analysis. Figure 1 depicts a diagram of an atomic absorption spectrometer.

Fig. 1. The spectral, or wavelength, range captures the dispersion of the grating across the linear array.

Flame and furnace spectroscopy has been used for years for the analysis of metals. Today these procedures are used more than ever in materials and environmental applications. This is due to the need for lower detection limits and for trace analysis in a wide range of samples. Because of the scientific advances of Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission

Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS) 5

and Hg, in environmental samples. For example, the study of trace metals in wet and dry precipitation has increased in recent decades because trace metals have adverse environmental and human health effects. Anthropogenic activities have substantially increased trace metal concentrations in the atmosphere. In recent decades, heavy metal concentrations have increased not only in the atmosphere but also in pluvial precipitation. Many human activities play a major role in global and regional trace element budgets. Additionally, when present above certain concentration levels, trace metals are potentially toxic to marine and terrestrial life. Thus, biogeochemical perturbations are a matter of

The atmospheric input of metals exhibits strong temporal and spatial variability due to short atmospheric residence times and meteorological factors. As in oceanic chemistry, the impact of trace metals in atmospheric deposition cannot be determined from a simple consideration of global mass balance; rather, accurate data on net air or sea fluxes for specific regions are

Particles in urban areas represent one of the most significant atmospheric pollution problems, and are responsible for decreased visibility and other effects on public health, particularly when their aerodynamic diameters are smaller than 10 µm, because these small particles can penetrate deep into the human respiratory tract. There have been many studies measuring concentrations of toxic metals such as Ag, As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Ni, Pb in rainwater and their deposition into surface waters and on soils. Natural sources of aerosols include terrestrial dust, marine aerosols, volcanic emissions and forest fires. Anthropogenic particles, on the other hand, are created by industrial processes, fossil fuel combustion, automobile mufflers, worn engine parts, and corrosion of metallic parts. The presence of metals in atmospheric particles and the associated health risks of these metals. Anthropogenic sources have substantially increased trace metal concentrations in atmospheric deposition. In addition, acid precipitation favors the dissolution of many trace metals, which enhances their bioavailability. Trace metals from the atmosphere are deposited by rain, snow and dry fallout. The predominant processes of deposition by rain are rainout and washout (scavenging). Generally, in over 80 % of wet precipitation, heavy metals are dissolved in rainwater and can thus reach and be taken up by the vegetation blanket and soils. Light of a specific wavelength, selected appropriately for the element being analyzed, is given off when the metal is ionized in the flame; the absorption of this light by the element of interest is proportional to the concentration of that element.

Quantification is achieved by preparing standards of the element.

Similar atomization techniques to AES

 High temperature for atomization necessary Flame and electrothermal atomization

Addition of radiation source

AAS

**3. Flame (AAS)** 

AAS intrinsically more sensitive than Atomic Emission Spectrometry (AES)

Very high temperature for excitation not necessary; generally no plasma/arc/spark in

Flame atomic absorption methods are referred to as direct aspiration determinations. They are normally completed as single element analyses and are relatively free of interelement

crucial interest in science.

needed.

Spectroscopy (ICP-OES), Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS), have left Atomic Absorption (AA) behind. This technique, however, is excellent and has a larger specificity that ICP does not have. Figure 2 shows a diagram of an atomic absorption spectrometer with a graphite furnace.

Fig. 2. Flame relatively insensitive - incomplete volatilization, short time in beam (Figure 1) In this section, the authors will attempt to demonstrate that AAS is a reliable chemical technique to analyze almost any type of material. The chapter describes the basic principles of atomic absorption spectroscopy in the analysis of trace metals, such as Ag, As, Cd, Cr, Cu,

Spectroscopy (ICP-OES), Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS), have left Atomic Absorption (AA) behind. This technique, however, is excellent and has a larger specificity that ICP does not have. Figure 2 shows a diagram of an atomic absorption

Fig. 2. Flame relatively insensitive - incomplete volatilization, short time in beam (Figure 1) In this section, the authors will attempt to demonstrate that AAS is a reliable chemical technique to analyze almost any type of material. The chapter describes the basic principles of atomic absorption spectroscopy in the analysis of trace metals, such as Ag, As, Cd, Cr, Cu,

spectrometer with a graphite furnace.

and Hg, in environmental samples. For example, the study of trace metals in wet and dry precipitation has increased in recent decades because trace metals have adverse environmental and human health effects. Anthropogenic activities have substantially increased trace metal concentrations in the atmosphere. In recent decades, heavy metal concentrations have increased not only in the atmosphere but also in pluvial precipitation. Many human activities play a major role in global and regional trace element budgets. Additionally, when present above certain concentration levels, trace metals are potentially toxic to marine and terrestrial life. Thus, biogeochemical perturbations are a matter of crucial interest in science.

The atmospheric input of metals exhibits strong temporal and spatial variability due to short atmospheric residence times and meteorological factors. As in oceanic chemistry, the impact of trace metals in atmospheric deposition cannot be determined from a simple consideration of global mass balance; rather, accurate data on net air or sea fluxes for specific regions are needed.

Particles in urban areas represent one of the most significant atmospheric pollution problems, and are responsible for decreased visibility and other effects on public health, particularly when their aerodynamic diameters are smaller than 10 µm, because these small particles can penetrate deep into the human respiratory tract. There have been many studies measuring concentrations of toxic metals such as Ag, As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Ni, Pb in rainwater and their deposition into surface waters and on soils. Natural sources of aerosols include terrestrial dust, marine aerosols, volcanic emissions and forest fires. Anthropogenic particles, on the other hand, are created by industrial processes, fossil fuel combustion, automobile mufflers, worn engine parts, and corrosion of metallic parts. The presence of metals in atmospheric particles and the associated health risks of these metals. Anthropogenic sources have substantially increased trace metal concentrations in atmospheric deposition. In addition, acid precipitation favors the dissolution of many trace metals, which enhances their bioavailability. Trace metals from the atmosphere are deposited by rain, snow and dry fallout. The predominant processes of deposition by rain are rainout and washout (scavenging). Generally, in over 80 % of wet precipitation, heavy metals are dissolved in rainwater and can thus reach and be taken up by the vegetation blanket and soils. Light of a specific wavelength, selected appropriately for the element being analyzed, is given off when the metal is ionized in the flame; the absorption of this light by the element of interest is proportional to the concentration of that element. Quantification is achieved by preparing standards of the element.


#### **3. Flame (AAS)**

Flame atomic absorption methods are referred to as direct aspiration determinations. They are normally completed as single element analyses and are relatively free of interelement

Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS) 7

The calibration curve is always represented with the response of the instrument on the vertical (y) and concentrations on the horizontal axis (x). The value of C can limit the accuracy of the measurements for various concentrations; however there are statistical methods which can be used. The calibration method is generally used where there is a linear relationship between the analytical signal (y) and concentration (x), taking precautions to ensure that linearity in the experimental response is maintained over a wide range of concentrations. In these cases the way to proceed is to obtain the regression line of y on x (ie, the best-fit straight line through the points of the calibration graph, which can be obtained, for example, by the method of least squares) and used to estimate the concentration of unknown samples by interpolation, as well as to estimate the detection limit of the analytical

 Atomic absorption spectrometers allow operators to adjust sample temperatures. Some spectrometers are self-calibrating, position lights automatically, or compensate for stray light emissions and various types of spectral interference that bias analytical results. Intrinsically safe (IS) instruments do not release sufficient electrical or thermal energy to ignite hazardous atmospheric mixtures. In flame AAS, the measured absorbance depends on the absorptivity of the element in question, the concentration of that element in the flame (and therefore on its solution concentration), and the optical path length through the flame. The light from the flame region is collected on the left-side of this particular instrument. Under certain circumstances, it is desireable to reduce the optical path length. To this end, the burner head can also be rotated about its vertical axis. Different burner heads (having different slot sizes) are used for acetylene/air and acetylene/nitrous oxide flames, since the latter is a much hotter flame. Flow controls also allow both the total gas flow-rate and fuel-to-oxidant ratio to be varied. Gas flow affects the aspiration rate and aerosol drop-size distribution, while the fuel-oxidant ratio can influence chemical processes in the flame that would otherwise reduce the sensitivity of the measurement.

Following you can describe some features of this technique:

most sensitive part of flame for AAS varies with analyte (Figure 3)

directed through the flame to be detected by a monochrometer.

 element rapidly oxidizes – largest atom near burner element oxidizes poorly – largest atom away from burner

 Primary combustion zone - initial decomposition, molecular fragments, cool Interzonal region – hottest, most atomic fragments, used for emission/fluorescence Secondary combustion zone – cooler, conversion of atoms to stable molecules, oxides

The measurement procedure is as follows. A small quantity of the extracted sample is injected into a flame where the ions are reduced to elements and vaporized. The elements present in the sample absorb light at specific wavelengths in the visible or the ultraviolet spectrum. A light beam with a single specific wavelength for the element being measured is

The light absorbed by the flame containing the extract is compared with the absorption from known standards to quantify the elemental concentrations. One of the disadvantages of this method is that only one element can be quantified at a time. AAS requires an individual analysis for each element, and sometimes a large filter or several filters are needed to obtain concentrations for a large variety of elements. Samples having high concentrations of elements beyond the linear range of the instrument should be diluted prior to the analysis. Báez *et al*., 2007 and García *et al*., 2009 characterized atmospheric aerosols, metals and ions

procedure.

spectral interferences. For some elements, the temperature or type of flame used is critical. If flame and analytical conditions are not properly used, chemical and ionization interferences can occur. Different flames can be achieved using different mixtures of gases, depending on the desired temperature and burning velocity. Some elements can only be converted to atoms at high temperatures. Even at high temperatures, if excess oxygen is present, some metals form oxides that do not redissociate into atoms. To inhibit their formation, conditions of the flame may be modified to achieve a reducing, nonoxidizing flame. Some aspects are discussed below:


Usually the measurement of metals can be done by an appropriate selection of one of the methods given below. During the analysis of the data, the interference and background should be considered. Three pattern-matching methods are most often employed: using calibration curves generated by a series of patterns, the method of standard additions and the internal standard method. The use of calibration curves from a series of patterns is possibly the most widely used method. It involves measuring the sample of interest in a series of samples of known concentration and all prepared under the same conditions.


spectral interferences. For some elements, the temperature or type of flame used is critical. If flame and analytical conditions are not properly used, chemical and ionization interferences can occur. Different flames can be achieved using different mixtures of gases, depending on the desired temperature and burning velocity. Some elements can only be converted to atoms at high temperatures. Even at high temperatures, if excess oxygen is present, some metals form oxides that do not redissociate into atoms. To inhibit their formation, conditions of the flame may be modified to achieve a reducing, nonoxidizing flame. Some aspects are

Usually the measurement of metals can be done by an appropriate selection of one of the methods given below. During the analysis of the data, the interference and background should be considered. Three pattern-matching methods are most often employed: using calibration curves generated by a series of patterns, the method of standard additions and the internal standard method. The use of calibration curves from a series of patterns is possibly the most widely used method. It involves measuring the sample of interest in a series of samples of known concentration and all prepared under the same

1. Calibration Curve Method: Prepare standard solutions of at least three different concentrations, measure the absorbance of these standard solutions, and prepare a calibration curve from the values obtained. Then measure the absorbance of the test solution adjusted in concentration to a measurable range, and determine the

2. Standard Addition Method: To equal volumes of more than two different test solutions are used, then the standard solution is added so that the solutions contain stepwise increasing amounts of the element, and add the solvent to make a definite volume. Measure the absorbance for each solution, and plot the concentration of the added standard element on the abscissa and the absorbance on the ordinate. Extend the calibration curve obtained by linking the plotted points, and determine the concentration of the element from the distance between the origin and the intersection of the calibration curve on the abscissa. This method is applicable only in the case that

the calibration curve drawn as directed in (1) above passes through the origin. 3. Internal Standard Method: Prepare several solutions containing a constant amount of the internal standard element. Using these solutions, measure the absorbance of the standard element and the absorbance of the internal standard element at the analytical wavelength of each element under the same measuring conditions, and obtain the ratios of each absorbance of the standard object element to the absorbance of the internal standard element. Prepare a calibration curve by plotting the concentrations of the standard element on the abscissa and the ratios of absorbance on the ordinate. Then prepare the test solutions, adding the same amount of the internal standard element as in the standard solution. Proceed under the same conditions as for preparing the calibration curve, obtain the ratio of the absorbance of the element to that of the internal standard element, and

determine the concentration of the element from the calibration curve.

discussed below:

conditions.

 Simplest atomization of gas/solution/solid Laminar flow burner - stable "sheet" of flame

Flame atomization best for reproducibility (precision) (<1%)

concentration of the element from the calibration curve.

Relatively insensitive – incomplete volatilization, short time in beam

The calibration curve is always represented with the response of the instrument on the vertical (y) and concentrations on the horizontal axis (x). The value of C can limit the accuracy of the measurements for various concentrations; however there are statistical methods which can be used. The calibration method is generally used where there is a linear relationship between the analytical signal (y) and concentration (x), taking precautions to ensure that linearity in the experimental response is maintained over a wide range of concentrations. In these cases the way to proceed is to obtain the regression line of y on x (ie, the best-fit straight line through the points of the calibration graph, which can be obtained, for example, by the method of least squares) and used to estimate the concentration of unknown samples by interpolation, as well as to estimate the detection limit of the analytical procedure.


The measurement procedure is as follows. A small quantity of the extracted sample is injected into a flame where the ions are reduced to elements and vaporized. The elements present in the sample absorb light at specific wavelengths in the visible or the ultraviolet spectrum. A light beam with a single specific wavelength for the element being measured is directed through the flame to be detected by a monochrometer.

The light absorbed by the flame containing the extract is compared with the absorption from known standards to quantify the elemental concentrations. One of the disadvantages of this method is that only one element can be quantified at a time. AAS requires an individual analysis for each element, and sometimes a large filter or several filters are needed to obtain concentrations for a large variety of elements. Samples having high concentrations of elements beyond the linear range of the instrument should be diluted prior to the analysis. Báez *et al*., 2007 and García *et al*., 2009 characterized atmospheric aerosols, metals and ions

Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS) 9

proportional to the ground state atom population in the flame; any factor that affected the

Factors that might affected the ability of the instrument to read this parameter were also

The different types of interference that were encountered in atomic absorption spectroscopy






The GFAA and flame AAS measurement principle is the same. The difference between these two techniques is the way the sample is introduced into the instrument. In GFAA analysis, an electrothermal graphite furnace is used instead. The sample is heated stepwise (up to 3000ºC) to dry. The advantage of the graphite furnace is that the detection limit is about two orders of magnitude better than that of AAS. The analysis of different species of a given element is important because different oxidation states of the same element may present different toxicities and, consequently, different risks. Therefore, sequential extraction procedures for the separation and further analysis of a species have been developed for several metals. Sammut *et al*. (2010) developed a sequential extraction procedure for separating inorganic species of selenium found in the particulate matter of emissions in working areas. Essentially, the method is based on sequential dissolutions of the sampled matrix. Se(IV) and Se(0) can be independently analyzed by GFAA, whereas only total selenium can be detected when analyzed by AAS. This research group also proposed the analysis of beryllium species using GFAA and ICP-AES because metallic beryllium and beryllium oxide in workplaces are associated with different toxicities. These examples highlight the necessity of improving analytical techniques for measuring not only the total concentration but also the different species of a metal dispersed in

The graphite furnace has several advantages over a flame furnance. First it accepts solutions, slurries, or solid samples. Second, it is a much more efficient atomizer than a flame furnance and it can directly accept very small absolute quantities of sample. It also provides a reducing environment for easily oxidized elements. Samples are placed directly into the graphite furnace and the furnace is electrically heated in several steps to dry the sample, ash organic matter, and vaporize the analyte atoms. It accommodates smaller samples but it is a difficult operation, since the high energy that is provided to atomize the sample particles

of radiation. This problem is overcome by adding ionization suppressors.

**4. Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy with graphite furnace (GFAA)** 

ground state atom population was classified as interference.

classified as interference.

the wavelength being used.

tension, vapor pressure , and density) .

intensity of the line.

temperature.

contaminated air.

were:

that play an important role in the content of chemical species and of many elements in atmospheric ecosystem interfaces. Sodium, K+, Ca2+ and Mg2+ were analyzed with a double beam atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Deuterium and hollow cathode lamps (Photron Super lamp) were used for background correction and analysis.

Calibration standards were prepared under a laminar flux hood, using certified standards for each ion (High-Purity Standards traceable from the National Institute of Standards and Technology, NIST).

Fig. 3. Spectrometers element rapidly oxidizes - largest atom near burner

A calibration curve was used to determine the unknown concentration of an element in a solution. The instrument was calibrated using several solutions of known concentrations. The absorbance of each known solution was measured and then a calibration curve of concentration vs. absorbance was plotted.

The sample solution was fed into the instrument, and the absorbance of the element in this solution was measured. The unknown concentration of the element was then calculated from the calibration curve. The concentration of the analyte element was considered to be

that play an important role in the content of chemical species and of many elements in atmospheric ecosystem interfaces. Sodium, K+, Ca2+ and Mg2+ were analyzed with a double beam atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Deuterium and hollow cathode lamps (Photron

Calibration standards were prepared under a laminar flux hood, using certified standards for each ion (High-Purity Standards traceable from the National Institute of Standards and

Super lamp) were used for background correction and analysis.

Fig. 3. Spectrometers element rapidly oxidizes - largest atom near burner

concentration vs. absorbance was plotted.

A calibration curve was used to determine the unknown concentration of an element in a solution. The instrument was calibrated using several solutions of known concentrations. The absorbance of each known solution was measured and then a calibration curve of

The sample solution was fed into the instrument, and the absorbance of the element in this solution was measured. The unknown concentration of the element was then calculated from the calibration curve. The concentration of the analyte element was considered to be

Technology, NIST).

proportional to the ground state atom population in the flame; any factor that affected the ground state atom population was classified as interference.

Factors that might affected the ability of the instrument to read this parameter were also classified as interference.

The different types of interference that were encountered in atomic absorption spectroscopy were:


#### **4. Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy with graphite furnace (GFAA)**

The GFAA and flame AAS measurement principle is the same. The difference between these two techniques is the way the sample is introduced into the instrument. In GFAA analysis, an electrothermal graphite furnace is used instead. The sample is heated stepwise (up to 3000ºC) to dry. The advantage of the graphite furnace is that the detection limit is about two orders of magnitude better than that of AAS. The analysis of different species of a given element is important because different oxidation states of the same element may present different toxicities and, consequently, different risks. Therefore, sequential extraction procedures for the separation and further analysis of a species have been developed for several metals. Sammut *et al*. (2010) developed a sequential extraction procedure for separating inorganic species of selenium found in the particulate matter of emissions in working areas. Essentially, the method is based on sequential dissolutions of the sampled matrix. Se(IV) and Se(0) can be independently analyzed by GFAA, whereas only total selenium can be detected when analyzed by AAS. This research group also proposed the analysis of beryllium species using GFAA and ICP-AES because metallic beryllium and beryllium oxide in workplaces are associated with different toxicities. These examples highlight the necessity of improving analytical techniques for measuring not only the total concentration but also the different species of a metal dispersed in contaminated air.

The graphite furnace has several advantages over a flame furnance. First it accepts solutions, slurries, or solid samples. Second, it is a much more efficient atomizer than a flame furnance and it can directly accept very small absolute quantities of sample. It also provides a reducing environment for easily oxidized elements. Samples are placed directly into the graphite furnace and the furnace is electrically heated in several steps to dry the sample, ash organic matter, and vaporize the analyte atoms. It accommodates smaller samples but it is a difficult operation, since the high energy that is provided to atomize the sample particles

Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS) 11

Finally, it is worth mentioning that in the last two decades, quantification and characterization of different matrices and materials by atomic absorption spectroscopy has been significant. The development of continuous measurement techniques for certain chemical species is important for governments, mainly in areas where the epidemiological

Percentile

Al 1536.4 97.65 8939.1 570.04 2027.9 1047.8 691.56 1543.6

Cd 2.64 0.09 8.05 1.06 3.99 1.85 0.99 1.75

Cr 23.79 14.08 44.02 18.24 27.20 22.93 22.11 6.62

Fe 1098.6 27.88 4963.8 263.19 1593.8 623.6 315.00 1102.2

Mn 19.23 2.66 45.18 12.11 25.46 14.32 14.32 9.41

Ni 23.03 8.78 52.93 18.03 26.49 20.77 20.77 7.57

Pb 50.78 8.36 128.07 29.48 68.01 35.94 35.94 28.16

V 16.22 2.15 44.52 8.40 23.41 9.93 9.93 10.02

Table 1. Descriptive Statistics: Mean, Minimum (Min), Maximum (Max), 25th and 75th percentiles, Geometric Mean, Harmonic Mean and Standard deviation (Std. Dev.),

A. Báez, R. Belmont, R.M. García, H. Padilla, M.C.Torres. (2007). "Chemical composition of

rainwater collected at a southwest site of Mexico City, Mexico". Rev. Atmospheric

75th Percentile Geometric Mean

Harmonic Mean

Std. Dev.


studies are still being processed.

N=100 (number of samples)

**5. References** 

concentrations of metals in PST collected 2003–2004

Research. 86: 61-75.

Element Mean Min Max 25th

into ground state atoms might also excite the atomized particles into a higher energy level, thus lowering the precision.

GFAA has been the most common instrument used for Pb analysis, and in countries where this element is a criterion for pollution standards, AAS is generally the technique used in the reference methods to quantify it. Garcia *et al*., 2008 determined Pb in total suspended particles in southwest Mexico City, using a nitric acid digestion–based AAS method. An AAS method was used in conjunction with voltammetry for Pb and Cd analysis to evaluate a rapid digestion technique using a microwave oven, comparing this with traditional methods after establishing the optimal efficiency of digestion in terms of power setting, time and the use of different acids (Senaratne and Shooter, 2004).

For low level determination of volatile elements such as As, Ge, Hg, Sb, and Se, hydride generation coupled with AAS provides lower detection limits (milligram–microgram range). The three-step sample preparation for graphite furnaces is as follows:


#### **4.1 Specific sample considerations**

GFAA has been used primarily for the analysis of low concentrations of metals in water samples. GFAA can also be used to determine the concentrations of metals in soil, but sample preparation for metals in soil is somewhat extensive and may require the use of a mobile laboratory. The more sophisticated GFAA instruments have a number of lamps and, therefore, are capable of simultaneous and automatic analyses of more than one element.


The advantages of using atomic absorption spectroscopy are, in our opinion:


into ground state atoms might also excite the atomized particles into a higher energy level,

GFAA has been the most common instrument used for Pb analysis, and in countries where this element is a criterion for pollution standards, AAS is generally the technique used in the reference methods to quantify it. Garcia *et al*., 2008 determined Pb in total suspended particles in southwest Mexico City, using a nitric acid digestion–based AAS method. An AAS method was used in conjunction with voltammetry for Pb and Cd analysis to evaluate a rapid digestion technique using a microwave oven, comparing this with traditional methods after establishing the optimal efficiency of digestion in terms of power setting, time

For low level determination of volatile elements such as As, Ge, Hg, Sb, and Se, hydride generation coupled with AAS provides lower detection limits (milligram–microgram range).

GFAA has been used primarily for the analysis of low concentrations of metals in water samples. GFAA can also be used to determine the concentrations of metals in soil, but sample preparation for metals in soil is somewhat extensive and may require the use of a mobile laboratory. The more sophisticated GFAA instruments have a number of lamps and, therefore, are capable of simultaneous and automatic analyses of more than one element. Plants: Solid samples must be in liquid form to be aspirated by the instrument. Therefore, solid material must be liquefied by means of some form of extraction or digestion protocol. Procedures have been devised that make the total amount of an element in the sample available for assay or that use some particular properties to extract the portion of the element that exists in some chemical forms but not in others. For example, the plant dry ash/double acid extraction method determines the total

 Soil: For ecological purposes, there is more interest in measuring extractable or labile soil constituents than in determining total element content. Certain partitions of the total soil content of a given element are operationally defined by an extraction procedure, and arguments are usually offered that suggest that such partitions correspond to different levels of biological availability or activity. The HCl/H2SO4 double acid extraction method, also referred to as North Carolina and Mehlich-1, is widely used to determine bioavailable Ca, K, Mg, Mn, P, and Zn in sandy acid soils

 Water: Aquatic samples, of course, need no liquefaction step, but researchers must still decide which analyte partition (dissolved, suspended, total) is of interest. Various treatments for each sample partition are detailed in the U.S. EPA's discussion of the

and the use of different acids (Senaratne and Shooter, 2004).

3. Fire/Atomize - atomization of remaining analyte (1 s)

1. Dry - evaporation of solvents (10–100 s)

**4.1 Specific sample considerations** 

element content of the sample.

content partitioning of water samples.


The three-step sample preparation for graphite furnaces is as follows:

characteristic of the eastern and southeastern United States.


The advantages of using atomic absorption spectroscopy are, in our opinion:

2. Ash - removal of volatile hydroxides, sulfates, carbonates (10–100 s)

thus lowering the precision.

Finally, it is worth mentioning that in the last two decades, quantification and characterization of different matrices and materials by atomic absorption spectroscopy has been significant. The development of continuous measurement techniques for certain chemical species is important for governments, mainly in areas where the epidemiological studies are still being processed.


N=100 (number of samples)

Table 1. Descriptive Statistics: Mean, Minimum (Min), Maximum (Max), 25th and 75th percentiles, Geometric Mean, Harmonic Mean and Standard deviation (Std. Dev.), concentrations of metals in PST collected 2003–2004

#### **5. References**

A. Báez, R. Belmont, R.M. García, H. Padilla, M.C.Torres. (2007). "Chemical composition of rainwater collected at a southwest site of Mexico City, Mexico". Rev. Atmospheric Research. 86: 61-75.

**2** 

*Brazil* 

**State-of-the-Art and Trends** 

Maria da Rosa Capri1, Ângelo Capri Neto1,

*1Universidade de São Paulo,* 

*2Universidade Federal de São Carlos* 

**in Atomic Absorption Spectrometry** 

Hélcio José Izário Filho1, Rodrigo Fernando dos Santos Salazar2,

Marco Aurélio Kondracki de Alcântara1 and André Luís de Castro Peixoto1

Atomic Absorption Spectrometry, or AAS, is an analytical technique commonly used for the quantitative and qualitative determination of elements in samples such as aqueous solutions, waters, sea-waters, metals and alloys, glass, drugs, food, environmental samples,

This technique is based on measuring the amount of electromagnetic energy of a particular wavelength (ultraviolet or visible region), which is absorbed as it passes through a cloud of atoms of a particular chemical element (the analyte) coming from samples and standards. An appropriate mathematical treatment allows relating the amount of absorbed energy to the number of absorbed atoms by providing a measurement of the element concentration in the sample. This technique is established, relatively quickly, economically affordable and allows to determine more than 60 chemical elements from a huge type of samples. It is used

The aim of this text is to present concisely this powerful technique providing basic information about fundamental concepts, instrumentation and application. Relevant and effective techniques will be shown including flame atomization, hydride generation, cold vapor and electrothermic atomization or graphite furnace. Fundamental and theoretical details will not be presented on mechanical components, electronic, software and data

Isaac Newton made important discoveries about solar radiation in the 17th Century. He used a glass prism to break up white light into its constituent spectral colors. He studied the separation of white light in details and, from that discovery, he created the reflecting telescope, the Newtonian telescope. He, then, published his corpuscular theory of light by

Two-hundred years after, Wollaston observed dark lines in the solar spectrum known as Fraunhofer lines, after being extensively studied by this German physicist. In 1832, Brewsler

by most of research laboratories and industry quality control around the world.

**1. Introduction** 

**2. A brief history** 

industrial wastes, biological samples among others.

processing. They are deeply discussed in specific literature.

contraposition of Huygens' undulatory theory.


### **State-of-the-Art and Trends in Atomic Absorption Spectrometry**

Hélcio José Izário Filho1, Rodrigo Fernando dos Santos Salazar2, Maria da Rosa Capri1, Ângelo Capri Neto1, Marco Aurélio Kondracki de Alcântara1 and André Luís de Castro Peixoto1 *1Universidade de São Paulo, 2Universidade Federal de São Carlos Brazil* 

#### **1. Introduction**

12 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

Sammut, M. L., Noack, Y., Rose, J., Hazemann, J. L., Proux, O., Depoux, M., et al. (2010). Speciation of Cd and Pb in dust emitted from sinter plant. Chemosphere*, 78*, 445. Senaratne I. and Shooter D. (2004). Elemental compositi of brown haze in Auckland, New

R. García, M. C. Torres and A. Báez. (2008). "Determination of trace elements in total

R. García, R. Belmont, H. Padilla, M. C. Torres and A. Báez. (2009). "Trace metals and

suspended particles at the Southwest of Mexico City from 2003 to 2004". Rev.

inorganic ions measurements in rain from Mexico City and a nearby rural area".

Zealand. Atmospheri 3059.

Chemistry and Ecology. 24(2), pág. 157-167.

Rev. Chemistry and Ecology. 25(2), pp. 71-86.

Atomic Absorption Spectrometry, or AAS, is an analytical technique commonly used for the quantitative and qualitative determination of elements in samples such as aqueous solutions, waters, sea-waters, metals and alloys, glass, drugs, food, environmental samples, industrial wastes, biological samples among others.

This technique is based on measuring the amount of electromagnetic energy of a particular wavelength (ultraviolet or visible region), which is absorbed as it passes through a cloud of atoms of a particular chemical element (the analyte) coming from samples and standards. An appropriate mathematical treatment allows relating the amount of absorbed energy to the number of absorbed atoms by providing a measurement of the element concentration in the sample. This technique is established, relatively quickly, economically affordable and allows to determine more than 60 chemical elements from a huge type of samples. It is used by most of research laboratories and industry quality control around the world.

The aim of this text is to present concisely this powerful technique providing basic information about fundamental concepts, instrumentation and application. Relevant and effective techniques will be shown including flame atomization, hydride generation, cold vapor and electrothermic atomization or graphite furnace. Fundamental and theoretical details will not be presented on mechanical components, electronic, software and data processing. They are deeply discussed in specific literature.

#### **2. A brief history**

Isaac Newton made important discoveries about solar radiation in the 17th Century. He used a glass prism to break up white light into its constituent spectral colors. He studied the separation of white light in details and, from that discovery, he created the reflecting telescope, the Newtonian telescope. He, then, published his corpuscular theory of light by contraposition of Huygens' undulatory theory.

Two-hundred years after, Wollaston observed dark lines in the solar spectrum known as Fraunhofer lines, after being extensively studied by this German physicist. In 1832, Brewsler

State-of-the-Art and Trends in Atomic Absorption Spectrometry 15

have a physical meaning itself, being only a practical classification in accordance with the available technological equipment for its generation and detection. For example, the visible region of light between 400 and 700 nanometers (nm) is directly detected by the human eye

Bohr model has an atom consisting of a nucleus containing protons and neutrons surrounded by a cloud of electrons in fact inhabit specific regions in space. This is known as an orbital. The further an orbital gets from the nucleus, the more they gain potential energy

Quantum Mechanics explains that orbitals have quantized energy levels and for moving an electron to another level, it has to receive or emit the exact amount of energy corresponding

The amount of energy required to move and electron from energy level E0 to energy level E1 can be provided by heat due to a collision with other particles or absorb the energy of a photon. In this case, the energy of a Photon (E = hν = hc/λ) should be equal to the difference between the orbitals (ΔE), this is, only a Photon of a particular wavelength is absorbed and

A more stable electron configuration of an atom is the one with less energy, also known as ground state configuration. The difference of energy between the last full orbital and the next empty orbital of the atom in a ground state is of the same order of magnitude of photons with wavelengths between 200 and 800 nm, this means, photons in ultraviolet

Sodium atom in ground state, e.g., has an electronic configuration of 1s2 2s2 2p6 3s1. The 3s electron can receive a photon with energy of 589.0 nm (E=2.2 eV) and passes to 3p orbital, which is an unstable state known as excited state. Being unstable, the excited atom loses its

One way to lose excitation energy is by emitting a photon of 589.0 nm, a phenomenon known as atomic emission. A photon of 330.3 nm can also be absorbed by sodium. This is the difference of energy between 3s and a 4p orbital (3.6eV), but one photon of 400 nm cannot be absorbed because there are not two orbitals in a sodium atom with the same difference of energy. The return of electron from 4p orbital to ground state can also occur in two steps: first to 4s and then to 3s by emitting two photons with energies correspondent to

The sodium atom can also receive enough energy to remove an electron, turning into sodium ion (Na+), known as ionization. In this case, a change occurs in orbitals of different energy levels, so that the ion has a new set of transition being able to absorb or emit photons

Each chemical element has a unique electronic structure that differentiates from others. This implies in a possible and unique set of transitions, a set of characteristic absorption/emission lines that can be used for identification. Although the set of transitions is unique for each element, there may be a coincidence of spectrum in some lines of two or more elements, which means that different atoms can absorb or emit photons of same

Even though the theoretical basis was established in the beginning of the twentieth century, only in the early 1950s an Australian physicist, Sir Alan Walsh, proposed the phenomenon

can promote that transition. This phenomenon is known as atomic absorption.

**3.2 The atom, energy of a quantum state and electronic transitions** 

to the difference between the two electronic levels (ΔE = E1 - E0).

regions and visible light of electromagnetic spectrum.

of wavelengths differently from metallic sodium.

wavelength.

energy quickly (approximately in 10-8 s) and returns to ground state.

the two transitions in a phenomenon known as atomic fluorescence.

and perceived as visible light (1 nm = 10-9 m).

associated to a determined orbital.

concluded that the Fraunhofer lines were produced due to the presence of atomic vapors in the solar atmosphere that absorbed part of radiation emitted by Sun.

From 1859 to 1861, Robert Bunsen and Gustov Kirchoff demonstrated that each chemical element had a characteristic color or spectrum when heated to incandescence (Na yellow; K violet). Heating several elements during a flame test, they identified characteristic spectra of these elements and established a relation between emission spectrum and absorption spectrum. This explains the black lines in the solar spectrum: atoms in the solar corona absorbing part of energy emitted by Sun (continuous spectrum), originating the black lines observed. This also permits to identify absorbing atoms normally present in the corona, comparing the black lines to elements' emission spectrum produced in the laboratory.

At the beginning of the 20th century, the development of quantum mechanics theory provided mathematical patterns explaining the phenomena, which is the interaction of radiation with the matter. Considering this point, the necessary theoretical basis to develop a new technique of elementary analysis using the phenomenon of atomic absorption was established, but only in 1955, the first proposal of a practical instrument was introduced. At the beginning of the 60s, the first commercial equipment appeared and so far, equipments have been using the same basic components, although with more technologically involved. Understanding this technique requires understanding the phenomenon of emission and absorption of radiant-energy through the matter or, more specifically, through atoms.

#### **3. Basic principles**

#### **3.1 Wave-particle duality: Light**

Electromagnetic radiation is a form of energy described by classical physics as a wave made up of mutually perpendicular, fluctuating electric and magnetic field that propagates at a constant speed. It is characterized by wavelength (λ), (distance between two adjacent waves) and by frequency v (number of waves per unit of time). The speed of light propagated in a vacuum is C=299.792.458 m s-1.

This model explains the energy propagation, but cannot explain its interaction with the matter. That interaction can be explained if we treat energy as a parti**c**le, called photon. A photon is characterized by frequency and wavelength and can transfer energy amount E= hv/ λ, where h is Planck constant (4.135667516×10−15 eV s).

Fig. 1. Regions of the electromagnetic spectrum.

Electromagnetic spectrum is conveniently divided in wavelength rates with specific names (from gamma rays to radio waves) as shown in figure 1. That wavelength division does not

concluded that the Fraunhofer lines were produced due to the presence of atomic vapors in

From 1859 to 1861, Robert Bunsen and Gustov Kirchoff demonstrated that each chemical element had a characteristic color or spectrum when heated to incandescence (Na yellow; K violet). Heating several elements during a flame test, they identified characteristic spectra of these elements and established a relation between emission spectrum and absorption spectrum. This explains the black lines in the solar spectrum: atoms in the solar corona absorbing part of energy emitted by Sun (continuous spectrum), originating the black lines observed. This also permits to identify absorbing atoms normally present in the corona, comparing the black lines to elements' emission spectrum produced in the laboratory. At the beginning of the 20th century, the development of quantum mechanics theory provided mathematical patterns explaining the phenomena, which is the interaction of radiation with the matter. Considering this point, the necessary theoretical basis to develop a new technique of elementary analysis using the phenomenon of atomic absorption was established, but only in 1955, the first proposal of a practical instrument was introduced. At the beginning of the 60s, the first commercial equipment appeared and so far, equipments have been using the same basic components, although with more technologically involved. Understanding this technique requires understanding the phenomenon of emission and absorption of radiant-energy through the matter or, more specifically, through atoms.

Electromagnetic radiation is a form of energy described by classical physics as a wave made up of mutually perpendicular, fluctuating electric and magnetic field that propagates at a constant speed. It is characterized by wavelength (λ), (distance between two adjacent waves) and by frequency v (number of waves per unit of time). The speed of light propagated in a

This model explains the energy propagation, but cannot explain its interaction with the matter. That interaction can be explained if we treat energy as a parti**c**le, called photon. A photon is characterized by frequency and wavelength and can transfer energy amount E=

Electromagnetic spectrum is conveniently divided in wavelength rates with specific names (from gamma rays to radio waves) as shown in figure 1. That wavelength division does not

the solar atmosphere that absorbed part of radiation emitted by Sun.

**3. Basic principles** 

**3.1 Wave-particle duality: Light** 

vacuum is C=299.792.458 m s-1.

hv/ λ, where h is Planck constant (4.135667516×10−15 eV s).

Fig. 1. Regions of the electromagnetic spectrum.

have a physical meaning itself, being only a practical classification in accordance with the available technological equipment for its generation and detection. For example, the visible region of light between 400 and 700 nanometers (nm) is directly detected by the human eye and perceived as visible light (1 nm = 10-9 m).

#### **3.2 The atom, energy of a quantum state and electronic transitions**

Bohr model has an atom consisting of a nucleus containing protons and neutrons surrounded by a cloud of electrons in fact inhabit specific regions in space. This is known as an orbital. The further an orbital gets from the nucleus, the more they gain potential energy associated to a determined orbital.

Quantum Mechanics explains that orbitals have quantized energy levels and for moving an electron to another level, it has to receive or emit the exact amount of energy corresponding to the difference between the two electronic levels (ΔE = E1 - E0).

The amount of energy required to move and electron from energy level E0 to energy level E1 can be provided by heat due to a collision with other particles or absorb the energy of a photon. In this case, the energy of a Photon (E = hν = hc/λ) should be equal to the difference between the orbitals (ΔE), this is, only a Photon of a particular wavelength is absorbed and can promote that transition. This phenomenon is known as atomic absorption.

A more stable electron configuration of an atom is the one with less energy, also known as ground state configuration. The difference of energy between the last full orbital and the next empty orbital of the atom in a ground state is of the same order of magnitude of photons with wavelengths between 200 and 800 nm, this means, photons in ultraviolet regions and visible light of electromagnetic spectrum.

Sodium atom in ground state, e.g., has an electronic configuration of 1s2 2s2 2p6 3s1. The 3s electron can receive a photon with energy of 589.0 nm (E=2.2 eV) and passes to 3p orbital, which is an unstable state known as excited state. Being unstable, the excited atom loses its energy quickly (approximately in 10-8 s) and returns to ground state.

One way to lose excitation energy is by emitting a photon of 589.0 nm, a phenomenon known as atomic emission. A photon of 330.3 nm can also be absorbed by sodium. This is the difference of energy between 3s and a 4p orbital (3.6eV), but one photon of 400 nm cannot be absorbed because there are not two orbitals in a sodium atom with the same difference of energy. The return of electron from 4p orbital to ground state can also occur in two steps: first to 4s and then to 3s by emitting two photons with energies correspondent to the two transitions in a phenomenon known as atomic fluorescence.

The sodium atom can also receive enough energy to remove an electron, turning into sodium ion (Na+), known as ionization. In this case, a change occurs in orbitals of different energy levels, so that the ion has a new set of transition being able to absorb or emit photons of wavelengths differently from metallic sodium.

Each chemical element has a unique electronic structure that differentiates from others. This implies in a possible and unique set of transitions, a set of characteristic absorption/emission lines that can be used for identification. Although the set of transitions is unique for each element, there may be a coincidence of spectrum in some lines of two or more elements, which means that different atoms can absorb or emit photons of same wavelength.

Even though the theoretical basis was established in the beginning of the twentieth century, only in the early 1950s an Australian physicist, Sir Alan Walsh, proposed the phenomenon

State-of-the-Art and Trends in Atomic Absorption Spectrometry 17

ultraviolet ranges. First experiments showed the necessity of a spectrometer with 0.002 nm resolution for using this source, which was impossible with the equipment available by that time. A solution was found changing the emission sources of discrete lines. Then, the first sealed hollow cathode lamp (HCL) was manufactured (Welz et al., 2010), a high intensity atomic emission light source essential for developing the technique and widely

HCL as shown in figure 3 consists of a sealed glass tube filled with inert gas, argon or neon, where an anode (positive pole) and a cathode (negative pole) are placed. The cathode contains an element whose spectrum is required basically in a pure source or an appropriate alloy. For elements that emit radiation in the ultraviolet region, the front window of

When an appropriate difference of power is applied, some atoms of Argon (filling gas) are ionized (Ar+) and accelerated in the cathode direction where they are struck enough with force to eject atoms of the element of interest (Mº). These atoms are struck by other filling gas ions and pass from the ground state into the excited state (M\*), which will return rapidly

The HCL is a source of high intensity that emits simple spectra lines permitting the use of a low resolution monochromator. The disadvantage is the need of a different lamp for each element. The analysis turns slow and become expensive for multi-element analysis

To reduce these problems, there are multi-elemental lamps, whose cathodes are manufactured with a mixture of elements so they emit a characteristic spectrum for each one. The elements that form the cathode should be compatible. It is possible to form an alloy with them and the main lines of spectrum cannot overlap. The disadvantage is that the intensity of emission for each element is lower than a monoelementar lamp, which increases

emission is made of quartz because the glass of the tube absorbs UV radiation.

to the ground state by emitting photon with a characteristic wavelength.

Fig. 3. Scheme of the hollow cathode lamp (HCL).

(determination of more than one element in the same sample).

the signal-to-noise ratio and decreases the sensitivity of the analyses.

used today.

**3.3.2 Hollow cathode lamp (HCL)** 

of atomic absorption as an elementary analysis technique. However, the first scientific equipment was made in the early of 1960s. Despite unavailable technology by that time, two main problems of the technique were solved: to obtain a source that would emit radiant energy of specific wavelength for each element and to generate and to put atoms into a ground state from a sample so they can absorb energy from the source.

#### **3.3 Basic instrumentation**

Every atomic absorption spectrometer presents the same basic components, however, each manufacturer differentiates the configuration due to the analytical demand and according to technological advance. Figure 2 shows the main components of an atomic absorption spectrometer.

Fig. 2. Main components of an atomic absorption spectrometer.

The radiation source may be continuous, emitting from visible to infrared wavelengths or from lines that emit discreet lines, specifically from each chemical element. The modulator helps to differentiate radiation emitted by radiation lamp coming from the environment and, mainly, from the atomization system. The atomization system removes analyte atoms in solution and generates atomic vapor composed of atoms in ground state, putting them between the source and the detector to absorb the radiation emitted. The monochromator is responsible for the selection of photons due to the wavelength that will reach the detector. The detector transforms the energy of photons into a proportional electronic signal and amplifies it. The signal intensity obtained is treated by systems for data acquisition and processing.

At this point, it is important to stand out that the element cannot be directly determined by the atomic absorption spectrometer; even though the system provides that response. A spectrometer measures the amount of electromagnetic energy coming from the source before and after passing through a sample; this is, an indirect measurement of the absorption of energy by atoms present in the sample. To obtain a final result, a series of physical and chemical phenomenon should occur under controlled conditions and the measurement performed should be treated by an appropriate mathematical model. As each component of the equipment plays a part on this work, a more detailed study is essential to understand the performance of this analytical technique as well as its power and limitations.

#### **3.3.1 Radiation source**

Around 1952, when the development of the technique was starting, sources of continuous emissions were used. This means that it was used light in the visible and adjacent ultraviolet ranges. First experiments showed the necessity of a spectrometer with 0.002 nm resolution for using this source, which was impossible with the equipment available by that time. A solution was found changing the emission sources of discrete lines. Then, the first sealed hollow cathode lamp (HCL) was manufactured (Welz et al., 2010), a high intensity atomic emission light source essential for developing the technique and widely used today.

#### **3.3.2 Hollow cathode lamp (HCL)**

16 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

of atomic absorption as an elementary analysis technique. However, the first scientific equipment was made in the early of 1960s. Despite unavailable technology by that time, two main problems of the technique were solved: to obtain a source that would emit radiant energy of specific wavelength for each element and to generate and to put atoms into a

Every atomic absorption spectrometer presents the same basic components, however, each manufacturer differentiates the configuration due to the analytical demand and according to technological advance. Figure 2 shows the main components of an atomic absorption

The radiation source may be continuous, emitting from visible to infrared wavelengths or from lines that emit discreet lines, specifically from each chemical element. The modulator helps to differentiate radiation emitted by radiation lamp coming from the environment and, mainly, from the atomization system. The atomization system removes analyte atoms in solution and generates atomic vapor composed of atoms in ground state, putting them between the source and the detector to absorb the radiation emitted. The monochromator is responsible for the selection of photons due to the wavelength that will reach the detector. The detector transforms the energy of photons into a proportional electronic signal and amplifies it. The signal intensity obtained is treated by systems for data acquisition and

At this point, it is important to stand out that the element cannot be directly determined by the atomic absorption spectrometer; even though the system provides that response. A spectrometer measures the amount of electromagnetic energy coming from the source before and after passing through a sample; this is, an indirect measurement of the absorption of energy by atoms present in the sample. To obtain a final result, a series of physical and chemical phenomenon should occur under controlled conditions and the measurement performed should be treated by an appropriate mathematical model. As each component of the equipment plays a part on this work, a more detailed study is essential to understand the performance of this analytical technique as well as its power and limitations.

Around 1952, when the development of the technique was starting, sources of continuous emissions were used. This means that it was used light in the visible and adjacent

ground state from a sample so they can absorb energy from the source.

Fig. 2. Main components of an atomic absorption spectrometer.

**3.3 Basic instrumentation** 

spectrometer.

processing.

**3.3.1 Radiation source** 

HCL as shown in figure 3 consists of a sealed glass tube filled with inert gas, argon or neon, where an anode (positive pole) and a cathode (negative pole) are placed. The cathode contains an element whose spectrum is required basically in a pure source or an appropriate alloy. For elements that emit radiation in the ultraviolet region, the front window of emission is made of quartz because the glass of the tube absorbs UV radiation.

When an appropriate difference of power is applied, some atoms of Argon (filling gas) are ionized (Ar+) and accelerated in the cathode direction where they are struck enough with force to eject atoms of the element of interest (Mº). These atoms are struck by other filling gas ions and pass from the ground state into the excited state (M\*), which will return rapidly to the ground state by emitting photon with a characteristic wavelength.

Fig. 3. Scheme of the hollow cathode lamp (HCL).

The HCL is a source of high intensity that emits simple spectra lines permitting the use of a low resolution monochromator. The disadvantage is the need of a different lamp for each element. The analysis turns slow and become expensive for multi-element analysis (determination of more than one element in the same sample).

To reduce these problems, there are multi-elemental lamps, whose cathodes are manufactured with a mixture of elements so they emit a characteristic spectrum for each one. The elements that form the cathode should be compatible. It is possible to form an alloy with them and the main lines of spectrum cannot overlap. The disadvantage is that the intensity of emission for each element is lower than a monoelementar lamp, which increases the signal-to-noise ratio and decreases the sensitivity of the analyses.

State-of-the-Art and Trends in Atomic Absorption Spectrometry 19

atomizer is used, the technique is known as Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry

Figure 4 shows an atomizer with a pre-mixture chamber, actually, most commonly used in FAAS. The solution containing the analyte is aspired by a nebulizer, mixed in a nebulization chamber with the gases. The obtained mixture is directed to the burner, where they are

The nebulizer has an orifice for gases and a central capillary tube where the solution to be analyzed is introduced. The gas, generally the oxidant, goes at a high speed and causes a pressure decrease in the capillary that pulls the solution (venture effect) and injects it in the nebulizer chamber as a thin aerosol. This kind of nebulizer typically has a flow rate measurement of 3 to 5 ml per minute and a constant and stable flow is obtained in less than

The mixture, oxidant and fuel gas are homogenized in the nebulizer chamber with the aerosol coming from the nebulizer. It is coated with a resistant material to acid, alkali and various kinds of organic solvent. At the entrance to the chamber, in front of the nebulizer, there is a flow spoiler used to select aerosol droplets: the smaller ones are pulled by gas flow that passes around the spoiler and goes into the burner. This is necessary because small droplets improve the atomization and its homogenized size helps to produce a stable signal. The bigger ones, as they have more mass, are not deviated by the flow of gases, colliding with the spoiler, falling into the back of the chamber and are released by a drain. Approximately 95% of solution is discarded, being one the main restrictions to increase the

After passing through the chamber, solution and gases get to the burner. A burner is a metallic piece, generally a titanium based-alloy or another with high chemical and thermal resistance with a slit of 5 to 10 cm length and 1 to 2 mm width. Gases escape through that slit and are incinerated by forming an aligned thin layer of fire with optic axis of the equipment where the analyte atomization and selective radiation absorption emitted by the lamp occurs. The length of the slit defines the optical path, term used in spectrometry to describe the size of the sample cell, this is, the distance covered by radiation at the same

burned, occurring sample atomization and absorption.

Fig. 4. Scheme of the pre-mixture atomizing.

30 s after starting the aspiration.

technique sensitivity.

(FAAS).

#### **3.3.3 Electrodeless Discharge Lamp (EDL)**

An electrodeless discharge lamp (EDL) is a discrete light source and was presented as an alternative to HCLs (hollow cathode lamps), but with high intensity emissions. They are very useful for more volatile elements with emission lines in UV region, where HCL has a lower performance.

EDLs consist of the element or a salt of the element sealed in a quartz bulb containing an inert gas. The capsule is placed inside a ceramic cylinder involved with a metallic wire coin. A radio-frequency power source distributes energy that passes through a conducting coil creating an oscillating electric field that ionizes gas inside the bulb. As the electric field is oscillating, the ions are accelerated so that they all have enough kinetic energy to excite the metal atoms inside the bulb when colliding with them. When they return to the ground state, the excited atoms release absorbed energy by emitting light with characteristic element spectrum.

Despite of HCLs efficiency, the cost-effective asset acquisition of EDLs is higher over its lifetime so it is normally used when HCLs are not enough to solve a specific analytical problem. Thus, it is more common to find a big quantity of HCLs in laboratories and none or only few units of EDLs.

#### **3.3.4 Modulators**

The atomic absorption spectrometric method is based on measuring the amount of radiation coming from the lamp before and after passing through the sample. However, there are other light sources as the environment and, mainly, atomization system captured in the monochromator. The other light sources interfere in the measurement by reducing signal-tonoise ratio, sensitivity and accuracy of analysis. The solution to this problem is the modulated drive signal of the lamp and combined with the synchronization of the detector to amplify selectively the signal of the lamp. The modulation can be mechanical or electrical and, practically, both of them have similar results.

With old equipments, mechanical modulation is normally performed by a rotating shield located between the lamp and the atomization system, so that the light of the lamp alternately passes through the atomizer or is blocked, at a general frequency of 50 to 60 Hz.

Electronic modulation is the most common among new equipments, where the current of the lamp is on and off rapidly. The equipment electronic circuits compensate variations of the lamp's current, filtrate interfering sources and measure analytical signals.

#### **3.3.5 Atomization system**

Although there are some different techniques used to work with solid and gaseous samples in most of the atomic absorption equipments, these samples are introduced in solution.

To determine the contamination level and amount of lead in fish, e.g., a representative sample of fish is collected, treated, and dissolved in acid or in an appropriate acid mixture. The resulting solution has its volume adjusted and finally taken to the equipment for respective analysis. The lead in the solution is used as an ionic form (Pb2+) but the radiation emitted by the lamp is specific to metallic lead (Pb°), and is not absorbed by the ion lead.

To make a determination, the lead ion has to be separated by a solution, reduced to metallic lead (gaseous form) and placed in the optical path between the lamp and the monochromator. This all is done by the atomization system and mostly common by using a flame to provide necessary energy so that the atomization process occurs. When this kind of

An electrodeless discharge lamp (EDL) is a discrete light source and was presented as an alternative to HCLs (hollow cathode lamps), but with high intensity emissions. They are very useful for more volatile elements with emission lines in UV region, where HCL has a

EDLs consist of the element or a salt of the element sealed in a quartz bulb containing an inert gas. The capsule is placed inside a ceramic cylinder involved with a metallic wire coin. A radio-frequency power source distributes energy that passes through a conducting coil creating an oscillating electric field that ionizes gas inside the bulb. As the electric field is oscillating, the ions are accelerated so that they all have enough kinetic energy to excite the metal atoms inside the bulb when colliding with them. When they return to the ground state, the excited atoms release absorbed energy by emitting light with characteristic

Despite of HCLs efficiency, the cost-effective asset acquisition of EDLs is higher over its lifetime so it is normally used when HCLs are not enough to solve a specific analytical problem. Thus, it is more common to find a big quantity of HCLs in laboratories and none

The atomic absorption spectrometric method is based on measuring the amount of radiation coming from the lamp before and after passing through the sample. However, there are other light sources as the environment and, mainly, atomization system captured in the monochromator. The other light sources interfere in the measurement by reducing signal-tonoise ratio, sensitivity and accuracy of analysis. The solution to this problem is the modulated drive signal of the lamp and combined with the synchronization of the detector to amplify selectively the signal of the lamp. The modulation can be mechanical or electrical

With old equipments, mechanical modulation is normally performed by a rotating shield located between the lamp and the atomization system, so that the light of the lamp alternately passes through the atomizer or is blocked, at a general frequency of 50 to 60 Hz. Electronic modulation is the most common among new equipments, where the current of the lamp is on and off rapidly. The equipment electronic circuits compensate variations of

Although there are some different techniques used to work with solid and gaseous samples in most of the atomic absorption equipments, these samples are introduced in solution. To determine the contamination level and amount of lead in fish, e.g., a representative sample of fish is collected, treated, and dissolved in acid or in an appropriate acid mixture. The resulting solution has its volume adjusted and finally taken to the equipment for respective analysis. The lead in the solution is used as an ionic form (Pb2+) but the radiation emitted by the lamp is specific to metallic lead (Pb°), and is not absorbed by the ion lead. To make a determination, the lead ion has to be separated by a solution, reduced to metallic lead (gaseous form) and placed in the optical path between the lamp and the monochromator. This all is done by the atomization system and mostly common by using a flame to provide necessary energy so that the atomization process occurs. When this kind of

the lamp's current, filtrate interfering sources and measure analytical signals.

**3.3.3 Electrodeless Discharge Lamp (EDL)** 

and, practically, both of them have similar results.

lower performance.

element spectrum.

**3.3.4 Modulators** 

or only few units of EDLs.

**3.3.5 Atomization system** 

atomizer is used, the technique is known as Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (FAAS).

Figure 4 shows an atomizer with a pre-mixture chamber, actually, most commonly used in FAAS. The solution containing the analyte is aspired by a nebulizer, mixed in a nebulization chamber with the gases. The obtained mixture is directed to the burner, where they are burned, occurring sample atomization and absorption.

Fig. 4. Scheme of the pre-mixture atomizing.

The nebulizer has an orifice for gases and a central capillary tube where the solution to be analyzed is introduced. The gas, generally the oxidant, goes at a high speed and causes a pressure decrease in the capillary that pulls the solution (venture effect) and injects it in the nebulizer chamber as a thin aerosol. This kind of nebulizer typically has a flow rate measurement of 3 to 5 ml per minute and a constant and stable flow is obtained in less than 30 s after starting the aspiration.

The mixture, oxidant and fuel gas are homogenized in the nebulizer chamber with the aerosol coming from the nebulizer. It is coated with a resistant material to acid, alkali and various kinds of organic solvent. At the entrance to the chamber, in front of the nebulizer, there is a flow spoiler used to select aerosol droplets: the smaller ones are pulled by gas flow that passes around the spoiler and goes into the burner. This is necessary because small droplets improve the atomization and its homogenized size helps to produce a stable signal. The bigger ones, as they have more mass, are not deviated by the flow of gases, colliding with the spoiler, falling into the back of the chamber and are released by a drain. Approximately 95% of solution is discarded, being one the main restrictions to increase the technique sensitivity.

After passing through the chamber, solution and gases get to the burner. A burner is a metallic piece, generally a titanium based-alloy or another with high chemical and thermal resistance with a slit of 5 to 10 cm length and 1 to 2 mm width. Gases escape through that slit and are incinerated by forming an aligned thin layer of fire with optic axis of the equipment where the analyte atomization and selective radiation absorption emitted by the lamp occurs. The length of the slit defines the optical path, term used in spectrometry to describe the size of the sample cell, this is, the distance covered by radiation at the same

State-of-the-Art and Trends in Atomic Absorption Spectrometry 21

can be freely adjusted by the operator (generally between 0.5 and 2s), however, it can be

A relative concentration on each species of elements M (M+, MA, Mº, M\*, etc.) varies according to different factors, as the temperature and nature of the flame (oxidation or reduction), composition and speed of the solution aspiration, M ionizing power, stability of MA species and flame region observed. As only gaseous species Mº produces the desired analytical signal, all variables are optimized and their concentration can reach a maximum

Air-acetylene is one of the most used flames for elements that show fewer tendencies to form thermally stable compounds. Nitrous oxide-acetylene is used because of its high temperature and low and safe speed burn. For safety measures, the burner with a slit of 5 cm is used for nitrous oxide-acetylene. When air-acetylene mix is used, the preference is

Pneumatic atomizing systems for FAAS are simple, robust and reliable demanding little maintenance, however their technique sensitivity is limited because they discard most of the solution away and also for the little time of resistance of the absorption species in the optical path. This was noticeable since the first beginning of its development and, along the last five decades, several authors proposed alternative ways of atomization. Some of them were developed until the commercialization phase, initially, as basic equipment accessories,

Using a same spectrometer, three more basic atomizers can be used to produce ground state atoms, which are used for specific techniques. These atomizers were adapted because of its limitation to flame AA sensitivity. Despite FAAS is a rapid and precise method of analysis, the need for trace metal analyses at μg L-1 level calls for a more sensitive technique. By examining the flame AA process, a number of areas limit the sensitivity of the technique: the concentration of analyte, nebulizer for flow-low rate liquid sample, and the major sample loss during the nebulizer process until reaching a burner, little time of the sample in the

With exception of analyte concentration, these limitations occur practically with a large amount of atoms in an optical one-way for a longer period of time. This is the basic principle of three different atomization processes that, noticeably, receive the following analytical techniques denomination: Hydride Generation, Cold Vapor Mercury and Graphite Furnace

**Hydride Generation Technique** – First, elements forming volatile hydrides (As, Pb, Sn, Bi, Sb, Te, Ge and Se) can react with reducing agents in mid-acid, generally with sodium borohydride. The gaseous hydrides are transported by the stripping argon flow directly to a cell on the central burner head (air/acetylene) and perfectly adjusted in the optical path of the atomic absorption spectrometer. In either case, they hydride gas is dissociated in the heated cell into free atoms, occurring the absorption process. The maximum absorption reading, or peak height, or the integrated peak area is taken as the analytical signal. For these elements, detection limits below μg L-1 range are achievable. The great advantage of this technique is the separation of specific elements as hydrides (pre-concentration stage), eliminating the interference from the matrix. Figure 6 shows a schematic hydride generator

flame and, finally, chemical interferences occurred during the atomization process.

about 10 cm. Other compositions are rarelly used and only for very specific analyses.

obtained quickly a very reliable and reproducible average.

value exactly in the flame region aligned of the optical path.

achieving then, the status of alternative analyses techniques.

**3.3.6 Other kinds of atomizers** 

Atomic Absorption.

being atomized into the cell by the flame.

means of the absorbent species. In this case, the flame is the sample cell with 5 or 10 cm of optical path, depending on the burner used. The amount of radiation absorbed is proportionally directed to the optical path, thus, the size of the burner influences the sensitivity and the detection limit that can be obtained with this technique.

Figure 5 shows several steps that occur during the atomization process of any element M, initially in solution of ionic M+. The nebulizer and the chamber of nebulizer are responsible for transferring part of a flask solution to the burner, in continuous flow of very small droplets.

Fig. 5. Scheme of atomization mechanism.

When getting to the flame, the solvent dries fast and a solid MA compound is formed where A is an anion present in the solution. The heat is enough to liquefy, vaporize and break the bond of compound MA, releasing gaseous atomic specie Mº in the ground state. This species absorbs a specific wavelength radiation emitted by the lamp. If the temperature were high enough, Mº could be excited to M\* or lose an electron and passed to M+, but these two species do not absorb the wavelength that is measured by decreasing the analytical signal.

The temperature is the variable that most influences the atomization process. The best way to control this variable is through a critical choice of fuel and oxidants gases, and varying the percentage to a fine adjustment among them. As examples of fuel gases, we can cite propane, hydrogen and acetylene. As examples of oxidant gases, we can cite are air, oxygen and nitrous oxide (Skoog et al., 2006).

Although this is a dynamic process, the solution is pulled with constant speed and, therefore, the population of Mº species at the light path is also fairly constant over the time, producing a well stable absorption signal. The number of readings and its respective time

means of the absorbent species. In this case, the flame is the sample cell with 5 or 10 cm of optical path, depending on the burner used. The amount of radiation absorbed is proportionally directed to the optical path, thus, the size of the burner influences the

Figure 5 shows several steps that occur during the atomization process of any element M, initially in solution of ionic M+. The nebulizer and the chamber of nebulizer are responsible for transferring part of a flask solution to the burner, in continuous flow of very small

When getting to the flame, the solvent dries fast and a solid MA compound is formed where A is an anion present in the solution. The heat is enough to liquefy, vaporize and break the bond of compound MA, releasing gaseous atomic specie Mº in the ground state. This species absorbs a specific wavelength radiation emitted by the lamp. If the temperature were high enough, Mº could be excited to M\* or lose an electron and passed to M+, but these two species do not absorb the wavelength that is measured by decreasing

The temperature is the variable that most influences the atomization process. The best way to control this variable is through a critical choice of fuel and oxidants gases, and varying the percentage to a fine adjustment among them. As examples of fuel gases, we can cite propane, hydrogen and acetylene. As examples of oxidant gases, we can cite are air, oxygen

Although this is a dynamic process, the solution is pulled with constant speed and, therefore, the population of Mº species at the light path is also fairly constant over the time, producing a well stable absorption signal. The number of readings and its respective time

sensitivity and the detection limit that can be obtained with this technique.

droplets.

Fig. 5. Scheme of atomization mechanism.

and nitrous oxide (Skoog et al., 2006).

the analytical signal.

can be freely adjusted by the operator (generally between 0.5 and 2s), however, it can be obtained quickly a very reliable and reproducible average.

A relative concentration on each species of elements M (M+, MA, Mº, M\*, etc.) varies according to different factors, as the temperature and nature of the flame (oxidation or reduction), composition and speed of the solution aspiration, M ionizing power, stability of MA species and flame region observed. As only gaseous species Mº produces the desired analytical signal, all variables are optimized and their concentration can reach a maximum value exactly in the flame region aligned of the optical path.

Air-acetylene is one of the most used flames for elements that show fewer tendencies to form thermally stable compounds. Nitrous oxide-acetylene is used because of its high temperature and low and safe speed burn. For safety measures, the burner with a slit of 5 cm is used for nitrous oxide-acetylene. When air-acetylene mix is used, the preference is about 10 cm. Other compositions are rarelly used and only for very specific analyses.

Pneumatic atomizing systems for FAAS are simple, robust and reliable demanding little maintenance, however their technique sensitivity is limited because they discard most of the solution away and also for the little time of resistance of the absorption species in the optical path. This was noticeable since the first beginning of its development and, along the last five decades, several authors proposed alternative ways of atomization. Some of them were developed until the commercialization phase, initially, as basic equipment accessories, achieving then, the status of alternative analyses techniques.

#### **3.3.6 Other kinds of atomizers**

Using a same spectrometer, three more basic atomizers can be used to produce ground state atoms, which are used for specific techniques. These atomizers were adapted because of its limitation to flame AA sensitivity. Despite FAAS is a rapid and precise method of analysis, the need for trace metal analyses at μg L-1 level calls for a more sensitive technique. By examining the flame AA process, a number of areas limit the sensitivity of the technique: the concentration of analyte, nebulizer for flow-low rate liquid sample, and the major sample loss during the nebulizer process until reaching a burner, little time of the sample in the flame and, finally, chemical interferences occurred during the atomization process.

With exception of analyte concentration, these limitations occur practically with a large amount of atoms in an optical one-way for a longer period of time. This is the basic principle of three different atomization processes that, noticeably, receive the following analytical techniques denomination: Hydride Generation, Cold Vapor Mercury and Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption.

**Hydride Generation Technique** – First, elements forming volatile hydrides (As, Pb, Sn, Bi, Sb, Te, Ge and Se) can react with reducing agents in mid-acid, generally with sodium borohydride. The gaseous hydrides are transported by the stripping argon flow directly to a cell on the central burner head (air/acetylene) and perfectly adjusted in the optical path of the atomic absorption spectrometer. In either case, they hydride gas is dissociated in the heated cell into free atoms, occurring the absorption process. The maximum absorption reading, or peak height, or the integrated peak area is taken as the analytical signal. For these elements, detection limits below μg L-1 range are achievable. The great advantage of this technique is the separation of specific elements as hydrides (pre-concentration stage), eliminating the interference from the matrix. Figure 6 shows a schematic hydride generator being atomized into the cell by the flame.

State-of-the-Art and Trends in Atomic Absorption Spectrometry 23

The chosen wavelength is emitted and absorbed with greater intensity by the element and is related to the most probable electronic transition for the atom in ground state. The more transition probability, more frequently it will occur, so , more photons from the wavelength will be emitted. That wavelength or spectral line is known as resonance line. Due to its intensity, it provides a better signal-to-noise relation and the best sensitivity for the analysis. The monochromator is responsible for selecting the appropriate wavelength for analysis. It is a hermetical closed box with entrance and exit slits of 0.2 to 2nm, lenses and mirrors to focus the radiation and a dispersed element that can be a prism or a diffraction grating or a combination of them. It is filled up with inert gas to avoid ultraviolet radiation absorption by the air and normally has the walls painted in matte black to avoid reflection and scattered radiation. The polychromatic radiation enters through the entrance slit, it is separated and only

the chosen wavelength of radiation reaches the exit slit and goes on to the detector.

simple spectra and the monochromator can have a low resolution, around 0.1nm.

the selection of any wavelength by only revolving the diffraction grating.

absorption equipments generally have grating up to 1000 slots per millimeter.

Fig. 7. Diagram of a discrete light diffraction in a Czerny-Turner monochromator.

In practice, the monochromators are not able to isolate a unique wavelength. So, a wavelengths range goes to the detector. The bandwidth depends on the resolution, which is the ability to distinguish between two near wavelengths. The more sophisticated an expensive the monochromator is, the better its resolution is. Most of the lamps used emit

Figure 7 shows a design of a Czerny-Turner monochromator used in atomic absorption. In this project, the radiation enters through the entrance slit and is focused in the diffraction grating (dispersant element) by a spherical mirror. The grating is set up in a gyratory support that allows determining the angles of incidence and reflection and, after separated, the chosen wavelength is focused in the exit slit by another spherical mirror until reaching the detector. This is known as sequential monochromator, because it is possible to determine

In this case, the dispersed element is a diffraction grating. The grating is made on a substratum glass or quartz struck with grooves, cut with very precise angles and covered with a reflexive surface. When reaching this surface, the radiation is reflected at an angle that depends upon the wavelength of the incident ray. Different wavelengths are reflected at different angles, occurring dispersion of radiation. The more the number of grooves, the bigger the resolution of grating and separation are. Although this is not unique, the grating resolution is one of the main factors affecting the monochromators' performance. Monochromators used in atomic

Fig. 6. Scheme of the hydride generation technique.

The major limitation to the hydride generation technique is that it is restricted primarily to the elements listed above, and results depend heavily on the valence state of the analyte, reaction time, gas pressures, acid concentration, and cell temperature. The formation of the analyze hydrides is also suppressed by a number of common matrix components, leaving the technique subject to chemical interference.

**Cold Vapor Mercury Technique** – This technique is only used to determine mercury due to its chemical characteristic reduced to atomic state by a sample reaction with a strong reducing agent as tin chloride or sodium borohydride in a closed reaction system. Similar to the previous system, the volatile free mercury is then driven from the reaction flask by air or argon bubbling through the solution, being carried in the light path of the AA spectrometer. Also, all of the mercury in the sample solution placed in the reaction flask is chemically atomized and transported to the sample cell for measuring the absorbance. The advantage of this technique is that sensibility can be increased by simply addition of the amount of the sample. The detection limit for mercury by this technique is approximately 0.02 μg L-1.

**Graphite Furnace Technique** - So far the most advanced and widely used high sensitivity sampling technique for atomic absorption is the graphite furnace. In this technique, a tube of graphite is placed inside a furnace with rigorous control of temperature, where it can be cooled by current inert gas. The furnace is aligned to permit the passage of the lamp light beam. The importance of this technique requires a more detailed discussion in the following items.

#### **3.3.7 Monochromator**

Lamps used in atomic absorption, as previously mentioned, emit discrete spectral lines. The number of lines depends on different factors as the number of possible electronic transitions from the emitter element, applied current, presence of other emitter elements, and others. Besides that, the atomizing system is a powerful radiation emitter.

The mathematical description to relate radiation absorption with the concentration of analyte in the solution (Beer-Lambert's Law) is based on the measurements with monochromatic radiation, this means, a unique wavelength. On the other hand, the detectors are sensitive to photons and all the range of ultraviolet and visible radiation. Though, it is necessary to have a device between the source and the detector to select and isolate the appropriate wavelength.

The major limitation to the hydride generation technique is that it is restricted primarily to the elements listed above, and results depend heavily on the valence state of the analyte, reaction time, gas pressures, acid concentration, and cell temperature. The formation of the analyze hydrides is also suppressed by a number of common matrix components, leaving

**Cold Vapor Mercury Technique** – This technique is only used to determine mercury due to its chemical characteristic reduced to atomic state by a sample reaction with a strong reducing agent as tin chloride or sodium borohydride in a closed reaction system. Similar to the previous system, the volatile free mercury is then driven from the reaction flask by air or argon bubbling through the solution, being carried in the light path of the AA spectrometer. Also, all of the mercury in the sample solution placed in the reaction flask is chemically atomized and transported to the sample cell for measuring the absorbance. The advantage of this technique is that sensibility can be increased by simply addition of the amount of the sample. The detection limit for mercury by this technique is approximately 0.02 μg L-1. **Graphite Furnace Technique** - So far the most advanced and widely used high sensitivity sampling technique for atomic absorption is the graphite furnace. In this technique, a tube of graphite is placed inside a furnace with rigorous control of temperature, where it can be cooled by current inert gas. The furnace is aligned to permit the passage of the lamp light beam. The importance of this technique requires a more detailed discussion in the following

Lamps used in atomic absorption, as previously mentioned, emit discrete spectral lines. The number of lines depends on different factors as the number of possible electronic transitions from the emitter element, applied current, presence of other emitter elements, and others.

The mathematical description to relate radiation absorption with the concentration of analyte in the solution (Beer-Lambert's Law) is based on the measurements with monochromatic radiation, this means, a unique wavelength. On the other hand, the detectors are sensitive to photons and all the range of ultraviolet and visible radiation. Though, it is necessary to have a device between the source and the detector to select and

Besides that, the atomizing system is a powerful radiation emitter.

Fig. 6. Scheme of the hydride generation technique.

the technique subject to chemical interference.

items.

**3.3.7 Monochromator** 

isolate the appropriate wavelength.

The chosen wavelength is emitted and absorbed with greater intensity by the element and is related to the most probable electronic transition for the atom in ground state. The more transition probability, more frequently it will occur, so , more photons from the wavelength will be emitted. That wavelength or spectral line is known as resonance line. Due to its intensity, it provides a better signal-to-noise relation and the best sensitivity for the analysis. The monochromator is responsible for selecting the appropriate wavelength for analysis. It is a hermetical closed box with entrance and exit slits of 0.2 to 2nm, lenses and mirrors to focus the radiation and a dispersed element that can be a prism or a diffraction grating or a combination of them. It is filled up with inert gas to avoid ultraviolet radiation absorption by the air and normally has the walls painted in matte black to avoid reflection and scattered radiation. The polychromatic radiation enters through the entrance slit, it is separated and only the chosen wavelength of radiation reaches the exit slit and goes on to the detector.

In practice, the monochromators are not able to isolate a unique wavelength. So, a wavelengths range goes to the detector. The bandwidth depends on the resolution, which is the ability to distinguish between two near wavelengths. The more sophisticated an expensive the monochromator is, the better its resolution is. Most of the lamps used emit simple spectra and the monochromator can have a low resolution, around 0.1nm.

Figure 7 shows a design of a Czerny-Turner monochromator used in atomic absorption. In this project, the radiation enters through the entrance slit and is focused in the diffraction grating (dispersant element) by a spherical mirror. The grating is set up in a gyratory support that allows determining the angles of incidence and reflection and, after separated, the chosen wavelength is focused in the exit slit by another spherical mirror until reaching the detector. This is known as sequential monochromator, because it is possible to determine the selection of any wavelength by only revolving the diffraction grating.

In this case, the dispersed element is a diffraction grating. The grating is made on a substratum glass or quartz struck with grooves, cut with very precise angles and covered with a reflexive surface. When reaching this surface, the radiation is reflected at an angle that depends upon the wavelength of the incident ray. Different wavelengths are reflected at different angles, occurring dispersion of radiation. The more the number of grooves, the bigger the resolution of grating and separation are. Although this is not unique, the grating resolution is one of the main factors affecting the monochromators' performance. Monochromators used in atomic absorption equipments generally have grating up to 1000 slots per millimeter.

Fig. 7. Diagram of a discrete light diffraction in a Czerny-Turner monochromator.

State-of-the-Art and Trends in Atomic Absorption Spectrometry 25

In the acquisition and data processing part, the number of repetitions and the time of reading integration, number of samples and number and concentration of the analytical curve solutions, etc. can be programmed. Once the readings are obtained, the program draws the analytical curve, performs interpolation values of absorption and calculates the concentration of the sample solutions. If the mass of a solid sample and the dilutions done after solubilization are provided, the program will directly calculate the concentration of the

Atomic absorption analyses are most commonly performed with standards and samples in solutions. Before introduction into the equipment, the solid samples need to be solubilized in a process generically known as sample preparation. This is a very slow process in the development of an analytical methodology. Considering all analytical operations, this is the most critical and most time-consuming. This analysis might present a large possibility of

There are two large categories of analytical matrices: organic and inorganic samples. The inorganic samples incorporate soil, inorganic substance, sediment, clay and metal. The organic samples or carbon-based includes biological, polymeric, petrochemical and pharmaceutical samples. Organic samples can be solubilized in a dry or wet basis, and in a open or closed systems. These methods guarantee the elimination of organic material and the quantitative recovery of analyte in solution (Kingston & Jassie, 1988; Oliveira, 2003). Decomposition methods via dry ashing consist of burning the sample at elevated temperatures (450-550**º**C), O2 atmosphere to atmosphere pressure. This method allows to calcinate big amounts of samples and to dissolve the ash in a small volume of acid facilitating the sample analysis in case the element of interest comes in small quantity. Some problems may result in the loss of volatile elements due to high temperatures, reaction of the analyte with the crucible material or difficulty with the dissolution of the residue

Wet digestion in open systems consists of the oxidation by an acid or by a mixture of acids aided by heating. This is a technique that requires hard work and can evolve a great amount of toxic products (nitrogen oxides) (Hoenig & Kersabiec, 1996), it also increases the risk of constituent loss and contamination. These problems could be minimized if they were performed in closed places, digestion pumps of PTFE (Teflon), and heated by conduction or convection. In this case, the increase of temperature and pressure increases the speed of the reaction; however, it would take time-consuming or long hours for the digestion/cooling (Figueiredo et al., 1985). The use of digestion procedure in microwave systems is an alternative. Besides reducing the time of decomposition, it avoids contaminating the sample with maximal efficiency of solubilization (Kingston & Jassie, 1988). The microwave has been widely used in the solubilization of samples with high organic content (Binstock, 2000;

Some kinds of inorganic samples take much time to be solubilized via wet digestion methods, even using closed systems in microwaves-assisted. As for example, samples of silicate cement, refractory oxides, minerals and others. Here, a fusion method can be used. It consists of a fusion and reaction of the sample with high-temperature fluxes (300 to 1000ºC), followed by the solubility product formed by an acid or a mixture of acids (Oliveira, 2003). Some common fondants used are lithium metaborate, sodium carbonate and potassium

errors, which may result in a more expensive cost (Kingston & Jassie, 1988).

analyte in the solid sample.

**4. Sample preparation** 

(Hoenig & Kersabiec, 1996; Watson, 1994 ).

Costa et al., 2001; Pouzar et al., 2001; Wasilewsk et al., 2002).

Echelle monochromators, use a diffraction grating and a prism as dispersing elements that spread the spectrum in two dimensions. In the last decade, this kind of monochromator has been mainly chosen because they are well adapted to solid-state detectors are available today. These monochromators are called simultaneous or multi-channels and the measured wavelengths depend on the relative positions of dispersing elements and detector. In this case, it is not possible to determine any wavelengths for the determination, but only the ones that are pre-determined when the equipment is built. In the practice, this is not a very serious limitation, because the solid-state detectors are formed by millions of pixels and each one of them can work as an individual detector. This way, there are hundreds of available lines to be determined.

One of the advantages of these monochromators is that they do not have mobile parts that avoid mechanical defects such as misalignments and looseness occurring with sequential types. Besides that, they permit to determine several elements simultaneously. It does not have much utility when used with lines emission lamps, but there are equipments using continuous sources associated to monochromators of high resolution, which permit a simultaneous determination of over 60 elements in few seconds. These equipments can solve one of the main limitations of the technique with enough time to determine several elements in one same sample.

#### **3.3.8 Detector**

The detector is placed in front of the exit slit and receives the determined photons by the monochromator. It transforms lightning energy in an electrical signal, that is amplified and measured. Detectors mostly used in old equipments are photo-multiplier valves. With modern equipments, they are being substituted by a system based on solid-state detectors type CCD (charge coupled device). They are similar to digital cameras sensors with a set of sensitive pixels to electromagnetic radiation in the UV regions and visible that transforms the energy of photons coming from the monochromator into a digital signal.

Modern CCDs have from 1 to 50 millions of pixels (megapixels) working each one of them as individual detectors. When coupled to an Echelle monochromator of high resolution and to a continuous radiation source, they can transform the atomic absorption spectrometry in a simultaneous technique of analysis. This is a technological advance of great importance and, in practice, this means to pass the determination of one to tens elements every five minutes. Equipments with that configuration are still unusual and much research is being performed about this matter, however, many researchers believe than in a close future this will turn into a standard configuration.

#### **3.3.9 Acquisition of data processing**

In the beginning, the signal obtained in the detector was read in an analogical amperemeter. The value was written down and then, all the calculation was done manually. Nowadays, everything is made by a microcomputer equipped with a specific program for operational control and data processing.

Each manufacturer develops a program according to the characteristics and implemented accessories in the spectrometry, so that everything can be done by software, e.g., how to turn on, how to pre-heat and align the lamps, how to control the gases flow, how to change and align the atomization system, how to program and control automatic samplers and graphite furnace, among others.

In the acquisition and data processing part, the number of repetitions and the time of reading integration, number of samples and number and concentration of the analytical curve solutions, etc. can be programmed. Once the readings are obtained, the program draws the analytical curve, performs interpolation values of absorption and calculates the concentration of the sample solutions. If the mass of a solid sample and the dilutions done after solubilization are provided, the program will directly calculate the concentration of the analyte in the solid sample.

#### **4. Sample preparation**

24 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

Echelle monochromators, use a diffraction grating and a prism as dispersing elements that spread the spectrum in two dimensions. In the last decade, this kind of monochromator has been mainly chosen because they are well adapted to solid-state detectors are available today. These monochromators are called simultaneous or multi-channels and the measured wavelengths depend on the relative positions of dispersing elements and detector. In this case, it is not possible to determine any wavelengths for the determination, but only the ones that are pre-determined when the equipment is built. In the practice, this is not a very serious limitation, because the solid-state detectors are formed by millions of pixels and each one of them can work as an individual detector. This way, there are hundreds of available

One of the advantages of these monochromators is that they do not have mobile parts that avoid mechanical defects such as misalignments and looseness occurring with sequential types. Besides that, they permit to determine several elements simultaneously. It does not have much utility when used with lines emission lamps, but there are equipments using continuous sources associated to monochromators of high resolution, which permit a simultaneous determination of over 60 elements in few seconds. These equipments can solve one of the main limitations of the technique with enough time to determine several

The detector is placed in front of the exit slit and receives the determined photons by the monochromator. It transforms lightning energy in an electrical signal, that is amplified and measured. Detectors mostly used in old equipments are photo-multiplier valves. With modern equipments, they are being substituted by a system based on solid-state detectors type CCD (charge coupled device). They are similar to digital cameras sensors with a set of sensitive pixels to electromagnetic radiation in the UV regions and visible that transforms

Modern CCDs have from 1 to 50 millions of pixels (megapixels) working each one of them as individual detectors. When coupled to an Echelle monochromator of high resolution and to a continuous radiation source, they can transform the atomic absorption spectrometry in a simultaneous technique of analysis. This is a technological advance of great importance and, in practice, this means to pass the determination of one to tens elements every five minutes. Equipments with that configuration are still unusual and much research is being performed about this matter, however, many researchers believe than in a close future this

In the beginning, the signal obtained in the detector was read in an analogical amperemeter. The value was written down and then, all the calculation was done manually. Nowadays, everything is made by a microcomputer equipped with a specific program for operational

Each manufacturer develops a program according to the characteristics and implemented accessories in the spectrometry, so that everything can be done by software, e.g., how to turn on, how to pre-heat and align the lamps, how to control the gases flow, how to change and align the atomization system, how to program and control automatic samplers and

the energy of photons coming from the monochromator into a digital signal.

lines to be determined.

elements in one same sample.

will turn into a standard configuration.

**3.3.9 Acquisition of data processing** 

control and data processing.

graphite furnace, among others.

**3.3.8 Detector** 

Atomic absorption analyses are most commonly performed with standards and samples in solutions. Before introduction into the equipment, the solid samples need to be solubilized in a process generically known as sample preparation. This is a very slow process in the development of an analytical methodology. Considering all analytical operations, this is the most critical and most time-consuming. This analysis might present a large possibility of errors, which may result in a more expensive cost (Kingston & Jassie, 1988).

There are two large categories of analytical matrices: organic and inorganic samples. The inorganic samples incorporate soil, inorganic substance, sediment, clay and metal. The organic samples or carbon-based includes biological, polymeric, petrochemical and pharmaceutical samples. Organic samples can be solubilized in a dry or wet basis, and in a open or closed systems. These methods guarantee the elimination of organic material and the quantitative recovery of analyte in solution (Kingston & Jassie, 1988; Oliveira, 2003).

Decomposition methods via dry ashing consist of burning the sample at elevated temperatures (450-550**º**C), O2 atmosphere to atmosphere pressure. This method allows to calcinate big amounts of samples and to dissolve the ash in a small volume of acid facilitating the sample analysis in case the element of interest comes in small quantity. Some problems may result in the loss of volatile elements due to high temperatures, reaction of the analyte with the crucible material or difficulty with the dissolution of the residue (Hoenig & Kersabiec, 1996; Watson, 1994 ).

Wet digestion in open systems consists of the oxidation by an acid or by a mixture of acids aided by heating. This is a technique that requires hard work and can evolve a great amount of toxic products (nitrogen oxides) (Hoenig & Kersabiec, 1996), it also increases the risk of constituent loss and contamination. These problems could be minimized if they were performed in closed places, digestion pumps of PTFE (Teflon), and heated by conduction or convection. In this case, the increase of temperature and pressure increases the speed of the reaction; however, it would take time-consuming or long hours for the digestion/cooling (Figueiredo et al., 1985). The use of digestion procedure in microwave systems is an alternative. Besides reducing the time of decomposition, it avoids contaminating the sample with maximal efficiency of solubilization (Kingston & Jassie, 1988). The microwave has been widely used in the solubilization of samples with high organic content (Binstock, 2000; Costa et al., 2001; Pouzar et al., 2001; Wasilewsk et al., 2002).

Some kinds of inorganic samples take much time to be solubilized via wet digestion methods, even using closed systems in microwaves-assisted. As for example, samples of silicate cement, refractory oxides, minerals and others. Here, a fusion method can be used. It consists of a fusion and reaction of the sample with high-temperature fluxes (300 to 1000ºC), followed by the solubility product formed by an acid or a mixture of acids (Oliveira, 2003). Some common fondants used are lithium metaborate, sodium carbonate and potassium

State-of-the-Art and Trends in Atomic Absorption Spectrometry 27

may differ substantially from the calibration curve standards. This may occur because of the difference on concentration of dissolved salts, acids and bases, because of the use of different solvents, or when the patterns and sample temperatures are very different. When it is not possible to reproduce the matrix or there are no standardized samples, it is

If the emission intensity of the interest analyte is high, the analyte absorption may decrease due to its reduction of the ground state atoms population. The modulation of the lamp signal eliminates the problem of the detector to measure the emission signal mixed with

There are rare cases in which two elements present in the sample absorb the same spectral line. If the problem is detected, the simplest solution is to change the spectral line. It is very important to obtain previous information about the elements that may interfere in the line used and whether they are likely to be in the sample so that it can be confirmed and solved.

This problem cannot be corrected by the matrix spike test and it occurs due to the light distribution caused by particles present in the flame, or for the light absorption caused by molecular fragments of materials coming from the sample matrix. To solve this problem, the background absorption must be determined and subtracted from the total. This determination is obtained since the analyte absorbs in a straight line and the background forms a wide absorption band. Therefore, an accessory lamp, as a deuterium lamp, that emits a continuous spectrum can be used, either the sample gets the light from the hollow cathode lamp or from the deuterium lamp. As the analyte absorbs very little from the continuous spectrum, the continuous absorption is all from the interference and can be

Quantitative analysis, as mentioned before, is possible due to the relation of the absorbance signal by the concentration of the analyte (Lambert-Beer Law). Basically, the atomic absorption spectrometry analysis consists of comparing absorbance signals of a group from

In order to have a good instrumental performance, that is, to work with maximum analytical sensitivity, it is imperative the evaluation of some of the instrumental parameters. Every part of an atomic absorption equipment needs to be adjusted in order to have an optimization. Basically, these parameters according to figures of merit in AAS are: selection of the wavelength in relation to the concentration of analyte, adjustment of the lamp current, adjustment of oxidant and reducing gases flow, adjustment of the height of the burner and nebulizer pressure, due to the distance of the needle to the nebulizer chamber, selection of the monochromator exit slit and adjustment of the background effect, if necessary. In

Once adjusted all parameters, the determination starts reading the absorbance of the analytical blank, followed by the standards with increasing concentrations. Considering the

subtracted from the total absorption measured by the hollow cathode lamp.

**6. Quantitative analysis in absorption (flame atomization)** 

modern equipments, most of the adjustments are automatic.

signal coming from the lamp. The use of cooler flames may reduce the absorption.

recommended to use the matrix spike test.

**5.4 Emission interference** 

**5.5 Spectral interference** 

**5.6 Background interference** 

patterns and samples.

nitrate, among others. Additional quantity of fondants varies between 5 to 50 times of the sample mass and the high-temperature reaction transforms insoluble compounds in products that can be easily solubilized. As a reference example it can be mentioned silica (SiO2, insoluble in acids except for HF) with sodium carbonate, forming soluble sodium silicate (Na2SiO3). The disadvantage of this method is the time and sample manipulation for its performance and the possible contamination of the samples by impurity fondants. This factor is critical for trace and ultra trace analyses.

After solubilization, other procedures are required for adequate samples and conditions of analysis as the separation of interferences or pre-concentration of elements of interest. The ideal solubilization method should be the simplest to get to dissolve the sample completely and, the most important, the final solution should contain all analytes of interest.

#### **5. Interferences**

Atomic absorption is a very specific technique with a few interferences. Such interferences can be classified into six categories: chemical interference, ionization interference, matrix interference, emission interference, spectral interference, background interference. Since they are very precise, there are available methods that can overcome most of the problems.

#### **5.1 Chemical interference**

If the sample in the flame can produce a thermical stable component of the analyte to be analyzed and if it does not dissociate completely in the flame, the population of analyte atoms that can absorb will be reduced. This will decrease the sensitivity analysis. This problem is normally solved in two ways: with temperature higher than the flame (where the compound is unstable and can be broken down), or adding a sequestering agent. This sequestering agent is a cation that competes with analyte of interest by formation of the stable compound. If the sequestering agent has a higher concentration, the analyte of interest is released to form the atom. A good example of a sequestering agent is the addition of lanthanum to determine Ca in samples that contain phosphate. A high concentration of lanthanum, which also forms a thermally stable compound with phosphate, releases calcium to the atomic state and allows it to be detected with good sensitivity, even when air-acetylene is used as a mix to produce flame. In case of using nitrous oxide-acetylene, this technique is not necessary since the flame is hotter and can break down the calcium phosphate.

#### **5.2 Ionization interference**

Ionization interference occurs when the flame temperature is too high for the analyte and, therefore, has enough energy to take it beyond the neutral atomic state and to produce ions. This also decreases the population of atoms that can absorb. A strategy to solve this problem is by adding ionization suppression to the sample, standards and white. The most common ones are K, Na, Rb and Cs, alkali metals that are easily ionizable and increase the electrons population in the flame, minimizing the formation of other cations. The analyte in the sample will not be ionized so easily. Another strategic is by working with cooler flames, which reduce ionization effects.

#### **5.3 Matrix interference**

Matrix interferences may increase or decrease the signal. They occur because the physicochemical characteristics of the sample matrix (viscosity, burn speed, surface tension) may differ substantially from the calibration curve standards. This may occur because of the difference on concentration of dissolved salts, acids and bases, because of the use of different solvents, or when the patterns and sample temperatures are very different. When it is not possible to reproduce the matrix or there are no standardized samples, it is recommended to use the matrix spike test.

#### **5.4 Emission interference**

26 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

nitrate, among others. Additional quantity of fondants varies between 5 to 50 times of the sample mass and the high-temperature reaction transforms insoluble compounds in products that can be easily solubilized. As a reference example it can be mentioned silica (SiO2, insoluble in acids except for HF) with sodium carbonate, forming soluble sodium silicate (Na2SiO3). The disadvantage of this method is the time and sample manipulation for its performance and the possible contamination of the samples by impurity fondants. This

After solubilization, other procedures are required for adequate samples and conditions of analysis as the separation of interferences or pre-concentration of elements of interest. The ideal solubilization method should be the simplest to get to dissolve the sample completely

Atomic absorption is a very specific technique with a few interferences. Such interferences can be classified into six categories: chemical interference, ionization interference, matrix interference, emission interference, spectral interference, background interference. Since they are very precise, there are available methods that can overcome most of the problems.

If the sample in the flame can produce a thermical stable component of the analyte to be analyzed and if it does not dissociate completely in the flame, the population of analyte atoms that can absorb will be reduced. This will decrease the sensitivity analysis. This problem is normally solved in two ways: with temperature higher than the flame (where the compound is unstable and can be broken down), or adding a sequestering agent. This sequestering agent is a cation that competes with analyte of interest by formation of the stable compound. If the sequestering agent has a higher concentration, the analyte of interest is released to form the atom. A good example of a sequestering agent is the addition of lanthanum to determine Ca in samples that contain phosphate. A high concentration of lanthanum, which also forms a thermally stable compound with phosphate, releases calcium to the atomic state and allows it to be detected with good sensitivity, even when air-acetylene is used as a mix to produce flame. In case of using nitrous oxide-acetylene, this technique is not necessary since the flame

Ionization interference occurs when the flame temperature is too high for the analyte and, therefore, has enough energy to take it beyond the neutral atomic state and to produce ions. This also decreases the population of atoms that can absorb. A strategy to solve this problem is by adding ionization suppression to the sample, standards and white. The most common ones are K, Na, Rb and Cs, alkali metals that are easily ionizable and increase the electrons population in the flame, minimizing the formation of other cations. The analyte in the sample will not be ionized so easily. Another strategic is by working with cooler flames,

Matrix interferences may increase or decrease the signal. They occur because the physicochemical characteristics of the sample matrix (viscosity, burn speed, surface tension)

and, the most important, the final solution should contain all analytes of interest.

factor is critical for trace and ultra trace analyses.

is hotter and can break down the calcium phosphate.

**5. Interferences** 

**5.1 Chemical interference** 

**5.2 Ionization interference** 

which reduce ionization effects.

**5.3 Matrix interference** 

If the emission intensity of the interest analyte is high, the analyte absorption may decrease due to its reduction of the ground state atoms population. The modulation of the lamp signal eliminates the problem of the detector to measure the emission signal mixed with signal coming from the lamp. The use of cooler flames may reduce the absorption.

#### **5.5 Spectral interference**

There are rare cases in which two elements present in the sample absorb the same spectral line. If the problem is detected, the simplest solution is to change the spectral line. It is very important to obtain previous information about the elements that may interfere in the line used and whether they are likely to be in the sample so that it can be confirmed and solved.

#### **5.6 Background interference**

This problem cannot be corrected by the matrix spike test and it occurs due to the light distribution caused by particles present in the flame, or for the light absorption caused by molecular fragments of materials coming from the sample matrix. To solve this problem, the background absorption must be determined and subtracted from the total. This determination is obtained since the analyte absorbs in a straight line and the background forms a wide absorption band. Therefore, an accessory lamp, as a deuterium lamp, that emits a continuous spectrum can be used, either the sample gets the light from the hollow cathode lamp or from the deuterium lamp. As the analyte absorbs very little from the continuous spectrum, the continuous absorption is all from the interference and can be subtracted from the total absorption measured by the hollow cathode lamp.

#### **6. Quantitative analysis in absorption (flame atomization)**

Quantitative analysis, as mentioned before, is possible due to the relation of the absorbance signal by the concentration of the analyte (Lambert-Beer Law). Basically, the atomic absorption spectrometry analysis consists of comparing absorbance signals of a group from patterns and samples.

In order to have a good instrumental performance, that is, to work with maximum analytical sensitivity, it is imperative the evaluation of some of the instrumental parameters. Every part of an atomic absorption equipment needs to be adjusted in order to have an optimization. Basically, these parameters according to figures of merit in AAS are: selection of the wavelength in relation to the concentration of analyte, adjustment of the lamp current, adjustment of oxidant and reducing gases flow, adjustment of the height of the burner and nebulizer pressure, due to the distance of the needle to the nebulizer chamber, selection of the monochromator exit slit and adjustment of the background effect, if necessary. In modern equipments, most of the adjustments are automatic.

Once adjusted all parameters, the determination starts reading the absorbance of the analytical blank, followed by the standards with increasing concentrations. Considering the

State-of-the-Art and Trends in Atomic Absorption Spectrometry 29

of the more volatile constituents in relation to the volatilization temperature of the analyte of interest will occur, remaining for a while to be effective. Immediately and quickly, the temperature of the furnace reaches the temperature of the analyte atomization, differently from others in this phase, the inert gas, usually argon, is interrupted so that the maximum interaction of the atomic cloud with the electromagnetic lamp may occur. This also helps to maximize sample residence time in the tube and increase the measurement absorbance signal. Finally, the cleaning phase (Clean Out) occurs, by using higher temperatures in order to assure there is no remaining residual causing memory effect, which interferes with future atomizations. After all these steps, the system cooling takes place (Cool Down). Besides helping cooling the system and not interfering with the chemical properties of the sample inside the tube during the analysis phase, the inert gas is used to minimize graphite

The figure 9 shows a typical programming in graphite furnace atomization, the characteristic effect inside the tube (lateral side) and the absorption measurement profile.

A significant characteristic of the graphite furnace is its high sensitivity. This technique has been implemented as an analytical routine in several kinds of samples, especially the ones related to environmental. Also, with the possibility of controlling the atmosphere and temperature inside the graphite tube, complex samples can be modified physically and chemically (the later with the addition of the so called chemical modifiers) during the analysis phases, enabling, therefore, a "cleaner" sample during the atomization phase and minimizing matrix interference. Due to advancements in technology and scientific researches, new materials and new modifiers have enabled better sensitivity and the increase of chemical elements can be quantified by this technique. They have made it possible to analyze very complex sample matrices, such as those frequently found in biological and geological samples. The microliter sample sizes used, offer additional benefits in which the amount of sample available for analysis is limited, as in many clinical analysis. Opposite to the significant sensitivity, the signal handling requirements for graphite furnace atomic absorption are much more demanding than those for flame atomic absorption. Graphite furnace signals change rapidly, background levels are higher, and signal interpretation needs are more extensive. Only with the development of an analysis protocol known as the Stabilized Temperature Platform Furnace (STPF), the GFAAS implementation

oxidation of the tube and furnace.

Fig. 9. Furnace thermal stages.

obtained values, an analytical curve is constructed. If the correlation for this curve is significant, it is possible to start the aspiration of the sample solutions and to read the respectives absorbance values. By interpolation in the analytical curve, it is obtained the sample solution analyte concentration value. The concentration value of the original sample is calculated considering the amounts of the samples (mass or aliquot) and respective dilutions.

#### **7. Introduction to graphite furnace atomic absorption**

Differently from other spectrometric techniques, electrothermal atomization can get a total atomization of the sample inside the graphite tube, the signal observed depends on analyze mass rather than concentration, the term "characteristic mass (m0)" is used as a measure of the sensitivity of the furnace. Characteristic mass is analogous to characteristic concentration for flame AA except that mass, rather than concentration, is related to absorbance. The characteristic mass of an analyte is defined as the mass of analyte in picograms required to produce a peak height signal of 0.0044 absorbance or an integrated peak area signal of 0.0044 absorbance-seconds (A.s), which corresponds to only 1% of the total light absorbed (log 100/99). This way, the detection limits in graphite furnace are usually defined in mass units (pg) instead of concentration units.

A basic graphite furnace atomizer is comprised of the following components: graphite tube, electrical contacts, enclosed water cooled housing and inert purge gas controls. Figure 8 shows the basic constituents of graphite furnace atomizer.

Fig. 8. Scheme of the longitudinally-heated graphite furnace atomizer.

The tube is held in place between two graphite contact cylinders, which provide electrical connection. An electrical potential applied to the contacts causes current to flow through the tube, leading to the heating of the tube and the sample. All this system is placed and aligned with the light beam.

Basically, GFAAS methodology consists of 5 steps that, evidently, can be in greater number according to the complexity of the sample. First, the sample (5 to 50 μL) is introduced by an automatic injector, and the analytical programming begins. The temperature of the furnace is slowly increased up to the temperature in which the solvent vaporizes, remaining at this temperature for a certain time. The elapsed time on each analytical phase is crucial, since loss of the analyte by evaporation may occur, or the physicochemical process of the sample may be incomplete, especially in this drying phase, in which the amount of volatile constituents present in the samples is bigger. After the drying phase, the temperature is gradually increased until it reaches the pyrolysis value (Ash), when fusion and evaporation

obtained values, an analytical curve is constructed. If the correlation for this curve is significant, it is possible to start the aspiration of the sample solutions and to read the respectives absorbance values. By interpolation in the analytical curve, it is obtained the sample solution analyte concentration value. The concentration value of the original sample is calculated considering the amounts of the samples (mass or aliquot) and respective

Differently from other spectrometric techniques, electrothermal atomization can get a total atomization of the sample inside the graphite tube, the signal observed depends on analyze mass rather than concentration, the term "characteristic mass (m0)" is used as a measure of the sensitivity of the furnace. Characteristic mass is analogous to characteristic concentration for flame AA except that mass, rather than concentration, is related to absorbance. The characteristic mass of an analyte is defined as the mass of analyte in picograms required to produce a peak height signal of 0.0044 absorbance or an integrated peak area signal of 0.0044 absorbance-seconds (A.s), which corresponds to only 1% of the total light absorbed (log 100/99). This way, the detection limits in graphite furnace are usually defined in mass

A basic graphite furnace atomizer is comprised of the following components: graphite tube, electrical contacts, enclosed water cooled housing and inert purge gas controls. Figure 8

The tube is held in place between two graphite contact cylinders, which provide electrical connection. An electrical potential applied to the contacts causes current to flow through the tube, leading to the heating of the tube and the sample. All this system is placed and aligned

Basically, GFAAS methodology consists of 5 steps that, evidently, can be in greater number according to the complexity of the sample. First, the sample (5 to 50 μL) is introduced by an automatic injector, and the analytical programming begins. The temperature of the furnace is slowly increased up to the temperature in which the solvent vaporizes, remaining at this temperature for a certain time. The elapsed time on each analytical phase is crucial, since loss of the analyte by evaporation may occur, or the physicochemical process of the sample may be incomplete, especially in this drying phase, in which the amount of volatile constituents present in the samples is bigger. After the drying phase, the temperature is gradually increased until it reaches the pyrolysis value (Ash), when fusion and evaporation

**7. Introduction to graphite furnace atomic absorption** 

units (pg) instead of concentration units.

with the light beam.

shows the basic constituents of graphite furnace atomizer.

Fig. 8. Scheme of the longitudinally-heated graphite furnace atomizer.

dilutions.

of the more volatile constituents in relation to the volatilization temperature of the analyte of interest will occur, remaining for a while to be effective. Immediately and quickly, the temperature of the furnace reaches the temperature of the analyte atomization, differently from others in this phase, the inert gas, usually argon, is interrupted so that the maximum interaction of the atomic cloud with the electromagnetic lamp may occur. This also helps to maximize sample residence time in the tube and increase the measurement absorbance signal. Finally, the cleaning phase (Clean Out) occurs, by using higher temperatures in order to assure there is no remaining residual causing memory effect, which interferes with future atomizations. After all these steps, the system cooling takes place (Cool Down). Besides helping cooling the system and not interfering with the chemical properties of the sample inside the tube during the analysis phase, the inert gas is used to minimize graphite oxidation of the tube and furnace.

The figure 9 shows a typical programming in graphite furnace atomization, the characteristic effect inside the tube (lateral side) and the absorption measurement profile.

Fig. 9. Furnace thermal stages.

A significant characteristic of the graphite furnace is its high sensitivity. This technique has been implemented as an analytical routine in several kinds of samples, especially the ones related to environmental. Also, with the possibility of controlling the atmosphere and temperature inside the graphite tube, complex samples can be modified physically and chemically (the later with the addition of the so called chemical modifiers) during the analysis phases, enabling, therefore, a "cleaner" sample during the atomization phase and minimizing matrix interference. Due to advancements in technology and scientific researches, new materials and new modifiers have enabled better sensitivity and the increase of chemical elements can be quantified by this technique. They have made it possible to analyze very complex sample matrices, such as those frequently found in biological and geological samples. The microliter sample sizes used, offer additional benefits in which the amount of sample available for analysis is limited, as in many clinical analysis.

Opposite to the significant sensitivity, the signal handling requirements for graphite furnace atomic absorption are much more demanding than those for flame atomic absorption. Graphite furnace signals change rapidly, background levels are higher, and signal interpretation needs are more extensive. Only with the development of an analysis protocol known as the Stabilized Temperature Platform Furnace (STPF), the GFAAS implementation

State-of-the-Art and Trends in Atomic Absorption Spectrometry 31

Studies about the use of tungsten filament, tantalus and other metals date back from 1960. However, Berndt & Schaldach (1988) presented and developed an open system to work with tungsten filaments. Results obtained as reference solutions demonstrated the power of the tungsten filament as an atomizer for Ba, Cd, Co, Cr, Eu, Mn, Pb, Sn and V determination. The scientific community, therefore, got more interested in this kind of study where tungsten filaments were used as atomizers with different spectrometry techniques. Nowadays, mechanisms to introduce samples in ICP OES and ICP-MS based on electrothermal heat used in graphite and filaments furnace are commercialized. These mechanisms have permitted, besides the liquid sample, solid sampling and slurries samples. However, the literature shows little work related to the use of tapes, tubes or tungsten filaments that can also help the vaporization for sample introduction in different

The use of thermal aerosol in the sample introduction of the tube atomizer (TS-FFAAS, or thermo spray flame furnace atomic absorption spectrometry) in flame (air-acetylene) was initially proposed by Gaspar & Berndt (2000). The system consists of an auto sampler, a peristaltic pump, a ceramic capilar where the sample is introduced into a flame-heated

Fig. 10. Representation of a sample introduction system (From: Gáspar & Berndt, 2000).

The complete introduction of the sample in the atomizer tube as well as the increase of the residence time of the atomic cloud in the optical path (137ms) promote the improvement of the analytical signal to various volatile metals as: Ag, As, Au, Bi, Cd, Cu, Hg, In, K, Pb, Pd, Rb, Sb, Se, Te, Tl and Zn. Consequently, a considerable gain-sensitivity is obtained when compared to FAAS. The detection gain varies according to the element, being able to oscillate by a factor of three (Cu, of 14 µg L-1 in FAAS for 4.2 µg L-1 in TS-FF-FAAS) or, as observed for Cd, in a factor of 110 (Cd, of 34 µg L-1 in FAAS for 0.31 µg L-1 in TS-FF-FAAS). The aerosol formation is based on Leidenfrost effect, in which the heated surface of the capillary generates an increasing temperature and a steam layer in the capillary wall that helps with the drop and pulverization. This makes that the steam phase of the sample be

**8. Technological innovations** 

**8.1 Tungsten filament** 

spectrometric techniques.

nickel tube (Figure 10).

**8.2 Flame tubular furnace and thermal aerosol** 

has been intensified due to the analytical efficiency acquired. This way, combining the stability in the analyte atomization provided by background correction (Zeeman) and the experimental conditions that minimize graphite furnace interferences, this development is mainly financed by the manufacturers of AA equipment and a large number of scientific work have been published.

These factors (STPF) contribute significantly to precision and detection limit performance: the L'vov platform (pyrolytic coating), whose function is to delay atomization and longitudinal heating until the furnace tube has reached steady state conditions; fast electronics to accurately follow the changing signal absorbance with symmetrical profiles; use of integrated peak absorbance signals to accurately quantitative the analyte regardless of changes in peak shape caused by the matrix; matrix modifiers to convert the analyte to less volatile compounds in the step atomization and which are atomized only after the furnace tube has reached a steady state temperature or to make the matrix components more volatile that are eliminated in the ash step, and maximum power heating to bring the furnace to a steady state temperature before the analyte is atomized.

The Zeeman Effect with the magnet on the analyte is an ideal performance to perform background correction for graphite furnace analyses. Correction occurs at precisely the same wavelength used for analysis, thus correcting properly even when the background is structured. The Zeeman Effect uses the identical light source with the same electrical source conditions to produce both the analytical and background signals. This corrects at the same time for source or detector drift and for non-atomic absorption.

In fact, with the condition of STPF applications, the diverse kinds and powerful background corrections and high sensitivity make electrothermal atomization be one of the most used among the atomic absorption techniques. Allied to other separation techniques (chromatography), continuous measurement systems (CMS) and solid sample, this latter in a vertiginous application in diverse matrices, GFAAS stands out not only in the use of analytical routine for diverse industrial segments, but also in scientific aspects and they will be referred in the application item of atomic absorption spectrometry.

#### **7.1 Background correction**

Radiation from lamp is attenuated by non-atomic source: molecular species, solid particles, absorption and scatter. The signal is added to atomic signal results in falsely high signal. This problem is more severe in graphite furnace than in FAAS.

Small analyte signals should not be measured in the presence of high background since it reduces energy at detector according to the high absorbance, reduces signal-to-noise-ratio and degraded precision and accuracy. Several techniques allow subtraction of background from total absorbance measurement.

The measurement of signal absorption in a determination by AAS is given according to the following sequence: first, the detector receives the signal: atomic + non-specific after the atomization; then, the same detector receives the signal only from the background correction: non-specific only; finally, measurements are timely separated in a few milliseconds, atomic absorption calculated: total absorbance - background absorbance = atomic absorbance.

Common background correction techniques are Deuterium for the atomization flame, Zeeman for the atomization graphite furnace and the least common Smith-Hieftje setup.

### **8. Technological innovations**

#### **8.1 Tungsten filament**

30 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

has been intensified due to the analytical efficiency acquired. This way, combining the stability in the analyte atomization provided by background correction (Zeeman) and the experimental conditions that minimize graphite furnace interferences, this development is mainly financed by the manufacturers of AA equipment and a large number of scientific

These factors (STPF) contribute significantly to precision and detection limit performance: the L'vov platform (pyrolytic coating), whose function is to delay atomization and longitudinal heating until the furnace tube has reached steady state conditions; fast electronics to accurately follow the changing signal absorbance with symmetrical profiles; use of integrated peak absorbance signals to accurately quantitative the analyte regardless of changes in peak shape caused by the matrix; matrix modifiers to convert the analyte to less volatile compounds in the step atomization and which are atomized only after the furnace tube has reached a steady state temperature or to make the matrix components more volatile that are eliminated in the ash step, and maximum power heating to bring the furnace to a

The Zeeman Effect with the magnet on the analyte is an ideal performance to perform background correction for graphite furnace analyses. Correction occurs at precisely the same wavelength used for analysis, thus correcting properly even when the background is structured. The Zeeman Effect uses the identical light source with the same electrical source conditions to produce both the analytical and background signals. This corrects at the same

In fact, with the condition of STPF applications, the diverse kinds and powerful background corrections and high sensitivity make electrothermal atomization be one of the most used among the atomic absorption techniques. Allied to other separation techniques (chromatography), continuous measurement systems (CMS) and solid sample, this latter in a vertiginous application in diverse matrices, GFAAS stands out not only in the use of analytical routine for diverse industrial segments, but also in scientific aspects and they will

Radiation from lamp is attenuated by non-atomic source: molecular species, solid particles, absorption and scatter. The signal is added to atomic signal results in falsely high signal.

Small analyte signals should not be measured in the presence of high background since it reduces energy at detector according to the high absorbance, reduces signal-to-noise-ratio and degraded precision and accuracy. Several techniques allow subtraction of background

The measurement of signal absorption in a determination by AAS is given according to the following sequence: first, the detector receives the signal: atomic + non-specific after the atomization; then, the same detector receives the signal only from the background correction: non-specific only; finally, measurements are timely separated in a few milliseconds, atomic absorption calculated: total absorbance - background absorbance =

Common background correction techniques are Deuterium for the atomization flame, Zeeman for the atomization graphite furnace and the least common Smith-Hieftje setup.

work have been published.

**7.1 Background correction** 

from total absorbance measurement.

atomic absorbance.

steady state temperature before the analyte is atomized.

time for source or detector drift and for non-atomic absorption.

be referred in the application item of atomic absorption spectrometry.

This problem is more severe in graphite furnace than in FAAS.

Studies about the use of tungsten filament, tantalus and other metals date back from 1960. However, Berndt & Schaldach (1988) presented and developed an open system to work with tungsten filaments. Results obtained as reference solutions demonstrated the power of the tungsten filament as an atomizer for Ba, Cd, Co, Cr, Eu, Mn, Pb, Sn and V determination. The scientific community, therefore, got more interested in this kind of study where tungsten filaments were used as atomizers with different spectrometry techniques. Nowadays, mechanisms to introduce samples in ICP OES and ICP-MS based on electrothermal heat used in graphite and filaments furnace are commercialized. These mechanisms have permitted, besides the liquid sample, solid sampling and slurries samples. However, the literature shows little work related to the use of tapes, tubes or tungsten filaments that can also help the vaporization for sample introduction in different spectrometric techniques.

#### **8.2 Flame tubular furnace and thermal aerosol**

The use of thermal aerosol in the sample introduction of the tube atomizer (TS-FFAAS, or thermo spray flame furnace atomic absorption spectrometry) in flame (air-acetylene) was initially proposed by Gaspar & Berndt (2000). The system consists of an auto sampler, a peristaltic pump, a ceramic capilar where the sample is introduced into a flame-heated nickel tube (Figure 10).

Fig. 10. Representation of a sample introduction system (From: Gáspar & Berndt, 2000).

The complete introduction of the sample in the atomizer tube as well as the increase of the residence time of the atomic cloud in the optical path (137ms) promote the improvement of the analytical signal to various volatile metals as: Ag, As, Au, Bi, Cd, Cu, Hg, In, K, Pb, Pd, Rb, Sb, Se, Te, Tl and Zn. Consequently, a considerable gain-sensitivity is obtained when compared to FAAS. The detection gain varies according to the element, being able to oscillate by a factor of three (Cu, of 14 µg L-1 in FAAS for 4.2 µg L-1 in TS-FF-FAAS) or, as observed for Cd, in a factor of 110 (Cd, of 34 µg L-1 in FAAS for 0.31 µg L-1 in TS-FF-FAAS). The aerosol formation is based on Leidenfrost effect, in which the heated surface of the capillary generates an increasing temperature and a steam layer in the capillary wall that helps with the drop and pulverization. This makes that the steam phase of the sample be

State-of-the-Art and Trends in Atomic Absorption Spectrometry 33

metals from complex samples is another strategy for sample preparation and interesting for

Addition to the elements that form volatile hydrides, also, a number of metals could be employed for analytical purpose. During the last years much research was done to widen the circle of metals which could be determined in this way and to know more about the volatile species generation mechanisms. Room temperature ionic liquids further were found to enhance the chemical vapor generation of transitions elements following reduction in

In relation to sample introduction by electrothermal systems the background correction further remains a topic of methodological development in GFAAS and SIMAAS (simultaneous atomic absorption spectrometry with electrothermal atomization). In the case of diode laser electrothermal atomization, both Zeeman and wavelength modulated atomic absorption could be shown to be valuable, and the detection limits obtained were shown to be at the same level as in coherent forward scattering in the case of crossed polarizers . With diode lasers in GFAAS, also, isotopic dilution could be applied for calibration, as Dopplerfree measurements are possible. Apart from graphite furnace, also, tungsten furnaces remain a topic of investigation. Though they do not have the advantages of graphite furnaces in the sense of a reduction of the analytes from the oxides to the elemental form nor do they have the precision as a result of a good sample uptake, they have the advantage of

Furnace atomic absorption spectrometry retained its original form stemming from L'vov and Massmann's work, however, in every part of the system, considerable innovation occurred. In graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry (GFAAS), special attention has been paid to the thermochemical processes responsible for the atom cloud formation, as they are of crucial importance for the signal magnitude and form and, accordingly, for the accuracy and precision achievable. The stabilized temperature platform principle by a number of groups has been shown to be very powerful to eliminate a number of volatilization interferences in GFAAS. Similarly, lots of work have been published with the surface of graphite tube modified, mainly covered with refractory carbides that, besides improving atomization conditions, increases considerable the life cycle of the tube. Works have been published for the formation of refractory carbides and tubes and graphite platforms by using different methodologies and proving the efficiency through physical analyses (Izário Filho et al., 2001a, 2001b, 2001c). Direct solids sampling can be realized in flame AAS but innovation especially occurs in the case of electrothermal atomization. The less manipulation of sample is the great advantage of solid sampling when compared with sample preparation with dry or wet digestion. The use of the solid sample is associated to determinations of semi-metallic and non-metallic elements into the atomic absorption system, the HR-CS AAS, mainly for determination of phosphorous and sulphur in samples of petroleum, fuel and other derivatives. Welz and Curtius are exponents who developed

environmental sample application (Bings et al., 2010).

being cheaper and without risks for stable carbide formation.

applications of HR-CS AAS for elementary analysis and molecular analysis.

On the other hand, special problem in direct solids analysis is the calibration. In direct solids GFAAS, it has been proposed to use spiked filter papers for the determination of transitions elements in vegetable samples. For a sampling of powders, the use of slurries is very convenient, e.g., in the direct determination of elements in gel forming konjac samples by enzymatic hydrolysis assisted slurry sampling GFAAS. The direct sampling of powder

acidified aqueous solution with KBH4.

superior to the liquid phase present in the tube. Pereira-Filho et al., (2002) published the first work involving analytical application of TS-FF**-**AAS for the determination of Cd, Cu and Pb in biological samples suspensions. Perspective techniques have found direct injection of slurries as a good alternative to contour problems with the sample preparation, being chemical analysis the most difficult ones. Another possibility aims for synergistic effects with multi-elementary measurements, high sensitivity and selectivity of a high resolution continuum source atomic absorption, because there are no reports applying metallic atomizers with this technique.

#### **8.3 High resolution continuous source atomic**

Although the first atomic absorption spectrometry developed in the 19th century used a continuous source. Only at the end of the 20th century, it was possible to use atomic absorption spectrometry with continuum source. Improving the background corrections and diffraction patterns allied to studies and development proposed by the group of Harnly and Becker-Ross, the necessary technological maturity resulted in the atomic absorption spectrometry of high resolution and continuum source (HR-CS-AAS). This equipment is composed by Xenon arc lamp, ellipsoidal mirror, atomizer (flame or graphite furnace); entrance slit, paraboloid mirrors, prism, adjusted intermediate slit, echelle and CCD detector. This equipment contains a small Xenon arc lamp operating at 15 bar high pressure in a hot spot mode with a continuous emission monitoring system between 190 to 850 nm allowing a multi-elementary analytical determination.

Relating to measurements and background correction, the high resolution of the monochromator and CCD detector permit to identify the origin of atoms or molecular and eliminate them with an adequate procedure. Besides that, the atomic absorption measurement and the background are strictly simultaneous, permitting to visualize background signals. Some advantages of HR-CS-AAS and the use on a unique radiation source for all elements can be mentioned, multi-elementary determination, improvement of signal-noise-ratio due to the high emission intensity of Xenon lamp and, consequently, increase of the calibration range with variation until 5 orders of magnitude, simultaneous background correction in the proximity of the analytical line and better analytical performance of trace elements in complex samples.

#### **9. New tendencies**

In atomic absorption spectrometry or AAS, both with the classical flame AAS and with furnace AAS innovation took place. Remarkable efforts, however, were made to use all types of methods allowing volatile species generation with metals. Flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS) is a mature analytical method, which is present in almost any analytical laboratory as a working horse for elemental determinations of metals. Innovation, however, is still going on with respect to the introduction of the sample into the atomizer and the increase of the analyte sampling efficiencies and residence times in the atomizer. By the so-called furnace in flame approach for volatile elements or volatile species forming elements especially, the sampling efficiency can be considerably increased as compared to conventional pneumatic nebulization with the improvement of limit of detection for lots of elements. A further technique for sample introduction which remains to attract the interest is thermospray. The use of cloud point extraction for isolating and pre-enriching heavy

superior to the liquid phase present in the tube. Pereira-Filho et al., (2002) published the first work involving analytical application of TS-FF**-**AAS for the determination of Cd, Cu and Pb in biological samples suspensions. Perspective techniques have found direct injection of slurries as a good alternative to contour problems with the sample preparation, being chemical analysis the most difficult ones. Another possibility aims for synergistic effects with multi-elementary measurements, high sensitivity and selectivity of a high resolution continuum source atomic absorption, because there are no reports applying

Although the first atomic absorption spectrometry developed in the 19th century used a continuous source. Only at the end of the 20th century, it was possible to use atomic absorption spectrometry with continuum source. Improving the background corrections and diffraction patterns allied to studies and development proposed by the group of Harnly and Becker-Ross, the necessary technological maturity resulted in the atomic absorption spectrometry of high resolution and continuum source (HR-CS-AAS). This equipment is composed by Xenon arc lamp, ellipsoidal mirror, atomizer (flame or graphite furnace); entrance slit, paraboloid mirrors, prism, adjusted intermediate slit, echelle and CCD detector. This equipment contains a small Xenon arc lamp operating at 15 bar high pressure in a hot spot mode with a continuous emission monitoring system between 190 to 850 nm

Relating to measurements and background correction, the high resolution of the monochromator and CCD detector permit to identify the origin of atoms or molecular and eliminate them with an adequate procedure. Besides that, the atomic absorption measurement and the background are strictly simultaneous, permitting to visualize background signals. Some advantages of HR-CS-AAS and the use on a unique radiation source for all elements can be mentioned, multi-elementary determination, improvement of signal-noise-ratio due to the high emission intensity of Xenon lamp and, consequently, increase of the calibration range with variation until 5 orders of magnitude, simultaneous background correction in the proximity of the analytical line and better analytical

In atomic absorption spectrometry or AAS, both with the classical flame AAS and with furnace AAS innovation took place. Remarkable efforts, however, were made to use all types of methods allowing volatile species generation with metals. Flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS) is a mature analytical method, which is present in almost any analytical laboratory as a working horse for elemental determinations of metals. Innovation, however, is still going on with respect to the introduction of the sample into the atomizer and the increase of the analyte sampling efficiencies and residence times in the atomizer. By the so-called furnace in flame approach for volatile elements or volatile species forming elements especially, the sampling efficiency can be considerably increased as compared to conventional pneumatic nebulization with the improvement of limit of detection for lots of elements. A further technique for sample introduction which remains to attract the interest is thermospray. The use of cloud point extraction for isolating and pre-enriching heavy

metallic atomizers with this technique.

**8.3 High resolution continuous source atomic** 

allowing a multi-elementary analytical determination.

performance of trace elements in complex samples.

**9. New tendencies** 

metals from complex samples is another strategy for sample preparation and interesting for environmental sample application (Bings et al., 2010).

Addition to the elements that form volatile hydrides, also, a number of metals could be employed for analytical purpose. During the last years much research was done to widen the circle of metals which could be determined in this way and to know more about the volatile species generation mechanisms. Room temperature ionic liquids further were found to enhance the chemical vapor generation of transitions elements following reduction in acidified aqueous solution with KBH4.

In relation to sample introduction by electrothermal systems the background correction further remains a topic of methodological development in GFAAS and SIMAAS (simultaneous atomic absorption spectrometry with electrothermal atomization). In the case of diode laser electrothermal atomization, both Zeeman and wavelength modulated atomic absorption could be shown to be valuable, and the detection limits obtained were shown to be at the same level as in coherent forward scattering in the case of crossed polarizers . With diode lasers in GFAAS, also, isotopic dilution could be applied for calibration, as Dopplerfree measurements are possible. Apart from graphite furnace, also, tungsten furnaces remain a topic of investigation. Though they do not have the advantages of graphite furnaces in the sense of a reduction of the analytes from the oxides to the elemental form nor do they have the precision as a result of a good sample uptake, they have the advantage of being cheaper and without risks for stable carbide formation.

Furnace atomic absorption spectrometry retained its original form stemming from L'vov and Massmann's work, however, in every part of the system, considerable innovation occurred. In graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry (GFAAS), special attention has been paid to the thermochemical processes responsible for the atom cloud formation, as they are of crucial importance for the signal magnitude and form and, accordingly, for the accuracy and precision achievable. The stabilized temperature platform principle by a number of groups has been shown to be very powerful to eliminate a number of volatilization interferences in GFAAS. Similarly, lots of work have been published with the surface of graphite tube modified, mainly covered with refractory carbides that, besides improving atomization conditions, increases considerable the life cycle of the tube. Works have been published for the formation of refractory carbides and tubes and graphite platforms by using different methodologies and proving the efficiency through physical analyses (Izário Filho et al., 2001a, 2001b, 2001c). Direct solids sampling can be realized in flame AAS but innovation especially occurs in the case of electrothermal atomization. The less manipulation of sample is the great advantage of solid sampling when compared with sample preparation with dry or wet digestion. The use of the solid sample is associated to determinations of semi-metallic and non-metallic elements into the atomic absorption system, the HR-CS AAS, mainly for determination of phosphorous and sulphur in samples of petroleum, fuel and other derivatives. Welz and Curtius are exponents who developed applications of HR-CS AAS for elementary analysis and molecular analysis.

On the other hand, special problem in direct solids analysis is the calibration. In direct solids GFAAS, it has been proposed to use spiked filter papers for the determination of transitions elements in vegetable samples. For a sampling of powders, the use of slurries is very convenient, e.g., in the direct determination of elements in gel forming konjac samples by enzymatic hydrolysis assisted slurry sampling GFAAS. The direct sampling of powder

State-of-the-Art and Trends in Atomic Absorption Spectrometry 35

Feng, S.; Huang, Z. & Li, P. (2011). Solid phase extraction and flame atomic absorption

Figueiredo, B.R.; Jacinto, A.O.; Reis, B.F.; Zagatto, E.A.G.; Krug, F.J.; Giné, M.F.R.; Araújo,

*eliminação automática de interferências*. Editora da Unicamp; Campinas. Gáspar, A. & Berndt, H. (2000). Thermospray flame furnace atomic absorption spectrometry

in the µg/l concentration range. *Spectrochimica Acta B*, Vol.55, pp.587-597. Hoenig, M. & Kersabiec, A.M. (1996). Sample preparation steps for analysis by atomic

Izário Filho, H.J.; Vernilli Junior, F.; Pinto, D.V.B.S.; Baccan, N. & Sartori, A.F. (2001a).

Izário Filho, H.J.; Vernilli Junior, F.; Pinto, D.V.B.S.; Baccan, N. & Sartori, A.F. (2001b).

em meio de fluoretos fundidos. *Cerâmica*, Vol.47, No.303, pp.149-152. Izário Filho, H.J.; Vernilli Junior, F.; Pinto, D.V.B.S.; Baccan, N.; Sartori, A.F. (2001c).

Suspensão Aquosa de Ta e Ta2O5. *Cerâmica*, Vol.47, No.303, pp.153-157. Lodders, K. (2003). Solar system abundances and condensation temperatures of the

Oliveira, E. (2003). Sample preparation for atomic spectroscopy: Evolution and future trends. *Journal of Brazilian Chemistry Society*, Vol.14, No.2, pp.174-182. Pereira-Filho, E.R.; Berndt, H. & Arruda, M.A.Z. (2002). Simultaneous sample digestion

Pouzar, M.; Cernohorskyt. & Krejcova, A. (2001). Determination of metals in lubricating by

Skoog, D.A.; West, D.M.; Holler, F.J. & Crouch, S.R. (2006). *Fundamentos de química analítica*,

Vogel, A.R.; Mendham, J.; Denney, R.C.; Barnes, J.D. & Thomas, M. (2002). *Análise química* 

Wasilewsk, A.M.; Goessler, W.; Zischka, M.; Maichin, B.; Wasilewska, M.; Goessler, W.;

Watson, C.A. (1994). *Official and standardized methods of analysis*. 3rd Edition. The Royal

Zischka, M.; Maichin, B. & Knapp, G.G. (2002). Efficiency of Oxidation in Wet digestion procedures and influence from the residual organic carbon content on selected techniques for determination of trace elements. *Journal of Analytical atomic* 

Solução Aquosa de TaF72-. *Cerâmica*, Vol.47, n.303, pp.144-148.

elements. *The Astrophysical Journal*, Vol.591, pp. 1220-1247.

X-ray fluorescence. *Spectrometry*, Vol.54, No.5, pp.829-835.

8th Edition, Thomson, São Paulo.

*quantitativa*, 6th Edition, Editora LTC. 462p.

*Spectrometry*, Vol.17, No.9, pp.1121-1125.

Society of Chemistry, p 461, 749.

No.4, (April 2011), pp.1573-1576.

1315.

spectrometry for the determination of cobalt. *Asian Journal of Chemistry*, Vol.23,

M.C.U., Pereira, N.M. & Bruns, R.E. (1985). *Análise química de rochas por ICP-OES;* 

(TS-FFAAS): A simple method for trace element determination with microsamples

spectroscopy methods: Present status. *Spectrochemistry Acta*, Vol.51-B, pp.1297-1307.

Tratamento para obtenção de TaC em superfície de grafite. Parte I: Imersão em

Tratamento para obtenção de TaC em superfície de grafite. Parte II: eletrodeposição

Tratamento para obtenção de TaC em superfície de grafite. Parte III: Imersão em

and determination of Cd, Cu and Pb in biological samples using thermospray flame furnace atomic absorption spectrometry (TS-FFAAS) with slurry sample introduction. *Journal of Analitical Atomic Spectrometry*, Vol.17, n.10, pp.1308-

samples and the injection of slurries under the use of a modifier mixture of Pd and Mg salts, where the solid sampling technique was found to be the most sensitive and easy technique.

#### **10. Technical applications and research**

As discussed in this text, Atomic Absorption Spectrometry have been used for the quantitative and qualitative determination of chemical elements on samples such as aqueous solutions, waters, sea-waters, metals and alloys, glass, drugs, food, environmental samples, industrial wastes, biological samples among others. Studies have been conducted using variations of the AAS, as flame (FAAS), hydride generation (HG-AAS) and graphitefurnace or electro-thermal (GFAAS or ETAAS) (Vogel et al., 2002). Quite whole work proposed some differential aspects related to the methodology or to the equipment. In some cases, association with other procedures or techniques, results in a hybrid technique, as occurs when AAS is used together with continuous flow-injection (FIA) or highperformance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Other technical advances are proposed too, as the use of integrated contact furnace (ICF), tungsten coil, or the association of TS-FF**-**AAS, acronym of thermal spray flame furnace AAS.

To estimate the importance of a subject to the scientific world is a very complex matter. Many criteria may be used, each one with vantages and disadvantages. In order to only illustrate the importance and the evolution of the atomic absorption spectrometry, we did a rapid search in the Science Direct <http://www.sciencedirect.com>, considering "atomic absorption spectrometry" as key-word in TITLE-ABSTR-KEY. Two periods were considered: the whole period (about half-century, since the first article was published) and the most recent one (from 2010 until present data, july 2011). Our rapid search returned 5,637 scientific papers, considering the whole period. A significant fraction of the works (463 articles, or 8.2%) concentrates in the most recent period. Considering graphite furnace atomic absorption 1,953 articles (34,6%) were found for the whole period, and 95 articles (4,9%) was found from 2010 until the present data.

#### **11. References**


samples and the injection of slurries under the use of a modifier mixture of Pd and Mg salts, where the solid sampling technique was found to be the most sensitive and easy technique.

As discussed in this text, Atomic Absorption Spectrometry have been used for the quantitative and qualitative determination of chemical elements on samples such as aqueous solutions, waters, sea-waters, metals and alloys, glass, drugs, food, environmental samples, industrial wastes, biological samples among others. Studies have been conducted using variations of the AAS, as flame (FAAS), hydride generation (HG-AAS) and graphitefurnace or electro-thermal (GFAAS or ETAAS) (Vogel et al., 2002). Quite whole work proposed some differential aspects related to the methodology or to the equipment. In some cases, association with other procedures or techniques, results in a hybrid technique, as occurs when AAS is used together with continuous flow-injection (FIA) or highperformance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Other technical advances are proposed too, as the use of integrated contact furnace (ICF), tungsten coil, or the association of TS-FF**-**AAS,

To estimate the importance of a subject to the scientific world is a very complex matter. Many criteria may be used, each one with vantages and disadvantages. In order to only illustrate the importance and the evolution of the atomic absorption spectrometry, we did a rapid search in the Science Direct <http://www.sciencedirect.com>, considering "atomic absorption spectrometry" as key-word in TITLE-ABSTR-KEY. Two periods were considered: the whole period (about half-century, since the first article was published) and the most recent one (from 2010 until present data, july 2011). Our rapid search returned 5,637 scientific papers, considering the whole period. A significant fraction of the works (463 articles, or 8.2%) concentrates in the most recent period. Considering graphite furnace atomic absorption 1,953 articles (34,6%) were found for the whole period, and 95 articles

Ajtony, Z.; Bencs, L.B.; Haraszi, R.; Szigeti, J. & Szoboszlai, N. (2007). Study on the

Berndt, H. & Schaldach, G. (1988). Simple low-cost tungstein-coil for electrothermal atomic-

Bings, N.H.; Bogaerts, A. & Broekaert, J.A.C. (2010). Atomic Spectroscopy: A Review.

Binstock, D.A. (2000). A microwave digestion method for total decomposition of lead and ether metals in paint, soil and dust. *Analytical Letters*, Vol.33, No.15, pp.3397-3406. Costa. L.M.; Silva, F.V., Gouveia, S.T; Nogueira, A.R. & Nóbrega, J.A. (2001). Focused

*Analytical Chemistry*, Vol.82, No.12, (June 2010), pp.4653-4681.

simultaneous determination of some essential and toxic trace elements in honey by multi-element graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry. *Talanta*, Vol.71,

absorption spectrometry. *Journal of Analytical Atomic Spectrometry*, Vol.3, No.5,

microwave-Assisted Acid Digestion of oils: na Evaluation of the residual carbon content. *Spectrochimica Acta part B – Atomic Spectroscopy*, Vol.56, No.10, pp.1981-

**10. Technical applications and research** 

acronym of thermal spray flame furnace AAS.

(4,9%) was found from 2010 until the present data.

No. 2 , (February 2007), pp. 683-690.

(August 1988), pp.709-712.

**11. References** 

1985.


**3** 

*India* 

*1Patent Cell Division* 

**Elemental Profiling: Its Role and Regulations** 

The commercial significance of medicinal plants was known since millennia but its popularity has grown remarkably in terms of herbal drugs, herbal cosmetics and nutraceuticals during the last few decades. The primary reason being increased interest of developed countries in herbal medicines for safer and natural health care system. This has intensified research on medicinal plants of developing and third world countries for safer and effective drugs for chronic diseases. In fact, more than 60% of the new anti-cancer drugs approved since 1983 were derived from plants. Hence, countries in Asia, Africa and Latin America see greater scope in earning valuable foreign exchange through export of their plant wealth to the western countries. It has been observed, since the last two decades, the interest in the developed countries for complementary and alternative medicines has increased by 60%. In the US, consumer use of herbal products rose to about 50% in 2004 from 5% in 1991. According to the WHO estimate, the world market for herbal medicines and herbal products is worth US\$ 62 billion and would hit US\$ 5 trillion by 2050. The market is growing @7% per annum. US is the major market for essential oils and herbal tea. Leading markets for herbal products in Europe are Germany, France, UK and Italy with

Since many of the traditional herbs do not conform to the perceptions and norms of the western countries as they correspond to a different system (allopathy) and concept, the mismatch may create problem. The latest impact of these factors is the ban imposed by the Canadian government on 'unapproved' Ayurvedic drugs from India, on the plea of hazardous heavy metal concentration in them. The agency banned products manufactured by herbal giants like Dabur, Zandu, Himalaya and Hamdard, although some of these products (like Dabur's 'Shilajit' which is actually a natural rock extract) are claimed by their manufacturers to be free from metals. The manufacturers are of the view that they would take measures like policy advocacy on this issue. However, the ban is not applicable for those Ayurvedic products which have been authorized for sale in Canada. To prevent recurrence of similar types of incidents, the WHO has issued certain guidelines to promote traditional medicines in its traditional medicine strategy (2004-05). The organization has advocated for regulations and other arrangements (like public awareness program) so as to ensure safe utilization of the traditional medicines. If the advice is implemented in a

Germany having the largest herbal extraction industry in Europe.

**1. Introduction** 

*2Plant Biotechnology Department, Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine,* 

Ajai Prakash Gupta1 and Suphla Gupta2

*Jammu-180001, Jammu & Kashmir* 

Welz, B.; Mores, S.; Carasek, E.; Vale, M.; Okruss, M.; Becker-Ross, H. (2010). Highresolution continuum source atomic and molecular: A review. *Applied Spectroscopy Reviews*, Vol.45, No.5, pp.327-354.

### **Elemental Profiling: Its Role and Regulations**

Ajai Prakash Gupta1 and Suphla Gupta2

*1Patent Cell Division 2Plant Biotechnology Department, Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Jammu-180001, Jammu & Kashmir India* 

#### **1. Introduction**

36 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

Welz, B.; Mores, S.; Carasek, E.; Vale, M.; Okruss, M.; Becker-Ross, H. (2010). High-

*Reviews*, Vol.45, No.5, pp.327-354.

resolution continuum source atomic and molecular: A review. *Applied Spectroscopy* 

The commercial significance of medicinal plants was known since millennia but its popularity has grown remarkably in terms of herbal drugs, herbal cosmetics and nutraceuticals during the last few decades. The primary reason being increased interest of developed countries in herbal medicines for safer and natural health care system. This has intensified research on medicinal plants of developing and third world countries for safer and effective drugs for chronic diseases. In fact, more than 60% of the new anti-cancer drugs approved since 1983 were derived from plants. Hence, countries in Asia, Africa and Latin America see greater scope in earning valuable foreign exchange through export of their plant wealth to the western countries. It has been observed, since the last two decades, the interest in the developed countries for complementary and alternative medicines has increased by 60%. In the US, consumer use of herbal products rose to about 50% in 2004 from 5% in 1991. According to the WHO estimate, the world market for herbal medicines and herbal products is worth US\$ 62 billion and would hit US\$ 5 trillion by 2050. The market is growing @7% per annum. US is the major market for essential oils and herbal tea. Leading markets for herbal products in Europe are Germany, France, UK and Italy with Germany having the largest herbal extraction industry in Europe.

Since many of the traditional herbs do not conform to the perceptions and norms of the western countries as they correspond to a different system (allopathy) and concept, the mismatch may create problem. The latest impact of these factors is the ban imposed by the Canadian government on 'unapproved' Ayurvedic drugs from India, on the plea of hazardous heavy metal concentration in them. The agency banned products manufactured by herbal giants like Dabur, Zandu, Himalaya and Hamdard, although some of these products (like Dabur's 'Shilajit' which is actually a natural rock extract) are claimed by their manufacturers to be free from metals. The manufacturers are of the view that they would take measures like policy advocacy on this issue. However, the ban is not applicable for those Ayurvedic products which have been authorized for sale in Canada. To prevent recurrence of similar types of incidents, the WHO has issued certain guidelines to promote traditional medicines in its traditional medicine strategy (2004-05). The organization has advocated for regulations and other arrangements (like public awareness program) so as to ensure safe utilization of the traditional medicines. If the advice is implemented in a

Elemental Profiling: Its Role and Regulations 39

can be extended to other non-essential elements of very similar atomic characteristics that

The presence of trace elements in foods is often determined by the availability of metals in the soil. Thus, within a geographical region with soils deprived/excess of trace elements, its population is at a risk thereby resulting into trace elements deficiency/toxicity. Unfortunately, in recent years the avalanche of uncontrolled supplementation with trace elements has put some trace elements on the border of toxicity in several populations. Thus, it is a crucial priority to define the requirements for trace elements, based on essentiality and health promotion, and the limits for toxicity. Then it becomes necessary either to supplement the basic food by adding the appropriate trace elements (milk, flour, etc.) or counteract/dilute the element in excess (de Romana et al., 2005; Hurrell et al., 2004). These supplements sometimes becomes necessary in several disease treatments, e.g. anemic conditions in kidney dialysis (Locatelli et al., 2004) and physiological conditions, e.g. extensive blood loss during menstruation (Munro, 2000). There are other factors to consider that can define the requirements for essential elements beyond their presence in foods

> Synergists promoting absorption, utilization or retention

Low calcium intake, animal proteins Homologous milk (infants only) [Late pregnancy; lactation] [Low zinc status]

High protein intake [Late pregnancy; lactation?] [Low copper status]

> - -

[Low chromium status]


intake

phosphorus intakes

can mimic the reactivity of a trace element.

Element Antagonists restricting

Zinc Phytate with high calcium intake

Copper High iron, high zinc intakes

Iodine Elevated goitrogen intake

Chromium Oxalates, high iron intake

Manganese High calcium intake (infant

of trace elements in humans

2000);

absorption, utilization or retention

High iron intake Heterologous milks (infants only) [High zinc status; aging]

[High copper status] High molybdenum with high sulphur intake

[Low selenium status]

[High chromium status]

formulae) [High manganese status]

Selenium Elevated heavy-metal intake -

Cadmium High calcium intake Low iron intake, low calcium

Lead Phytate with high calcium intake Low iron, low calcium and

Table 1. Antagonists restricting and synergists promoting absorption, utilization or retention

1. Interaction among nutrients, e.g. interactions between iron and other metals (Aschner,

(Table 1):

coordinated manner so as to avoid any kind of mismatch, then the objective of providing safer drugs to the people may be fulfilled.

#### **2. Elements in nature**

According to the position of metals in the Periodic Table, the metals are named alkali metals, alkaline earth metals, transition metals, and rare earth metals. Four elements (nitrogen, carbon, hydrogen and oxygen) account for 96% of living matter. About 50 of the known elements occur in measurable concentrations in the living systems. In humans and other mammals, 23 elements have known physiological activities (macro nutrients and micro-nutrients). The macronutrients are sodium, calcium, magnesium, potassium, chlorine, etc., which are required in larger quantities by living organism while microelements are 11 in numbers and are classified as **''trace elements''** because of their essentiality at very limited quantity in humans (less than 100 mg/day). Out of these 11 trace elements, eight are in the period IV of the Periodic table (manganese (Mn), iron (Fe), cobalt (Co), copper (Cu), vanadium (V), chromium (Cr), zinc (Zn) and molybdenum (Mo) and three are non-metals selenium (Se), fluorine (F) and iodine (I). Transition metals that are trace elements of significance for human physiology are, Cobalt (Co), molybdenum (Mo), chromium (Cr) and vanadium (V). In biological systems, trace elements are mostly present as metalloproteins (bound to proteins), or to smaller molecules, such as phosphates, phytates, polyphenols and other chelating compounds. Most of the metals in metalloproteins are part of enzymatic systems and have structural functions or use the protein to be transported to their target site in the organism (Mokdad et al., 2004). Research has indicated association of cancer, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases with diet which has prompted increased consumption of fiber, fatty acids, phytochemicals, and trace elements (Willett, 2002). The role a metal plays, depends on its chemical structure, as well as on the molecule that is chelating the metal (Halliwell & Gutteridge, 1999). For example, Zn, as with other group XII elements, has no unpaired electrons when in the state Zn2+, preventing its participation in redox reactions but Zn has been recognized to act as an antioxidant by replacing metals that are active in catalyzing free radical reactions, such as Fe (Oteiza et al., 2004; Zago & Oteiza, 2001). In enzymes, the metals participate in catalytic processes in any of the following ways:


Based on the increased knowledge of the biological mechanisms ruling life we have made a good progress in increasing the life expectancy. However, this has lead to increased incidence of chronic and degenerative diseases, one of the reasons of which could be increasing amount of toxic substances in our body. To deal with this essentiality/toxicity duality, biological systems have developed the ability to recognize a metal, and deliver it to the target without allowing the metal to participate in toxic reactions (Luk et al., 2003). Proteins are primarily responsible for such recognition and transport of these elements thereby making them safe for body. However increase in the intake of certain nutrients as therapeutics or through food may lead to high concentrations of these elements resulting toxicity in the body.

Trace elements are essential components of biological structures, but at the same time they can be toxic beyond the concentration needed for their biological functions. The toxicity

coordinated manner so as to avoid any kind of mismatch, then the objective of providing

According to the position of metals in the Periodic Table, the metals are named alkali metals, alkaline earth metals, transition metals, and rare earth metals. Four elements (nitrogen, carbon, hydrogen and oxygen) account for 96% of living matter. About 50 of the known elements occur in measurable concentrations in the living systems. In humans and other mammals, 23 elements have known physiological activities (macro nutrients and micro-nutrients). The macronutrients are sodium, calcium, magnesium, potassium, chlorine, etc., which are required in larger quantities by living organism while microelements are 11 in numbers and are classified as **''trace elements''** because of their essentiality at very limited quantity in humans (less than 100 mg/day). Out of these 11 trace elements, eight are in the period IV of the Periodic table (manganese (Mn), iron (Fe), cobalt (Co), copper (Cu), vanadium (V), chromium (Cr), zinc (Zn) and molybdenum (Mo) and three are non-metals selenium (Se), fluorine (F) and iodine (I). Transition metals that are trace elements of significance for human physiology are, Cobalt (Co), molybdenum (Mo), chromium (Cr) and vanadium (V). In biological systems, trace elements are mostly present as metalloproteins (bound to proteins), or to smaller molecules, such as phosphates, phytates, polyphenols and other chelating compounds. Most of the metals in metalloproteins are part of enzymatic systems and have structural functions or use the protein to be transported to their target site in the organism (Mokdad et al., 2004). Research has indicated association of cancer, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases with diet which has prompted increased consumption of fiber, fatty acids, phytochemicals, and trace elements (Willett, 2002). The role a metal plays, depends on its chemical structure, as well as on the molecule that is chelating the metal (Halliwell & Gutteridge, 1999). For example, Zn, as with other group XII elements, has no unpaired electrons when in the state Zn2+, preventing its participation in redox reactions but Zn has been recognized to act as an antioxidant by replacing metals that are active in catalyzing free radical reactions, such as Fe (Oteiza et al., 2004; Zago & Oteiza, 2001). In

enzymes, the metals participate in catalytic processes in any of the following ways:

Based on the increased knowledge of the biological mechanisms ruling life we have made a good progress in increasing the life expectancy. However, this has lead to increased incidence of chronic and degenerative diseases, one of the reasons of which could be increasing amount of toxic substances in our body. To deal with this essentiality/toxicity duality, biological systems have developed the ability to recognize a metal, and deliver it to the target without allowing the metal to participate in toxic reactions (Luk et al., 2003). Proteins are primarily responsible for such recognition and transport of these elements thereby making them safe for body. However increase in the intake of certain nutrients as therapeutics or through food

Trace elements are essential components of biological structures, but at the same time they can be toxic beyond the concentration needed for their biological functions. The toxicity

safer drugs to the people may be fulfilled.

1. Constituents of enzyme active sites.

4. Stabilizing charged transition states.

2. Stabilizers of enzyme tertiary or quaternary structure.

3. Associates in forming weak bonding complexes with the substrate.

may lead to high concentrations of these elements resulting toxicity in the body.

**2. Elements in nature** 

can be extended to other non-essential elements of very similar atomic characteristics that can mimic the reactivity of a trace element.

The presence of trace elements in foods is often determined by the availability of metals in the soil. Thus, within a geographical region with soils deprived/excess of trace elements, its population is at a risk thereby resulting into trace elements deficiency/toxicity. Unfortunately, in recent years the avalanche of uncontrolled supplementation with trace elements has put some trace elements on the border of toxicity in several populations. Thus, it is a crucial priority to define the requirements for trace elements, based on essentiality and health promotion, and the limits for toxicity. Then it becomes necessary either to supplement the basic food by adding the appropriate trace elements (milk, flour, etc.) or counteract/dilute the element in excess (de Romana et al., 2005; Hurrell et al., 2004). These supplements sometimes becomes necessary in several disease treatments, e.g. anemic conditions in kidney dialysis (Locatelli et al., 2004) and physiological conditions, e.g. extensive blood loss during menstruation (Munro, 2000). There are other factors to consider that can define the requirements for essential elements beyond their presence in foods (Table 1):


Table 1. Antagonists restricting and synergists promoting absorption, utilization or retention of trace elements in humans

1. Interaction among nutrients, e.g. interactions between iron and other metals (Aschner, 2000);

Elemental Profiling: Its Role and Regulations 41

Red meat and poultry, beans, nuts, seafood (oysters are extremely rich in Zn), whole grains, fortified breakfast cereals, and dairy products. Zn is mainly transported by cerulo plasmin. Small intestine is the site of maximum absorption.

Grains, cereals, red meats, nuts and seafood. Very efficiently absorbed by humans.

> Conversion of tissue purines to uric acid.

Processed meats, whole grain products, pulses and spices are the best sources of chromium blood plasma.

Unrefined cereals, nuts, leafy vegetables and tea will be high in manganese. Manganese absorption is independent both of body manganese status and of dietary manganese content.

Presence Potential toxicity References

Common in underdeveloped countries leading to malnutrition, affecting the immune system, wound healing, impairing DNA synthesis.

Weakened immune system, nutritional, biochemical or infectious stresses, gastrointestinal upsets, hair loss, white blotchy nails, garlic breath odor, fatigue.

Xanthinuria, low xanthine dehydrogenase activities High intake leads to molybdenosis spontaneous fractures, and mandibular exostoses osteogenesis.

Include impaired growth, elevated serum cholesterol and triglycerides, increased incidence of aortic plaques, cornea lesions and decreased fertility and sperm count.

Impaired growth, skeletal abnormalities, disturbed reproductive function, ataxia of the newborn, defects in lipid and carbohydrate metabolism, impaired iron metabolism and altered brain function

Baer et al., 1984; Hess et al., 1977

Combs et al., 1986; Levander et al., 1987

Rajagopalan, 1984; Ostrom et al., 1961; WHO, 1973

Anderson, 1988; Okada el al., 1981; Tuman & Doisy, 1977; Offenbacher et al., 1986

Hurley, 1987; Weigand et al., 1986

S No. Metal Functions Dietary sources/

Supports normal growth and development in pregnancy, childhood, and adolescence. Zn is involved in Zn-fingers and activity of about 100 enzymes.

Selenoproteins, glutathione peroxidase, thioredoxins,

Electron transfer agent in enzymes such as oxidase and sulphite reductase xanthine dehydrogenase/oxidase, aldehyde oxidase and sulfite oxidase share a common cofactor, molybdo -pterin, a substituted pterin to which molybdenum is bound by two sulfur atoms.

Potentiates insulin action and thus influences carbohydrate, lipid and protein metabolism. Affects the ability of the insulin receptor to interact with insulin.

Activator and a constituent of several enzymes

3 Zinc

4 Selenium

6 Molybdenum

7 Chromium

8 Manganese


The important variables that should be considered when the levels of trace elements are increased in the body are the effects genetic and individual differences in the targeted population, life-style, nutra-genetic interactions, and other individual factors that can determine the effects of the nutrient on the disease.

#### **3. Role of trace elements**

Metals are non-uniformly distributed in the soil and environment. Several factors like industrialization, traffic density, and indiscriminate use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides and eco-geological conditions play deciding role in their quality and quantity. Out of the thirty five metals associated with us, due to residential or occupational exposure, twenty three of them are toxic metals (Punz & Seighardt, 1993). Metals can be accumulated /absorbed by our body as in exposure to sunrays/X-rays/ beverages/ air/water and food products. Bioaccumulation of these elements beyond the safety limits results in various malfunctions leading to several abnormalities. Based on their biological effects, they can be categorized into two types (i) non essential /toxic metals (Pb, Cd, Hg, As) and essential / beneficial metals which includes microelements like Cu, Zn, Mn and macro elements like P, Ca, K, Mg (Abdul –Wahabet al., 2008). Literature cites several reports advocating tendency of plants to absorb and accumulate heavy metals in their tissues (Bunzl et al., 2001; Yusuf et al., 2002 ). Heavy metal contamination is especially harmful for infants and pregnant woman as it affects the central nervous system, kidney, gastro-intestinal and reproductive systems and joints (Tong et al., 2000). However, plants harbor not only toxic metals but beneficial metals as well. They play a vital role as structural and functional components of metallo-protein and enzyme in the living cell in low doses. The role of these elements are presented very briefly in table 2.


2. The presence of certain compounds in the diet, that can impair metal absorption, e.g. phytates bind Zn, preventing absorption (Greger, 1999; Lestienne et al., 2005); 3. Genetic defects, e.g. Zn absorption is decreased in acrodermatitis enteropathica (Wang

4. drug–nutrient interactions, e.g. penicillamine used in the treatment of Wilsons disease

The important variables that should be considered when the levels of trace elements are increased in the body are the effects genetic and individual differences in the targeted population, life-style, nutra-genetic interactions, and other individual factors that can

Metals are non-uniformly distributed in the soil and environment. Several factors like industrialization, traffic density, and indiscriminate use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides and eco-geological conditions play deciding role in their quality and quantity. Out of the thirty five metals associated with us, due to residential or occupational exposure, twenty three of them are toxic metals (Punz & Seighardt, 1993). Metals can be accumulated /absorbed by our body as in exposure to sunrays/X-rays/ beverages/ air/water and food products. Bioaccumulation of these elements beyond the safety limits results in various malfunctions leading to several abnormalities. Based on their biological effects, they can be categorized into two types (i) non essential /toxic metals (Pb, Cd, Hg, As) and essential / beneficial metals which includes microelements like Cu, Zn, Mn and macro elements like P, Ca, K, Mg (Abdul –Wahabet al., 2008). Literature cites several reports advocating tendency of plants to absorb and accumulate heavy metals in their tissues (Bunzl et al., 2001; Yusuf et al., 2002 ). Heavy metal contamination is especially harmful for infants and pregnant woman as it affects the central nervous system, kidney, gastro-intestinal and reproductive systems and joints (Tong et al., 2000). However, plants harbor not only toxic metals but beneficial metals as well. They play a vital role as structural and functional components of metallo-protein and enzyme in the living cell in low doses. The role of these elements are

> Hemoglobin and myoglobin from animals. Cereals, seeds of leguminous plants, fruits, vegetables, and dairy products.

Liver and other organ meats, oysters, nuts, seeds, dark chocolate, and whole grains. Transported in the organism by cerulo plasmin. Soluble forms of copper are absorbed from the intestine (40-60%)

Presence Potential toxicity References

Anemia. Fe poisoning

Normocytic, hypochromic anemia, leucopenia neuropenia, and inclusive osteoporosis in children. Liver damage

Fraga & Oteiza, 2002; Zimmermann & Kohrle, 2002

Underwood, 1977; Mason, 1979; King et al.,1978; Hoadley & Cousins, 1988

et al., 2004);

**3. Role of trace elements** 

presented very briefly in table 2.

1 Iron

2 Copper

S No. Metal Functions Dietary sources/

Hemoglobin myoglobin, catalase, cytochromes Fe– sulfur enzymes proteins for Fe storage and transport and other Fecontaining or Fe-activated enzymes

Connective tissue, nerve coverings, and bone. Fe and energy metabolism. Reductant in the enzymes and several oxidases that reduce molecular oxygen

causes Zn deficiency (Schilsky, 2001).

determine the effects of the nutrient on the disease.


Elemental Profiling: Its Role and Regulations 43

2. Not always easy to assay, particularly at low concentrations (e.g. arsenic, selenium and

3. Expert handling (e.g. cadmium, chromium, lead, manganese, mercury, molybdenum and nickel) which require a high level of analytical expertise because of the low concentrations present, detection limit problems, matrix interferences, incomplete recoveries and related methodological difficulties. At low concentrations, the analysis of dietary material presents considerable difficulties, depending on whether the matrix is simple (e.g. drinking-water and beverages) or complex (dairy products). Meat and a few other food products contain some trace elements at very high concentrations and are generally easy to analyse. The implications of these various conditions are important when single foods are analysed, something that may present an array of problems. For example, moisture content of foods varies widely, ranging from 94% in leafy vegetables to 60% in meat, 20% in grains and cereals, and up to 10% in oils and fats. Fat content of foods can cause difficulty, e.g. a high-fat product such as cheese will present a real challenge, if dissolution steps are involved. (Oxidation of samples rich in fats and oils with perchloric acid should be avoided because of explosion risks). The concentrations of several trace elements vary considerably even in foods belonging to similar groups belonging to different groups. The problem of trace element analysis can be overcome by freeze-drying of mixed diets as this may lead to six fold enrichment of

Analytical techniques such as atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS) (flame and flameless), atomic emission spectroscopy (direct-current and inductively coupled plasma), chemical and electro-analytical methods, gas and liquid chromatography, mass spectrometry (in different modes) nuclear-activation techniques and X-ray fluorescence offer sufficiently low detection limits to make them suitable for investigating a variety of

Low detection limits alone are not sufficient to answer all the questions as analytical data on trace elements are mostly regarded with skepticism. Ignorance of various interferences, e.g. matrix-related problems, flaws in sample and standard preparation and inadequate calibration procedures all contribute to this regrettable situation. The analyst is therefore by

The analyst is faced with the choice between multielement and single-element assays, which is affected by a number of factors. Thus, even though sometimes only partly quantitative, multielement assays are useful in obtaining simultaneous elemental composition profiles of a given specimen. For example, the non-destructive procedures offer the possibility of generating data simultaneously (including repeated determinations on the same test portion) for several elements for purposes of comparison. They also offer the possibility of internal quality control so that unusual situations involving any specific element can be

far the most important component of any analytical system (Ma, 2004; Hiefje, 2000).

Elemental profiling specially of trace elements can be divided into three subgroups:

1. Easy to determine routinely by several techniques (e.g. iron and zinc);

the component (Benramdane, 1999; Aceto, 2002).

**5. Analytical techniques** 

**5.1 Choice of type of assay** 

biomatrices.

**4. Elemental profiling** 

tin); and


Table 2. Functions, Dietary source, Biochemistry and Potential toxicity of some of the metals.

In general, all medicinal plants/herbs/spices/food/water/soil and its products (for human and animals use) must meet regulatory guidelines for quality, safety and efficacy. Monitoring of these metals, using advanced techniques, in the plant is important for protecting public against the hazards of metal toxicity and also in creating awareness towards its nutritional qualities.

#### **4. Elemental profiling**

42 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

foodstuffs and simple substances, including milk, coffee, tea, orange juice, ascorbic acid and ethylenediaminetetraacetate depress this high absorption

Fruits, leafy vegetables, nuts and legumes are rich sources. Wine, cider and beer are also high in boron. Boron is distributed throughout the tissues, organs and bones of animals and humans.

Whole grains, seafood, meats and dairy products. Spinach, parsley, mushrooms and oysters.

metallothionein Rock, soil, mining kidney and possibly

Pesticides, geochemical mineralization and industrial waste.



Fishes, pesticides, food, water and soil --

Table 2. Functions, Dietary source, Biochemistry and Potential toxicity of some of the metals. In general, all medicinal plants/herbs/spices/food/water/soil and its products (for human and animals use) must meet regulatory guidelines for quality, safety and efficacy. Monitoring of these metals, using advanced techniques, in the plant is important for protecting public against the hazards of metal toxicity and also in creating awareness

Presence Potential toxicity References

No report for deficiency of nickel

Induce secondary hyperparathyroidism affects steroid hormone metabolism in humans and animals.

no significant report of deficiency of vanadium is available

the skeleton.

nervous system of infants and children is particularly sensitive to lead toxicity.

increased incidence of keratinization and pigmentation of the skin, together with an increased risk of skin cancer.

> Kidneys central nervous system brain

Thauer, 1985; Hausinger, 1987; Walsh & Orme-Johnson, 1987; Nielsen, 1982, 1984

> Nielsen et al., 1982, Hunt, 1981, Nielsen , 1988

Byrne & Kosta 1978; Nielsen, 1982; Bennet, 1984

Punz & Seighardt, 1993

National research council, 1989

Kovalskij, 1977; National Academy of Sciences, 1980

Bennet, 1984; WHO, 1989, 1976, 1990

S No. Metal Functions Dietary sources/

Typical nickel-containing enzymes found in plants and microorganisms, namely urease, hydrogenase, methyl coenzyme M reductase and carbon-monoxide dehydrogenase

metabolism

Regulation of Na+/K+ exchanging ATPase, phosphoryl-transfer enzymes, adenylate cyclase and protein kinases. enzyme cofactor, and in hormone, glucose, lipid, bone and tooth metabolism

waste

and soil

14. Arsenic Soil, food and water Soil, food and water

9 Nickel

11. Vanadium

10. Boron Steroid hormone

12. Cadmium Cadmium

13. Lead Pesticides, Industrial

15. Mercury Pesticides, food, water

towards its nutritional qualities.

Elemental profiling specially of trace elements can be divided into three subgroups:


#### **5. Analytical techniques**

Analytical techniques such as atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS) (flame and flameless), atomic emission spectroscopy (direct-current and inductively coupled plasma), chemical and electro-analytical methods, gas and liquid chromatography, mass spectrometry (in different modes) nuclear-activation techniques and X-ray fluorescence offer sufficiently low detection limits to make them suitable for investigating a variety of biomatrices.

Low detection limits alone are not sufficient to answer all the questions as analytical data on trace elements are mostly regarded with skepticism. Ignorance of various interferences, e.g. matrix-related problems, flaws in sample and standard preparation and inadequate calibration procedures all contribute to this regrettable situation. The analyst is therefore by far the most important component of any analytical system (Ma, 2004; Hiefje, 2000).

#### **5.1 Choice of type of assay**

The analyst is faced with the choice between multielement and single-element assays, which is affected by a number of factors. Thus, even though sometimes only partly quantitative, multielement assays are useful in obtaining simultaneous elemental composition profiles of a given specimen. For example, the non-destructive procedures offer the possibility of generating data simultaneously (including repeated determinations on the same test portion) for several elements for purposes of comparison. They also offer the possibility of internal quality control so that unusual situations involving any specific element can be

Elemental Profiling: Its Role and Regulations 45

(electron, atom, ion, or molecule), one or more of several possible phenomena take place. The two most probable events are for the energy to be used to increase the kinetic energy of the atom (*i.e.*, increase the velocity of the atom) or for the atom to absorb the energy and

When an atom becomes excited, an electron from that atom is promoted from its ground state orbital into an orbital farther from the nucleus and with a higher energy level. Such an atom is said to be in an *excited state*. An atom is less stable in its excited state and will thus decay back to a less excited state by losing energy through a collision with another particle or by emission of a "particle" of electromagnetic radiation, known as a *photon*. As a result of

If the energy absorbed by an atom is high enough, an electron may be completely dissociated from the atom, leaving an ion with a net positive charge. The energy required for this process, known as ionization, is called the ionization potential and is different for each element. Ions also have ground and excited states through which they can absorb and emit energy by the same excitation and decay processes as an atom. The difference in energy between the upper and lower energy levels of a radiative transition defines the wavelength of the radiation that is involved in that transition (Frank, 1998; Skoog, Holler & Nieman, 1998). The phenomenon of atomic absorption observed in 1802 with the discovery of the Fraunhofer lines in the sun's spectrum. It took more than half century to utilize observed lines for quantitative chemical analysis. Atomic absorption analysis involves measuring the absorption of light by vaporized ground state atoms and relating the absorption to

The basic aim of analytical atomic absorption spectroscopy is to identify elements and quantify their concentrations in various media. The procedure consists of three general steps: atom formation, excitation, and emission. For UV and visible spectroscopy, the input energy must be sufficient to raise an electron from the ground state to the excited state. Once the electron is in the excited state, the atom emits light, which is characteristic of that particular element. Before excitation, an element that is bound in a specific matrix must be separated from that matrix so that its atomic emission spectra are free from interferences. The elements present in a sample are converted to gas phase atoms in the ground state. The UV-Vis absorption of these gas phase atoms are then measured by irradiation of light at a highly specific wavelength causing transition of some of the gas phase atoms to a higher energy level. The extent to which light is absorbed is related to the original concentration of ground state atoms. This situation is completely analogous to the Beer-Lambert law in conventional liquid UV-Vis absorption spectrophotometry. Conversion of the sample from its native state to the atomic state can be achieved using a flame (flame-AAS) or an electric furnace (electro-thermal or graphite furnace AAS). The later will be studied herein. In the

furnace, the sample undergoes a number of pretreatment steps prior to analysis.

2. The organic matrix is decomposed by heating of the sample ≥1000ºC. (taking care not to

3. Furnace is rapidly heated to temperatures around 2400ºC to produce vaporized neutral

1. Sample is dried by evaporating the solvent (in this case the water).

lose any of the analyte through evaporation processes).

become excited. This later process is known as *excitation*.

concentration governed by Beer's law.

atoms.

**7. Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS)** 

this energy loss, the electron returns to an orbital closer to the nucleus.

evaluated. Moreover, in a carefully designed study, multielement assays can provide very useful information at relatively low cost. However, some elements must be determined alone because of serious analytical problems. Clinical, environmental and nutritional laboratories dealing with specific elements frequently need single-element assays. In a laboratory performing a wide range of analyses, therefore, a combination of both single- and multi element capability may be essential for effective functioning.

#### **5.2 Choice of analytical technique**

The choice of an analytical technique depends on a number of factors, including:


The susceptibility of an analytical technique to matrix effects depends on the sample composition. With some matrices, these effects are of major importance, but others can be avoided by a modification of the technique. The usefulness of an analytical method for trace-element analysis, also depends on the range of elements covered and the order of magnitude of its detection limits for the elements at the top and bottom of its sensitivity range. Detection limits will not be the same for all elements, so that simultaneous multielement determination will require compromises in experimental conditions that will affect the accuracy and precision of at least a few elements. Even when there is a method of choice for the analysis of a particular element, its performance will depend on the concentration of the element in question and that of others in the matrix (Toelg, 1988). Concentration ranges also vary widely between different types of biomaterials and foods (Kumpulainen, 1980). These changes in relationships between elements may necessitate modifications to the technique for specific applications in order to maintain optimum performance and prevent any decline in detection limits.

The most important criterion of the suitability of a method, however, is whether it is appropriate for the matrix of interest. Using a set of four representative biological matrices, namely bovine liver, porcine muscle, Bowen's kale and human serum, an advisory group designated by the International Atomic Energy Agency evaluated the performance of different analytical techniques (Cornelis, 1980). For elements such as copper, iron and zinc, several methods were suitable. Thus, for zinc, many methods can generate results with a 1% CV. On the other hand, for elements such as fluorine, iodine, tin and vanadium, the choice was limited . The analytical techniques studied nevertheless reached detection limits below the ng/g level for chromium, manganese and vanadium, i.e. the level at which these elements are expected to occur in some specimens (Jones, 1992; Watson, 1998; Bernazzani, 2001).

#### **6. Introduction of atomic absorption spectrometry**

The atom is a nucleus surrounded by electrons which travel around the nucleus in discrete orbitals. Every atom has a number of orbital's in which it is possible for electrons to travel. Each of these electron orbital's has an energy level associated with it. In general, the further away from the nucleus an orbital, the higher its energy level. When the electrons of an atom are in the orbital's closest to the nucleus and lowest in energy, the atom is in its most preferred and stable state, known as its *ground state*. When energy is added to the atom as the result of absorption of electromagnetic radiation or a collision with another particle

evaluated. Moreover, in a carefully designed study, multielement assays can provide very useful information at relatively low cost. However, some elements must be determined alone because of serious analytical problems. Clinical, environmental and nutritional laboratories dealing with specific elements frequently need single-element assays. In a laboratory performing a wide range of analyses, therefore, a combination of both single- and

The susceptibility of an analytical technique to matrix effects depends on the sample composition. With some matrices, these effects are of major importance, but others can be avoided by a modification of the technique. The usefulness of an analytical method for trace-element analysis, also depends on the range of elements covered and the order of magnitude of its detection limits for the elements at the top and bottom of its sensitivity range. Detection limits will not be the same for all elements, so that simultaneous multielement determination will require compromises in experimental conditions that will affect the accuracy and precision of at least a few elements. Even when there is a method of choice for the analysis of a particular element, its performance will depend on the concentration of the element in question and that of others in the matrix (Toelg, 1988). Concentration ranges also vary widely between different types of biomaterials and foods (Kumpulainen, 1980). These changes in relationships between elements may necessitate modifications to the technique for specific applications in order to maintain optimum

The most important criterion of the suitability of a method, however, is whether it is appropriate for the matrix of interest. Using a set of four representative biological matrices, namely bovine liver, porcine muscle, Bowen's kale and human serum, an advisory group designated by the International Atomic Energy Agency evaluated the performance of different analytical techniques (Cornelis, 1980). For elements such as copper, iron and zinc, several methods were suitable. Thus, for zinc, many methods can generate results with a 1% CV. On the other hand, for elements such as fluorine, iodine, tin and vanadium, the choice was limited . The analytical techniques studied nevertheless reached detection limits below the ng/g level for chromium, manganese and vanadium, i.e. the level at which these elements are expected to

The atom is a nucleus surrounded by electrons which travel around the nucleus in discrete orbitals. Every atom has a number of orbital's in which it is possible for electrons to travel. Each of these electron orbital's has an energy level associated with it. In general, the further away from the nucleus an orbital, the higher its energy level. When the electrons of an atom are in the orbital's closest to the nucleus and lowest in energy, the atom is in its most preferred and stable state, known as its *ground state*. When energy is added to the atom as the result of absorption of electromagnetic radiation or a collision with another particle

multi element capability may be essential for effective functioning.

The choice of an analytical technique depends on a number of factors, including:

**5.2 Choice of analytical technique** 

1. susceptibility to matrix effects; 2. range of elements covered; 3. detection limits; and

4. suitability for the matrix of interest.

performance and prevent any decline in detection limits.

occur in some specimens (Jones, 1992; Watson, 1998; Bernazzani, 2001).

**6. Introduction of atomic absorption spectrometry** 

(electron, atom, ion, or molecule), one or more of several possible phenomena take place. The two most probable events are for the energy to be used to increase the kinetic energy of the atom (*i.e.*, increase the velocity of the atom) or for the atom to absorb the energy and become excited. This later process is known as *excitation*.

When an atom becomes excited, an electron from that atom is promoted from its ground state orbital into an orbital farther from the nucleus and with a higher energy level. Such an atom is said to be in an *excited state*. An atom is less stable in its excited state and will thus decay back to a less excited state by losing energy through a collision with another particle or by emission of a "particle" of electromagnetic radiation, known as a *photon*. As a result of this energy loss, the electron returns to an orbital closer to the nucleus.

If the energy absorbed by an atom is high enough, an electron may be completely dissociated from the atom, leaving an ion with a net positive charge. The energy required for this process, known as ionization, is called the ionization potential and is different for each element. Ions also have ground and excited states through which they can absorb and emit energy by the same excitation and decay processes as an atom. The difference in energy between the upper and lower energy levels of a radiative transition defines the wavelength of the radiation that is involved in that transition (Frank, 1998; Skoog, Holler & Nieman, 1998). The phenomenon of atomic absorption observed in 1802 with the discovery of the Fraunhofer lines in the sun's spectrum. It took more than half century to utilize observed lines for quantitative chemical analysis. Atomic absorption analysis involves measuring the absorption of light by vaporized ground state atoms and relating the absorption to concentration governed by Beer's law.

#### **7. Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS)**

The basic aim of analytical atomic absorption spectroscopy is to identify elements and quantify their concentrations in various media. The procedure consists of three general steps: atom formation, excitation, and emission. For UV and visible spectroscopy, the input energy must be sufficient to raise an electron from the ground state to the excited state. Once the electron is in the excited state, the atom emits light, which is characteristic of that particular element. Before excitation, an element that is bound in a specific matrix must be separated from that matrix so that its atomic emission spectra are free from interferences.

The elements present in a sample are converted to gas phase atoms in the ground state. The UV-Vis absorption of these gas phase atoms are then measured by irradiation of light at a highly specific wavelength causing transition of some of the gas phase atoms to a higher energy level. The extent to which light is absorbed is related to the original concentration of ground state atoms. This situation is completely analogous to the Beer-Lambert law in conventional liquid UV-Vis absorption spectrophotometry. Conversion of the sample from its native state to the atomic state can be achieved using a flame (flame-AAS) or an electric furnace (electro-thermal or graphite furnace AAS). The later will be studied herein. In the furnace, the sample undergoes a number of pretreatment steps prior to analysis.


Elemental Profiling: Its Role and Regulations 47

an element and the ability to measure emission from several different elements concurrently. However, a disadvantage associated with this feature is that as the number of emission wavelengths increases, the probability also increases for interferences that may

In *atomic fluorescence spectrometry* (AFS), a light source, such as that used for AAS, is used to excite atoms only of the element of interest through radiative absorption transitions. When these selectively excited atoms decay through radiative transitions to lower levels, their emission is measured to determine concentration, much the same as in OES. The selective excitation of the AFS technique can lead to fewer spectral interferences than in OES. However, it is difficult to detect a large number of elements in a single run using AFS, as the number of spectral excitation sources and detectors that can be used at one time is limited

Another technique, called *atomic mass spectrometry*, is related to three atomic spectroscopy techniques described above. Instead of measuring the absorption, emission or fluorescence of radiation from a high temperature source, such as a flame or plasma. Mass spectrometry measures the number of singly charged ions from the elemental species within a sample. Similar to the function of a monochromator in emission/absorption spectrometry that separates light according to wavelength, a quadrupole mass spectrometer separates the ions of various elements according to their mass-to-charge ratio in atomic mass spectrometry

Atomic emission spectroscopy (AES) is one of the most important techniques of elemental analysis. One of its advantages over atomic absorption is the capability for simultaneous multi-element analysis. It can be used for the analysis of major components of the sample as well as for trace analysis, because calibration curves are linear over several orders of magnitude. As a result of these advantages AES technique are popular in analytical laboratories. Over the past decade, a new generation of spectrometer configurations based on charge coupled device (CCD) detectors has appeared (Hiefje, 2000; Bernazzani & Paquin, 2001) Some of them are simple and low-cost. The perfect atomic emission source would

3. A source that can handle a range of solvents, both organic and inorganic in nature.

6. Complete atomization but minimum ionization of all elements to be analyzed.

5. Complete removal of the sample from its original matrix thus minimum interferences.

7. A controllable energy source for excitation, which allows the proper energy needed to

8. An inert chemical environment, which prohibits the formation of undesirable molecular species (e.g. oxides, carbides, etc.) that may affect the accuracy of the measurement. 9. No background radiation from the source (unwanted atomic or molecular emission that

Every element has its own characteristic set of energy levels and has unique set of absorption and emission wavelengths. This property of the element makes atomic spectrometry useful for element-specific analytical techniques. The ultraviolet (UV)/visible region (160 - 800 nm) of the electromagnetic spectrum is the region used for analytical

4. A source that is adjustable to handle solids, slurries, liquids, or gases.

excite all elements without appreciable ionization.

could interfere with the analytical wavelengths).

arise from emission lines that are too close in wavelength to be measured separately.

by the instrument (Smith et al., 1995; Bernazzani & Paquin, 2001).

**8.1 Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (AES)** 

have the following characteristics:

2. Inexpensive to purchase and maintain.

1. Easy to operate.

(Jones, 1992).

This method provides both sensitivity and selectivity since other elements in the sample will not generally absorb the chosen wavelength and thus, will not interfere with the measurement. However, molecular species may also be formed during the atomization step. Which can alter the spectral characteristics of the analyte metal or can cause spectral interference at the wavelength being monitored. To reduce background interference, the wavelength of interest is isolated by a mono-chromator placed between the sample and the detector. Additional techniques such as D2 or Zeeman background correction may also be used for complex matrices such as beer.

The most common instrument components consist of a hollow cathode lamp source, a pneumatic nebulizer for an atomizer, a conventional grating mono-chromator and photomultiplier tube detector. The hollow cathode lamp is made of a glass envelope with a quartz window filled with an inert gas at slightly above atmospheric pressure. The cathode is made of the pure metal of interest. The pneumatic nebulizer aspirates and nebulizes the liquid sample solution when the sample is sucked through a capillary tube. The grating mono-chromator eliminates much of the background light from the flame and the photomultiplier tube detector detects that light from the hollow cathode lamp which passes through the flame.

Atomic absorption analyses are most commonly and routinely performed on solutions. Therefore a sample must be converted to liquid form prior to analysis using a microwave to digest the sample, leaving a solution that can then be analyzed. However this method has the following limitations (Ingle & Crouch, 1988; Lajunen, 1992; Frank, 1997; Skoog et al., 1998).

#### **7.1 Limitations**


#### **8. Techniques based on atomic spectrometry**

In *atomic absorption spectrometry* (AAS), light of a wavelength characteristic of the element of interest is shone through this atomic vapor. Some of this light is then absorbed by the atoms of that element. The amount of light that is absorbed by these atoms is then measured and used to determine the concentration of that element in the sample.

In *optical emission spectrometry* (OES), the sample is subjected to temperatures high enough to cause not only dissociation into atoms but to cause significant amounts of collisional excitation (and ionization) of the sample atoms to take place. Once the atoms or ions are in their excited states, they can decay to lower states through thermal or radiative (emission) energy transitions. In OES, the intensity of the light emitted at specific wavelengths is measured and used to determine the concentrations of the elements of interest.

One of the most important advantages of OES results from the excitation properties of the high temperature sources used in OES. These thermal excitation sources can populate a large number of different energy levels for several different elements at the same time. All of the excited atoms and ions can then emit their characteristic radiation at nearly the same time. This results in the flexibility to choose from several different emission wavelengths for

This method provides both sensitivity and selectivity since other elements in the sample will not generally absorb the chosen wavelength and thus, will not interfere with the measurement. However, molecular species may also be formed during the atomization step. Which can alter the spectral characteristics of the analyte metal or can cause spectral interference at the wavelength being monitored. To reduce background interference, the wavelength of interest is isolated by a mono-chromator placed between the sample and the detector. Additional techniques such as D2 or Zeeman background correction may also be

The most common instrument components consist of a hollow cathode lamp source, a pneumatic nebulizer for an atomizer, a conventional grating mono-chromator and photomultiplier tube detector. The hollow cathode lamp is made of a glass envelope with a quartz window filled with an inert gas at slightly above atmospheric pressure. The cathode is made of the pure metal of interest. The pneumatic nebulizer aspirates and nebulizes the liquid sample solution when the sample is sucked through a capillary tube. The grating mono-chromator eliminates much of the background light from the flame and the photomultiplier tube detector detects that light from the hollow cathode lamp which passes

Atomic absorption analyses are most commonly and routinely performed on solutions. Therefore a sample must be converted to liquid form prior to analysis using a microwave to digest the sample, leaving a solution that can then be analyzed. However this method has the following limitations (Ingle & Crouch, 1988; Lajunen, 1992; Frank, 1997; Skoog et al.,

In *atomic absorption spectrometry* (AAS), light of a wavelength characteristic of the element of interest is shone through this atomic vapor. Some of this light is then absorbed by the atoms of that element. The amount of light that is absorbed by these atoms is then measured and

In *optical emission spectrometry* (OES), the sample is subjected to temperatures high enough to cause not only dissociation into atoms but to cause significant amounts of collisional excitation (and ionization) of the sample atoms to take place. Once the atoms or ions are in their excited states, they can decay to lower states through thermal or radiative (emission) energy transitions. In OES, the intensity of the light emitted at specific wavelengths is

One of the most important advantages of OES results from the excitation properties of the high temperature sources used in OES. These thermal excitation sources can populate a large number of different energy levels for several different elements at the same time. All of the excited atoms and ions can then emit their characteristic radiation at nearly the same time. This results in the flexibility to choose from several different emission wavelengths for

used for complex matrices such as beer.

1. Elemental range is limited to metals and metalloids. 2. Sample preparation is tedious and time consuming.

**8. Techniques based on atomic spectrometry** 

used to determine the concentration of that element in the sample.

measured and used to determine the concentrations of the elements of interest.

3. The sample is destroyed by the analysis. 4. Only one element at a time can be measured.

through the flame.

**7.1 Limitations** 

1998).

an element and the ability to measure emission from several different elements concurrently. However, a disadvantage associated with this feature is that as the number of emission wavelengths increases, the probability also increases for interferences that may arise from emission lines that are too close in wavelength to be measured separately.

In *atomic fluorescence spectrometry* (AFS), a light source, such as that used for AAS, is used to excite atoms only of the element of interest through radiative absorption transitions. When these selectively excited atoms decay through radiative transitions to lower levels, their emission is measured to determine concentration, much the same as in OES. The selective excitation of the AFS technique can lead to fewer spectral interferences than in OES. However, it is difficult to detect a large number of elements in a single run using AFS, as the number of spectral excitation sources and detectors that can be used at one time is limited by the instrument (Smith et al., 1995; Bernazzani & Paquin, 2001).

Another technique, called *atomic mass spectrometry*, is related to three atomic spectroscopy techniques described above. Instead of measuring the absorption, emission or fluorescence of radiation from a high temperature source, such as a flame or plasma. Mass spectrometry measures the number of singly charged ions from the elemental species within a sample. Similar to the function of a monochromator in emission/absorption spectrometry that separates light according to wavelength, a quadrupole mass spectrometer separates the ions of various elements according to their mass-to-charge ratio in atomic mass spectrometry (Jones, 1992).

#### **8.1 Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (AES)**

Atomic emission spectroscopy (AES) is one of the most important techniques of elemental analysis. One of its advantages over atomic absorption is the capability for simultaneous multi-element analysis. It can be used for the analysis of major components of the sample as well as for trace analysis, because calibration curves are linear over several orders of magnitude. As a result of these advantages AES technique are popular in analytical laboratories. Over the past decade, a new generation of spectrometer configurations based on charge coupled device (CCD) detectors has appeared (Hiefje, 2000; Bernazzani & Paquin, 2001) Some of them are simple and low-cost. The perfect atomic emission source would have the following characteristics:


Every element has its own characteristic set of energy levels and has unique set of absorption and emission wavelengths. This property of the element makes atomic spectrometry useful for element-specific analytical techniques. The ultraviolet (UV)/visible region (160 - 800 nm) of the electromagnetic spectrum is the region used for analytical

Elemental Profiling: Its Role and Regulations 49

estimation at low level, Heavy metal estimation at sub ppm level Rock, Soil, Fly ash (Complete analysis), Environmental sample analysis (Water, Air, Soil, sediments, etc.) and

In plasma mass spectroscopy (MS), the inductively coupled argon plasma (ICP) is once again used as an excitation source for the elements of interest. However in contrast to OES, the plasma in ICP-MS is used to generate ions that are then introduced to the mass analyzer. These ions are then separated and collected according to their mass to charge ratios. The constituents of an unknown sample can then be identified and measured. ICP-MS offers

**8.4 Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES Analysis)**  ICP technology has evolved significantly since its inception in 1960's, when the first ICP prototypes emerged to provide better analytical sensitivity and capacity than Atomic Absorption Spectrometry. During the course of time this technique showed significant improvements in technology, capability and price. Nowadays, ICP-OES is commonly found in contract analytical laboratories and academic facilities where routine analysis needing

Plasma is an ionized gas that in addition to atoms also contains electrons and ions. After ignition with a Tesla spark the energy transfer is via the high frequency field in the coil that is surrounding the plasma. Free electrons are accelerated and heat the plasma by collision with argon atoms. We distinguish between ionization, electron and excitation temperature, which are different at different locations of the plasma. The sample aerosol is introduced

In the plasma the atoms and particularly the ions are excited to emission. After spectral dispersion of the emitted radiation in a powerful optical system the element-specific wavelengths are used for identification and quantification. Samples are introduced into the plasma in a process that desolvates, ionises, and excites them. The constituent elements can be identified by their characteristic emission lines, and quantified by the intensity of the

through the center of the plasma flow without affecting its stability and equilibrium.

same lines. The method has the following advantages (Bafley, 1989):

**Spectrometry (HP-ICP-OES) through exact matching** 

Complementary analysis to techniques like XRF

Low chemical and matrix interference effects.

Large dynamic linear range

element mass fractions.

 High sample throughput enabling the efficient analysis of large batches Simultaneous determination of multiple elements in each sample

**9. High-Performance Inductively-Coupled Plasma Optical Emission** 

Using high-performance inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (HP-ICP-OES), relative expanded uncertainties on the order of 0.2 % can be routinely achieved. Nevertheless, analysis results can be improved by implementing "exact matching" with the HP-ICP-OES protocol. This should be very careful matching of the analyte mass fractions, internal standard element mass fractions, and solution matrices of the calibration solutions to the samples. The analytical benefits of this approach are being systematically investigated. Results show that the primary benefit is mitigation of the deleterious effects of nonlinearities of the ICP-OES instrument responses to the analyte and/or internal standard

Polymer industries.

high sensitivity throughput.

extremely high sensitivity to a wide range of elements.

atomic spectrometry. This is also the region of the electromagnetic spectrum. The main reasons for the popularity of analytical techniques that use the UV/visible region are that these techniques are accurate, precise, flexible and relatively inexpensive compared to techniques which use other regions, such as gamma ray spectrometry and X-ray spectrometry (Watson et al., 1998; DeGraff et al., 2002).

#### **8.2 Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS)**

One of the largest volume uses for ICP-MS is in the medical and forensic field, specifically, toxicology. A physician may order a metal assay for a number of reasons, such as suspicion of heavy metal poisoning, metabolic concerns, and even hepatological issues. Depending on the specific parameters unique to each patient's diagnostic plan, samples collected for analysis can range from whole blood, urine, plasma, serum, to even packed red blood cells. Another primary use for this instrument lies in the environmental field. Such applications include water testing for municipalities or private individuals all the way to soil, water and other material analysis for industrial purposes. This technique has been utilized in food, herbs, herbal drug analysis for safety and efficacy. This technique is also widely used the field of radiometric dating, in which it is used to analyze relative abundance of different isotopes. ICP-MS is more suitable for this application than the previously used Thermal Ionization Mass Spectrometry, as species with high ionization energy such as Osmium (Os) and Tungsten (Hf-W) can be easily ionized(Vladimir, 2007, Eliot, 2007).

#### **8.3 Inductively Coupled Plasma-Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-AES)**

An inductively coupled plasma spectrometer is a tool for trace detection of metals in solution, in which a liquid sample is injected into argon gas plasma contained by a strong magnetic field. The elements in the sample become excited and the electrons emit energy at a characteristic wavelength as they return to ground state. The emitted light is then measured by optical spectrometry. This method, known as inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES) or inductively coupled optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). ICP Spectrometers can be used for the analysis of environmental samples, contaminants in food or water, metalloproteins in biological samples, and similar studies. Most ICP-AES instruments are designed to detect a single wavelength at a time (mono-chromator). Since an element can emit at multiple wavelengths, it is sometimes desirable to detect more than one wavelength at a time. This can be done by sequential scanning or by using a spectrometer that is designed to capture emissions of several wavelengths simultaneously (poly-chromator). Detection limits typically range from parts per million (ppm) to parts per billion (ppb), although depending on the element and instrument, it can sometimes achieve even less than ppb detection.

#### **8.3.1 Interferences**

Any chemical or physical process that adversely affects the measurement of the radiation of interest can be classified as interference. Interferences in ICP-AES may start in the sample preparation stage and extend to the plasma operating conditions(Montaser & Golightly 1988).

#### **8.3.2 Applications**

Pharmaceutical industries (metals in wine (Aceto, 2002), arsenic in food (Benramdane, 1999), and trace elements bound to proteins Biological samples(Ma, 2004). Precious metal

atomic spectrometry. This is also the region of the electromagnetic spectrum. The main reasons for the popularity of analytical techniques that use the UV/visible region are that these techniques are accurate, precise, flexible and relatively inexpensive compared to techniques which use other regions, such as gamma ray spectrometry and X-ray

One of the largest volume uses for ICP-MS is in the medical and forensic field, specifically, toxicology. A physician may order a metal assay for a number of reasons, such as suspicion of heavy metal poisoning, metabolic concerns, and even hepatological issues. Depending on the specific parameters unique to each patient's diagnostic plan, samples collected for analysis can range from whole blood, urine, plasma, serum, to even packed red blood cells. Another primary use for this instrument lies in the environmental field. Such applications include water testing for municipalities or private individuals all the way to soil, water and other material analysis for industrial purposes. This technique has been utilized in food, herbs, herbal drug analysis for safety and efficacy. This technique is also widely used the field of radiometric dating, in which it is used to analyze relative abundance of different isotopes. ICP-MS is more suitable for this application than the previously used Thermal Ionization Mass Spectrometry, as species with high ionization energy such as Osmium (Os)

spectrometry (Watson et al., 1998; DeGraff et al., 2002).

**8.2 Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS)** 

and Tungsten (Hf-W) can be easily ionized(Vladimir, 2007, Eliot, 2007).

instrument, it can sometimes achieve even less than ppb detection.

**8.3.1 Interferences** 

**8.3.2 Applications** 

**8.3 Inductively Coupled Plasma-Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-AES)** 

An inductively coupled plasma spectrometer is a tool for trace detection of metals in solution, in which a liquid sample is injected into argon gas plasma contained by a strong magnetic field. The elements in the sample become excited and the electrons emit energy at a characteristic wavelength as they return to ground state. The emitted light is then measured by optical spectrometry. This method, known as inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES) or inductively coupled optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). ICP Spectrometers can be used for the analysis of environmental samples, contaminants in food or water, metalloproteins in biological samples, and similar studies. Most ICP-AES instruments are designed to detect a single wavelength at a time (mono-chromator). Since an element can emit at multiple wavelengths, it is sometimes desirable to detect more than one wavelength at a time. This can be done by sequential scanning or by using a spectrometer that is designed to capture emissions of several wavelengths simultaneously (poly-chromator). Detection limits typically range from parts per million (ppm) to parts per billion (ppb), although depending on the element and

Any chemical or physical process that adversely affects the measurement of the radiation of interest can be classified as interference. Interferences in ICP-AES may start in the sample preparation stage and extend to the plasma operating conditions(Montaser & Golightly 1988).

Pharmaceutical industries (metals in wine (Aceto, 2002), arsenic in food (Benramdane, 1999), and trace elements bound to proteins Biological samples(Ma, 2004). Precious metal estimation at low level, Heavy metal estimation at sub ppm level Rock, Soil, Fly ash (Complete analysis), Environmental sample analysis (Water, Air, Soil, sediments, etc.) and Polymer industries.

In plasma mass spectroscopy (MS), the inductively coupled argon plasma (ICP) is once again used as an excitation source for the elements of interest. However in contrast to OES, the plasma in ICP-MS is used to generate ions that are then introduced to the mass analyzer. These ions are then separated and collected according to their mass to charge ratios. The constituents of an unknown sample can then be identified and measured. ICP-MS offers extremely high sensitivity to a wide range of elements.

#### **8.4 Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES Analysis)**

ICP technology has evolved significantly since its inception in 1960's, when the first ICP prototypes emerged to provide better analytical sensitivity and capacity than Atomic Absorption Spectrometry. During the course of time this technique showed significant improvements in technology, capability and price. Nowadays, ICP-OES is commonly found in contract analytical laboratories and academic facilities where routine analysis needing high sensitivity throughput.

Plasma is an ionized gas that in addition to atoms also contains electrons and ions. After ignition with a Tesla spark the energy transfer is via the high frequency field in the coil that is surrounding the plasma. Free electrons are accelerated and heat the plasma by collision with argon atoms. We distinguish between ionization, electron and excitation temperature, which are different at different locations of the plasma. The sample aerosol is introduced through the center of the plasma flow without affecting its stability and equilibrium.

In the plasma the atoms and particularly the ions are excited to emission. After spectral dispersion of the emitted radiation in a powerful optical system the element-specific wavelengths are used for identification and quantification. Samples are introduced into the plasma in a process that desolvates, ionises, and excites them. The constituent elements can be identified by their characteristic emission lines, and quantified by the intensity of the same lines. The method has the following advantages (Bafley, 1989):


#### **9. High-Performance Inductively-Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry (HP-ICP-OES) through exact matching**

Using high-performance inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (HP-ICP-OES), relative expanded uncertainties on the order of 0.2 % can be routinely achieved. Nevertheless, analysis results can be improved by implementing "exact matching" with the HP-ICP-OES protocol. This should be very careful matching of the analyte mass fractions, internal standard element mass fractions, and solution matrices of the calibration solutions to the samples. The analytical benefits of this approach are being systematically investigated. Results show that the primary benefit is mitigation of the deleterious effects of nonlinearities of the ICP-OES instrument responses to the analyte and/or internal standard element mass fractions.

Elemental Profiling: Its Role and Regulations 51

This is the lowest continuing level of nutrient intake that, at a specified efficiency of

This refers to the intake needed to prevent pathologically relevant and clinically detectable

This refers to the level of intake that serves to maintain a level of tissue storage or other reserve that is judged by the expert consultation to be desirable. The essential difference between the basal requirement and the normative requirement is that the latter usually facilitates the maintenance of a desirable level of tissue stores. For most trace elements, metabolic and tissue-composition studies indicate the existence of discrete stores which, by undergoing depletion at times of reduced intake or high demand, can provide protection for a certain period against the development of pathological responses to trace-element deficiency. Since higher levels of intake are needed to maintain these reserves the normative

It is defined as the individual's average intake persisting over moderate periods of time without necessarily being present in those amounts each day. Individuals differ in their requirements, even though they may have the same general characteristic (e.g. age, sex, physiological state and body size). One may therefore speak of the *average requirement* of a group of individuals (e.g. young adult men) or of the level that marks a point in the upper tail of the requirement distribution, the level previously identified as the recommended or safe level of intake. Except where specifically indicated, the estimates refer to the maintenance of a defined level of nutritional status in individuals already in that state. They refer to healthy individuals, and the estimated requirements may be altered by disease or other conditions.

It is estimated to meet the requirement of half of the healthy individuals in a life stage and

The dietary intake level that is sufficient to meet the nutrient requirements of nearly all

A recommended intake value based on observed or experimentally determined approximations or estimates of nutrient intake by a group (or groups) of healthy people that

The highest level of nutrient intake that is likely to pose no risk of adverse health effects for almost all individuals in the general population. As intakes increase above the UL, the risk

are assumed to be adequate (used when an RDA cannot be determined).

utilization, will maintain the defined level of nutrient in the individual.

signs of impaired function attributable to inadequacy of the nutrient.

requirement is necessarily higher than the basal requirement.

**12. Needs of individuals requirement** 

**12.1 Basal requirement** 

**12.3 Daily intake** 

**12.4 A nutrient intake value** 

**12.6 Adequate Intake (AI)** 

of adverse effects increases.

**12.5 Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA)** 

**12.7 Tolerable upper intake level (UL)** 

healthy individuals in a life stage and gender group.

gender group.

**12.2 Normative requirement** 

#### **10. Regulatory and dietary recommendations**

The side effects against heavy metals have built up over time. Close examination by toxicologists studying cases of poisoning from heavy metals has revealed that only in cases of high exposures, visible clinical symptoms are likely. At lower but still unacceptable 'levels of exposure, as in consumption of certain foods, effects may be restricted at physiological or biochemical level only, (Hutton, 1987). Hamilton (1988) noted that the first legislation to control the adulteration of food or drink occurred in Britain in 1860, in response to long use of heavy metal salts as coloring matter in food. Regulatory agencies in most countries now seek to protect public health by exercising control limits over the chemical composition of specific food types. The process typically involves setting appropriate standards for potentially toxic chemicals in foods which by law should not be exceeded. These or similar agencies were setup to overview random and/or periodic chemical testing of appropriate samples to ensure compliance of the law. For trace elements, given the absence of metabolization of the metal or nonmetal, it is possible to establish clear separations among essentially, health benefits and toxicity. Many countries and regions have defined the requirements and limits of supplements for trace elements. Walker (1988) has summarized international food standards for cadmium applicable in 1986. 19 countries had set regulatory limits for cadmium in foods, but with some exceptions. Australia, Denmark, the Netherlands and Hungry had set limits for cadmium in particular foods.

#### **11. Initiation for scientific and regulatory bodies**

The report of the WHO Expert Committee on Trace Elements in Human Nutrition that met in 1973 ended with six important general recommendations for future national and international activities in trace-element nutrition. They are briefly given as under:


The two dietary standards -the 1990 version of the RNIs and 1989 RDAs, did not differ much in the described derivations of the recommended intakes but differences remain about how intended uses are described, resulting in some confusion for the users of both reports. The answer was sought in the joint U.S. and Canadian development of the new Dietary Reference Intakes/Recommended dietary Allowances (DRIs/RDAs). The Food and Nutrition Board of the United States National Academy of Sciences has taken responsibility for establishing guidelines on what quantities of the various nutrients should be eaten by human males and females at various ages. These were called RDAs (for Recommended Dietary Allowances, and often referred to as Recommended Daily Allowances). They provide the data on which food labels are based. To avoid any further confusions, the terms used in the guidelines were explained explicitly.

#### **12. Needs of individuals requirement**

This is the lowest continuing level of nutrient intake that, at a specified efficiency of utilization, will maintain the defined level of nutrient in the individual.

#### **12.1 Basal requirement**

50 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

The side effects against heavy metals have built up over time. Close examination by toxicologists studying cases of poisoning from heavy metals has revealed that only in cases of high exposures, visible clinical symptoms are likely. At lower but still unacceptable 'levels of exposure, as in consumption of certain foods, effects may be restricted at physiological or biochemical level only, (Hutton, 1987). Hamilton (1988) noted that the first legislation to control the adulteration of food or drink occurred in Britain in 1860, in response to long use of heavy metal salts as coloring matter in food. Regulatory agencies in most countries now seek to protect public health by exercising control limits over the chemical composition of specific food types. The process typically involves setting appropriate standards for potentially toxic chemicals in foods which by law should not be exceeded. These or similar agencies were setup to overview random and/or periodic chemical testing of appropriate samples to ensure compliance of the law. For trace elements, given the absence of metabolization of the metal or nonmetal, it is possible to establish clear separations among essentially, health benefits and toxicity. Many countries and regions have defined the requirements and limits of supplements for trace elements. Walker (1988) has summarized international food standards for cadmium applicable in 1986. 19 countries had set regulatory limits for cadmium in foods, but with some exceptions. Australia, Denmark, the Netherlands and Hungry had set limits for cadmium in particular foods.

The report of the WHO Expert Committee on Trace Elements in Human Nutrition that met in 1973 ended with six important general recommendations for future national and

1. Need to obtain reliable information on the trace-element content of foods, especially

2. To monitor contents in relation to future changes in agricultural and industrial

3. Trace-element requirements should be taken into account in food standards and especially in those for formulated foods designed for infants and young children. 4. Need for international centers for the study of trace elements in humans and for

5. Further review of new findings in trace-element nutrition in order to update the

The two dietary standards -the 1990 version of the RNIs and 1989 RDAs, did not differ much in the described derivations of the recommended intakes but differences remain about how intended uses are described, resulting in some confusion for the users of both reports. The answer was sought in the joint U.S. and Canadian development of the new Dietary Reference Intakes/Recommended dietary Allowances (DRIs/RDAs). The Food and Nutrition Board of the United States National Academy of Sciences has taken responsibility for establishing guidelines on what quantities of the various nutrients should be eaten by human males and females at various ages. These were called RDAs (for Recommended Dietary Allowances, and often referred to as Recommended Daily Allowances). They provide the data on which food labels are based. To avoid any further confusions, the terms

international activities in trace-element nutrition. They are briefly given as under:

**10. Regulatory and dietary recommendations** 

**11. Initiation for scientific and regulatory bodies** 

international analytical reference laboratories.

recommended levels of intake.

used in the guidelines were explained explicitly.

milk

practices.

This refers to the intake needed to prevent pathologically relevant and clinically detectable signs of impaired function attributable to inadequacy of the nutrient.

#### **12.2 Normative requirement**

This refers to the level of intake that serves to maintain a level of tissue storage or other reserve that is judged by the expert consultation to be desirable. The essential difference between the basal requirement and the normative requirement is that the latter usually facilitates the maintenance of a desirable level of tissue stores. For most trace elements, metabolic and tissue-composition studies indicate the existence of discrete stores which, by undergoing depletion at times of reduced intake or high demand, can provide protection for a certain period against the development of pathological responses to trace-element deficiency. Since higher levels of intake are needed to maintain these reserves the normative requirement is necessarily higher than the basal requirement.

#### **12.3 Daily intake**

It is defined as the individual's average intake persisting over moderate periods of time without necessarily being present in those amounts each day. Individuals differ in their requirements, even though they may have the same general characteristic (e.g. age, sex, physiological state and body size). One may therefore speak of the *average requirement* of a group of individuals (e.g. young adult men) or of the level that marks a point in the upper tail of the requirement distribution, the level previously identified as the recommended or safe level of intake. Except where specifically indicated, the estimates refer to the maintenance of a defined level of nutritional status in individuals already in that state. They refer to healthy individuals, and the estimated requirements may be altered by disease or other conditions.

#### **12.4 A nutrient intake value**

It is estimated to meet the requirement of half of the healthy individuals in a life stage and gender group.

#### **12.5 Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA)**

The dietary intake level that is sufficient to meet the nutrient requirements of nearly all healthy individuals in a life stage and gender group.

#### **12.6 Adequate Intake (AI)**

A recommended intake value based on observed or experimentally determined approximations or estimates of nutrient intake by a group (or groups) of healthy people that are assumed to be adequate (used when an RDA cannot be determined).

#### **12.7 Tolerable upper intake level (UL)**

The highest level of nutrient intake that is likely to pose no risk of adverse health effects for almost all individuals in the general population. As intakes increase above the UL, the risk of adverse effects increases.

Elemental Profiling: Its Role and Regulations 53

**Male 14-18 Yrs** 

Calcium 1300\* mg 1300\* mg 1300\* mg 1300\* mg Chromium 25\* µg 35\* µg 21\* µg 24\* µg Copper 700 µg 890 µg 700 µg 890 µg Fluoride 2\* mg 3\* mg 2\* mg 3\* mg Iodine 120 µg 150 µg 120 µg 150 µg Iron 8 mg 11 mg 8 mg 15 mg Magnesium 240 mg 410 mg 240 mg 360 mg Manganese 1.9\* mg 2.2\* mg 1.6\* mg 1.6\* mg Molybdenum 34 µg 43 µg 34 µg 43 µg Phosphorus 1250 mg 1250 mg 1250 mg 1250 mg Selenium 40 µg 55 µg 40 µg 55 µg Zinc 8 mg 11 mg 8 mg 9 mg Potassium 4.5\* g 4.7\* g 4.5\* g 4.7\* g Sodium 1.5\* g 1.5\* g 1.5\* g 1.5\* g Chloride 2.3\* g 2.3\* g 2.3\* g 2.3\* g

Table 4. Recommended Daily Allowances for Older Children (9 to 18 Years)

Table 5. Recommended Daily Allowances for Adults (19 Years and Up)

**Male >50 Yrs** 

Calcium 1000\* mg 1200\* mg 1000\* mg 1200\* mg Chromium 35\* µg 30\* µg 25\* µg 20\* µg Copper 900 µg 900 µg 900 µg 900 µg Fluoride 4\* mg 4\* mg 3\* mg 3\* mg Iodine 150 µg 150 µg 150 µg 150 µg Iron 8 mg 8 mg 18 mg 8 mg Magnesium *#*1 400/420 mg 420 mg 310/320 mg 320 mg Manganese 2.3\* mg 2.3\* mg 1.8\* mg 1.8\* mg Molybdenum 45 µg 45 µg 45 µg 45 µg Phosphorus 700 mg 700 mg 700 mg 700 mg Selenium 55 µg 55 µg 55 µg 55 µg Zinc 11 mg 11 mg 8 mg 8 mg Potassium 4.7\* g 4.7\* g 4.7\* g 4.7\* g Sodium #2 1.5\* g 1.3\* g 1.5\* g 1.3\* g Chloride #2 2.3\* g 2.0\* g 2.3\* g 2.0\* g As per the Food and Nutrition Board (FNB) Recommendations : Men from 31 to 50 need slightly more magnesium (420 mg) than those from 19 to 30 years old (400 mg). Women from 31 to 50 also need slightly more magnesium (320 mg) than those from 19 to 30 years old (310 mg). Adults over 70 years need slightly different levels of sodium (1.2 g) and chloride (1.8 g). Pregnant women from 31 to 50 need slightly more magnesium (360 mg) than those between 19 to 30 years old (350 mg). Women from 31 to 50 who are breastfeeding also require slightly more magnesium (320 mg) than those between 19 to 30

**Female 9-13 Yrs** 

**Female 19-50 Yrs** 

**Female 14-18 Yrs** 

**Female >50 Yrs** 

**Minerals Male** 

**Minerals Male** 

years old (310 mg).

**19-50 Yrs** 

**9-13 Yrs** 

#### **13. UK Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) for minerals**

**The Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA)** of foods and supplements has traditionally been set by government health bodies in the UK, Europe and USA. In the UK the department of health gave the RDA for vitamins A, C, D, three of the B vitamins, and three minerals in 1979. However, in 1993 the European Union (EU) issued a directive on food labelling for its members, which included RDAs for twelve vitamins and six minerals. As a result, UK food labels are being revised to include the EU recommendations. In addition, the government of the UK issued a report in 1991 suggesting new guidelines for daily requirements of vitamins and minerals, which would replace the RDAs. These are called, collectively, Dietary Reference Values (DRVs), and consist of these terms:

**Estimated Average Requirement (EAR),** which should meet the requirements of half of the population.

**Reference Nutrient Intake (KNI),** which replaces the former RDA, is meant to represent the nutrient requirements of some 97 percent of the population. The amount recommended is higher than most people actually need. The EAR meets the requirements of half of the population, of the remaining half some need more and some need less than the EAR.

**Lower Reference Nutrient Intake (LRNI),** which is the nutritional requirement for those whose needs are low. Most people will need more than this amount in order to maintain their health. Anyone who is getting less than the LRNI might be in danger of nutritional deficiency.

The following list describes those vitamins and minerals that should be present in the daily diet. The descriptions include the RDAs for the EU and USA. The amounts given are those that should be taken to prevent a mineral deficiency, not those needed to improve health or prevent non-deficiency diseases:

#### **Recommended Daily Allowances / Dietary Reference Intake (Table 3-6)**

In the Recommended Dietary Allowance charts below, amounts marked with a \* indicate AI (Adequate Intake). Figures taken from the Dietary Reference Intakes (DRI, 1997, 98, 2000, 2001, 2003 and 2004).


1µg = 1mcg = 1microgram = 1/1,000,000 of a gram;1mg = 1milligram =1/1,000 of a gram;1g =1gram Table 3. Recommended Daily Allowances (RDA) Chart for Infants & Children

**The Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA)** of foods and supplements has traditionally been set by government health bodies in the UK, Europe and USA. In the UK the department of health gave the RDA for vitamins A, C, D, three of the B vitamins, and three minerals in 1979. However, in 1993 the European Union (EU) issued a directive on food labelling for its members, which included RDAs for twelve vitamins and six minerals. As a result, UK food labels are being revised to include the EU recommendations. In addition, the government of the UK issued a report in 1991 suggesting new guidelines for daily requirements of vitamins and minerals, which would replace the RDAs. These are called,

**Estimated Average Requirement (EAR),** which should meet the requirements of half of the

**Reference Nutrient Intake (KNI),** which replaces the former RDA, is meant to represent the nutrient requirements of some 97 percent of the population. The amount recommended is higher than most people actually need. The EAR meets the requirements of half of the

**Lower Reference Nutrient Intake (LRNI),** which is the nutritional requirement for those whose needs are low. Most people will need more than this amount in order to maintain their health. Anyone who is getting less than the LRNI might be in danger of nutritional deficiency. The following list describes those vitamins and minerals that should be present in the daily diet. The descriptions include the RDAs for the EU and USA. The amounts given are those that should be taken to prevent a mineral deficiency, not those needed to improve health or

In the Recommended Dietary Allowance charts below, amounts marked with a \* indicate AI (Adequate Intake). Figures taken from the Dietary Reference Intakes (DRI, 1997, 98, 2000,

**Minerals 0-6 months 7-12months 1-3 years 4-8 years**  Calcium 210\* mg 270\* mg 500\* mg 800\* mg Chromium 0.2\* µg 5.5\* µg 11\* µg 15\* µg Copper 200\* µg 220\* µg 340 µg 440 µg Fluoride 0.01\* mg 0.5\* mg 0.7\* mg 1\* mg Iodine 110\* µg 130\* µg 90 µg 90 µg Iron 0.27\* mg 11 mg 7 mg 10 mg Magnesium 30\* mg 75\* mg 80 mg 130 mg Manganese 0.003\* mg 0.6\* mg 1.2\* mg 1.5\* mg Molybdenum 2\* µg 3\* µg 17 µg 22 µg Phosphorus 100\* mg 275\* mg 460 mg 500 mg Selenium 15\* µg 20\* µg 20 µg 30 µg Zinc 2\* mg 3 mg 3 mg 5 mg Potassium 0.4\* g 0.7\* g 3.0\* g 3.8\* g Sodium 0.12\* g 0.37\* g 1.0\* g 1.2\* g Chloride 0.18\* g 0.57\* g 1.5\* g 1.9\* g 1µg = 1mcg = 1microgram = 1/1,000,000 of a gram;1mg = 1milligram =1/1,000 of a gram;1g =1gram

population, of the remaining half some need more and some need less than the EAR.

**13. UK Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) for minerals** 

collectively, Dietary Reference Values (DRVs), and consist of these terms:

**Recommended Daily Allowances / Dietary Reference Intake (Table 3-6)** 

Table 3. Recommended Daily Allowances (RDA) Chart for Infants & Children

population.

prevent non-deficiency diseases:

2001, 2003 and 2004).


Table 4. Recommended Daily Allowances for Older Children (9 to 18 Years)


As per the Food and Nutrition Board (FNB) Recommendations : Men from 31 to 50 need slightly more magnesium (420 mg) than those from 19 to 30 years old (400 mg). Women from 31 to 50 also need slightly more magnesium (320 mg) than those from 19 to 30 years old (310 mg). Adults over 70 years need slightly different levels of sodium (1.2 g) and chloride (1.8 g). Pregnant women from 31 to 50 need slightly more magnesium (360 mg) than those between 19 to 30 years old (350 mg). Women from 31 to 50 who are breastfeeding also require slightly more magnesium (320 mg) than those between 19 to 30 years old (310 mg).

Table 5. Recommended Daily Allowances for Adults (19 Years and Up)

Elemental Profiling: Its Role and Regulations 55

Cd 2.0 0.1 2.0 2.0 0.003-0.005 <1 µg/l 0.003 Cu 3.0 0.05-1.5 3.0 3.0 2.0 - 2.0 Fe 3.0 0.1-1.0 - 3.0 0.2 0.5-5.0 - Mn 2.0 0.05-0.5 0.1 0.1 0.5-0.05 - 0.4 Ni 2.0 - - 2.0 0.02 0.02 0.07 Pb 0.1 0.1 2.0 3.0 0.01 - 0.01

Table 8. Recent standards for heavy metals (mg/l) in Inland surface and drinking water

according to the Food and Nutrition Board of the Institute of Medicine.

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**Inland surface water Drinking water WHO (2006) BIS/CPCB WHO BIS CPCB WHO(1993) Normal Health** 

**based** 


Table 6. Recommended Daily Allowances for Pregnancy / Lactating Mothers

#### **14. Trace minerals in human milk and in drinking water guidelines (Table 7 and 8)**

In considering the consumption of drinking water by vulnerable populations, a figure of 0.75 liters per day has been used for a 5kg child and a figure of one liter per day for a 10kg


**\*** Health-based guideline value, (P): provisional; **b** Parameters in drinking water that may give rise to complaints from consumers, C FNB

Table 7. Trace minerals in human milk and in drinking water guidelines

**Pregnancy 19-50 Yrs**

Calcium 1300\* mg 1000\* mg 1300\* mg 1000\* mg Chromium 29\* µg 30\* µg 44\* µg 45\* µg Copper 1000 µg 1000 µg 1300 µg 1300 µg Fluoride 3\* mg 3\* mg 3\* mg 3\* mg Iodine 220 µg 220 µg 290 µg 290 µg Iron 27 mg 27 mg 10 mg 9 mg Magnesium *#*3 400 mg 350/360 mg 360 mg 310/320 mg Manganese 2.0\* mg 2.0\* mg 2.6\* mg 2.6\* mg Molybdenum 50 µg 50 µg 50 µg 50 µg Phosphorus 1250 mg 700 mg 1250 mg 700 mg Selenium 60 µg 60 µg 70 µg 70 µg Zinc 12 mg 11 mg 13 mg 12 mg Potassium 4.7\* g 4.7\* g 5.1\* g 5.1\* g Sodium 1.5\* g 1.5\* g 1.5\* g 1.5\* g Chloride 2.3\* g 2.3\* g 2.3\* g 2.3\* g

Table 6. Recommended Daily Allowances for Pregnancy / Lactating Mothers

**14. Trace minerals in human milk and in drinking water guidelines (Table 7** 

In considering the consumption of drinking water by vulnerable populations, a figure of 0.75 liters per day has been used for a 5kg child and a figure of one liter per day for a 10kg

> **Drinking water guidelines (WHO, 1996)**

 mg/L mg/L mg/L **Calcium** 280 -- 325-910 (Ca: P=1-2) **Iron** 0.40 0.3 b 1.95-8.45 **Zinc** 1.2 3.0 b 3.25-9.75 **Copper** 0.25 1.0 b; 2.0 \*(P) 0.228-0.65 **Selenium** 20 10\* 20-59 **Fluoride** 0.016 1.5 (P) ≤ 0.65 **Magnesium** 30 -- 33-98 **Sodium** 180 200\* 130-390 **Sulphate** 140 (sulphur) 250\* -- **Chloride** 420 (chlorine) 250 \* 325-1040 **Manganese (μg/L)** 6 100 b; 500 \* (P) 6.5-650 **Molybdenum (μg/L)** 2μg/dc 70 --

**\*** Health-based guideline value, (P): provisional; **b** Parameters in drinking water that may give rise to

Table 7. Trace minerals in human milk and in drinking water guidelines

**Lactation 14-18 Yrs**

**Lactation 19-50 Yrs** 

**EC, SCF, 2003 (Recommended energy content: 60-70kcal/dl; based on 65kcal/dl, cow's-milkprotein based formula)** 

**Minerals Pregnancy**

**Mineral Mature human** 

complaints from consumers, C FNB

**milk (Lawrence & Lawrence, 1999)**

**and 8)** 

**14-18 Yrs**


Table 8. Recent standards for heavy metals (mg/l) in Inland surface and drinking water (Bharti 2007)

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**4** 

*Iran* 

**Microextraction Techniques as a Sample** 

*1Department of Nanotechnology, Islamic Azad University, Langaroud Branch, Langaroud, 2Research Department of Analytical Chemistry, Iranian Academic Center for Education,* 

Analytical methods consist of several steps including; sampling, sample preparation, analysis, calculations and statistical evaluation of the results. Each step has a direct impact on accuracy, precision and sensitivity of the method. Among theses steps, sample preparation is the most time consuming step. Result of studies showed that more than 60% of analysis time is spent for sample preparation. Sample preparation follows two main aims; sample clean-up and concentration. Sample Clean-up is carried out for isolating the target analytes from matrix components which interfere on determination and concentration is done for enrichment of the analytes in sample because despite advances in analytical

In the case of atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS) which is the subject of this book, there are two priciple systems which are familiar with readers of this book, flame and electrothermal AAS. In continue of our discussions about microextraction techniques for metal analysis by AAS, we will emphasis on reduced volumes of extracting phases in the microlitre scale. It is clear that due to consumption of large volumes (in the mililitre scale) of the sample in flame AAS, coupling of microextraction techniques with flame AAS is difficult. But in the case of electrothermal AAS, this is so easy. Because volume of the samples introduced to graphite furnaces are very low and in microlitre scale. So a review on literature show that most of the microextraction methods are capable with electrothermal

Liquid-Liquid Extraction (LLE) is a versatile classical sample preparation technique. LLE is based on establishment of distribution equilibrium of the analytes between two immiscible

Characteristics of an ideal sample preparation technique are listed as below: - Minimum loss of the sample and maximum recovery of the analyte


**1. Introduction** 

instrumentation, sensitivities are limited.


AAS not with flame AAS.

**1.1 Liquid-Liquid Extraction (LLE)** 

**Preparation Step for Metal Analysis** 

Pourya Biparva1 and Amir Abbas Matin2

*Culture & Research (ACECR), Urmia* 


### **Microextraction Techniques as a Sample Preparation Step for Metal Analysis**

Pourya Biparva1 and Amir Abbas Matin2

*1Department of Nanotechnology, Islamic Azad University, Langaroud Branch, Langaroud, 2Research Department of Analytical Chemistry, Iranian Academic Center for Education, Culture & Research (ACECR), Urmia Iran* 

#### **1. Introduction**

60 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

Zago, M.P. & Oteiza, P.I. (2001). The antioxidant properties of zinc: interactions with iron

Zimmermann, M.B. & Kohrle J. (2002): The impact of iron and selenium deficiencies on

iodine and thyroid metabolism: biochemistry and relevance to public health,

and antioxidants, *Free Radic. Biol. Med.* Vol.31: 266–274.

*Thyroid* Vol.12: 867–878.

Analytical methods consist of several steps including; sampling, sample preparation, analysis, calculations and statistical evaluation of the results. Each step has a direct impact on accuracy, precision and sensitivity of the method. Among theses steps, sample preparation is the most time consuming step. Result of studies showed that more than 60% of analysis time is spent for sample preparation. Sample preparation follows two main aims; sample clean-up and concentration. Sample Clean-up is carried out for isolating the target analytes from matrix components which interfere on determination and concentration is done for enrichment of the analytes in sample because despite advances in analytical instrumentation, sensitivities are limited.

Characteristics of an ideal sample preparation technique are listed as below:


In the case of atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS) which is the subject of this book, there are two priciple systems which are familiar with readers of this book, flame and electrothermal AAS. In continue of our discussions about microextraction techniques for metal analysis by AAS, we will emphasis on reduced volumes of extracting phases in the microlitre scale. It is clear that due to consumption of large volumes (in the mililitre scale) of the sample in flame AAS, coupling of microextraction techniques with flame AAS is difficult. But in the case of electrothermal AAS, this is so easy. Because volume of the samples introduced to graphite furnaces are very low and in microlitre scale. So a review on literature show that most of the microextraction methods are capable with electrothermal AAS not with flame AAS.

#### **1.1 Liquid-Liquid Extraction (LLE)**

Liquid-Liquid Extraction (LLE) is a versatile classical sample preparation technique. LLE is based on establishment of distribution equilibrium of the analytes between two immiscible

Microextraction Techniques as a Sample Preparation Step for Metal Analysis 63

**Metal ion Extracted as Solid Phase** 

+2, +3 and +4 cations Bromide complexes Strong-acid cation-exchanger

Fe(III) Chloride complexe Haloport-F Mo(VI) Chloride complexe Granular polymer

> pyrrolidin dithiocarbamat complexes

Au(III) Chloride complexe Amberchrome resin

U(VI) Chelate with solid phase Cellulose phosphate ion

In order to get rid of limitations of classical sample preparation methods and reach to an ideal method, miniaturization of extraction techniques is necessary. The first step in miniaturization is reducing volume of extraction solvent in LLE (Liquid Phase Microextraction). Different ways of this miniaturization causes various modes of LPME like single drop microextraction, dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction, hollow fiber based supported liquid membrane microextraction and liquid phase microextraction based on solidification of floating organic drop. Miniaturization was also applied to SPE. Product of this process is known as solid phase microextraction. Review of scientific literature shows that design; development and applications of microextraction techniques are growing rapidly. Popularity and applicability of microextraction techniques requires discussing these

Solid phase microextraction as a solvent free alternative method for conventional sample preparation methods was introduced (Arthur et. al., 1990). In SPME, a small volume of extraction phase (usually less than 1 μL) coated on fused silica support is mounted in a modified Hamilton 7000 series syringe. Extraction phase could be a high molecular weight polymeric liquid or a solid porous sorbent with high surface area. Fig. 1 illustrates the structure of a SPME device manufactured by Supelco Company. A stainless steel tube was

Fluoride complexes Cation- exchanger

Chelate with solid phase Hydroxamic Acid resins

Chelate with solid phase Thioglycolate resins

Cation- exchanger

impregnated with MIBK

C18

(Chelating resin)

(Chelating resin)

exchanger (Chelating resin)

Hydrogen Peroxide complexes

Mo(VI), W(VI), Ta(V), Nb(V), Ti(IV), V(IV), V(V)

Al(III), Mo(VI), Nb(V), Sn(IV), Ta(V), Ti(IV), U(VI), W(VI), Zr(IV)

Cd(II), Co(II), Cu(II), Fe(II), Ni(II), Pb(II)

Cu(II), Fe(III), U(VI), Al(III)

Ag(I), Au(III), Bi(III), Cd(II), Cu(II), Fe(III), Hg(II), Pb(II), Sb(III), Sn(IV), U(VI), Zn(II)

Table 1. SPE techniques for metal ion analysis.

**2.1 Solid Phase Microextraction (SPME)** 

**2. Microextraction techniques** 

subjects in books.

phases, an aqueous and an organic phase. Apparatus for LLE is a separating funnel. If distribution equilibrium constant is enough large, a quantitative extraction of the analytes can be occurred in one step. But most of the LLEs are multistep.

LLE commonly is used for extraction of organic and inorganic compounds. In the case of metal analysis, extraction of them as ammonium pyrrolidin dithiocarbamat (APDC) complexes using methyl isobuthyl ketone (MIBK) as extraction solvent is known as Standard method. Other examples for application of LLE in metal analysis are briefly described here; Extraction of As (inorganic and organic) in urine and water samples as their iodide salts extracted in chloroform and re-extracted in dilute dichromate solution for total As determination by electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry (ET-AAS) was reported (Fitchett et al., 1975). Another method for extraction of As (inorganic and organic) is based on extraction to toluene and back extraction with cobalt nitrate solution (Lauwerys et al. 1979). A simple LLE method for extraction of methylmercury was introduced by using toluene as extraction solvent before analysis by ET-AAS (Saber-Tehrani et al. 2007). Ease of operation and simplicity of the method are advantages of LLE. But important disadvantages such as consumption of large volumes of expensive and toxic solvents, emulsion formation at the interface of the two phases and difficult phase separations and finally low concentration factor lead the analytical chemists to introduce alternative methods for LLE by decreasing volume of the extracting solvent at micro liter scale known as liquid phase microextraction (LPME) which introduced in the late 1990s and early 2000s.

#### **1.2 Solid Phase Extraction (SPE)**

One of the alternative methods for LLE is solid phase extraction (SPE) which was introduced in early 1970 and developed during 1980-90. SPE process is based on distribution of analytes between solid sorbent packed in a cartridge and liquid sample which moves through the solid phase. Solid phase usually consists of small porous particles of silica with or without bonded organic phase, organic polymers and ion exchangers. Mechanisms of extractions are based on adsorption, partitioning or ion exchange according to kind of solid phase. SPE is used for extraction of both of the organic and inorganic compounds. A wide group of chemicals which their SPE procedures were reported in the literature is metal ions.

Main SPE methods for metal ions are summarized in Table 1 (Fritz, 1999).

Increasing development of SPE during 1990s continues until recent years by introducing novel solid sorbents such as molecularly imprinted polymers (Lucci et al., 2010) and nanostructured materials (Faraji et al., 2010). SPE has many attractive features in comparison with classical solvent extraction methods. However, it has its limitations. Some of the main limitations of SPE are listed below:


Despite popularity of the SPE, miniaturization of it caused to introduction of solid phase microextraction (SPME) (Arthur et al. 1990).


Table 1. SPE techniques for metal ion analysis.

#### **2. Microextraction techniques**

62 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

phases, an aqueous and an organic phase. Apparatus for LLE is a separating funnel. If distribution equilibrium constant is enough large, a quantitative extraction of the analytes

LLE commonly is used for extraction of organic and inorganic compounds. In the case of metal analysis, extraction of them as ammonium pyrrolidin dithiocarbamat (APDC) complexes using methyl isobuthyl ketone (MIBK) as extraction solvent is known as Standard method. Other examples for application of LLE in metal analysis are briefly described here; Extraction of As (inorganic and organic) in urine and water samples as their iodide salts extracted in chloroform and re-extracted in dilute dichromate solution for total As determination by electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry (ET-AAS) was reported (Fitchett et al., 1975). Another method for extraction of As (inorganic and organic) is based on extraction to toluene and back extraction with cobalt nitrate solution (Lauwerys et al. 1979). A simple LLE method for extraction of methylmercury was introduced by using toluene as extraction solvent before analysis by ET-AAS (Saber-Tehrani et al. 2007). Ease of operation and simplicity of the method are advantages of LLE. But important disadvantages such as consumption of large volumes of expensive and toxic solvents, emulsion formation at the interface of the two phases and difficult phase separations and finally low concentration factor lead the analytical chemists to introduce alternative methods for LLE by decreasing volume of the extracting solvent at micro liter scale known as liquid phase

can be occurred in one step. But most of the LLEs are multistep.

microextraction (LPME) which introduced in the late 1990s and early 2000s.

Main SPE methods for metal ions are summarized in Table 1 (Fritz, 1999).

One of the alternative methods for LLE is solid phase extraction (SPE) which was introduced in early 1970 and developed during 1980-90. SPE process is based on distribution of analytes between solid sorbent packed in a cartridge and liquid sample which moves through the solid phase. Solid phase usually consists of small porous particles of silica with or without bonded organic phase, organic polymers and ion exchangers. Mechanisms of extractions are based on adsorption, partitioning or ion exchange according to kind of solid phase. SPE is used for extraction of both of the organic and inorganic compounds. A wide group of chemicals which their SPE procedures were reported in the literature is metal

Increasing development of SPE during 1990s continues until recent years by introducing novel solid sorbents such as molecularly imprinted polymers (Lucci et al., 2010) and nanostructured materials (Faraji et al., 2010). SPE has many attractive features in comparison with classical solvent extraction methods. However, it has its limitations. Some of the main

1. Clogging the pores of the solid phase by large biomolecules, oily materials and fine

2. Despite, decrease in solvent consumption in SPE in comparison with LLE, SPE needs at

3. It is time consuming method due to several steps of operation including; conditioning,

Despite popularity of the SPE, miniaturization of it caused to introduction of solid phase

**1.2 Solid Phase Extraction (SPE)** 

limitations of SPE are listed below:

least 100 μL of the solvent.

sample loading and elution

microextraction (SPME) (Arthur et al. 1990).

solids in the sample.

ions.

In order to get rid of limitations of classical sample preparation methods and reach to an ideal method, miniaturization of extraction techniques is necessary. The first step in miniaturization is reducing volume of extraction solvent in LLE (Liquid Phase Microextraction). Different ways of this miniaturization causes various modes of LPME like single drop microextraction, dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction, hollow fiber based supported liquid membrane microextraction and liquid phase microextraction based on solidification of floating organic drop. Miniaturization was also applied to SPE. Product of this process is known as solid phase microextraction. Review of scientific literature shows that design; development and applications of microextraction techniques are growing rapidly. Popularity and applicability of microextraction techniques requires discussing these subjects in books.

#### **2.1 Solid Phase Microextraction (SPME)**

Solid phase microextraction as a solvent free alternative method for conventional sample preparation methods was introduced (Arthur et. al., 1990). In SPME, a small volume of extraction phase (usually less than 1 μL) coated on fused silica support is mounted in a modified Hamilton 7000 series syringe. Extraction phase could be a high molecular weight polymeric liquid or a solid porous sorbent with high surface area. Fig. 1 illustrates the structure of a SPME device manufactured by Supelco Company. A stainless steel tube was

Microextraction Techniques as a Sample Preparation Step for Metal Analysis 65

sample agitation and solution pH must be optimized. One of the most advantages of SPME is ability for hyphenation with various analytical instruments. The most capable instrument with SPME is gas chromatograph. But HPLC, CE and AAS had been coupled with SPME. According to subject of this book, we will focus on coupling of SPME with AAS. Direct coupling of SPME with AAS can be carried out using hydride generation apparatus, including quartz tube equipped with electric heater as flow cell. So due to this system carrier

The first step in SPME is selection of appropriate fiber. SPME fiber coatings with different natures including polar, non-polar and semi polar are available. According to chemical nature of the analytes, the best fiber must be selected. Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) is the most useful coating for SPME fibers which is commercially available. Now a days, in addition to commercial fibers, various coating compositions are made at laboratories. Therefore analysts can select appropriate available fibers or design novel coatings suitable

Temperature has a major effect on efficiency of SPME. Increasing the temperature causes an increase in distribution coefficient of the analytes between the sample and the fiber. In the case of headspace SPME, it causes increase in distribution coefficients between the sample and the headspace and between headspace and the fiber. But temperature is a limiting parameter, because increasing the temperature more than a certain value causes a significant decrease in distribution coefficient of the analytes between the sample (direct SPME) or

Exposure time of the fiber in the headspace of samples is usually kept long enough to achieve equilibrium between the headspace and the adsorbent in order to maximize the

In order to transfer the analytes from the fiber to the analytical instruments like GC and AAS, thermal desorption is the best method. So desorption temperature and time of fiber duration in the desorption chamber (injection port and heated quartz tube for GC and AAs,

Various modes of agitation could be applied to the sample for faster achieving the equilibrium. Magnetic stirring and sonication are usual methods for transporting the analytes from bulk of the sample solution to the surface of the fiber. Power and time of sonication or rate of magnetic stirrer must be adjusted at different levels for selection of

Addition of an inorganic salt has often been used in order to enhance the activity coefficients of volatile components in aqueous solutions, increasing the concentration in the headspace

headspace and the fiber and results decrease in amount of extracted analytes.

gas flow is another parameter which needs to investigate.

**2.1.2.1 Fiber coating selection** 

**2.1.2.2 Microextraction temperature** 

**2.1.2.3 Microextraction time** 

respectively) must be studied. **2.1.2.5 Sample aagitation** 

**2.1.2.4 Desorption temperature and time** 

extraction efficiency.

optimum condition. **2.1.2.6 Salting out effect** 

for their aims.

replaced with inner wire of syringe needle and fiber was installed on inner tube. With pulling the syringe plunger in, the fiber is protected in the needle and with pulling out; the fiber is exposed to the sample. SPME process is carried out in three modes. Headspace mode which fiber is exposed into the headspace of the sample suitable for volatile analytes, direct mode which fiber is immersed directly in the sample suitable for nonvolatile analytes and direct mode with membrane protection suitable for biological or dirty samples.

Fig. 1. SPME device manufactured by Supelco Co. (Mester et. al., 2005)

#### **2.1.1 Theoretical aspects of SPME**

SPME is based on distribution of the analytes between the sample and the fiber. Based on nature of fiber coating, mechanism of microextraction differs. Mechanism of microextraction for polymeric liquid phases and solid sorbents are partitioning and adsorption, respectively. Amount of extracted analytes depend on distribution constant (D) of them.

$$D = K\_d \frac{V\_2}{V\_1} \tag{1}$$

Fraction of extracted analyte from aqueous sample to the fiber is calculated from Eq. 2

$$F\_{\rm ex} = \frac{D}{1+D} = \frac{K\_d V\_2}{K\_d V\_{\rm 2} + V\_1} \tag{2}$$

#### **2.1.2 Factors aaffecting SPME**

In order to reach equilibrium conditions in SPME, factors such as nature of fiber coating, time and temperature of extraction, time and temperature of desorption, salt addition, sample agitation and solution pH must be optimized. One of the most advantages of SPME is ability for hyphenation with various analytical instruments. The most capable instrument with SPME is gas chromatograph. But HPLC, CE and AAS had been coupled with SPME. According to subject of this book, we will focus on coupling of SPME with AAS. Direct coupling of SPME with AAS can be carried out using hydride generation apparatus, including quartz tube equipped with electric heater as flow cell. So due to this system carrier gas flow is another parameter which needs to investigate.

#### **2.1.2.1 Fiber coating selection**

64 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

replaced with inner wire of syringe needle and fiber was installed on inner tube. With pulling the syringe plunger in, the fiber is protected in the needle and with pulling out; the fiber is exposed to the sample. SPME process is carried out in three modes. Headspace mode which fiber is exposed into the headspace of the sample suitable for volatile analytes, direct mode which fiber is immersed directly in the sample suitable for nonvolatile analytes and

direct mode with membrane protection suitable for biological or dirty samples.

Fig. 1. SPME device manufactured by Supelco Co. (Mester et. al., 2005)

Amount of extracted analytes depend on distribution constant (D) of them.

SPME is based on distribution of the analytes between the sample and the fiber. Based on nature of fiber coating, mechanism of microextraction differs. Mechanism of microextraction for polymeric liquid phases and solid sorbents are partitioning and adsorption, respectively.

Fraction of extracted analyte from aqueous sample to the fiber is calculated from Eq. 2

*<sup>D</sup> K V <sup>F</sup> D KV V*

2 1 *d <sup>V</sup> D K*

2 1 1 *<sup>d</sup> ex*

In order to reach equilibrium conditions in SPME, factors such as nature of fiber coating, time and temperature of extraction, time and temperature of desorption, salt addition,

*d*

2

*<sup>V</sup>* (1)

(2)

**2.1.1 Theoretical aspects of SPME** 

**2.1.2 Factors aaffecting SPME** 

The first step in SPME is selection of appropriate fiber. SPME fiber coatings with different natures including polar, non-polar and semi polar are available. According to chemical nature of the analytes, the best fiber must be selected. Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) is the most useful coating for SPME fibers which is commercially available. Now a days, in addition to commercial fibers, various coating compositions are made at laboratories. Therefore analysts can select appropriate available fibers or design novel coatings suitable for their aims.

#### **2.1.2.2 Microextraction temperature**

Temperature has a major effect on efficiency of SPME. Increasing the temperature causes an increase in distribution coefficient of the analytes between the sample and the fiber. In the case of headspace SPME, it causes increase in distribution coefficients between the sample and the headspace and between headspace and the fiber. But temperature is a limiting parameter, because increasing the temperature more than a certain value causes a significant decrease in distribution coefficient of the analytes between the sample (direct SPME) or headspace and the fiber and results decrease in amount of extracted analytes.

#### **2.1.2.3 Microextraction time**

Exposure time of the fiber in the headspace of samples is usually kept long enough to achieve equilibrium between the headspace and the adsorbent in order to maximize the extraction efficiency.

#### **2.1.2.4 Desorption temperature and time**

In order to transfer the analytes from the fiber to the analytical instruments like GC and AAS, thermal desorption is the best method. So desorption temperature and time of fiber duration in the desorption chamber (injection port and heated quartz tube for GC and AAs, respectively) must be studied.

#### **2.1.2.5 Sample aagitation**

Various modes of agitation could be applied to the sample for faster achieving the equilibrium. Magnetic stirring and sonication are usual methods for transporting the analytes from bulk of the sample solution to the surface of the fiber. Power and time of sonication or rate of magnetic stirrer must be adjusted at different levels for selection of optimum condition.

#### **2.1.2.6 Salting out effect**

Addition of an inorganic salt has often been used in order to enhance the activity coefficients of volatile components in aqueous solutions, increasing the concentration in the headspace

Microextraction Techniques as a Sample Preparation Step for Metal Analysis 67

Fig. 2. Illustration of SDME method reported by Jeannot and cantwell (Jeannot et. al., 1996)

Fig. 3. Schematic diagram of SDME using micro syringe (He et. al., 1997)


In addition to above mentioned advantages, instability of the drop, small surface of the drop and slow kinetics of extraction are disadvantages of the method (Dadfarnia and Haji Shabani, 2010). Like SPME, SDME can be operated in various modes known as direct

immersed SDME (DI-SDME), headspace SDME (HS-SDME) and three phases SDME.

Some of the advantages of the SDME are:

approach to sample preparation




vapor. The salts are also added to equalize the activity coefficients of analytes in different matrices (Zuba et al., 2001). For this purpose, microextraction processes are carried out in presence of various salt concentrations and also in salt less solution. Results demonstrates role of salt addition in microextraction of target analytes.

#### **2.1.3 Application of SPME for extraction of metallic analytes before atomic absorption spectrometric determination**

SPME can be coupled with AAS easily via heated quartz tube. Quartz tube flow cells equipped with electric heater usually used for mercury determination and hydride generation techniques. Quartz tube AAS (QT-AAS) not only is used for direct coupling of SPME with AAS but also it can be used as gas chromatographic detector (SPME-GC-QT-AAS). This technique is mostly reported for determination of organometallic compounds or derivatized metals as organometallics. A method for determination of organomercury species based on solid phase microextraction after hydride generation using KBH4 and determination using GC-QT-AAS was reported. As mentioned above, in the case of mercury hydrides commercial fibers are not suitable and researchers had to design a novel fiber based on acid treated fused silica. Suitable capillary column for separating mercury hydrides is CPL-SIL 5CB (10 m × 0.25 mm) under 40 C isothermal condition (He, et al., 1998). This method was applied for determination of methylmercury in biological samples and sediments. Another similar method was reported for determination of methyl, ethyl and phenyl mercury species in soil samples using above mentioned method (He, et al., 1999). Recently successful efforts were done for direct coupling of SPME with QT-AAS (Fragueiro et al., 2004). In this method direct coupling between headspace SPME and QT-AAS was evaluated for speciation of methylmercury in seafood after volatilization of its hydride or chloride derivates. The best limit of detection (LOD) for methyl mercury obtained by using PDMS/DVB fiber coating as 0.06 ng mL-1.

#### **2.2 Single Drop Microextraction (SDME)**

The LPME is a miniaturized version of the LLE in which the extraction solvents, volume reduced to about 1-10 μL. Various techniques are known as LPME. Single drop microextraction (SDME) is one of these methods in which extraction solvent is a single drop. Jeannot and cantwell was reported the SDME for first time by suspending an 8 μL organic solvent drop at the end of Teflon rod immersed in the stirring sample. After extraction, solvent drop was removed from the end of the Teflon rod using a micro syringe and injected to analytical instrument (Jeannot and cantwell, 1996). Fig. 2 shows the schematic SDME system.

Some modifications were made by He and Lee on primary reported method. In newer version of SDME, teflon rod was replaced by a micro syringe (Fig. 3). A one μL immiscible extracting solvent drop is exposed into the sample (liquid or gaseous) from a micro syringe. After establishment of distribution equilibrium the organic drop is retracted back into the micro syringe and is injected to the analytical instrument for determination of the analytes (He and Lee, 1997). SDME is suitable for coupling with various instrumental methods such as gas and liquid chromatography (GC & HPLC), atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS) and inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP).

vapor. The salts are also added to equalize the activity coefficients of analytes in different matrices (Zuba et al., 2001). For this purpose, microextraction processes are carried out in presence of various salt concentrations and also in salt less solution. Results demonstrates

**2.1.3 Application of SPME for extraction of metallic analytes before atomic absorption** 

SPME can be coupled with AAS easily via heated quartz tube. Quartz tube flow cells equipped with electric heater usually used for mercury determination and hydride generation techniques. Quartz tube AAS (QT-AAS) not only is used for direct coupling of SPME with AAS but also it can be used as gas chromatographic detector (SPME-GC-QT-AAS). This technique is mostly reported for determination of organometallic compounds or derivatized metals as organometallics. A method for determination of organomercury species based on solid phase microextraction after hydride generation using KBH4 and determination using GC-QT-AAS was reported. As mentioned above, in the case of mercury hydrides commercial fibers are not suitable and researchers had to design a novel fiber based on acid treated fused silica. Suitable capillary column for separating mercury hydrides is CPL-SIL 5CB (10 m × 0.25 mm) under 40 C isothermal condition (He, et al., 1998). This method was applied for determination of methylmercury in biological samples and sediments. Another similar method was reported for determination of methyl, ethyl and phenyl mercury species in soil samples using above mentioned method (He, et al., 1999). Recently successful efforts were done for direct coupling of SPME with QT-AAS (Fragueiro et al., 2004). In this method direct coupling between headspace SPME and QT-AAS was evaluated for speciation of methylmercury in seafood after volatilization of its hydride or chloride derivates. The best limit of detection (LOD) for methyl mercury

The LPME is a miniaturized version of the LLE in which the extraction solvents, volume reduced to about 1-10 μL. Various techniques are known as LPME. Single drop microextraction (SDME) is one of these methods in which extraction solvent is a single drop. Jeannot and cantwell was reported the SDME for first time by suspending an 8 μL organic solvent drop at the end of Teflon rod immersed in the stirring sample. After extraction, solvent drop was removed from the end of the Teflon rod using a micro syringe and injected to analytical instrument (Jeannot and cantwell, 1996). Fig. 2 shows the schematic SDME

Some modifications were made by He and Lee on primary reported method. In newer version of SDME, teflon rod was replaced by a micro syringe (Fig. 3). A one μL immiscible extracting solvent drop is exposed into the sample (liquid or gaseous) from a micro syringe. After establishment of distribution equilibrium the organic drop is retracted back into the micro syringe and is injected to the analytical instrument for determination of the analytes (He and Lee, 1997). SDME is suitable for coupling with various instrumental methods such as gas and liquid chromatography (GC & HPLC), atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS) and inductively coupled plasma atomic emission

role of salt addition in microextraction of target analytes.

obtained by using PDMS/DVB fiber coating as 0.06 ng mL-1.

**2.2 Single Drop Microextraction (SDME)** 

system.

spectrometry (ICP).

**spectrometric determination** 

Fig. 2. Illustration of SDME method reported by Jeannot and cantwell (Jeannot et. al., 1996)

Fig. 3. Schematic diagram of SDME using micro syringe (He et. al., 1997)

Some of the advantages of the SDME are:


In addition to above mentioned advantages, instability of the drop, small surface of the drop and slow kinetics of extraction are disadvantages of the method (Dadfarnia and Haji Shabani, 2010). Like SPME, SDME can be operated in various modes known as direct immersed SDME (DI-SDME), headspace SDME (HS-SDME) and three phases SDME.

Microextraction Techniques as a Sample Preparation Step for Metal Analysis 69

extracted analytes but after reaching quantitative recoveries, increasing the solvent volume causes a significant decrease in concentration factor due to dilution of the analytes. On the other hand, hanging of large volumes of organic solvents made the microdrop unstable. So

Exposure time of the microdrop to the samples is an important parameter in achieving distribution equilibrium of analytes between solvent drop and sample; it is a decisive factor for improving the extraction efficiency. So it is necessary to be optimized. But according to difficulty of microdrop expose to the sample in this technique, long extraction times are not

As mentioned before, SDME process is a thermodynamic equilibrium, so effect of temperature is not negligible. But extraction temperature in SDME, strongly limited by

Addition of salt to the sample increases the ionic strength of the solution. Depending on the solubility of the target analytes, extraction is usually enhanced with increased salt concentration (salting out effect). But in the case of SDME, presence of salt changes the physical properties of the extraction film and reduces the diffusion rates of the analytes into

Effect of pH on extraction efficiency, depends on analyte nature. Extraction of analytes with weak acidity and basicity is strongly pH sensitive. Solution pH easily adjusted by

Similar to the other extraction methods, sample agitation has a significant effect on enhancement of extraction yield. Increase in agitation rate, decreases the extraction time due to faster establishment of the distribution equilibrium. But despite positive effect of higher agitation rates, it is so critical parameter in SDME because instability of microdrop on

**2.2.3 Application of the SDME for extraction of metal ions before atomic absorption** 

Due to low volumes of extraction solvents in SDME, electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry is suitable for determination of metals after extraction with SDME technique. The first coupling of SDME with ET-AAS was reported for extraction of As in aqeous samples. Total arsenic species were converted to As (III) using NaBH4 and extracted by a 4 μL organic drop consisting pyridine and benzyl alcohol containig silver diethyldithiocarbamate (AgDDC) as complexing agent with arsine (Chamsaz et al., 2003). Palladium is a good sorbent for arsenic and act as matrix modifier in ET-AAS. So a green headspace SDME method for extraction of As (III) and total As was presentd using a 3 μL aqeous drop of Pd (30 mg L-1) as extraction solvent prior to determination by ET-AAS

the solvent drop. So, salt addition has a negative effect on method efficiency.

appropriate buffers according to the pKa values of the analytes.

in SDME solvent volume is a limited parameter.

**2.2.2.2 Extraction time** 

**2.2.2.3 Extraction temperature** 

solvent's boiling point. **2.2.2.4 Salt addition** 

**2.2.2.5 pH Adjustment** 

**2.2.2.6 Sample agitation** 

**spectrometric determination** 

syringe tip.

preferred.

#### **2.2.1 Theoretical aspects of SDME**

Extraction of the analytes via SDME process is an equilibrium phenomenon. Microextraction conditions must be optimized for establishment of thermodynamic equilibrium of analyte partitioning between the sample and extracting phase. In order to better understanding of microextraction process a model was introduced. This model is based on dynamic mass balances for the analytes in each phase or both. Mass balance equation for SDME is presented as equation (3).

$$\mathbf{C}\_{A}^{aq}V^{aq} + \mathbf{C}\_{A}^{o}V^{o} = \mathbf{C}\_{A,o}^{aq}V^{aq} \tag{3}$$

Where *aq CA* and *<sup>o</sup> CA* are the concentrations of the analyte in the sample and the microdrop respectively; *aq <sup>V</sup>* is the sample volume and *<sup>o</sup> <sup>V</sup>* is the microdrop volume, and , *aq CA <sup>o</sup>* is the initial concentration of the analyte in the aqueous sample. The dynamic mass balance of the analyte in the microdrop is given by following equation:

$$\frac{d\{\mathbf{C}\_A^o V^o\}}{dt} = k\_{tot}^o A\_i \{\mathbf{K}\_A \mathbf{C}\_A^{aq} - \mathbf{C}\_A^o\} \tag{4}$$

Where *Ai* is the interfacial area (the surface area of the microdrop). *KA* is the equilibrium partition coefficient and *<sup>o</sup> tot k* is the total mass transfer coefficient of the analyte with respect to the organic phase. If the two-film theory is considered, *<sup>o</sup> tot k* is given by:

$$\frac{1}{k\_{\rm tot}^o} = \frac{1}{k^o} + \frac{K\_A}{k^{aq}}\tag{5}$$

Where *<sup>o</sup> k* and *aq k* are the mass transfer coefficients for the analyte in the film of the organic and the aqueous phases respectively. If we consider the volume of microdrop constant, then *Ai* is also constant. So we can obtain Eq. 4 as result of combination of Eq. 1 and 2. Eq. 6 presents *<sup>o</sup> CA* as a function of time.

$$\mathbf{C}\_{A}^{o}(t) = \mathbf{C}\_{A}^{o, aq} \left[ 1 - e^{-\lambda t} \right] \tag{6}$$

Where *o a*, *<sup>q</sup> CA* is the analyte concentration in the microdrop at equilibrium and λ is the rate constant.

#### **2.2.2 Factors affecting SDME**

In order to reach equilibrium status, all the factors affecting microextraction process must be optimized. Kind and amount of organic solvent drop, extraction time and temperature, salting out and agitation rate are important factors.

#### **2.2.2.1 Kind and volume of extraction solvent**

In SDME solvent selection is the most important parameter. Selectivity and extraction efficiency directly depends on solvent's nature. Solvents with different polarities must be examined for extraction of studied analytes. Volume of the selected solvent is also important. Solubility of the analytes and partitioning of them in extraction solvent depends on volume of solvent microdrop. Increase in solvent volume, increases the amount of extracted analytes but after reaching quantitative recoveries, increasing the solvent volume causes a significant decrease in concentration factor due to dilution of the analytes. On the other hand, hanging of large volumes of organic solvents made the microdrop unstable. So in SDME solvent volume is a limited parameter.

#### **2.2.2.2 Extraction time**

68 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

Extraction of the analytes via SDME process is an equilibrium phenomenon. Microextraction conditions must be optimized for establishment of thermodynamic equilibrium of analyte partitioning between the sample and extracting phase. In order to better understanding of microextraction process a model was introduced. This model is based on dynamic mass balances for the analytes in each phase or both. Mass balance equation for SDME is

Where *aq CA* and *<sup>o</sup> CA* are the concentrations of the analyte in the sample and the microdrop

initial concentration of the analyte in the aqueous sample. The dynamic mass balance of the

( ) [ ]

Where *Ai* is the interfacial area (the surface area of the microdrop). *KA* is the equilibrium

1 1 *<sup>A</sup> o oaq*

Where *<sup>o</sup> k* and *aq k* are the mass transfer coefficients for the analyte in the film of the organic and the aqueous phases respectively. If we consider the volume of microdrop constant, then *Ai* is also constant. So we can obtain Eq. 4 as result of combination of Eq. 1 and 2. Eq. 6

, ( ) [1 ] *o t o aq Ct C e <sup>A</sup> <sup>A</sup>*

Where *o a*, *<sup>q</sup> CA* is the analyte concentration in the microdrop at equilibrium and λ is the rate

In order to reach equilibrium status, all the factors affecting microextraction process must be optimized. Kind and amount of organic solvent drop, extraction time and temperature,

In SDME solvent selection is the most important parameter. Selectivity and extraction efficiency directly depends on solvent's nature. Solvents with different polarities must be examined for extraction of studied analytes. Volume of the selected solvent is also important. Solubility of the analytes and partitioning of them in extraction solvent depends on volume of solvent microdrop. Increase in solvent volume, increases the amount of

*k k k*

*K*

*tot*

*dC V k AKC C*

*A o o aq tot i A A A*

respectively; *aq <sup>V</sup>* is the sample volume and *<sup>o</sup> <sup>V</sup>* is the microdrop volume, and ,

*o o*

analyte in the microdrop is given by following equation:

to the organic phase. If the two-film theory is considered, *<sup>o</sup>*

,

*aq aq o o aq aq C V CV C V A A <sup>A</sup> <sup>o</sup>* (3)

*dt* (4)

*tot k* is given by:

(5)

(6)

*tot k* is the total mass transfer coefficient of the analyte with respect

*aq CA <sup>o</sup>* is the

**2.2.1 Theoretical aspects of SDME** 

presented as equation (3).

partition coefficient and *<sup>o</sup>*

presents *<sup>o</sup> CA* as a function of time.

**2.2.2 Factors affecting SDME** 

salting out and agitation rate are important factors. **2.2.2.1 Kind and volume of extraction solvent** 

constant.

Exposure time of the microdrop to the samples is an important parameter in achieving distribution equilibrium of analytes between solvent drop and sample; it is a decisive factor for improving the extraction efficiency. So it is necessary to be optimized. But according to difficulty of microdrop expose to the sample in this technique, long extraction times are not preferred.

#### **2.2.2.3 Extraction temperature**

As mentioned before, SDME process is a thermodynamic equilibrium, so effect of temperature is not negligible. But extraction temperature in SDME, strongly limited by solvent's boiling point.

#### **2.2.2.4 Salt addition**

Addition of salt to the sample increases the ionic strength of the solution. Depending on the solubility of the target analytes, extraction is usually enhanced with increased salt concentration (salting out effect). But in the case of SDME, presence of salt changes the physical properties of the extraction film and reduces the diffusion rates of the analytes into the solvent drop. So, salt addition has a negative effect on method efficiency.

#### **2.2.2.5 pH Adjustment**

Effect of pH on extraction efficiency, depends on analyte nature. Extraction of analytes with weak acidity and basicity is strongly pH sensitive. Solution pH easily adjusted by appropriate buffers according to the pKa values of the analytes.

#### **2.2.2.6 Sample agitation**

Similar to the other extraction methods, sample agitation has a significant effect on enhancement of extraction yield. Increase in agitation rate, decreases the extraction time due to faster establishment of the distribution equilibrium. But despite positive effect of higher agitation rates, it is so critical parameter in SDME because instability of microdrop on syringe tip.

#### **2.2.3 Application of the SDME for extraction of metal ions before atomic absorption spectrometric determination**

Due to low volumes of extraction solvents in SDME, electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry is suitable for determination of metals after extraction with SDME technique. The first coupling of SDME with ET-AAS was reported for extraction of As in aqeous samples. Total arsenic species were converted to As (III) using NaBH4 and extracted by a 4 μL organic drop consisting pyridine and benzyl alcohol containig silver diethyldithiocarbamate (AgDDC) as complexing agent with arsine (Chamsaz et al., 2003). Palladium is a good sorbent for arsenic and act as matrix modifier in ET-AAS. So a green headspace SDME method for extraction of As (III) and total As was presentd using a 3 μL aqeous drop of Pd (30 mg L-1) as extraction solvent prior to determination by ET-AAS

Microextraction Techniques as a Sample Preparation Step for Metal Analysis 71

Fig. 4. Shematic illustration of a DLLME process: a) prior to injection of extraction and disperser solvents b) starting the injection c) end of injection, cloudy suspension was made d) fine droplets of solvents in solution bulk e) after centrifugation f) conical bottom of the

Preconcentration or enrichment factor is the ratio of the analyte concentration in sedimented

*Csed EF*

Extraction recovery of the analyte (%) is the percentage of extracted analyte in sedimented phase, where *n*<sup>0</sup> is the amount of analyte in the sample prior to extraction and *nsed* amount

> 0 0 0 <sup>100</sup> <sup>100</sup> *n CV sed sed sed ER n CV*

Like every other methods several experimental factors affect DLLME process. For development of a sensitive and accurate DLLME method these parameters including Kind and volume of extraction solvent, kind and volume of disperser solvent, extraction

( ) 100 *sed aq <sup>V</sup> ER EF*

0

*<sup>C</sup>* (7)

(8)

*<sup>V</sup>* (9)

Inorder to design an accurate DLLME process, some terms must be identified:

test tube with sedimented phase (Rezaee et. al., 2006)

phase ( ) *Csed* to analyte concentration in the sample 0 ( ) *C*

temperature, solution pH and salting out must be optimized.

**2.3.1 Theoritical aspects of DLLME** 

of analyte in sedimented phase.

**2.3.2 Factors affecting DLLME** 

(Fragueiro et al, 2004). This method is faster than peviously reported method by Chamsaz et al, but both of the concentration factor and detection limit of previouse method is better.

Another green method using aqeous micro drop of Pd (II) and Pt (IV) was reported for determination methylmercury in fish samples. Volatilization of methylmercury was performed using hydride generation reaction and after extraction analysis was done by ET-AAS (Gil et al., 2005). Microextraction of Se using SDME prior to ET-AAS analysis was reported by photogeneration of volatile hydride and alkyl Selenium derinatives. Aqeous microdrop containing Pd (II) was used as extracting phase (Figueroa et al., 2005). A series of SDME methods were reported for lead determination in various samples by ET-AAS. A microdrop of benzene containing 1-phenyl-3-methyl-4-benzoyl-5-pyrazolone (PMBP) was used for extraction of Pb (II) from biological samples and its determination by ET-AAS (Liang et al., 2008). Dithizone is another extractant in SDME which was used for microextraction of lead from water samples prior to assay by ET-AAS (Liu and Fan, 2007). Application of ionic liquids as novel extractants in SDME was reported for determination of manganese and lead. Complex of manganese with 1-(2-thiazolylazo)-2-naphtol (TAN) was extracted into a microdrop of [C4MIM][PF6] (Manzoori et al., 2009). The same group extracted lead ions after complexation with ammonium pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate (APDC) into the same ionic liquid (Manzoori et al., 2009). Simulteneous direct SDME of Cd and Pb after complexation with dithizone in aqeous samples into toluene microdrop followed by determination with ET-AAS was reported (Jiang and Hu et al., 2008). Ag, Tl, Cr and Sb are another metals which the SDME-ET-AAS method was reported for them.

#### **2.3 Dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction (DLLME)**

Dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction (DLLME) is a newer mode of LPME (Rezaee, et al., 2006). DLLME is a ternary solvent system consisting of aqeous sample solution, extraction solvent and disperser solvent. Extraction solvent must be immisible with aqeous sample solution and disperser solvent must solouble in both of the extraction solvent and aqeous sample solution. In DLLME, 5-10 mL of sample solution is placed in a test tube with conical bottom, then optimized volumes of extraction solvent (μL) and disperser solvent (mL) are mixed and mixture of these solvents is injected rapidly in the sample solution. After injection of solvents mixture a stable cloudy suspension consisting of fine droplets of extraction solvent is appered which can be easily separated by centrifugation (Fig. 4). Aqeous phase is discarded and sedimented organic phase is transfered to an analytical instrument using a micro syringe. Early works on DLLME were based on denser solvents than water (mostly chlorinated solvents) but later DLLME methods based on lighter extraction solvents than water were reported (Farajzadeh, et al., 2009).

Some of the advantages of DLLME are listed below:


Fig. 4. Shematic illustration of a DLLME process: a) prior to injection of extraction and disperser solvents b) starting the injection c) end of injection, cloudy suspension was made d) fine droplets of solvents in solution bulk e) after centrifugation f) conical bottom of the test tube with sedimented phase (Rezaee et. al., 2006)

#### **2.3.1 Theoritical aspects of DLLME**

70 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

(Fragueiro et al, 2004). This method is faster than peviously reported method by Chamsaz et al, but both of the concentration factor and detection limit of previouse method is

Another green method using aqeous micro drop of Pd (II) and Pt (IV) was reported for determination methylmercury in fish samples. Volatilization of methylmercury was performed using hydride generation reaction and after extraction analysis was done by ET-AAS (Gil et al., 2005). Microextraction of Se using SDME prior to ET-AAS analysis was reported by photogeneration of volatile hydride and alkyl Selenium derinatives. Aqeous microdrop containing Pd (II) was used as extracting phase (Figueroa et al., 2005). A series of SDME methods were reported for lead determination in various samples by ET-AAS. A microdrop of benzene containing 1-phenyl-3-methyl-4-benzoyl-5-pyrazolone (PMBP) was used for extraction of Pb (II) from biological samples and its determination by ET-AAS (Liang et al., 2008). Dithizone is another extractant in SDME which was used for microextraction of lead from water samples prior to assay by ET-AAS (Liu and Fan, 2007). Application of ionic liquids as novel extractants in SDME was reported for determination of manganese and lead. Complex of manganese with 1-(2-thiazolylazo)-2-naphtol (TAN) was extracted into a microdrop of [C4MIM][PF6] (Manzoori et al., 2009). The same group extracted lead ions after complexation with ammonium pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate (APDC) into the same ionic liquid (Manzoori et al., 2009). Simulteneous direct SDME of Cd and Pb after complexation with dithizone in aqeous samples into toluene microdrop followed by determination with ET-AAS was reported (Jiang and Hu et al., 2008). Ag, Tl, Cr and Sb are another metals which the SDME-ET-AAS method was reported

Dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction (DLLME) is a newer mode of LPME (Rezaee, et al., 2006). DLLME is a ternary solvent system consisting of aqeous sample solution, extraction solvent and disperser solvent. Extraction solvent must be immisible with aqeous sample solution and disperser solvent must solouble in both of the extraction solvent and aqeous sample solution. In DLLME, 5-10 mL of sample solution is placed in a test tube with conical bottom, then optimized volumes of extraction solvent (μL) and disperser solvent (mL) are mixed and mixture of these solvents is injected rapidly in the sample solution. After injection of solvents mixture a stable cloudy suspension consisting of fine droplets of extraction solvent is appered which can be easily separated by centrifugation (Fig. 4). Aqeous phase is discarded and sedimented organic phase is transfered to an analytical instrument using a micro syringe. Early works on DLLME were based on denser solvents than water (mostly chlorinated solvents) but later DLLME methods based on lighter

better.

for them.

**2.3 Dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction (DLLME)** 

extraction solvents than water were reported (Farajzadeh, et al., 2009).

Some of the advantages of DLLME are listed below:




$$EF = \frac{\mathbf{C}\_{sed}}{\mathbf{C}\_0} \tag{7}$$

Extraction recovery of the analyte (%) is the percentage of extracted analyte in sedimented phase, where *n*<sup>0</sup> is the amount of analyte in the sample prior to extraction and *nsed* amount of analyte in sedimented phase.

$$ER = \frac{n\_{\text{sed}}}{n\_0} \times 100 = \frac{C\_{\text{sed}} \times V\_{\text{sed}}}{C\_0 \times V\_0} \times 100\tag{8}$$

$$ER = (\frac{V\_{sel}}{V\_{aq}}) EF \times 100\tag{9}$$

#### **2.3.2 Factors affecting DLLME**

Like every other methods several experimental factors affect DLLME process. For development of a sensitive and accurate DLLME method these parameters including Kind and volume of extraction solvent, kind and volume of disperser solvent, extraction temperature, solution pH and salting out must be optimized.

Microextraction Techniques as a Sample Preparation Step for Metal Analysis 73

ethanol (disperser solvent) and carbon tetrachloride (extraction solvent) from water samples. The concentration of enriched analyte in the sedimented phase was determined by iridium-modified pyrolitic tube graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry. Determination of trace levels of lead is possible with DLLME followed by ET-AAS (Liang and sang, 2008). In the proposed approach, 1-phenyl-3-methyl-4-benzoyl-5-pyrazolone (PMBP) was used as a chelating agent, and carbon tetrachloride and ethanol were selected as extraction and dispersive solvents. Another simple DLLME-Flame AAS method was reported for determination Pd(II) as complex with thioridazine HCl (Ahmadzadeh Kokya and Farhadi, 2009). Ethanol as disperser solvent and chloroform as extraction solvent were

Extraction of Co(II) as its complex with Br-TAO via a DLLME method was reported (Baliza et al., 2009). The procedure is based on a ternary system of solvents, where appropriate amounts of the extraction solvent, disperser solvent and the chelating agent Br-TAO are directly injected into an aqueous solution containing Co(II). A cloudy mixture is formed and the ions are extracted in the fine droplets of the extraction solvent. After extraction, the phase separation is performed with a rapid centrifugation, and cobalt is determined in the

Use of ionic liquids is a novel development in DLLME. A new ionic liquid based DLLME method was developed for preconcentration and determination of Pb (II) and Cd (II) in aqueous samples containing very high salt concentrations (Yousefi and Shemirani, 2010). This is believed to arise from dissolving of the ionic liquids in aqueous samples with high salt content. In this method, the robustness of microextraction system against high salt concentration (up to 40%, w/v) is increased by introducing a common ion of the ionic liquid into the sample solution. The proposed method was applied satisfactorily to the preconcentration of lead and cadmium in saline samples. After preconcentration, the settled

IL-phase was dissolved in 100μL ethanol and introduced to Flame-AAS.

**2.4 Liquid phase microextraction based on solidification of floating organic drop** 

Liquid phase microextraction based on solidification of floating organic drop (LPME-SFO) is one the newest versions of LPME (Khalili-Zanjani et al., 2007) in which the extraction solvent with lower density than water, low toxicity and proper melting point near room temperature (in the range of 10–30 C) was used. In this method, small volume of an extraction solvent is floated on the surface of aqueous solution. The aqueous sample solution is agitated for an optimized time. After the extraction, tube containing the sample is transferred in the ice bath and the floated extractant droplet solidified at low temperature. The solidified organic solvent can be separated from the sample and melted quickly at room temperature, which is then determined by appropriate analytical methods (Fig. 5). In comparison with other methods, LPME-SFO has some advantages which is listed below:

used in this study.

enriched phase by FAAS.

**(LPME-SFO)** 







#### **2.3.2.1 Kind and volume of extraction solvent**

Its clear that extraction solvent is the most important parameter in a LPME method. As we disscussed above, extraction solvent must be immicible with water and must be a good solvent for the analytes. Soloubility of the extraction solvent in water has an inverse relation with stability of cloudy suspension. Volume of extraction solvent is important too, because it is obvious that with increasing extraction solvent volume, amount of extracted analytes increase. But when we reach to quantitative recoveries, inrease of extraction solvent volume causes a significant decrease in an anlytical signal due to dillution and reducing enrichment factor. Extraction solvent can be a denser or lighter solvent than water. Usuall denser solvents are tetrachloroethylene, trichloroethylene, carbon tetrachloride and etc.

#### **2.3.2.2 Kind and volume of disperser solvent**

Disperser solvents usually are polar solvents such as aceton, acetonitril and methanol. Disperser solvent acts as a bridge between two immicible phases. The role of an ideal disperser solvent is making more fine droplets of extraction solvent and dispesion of extraction phase in sample bulk. Amount of disperser solvent is also important. Increasing in disperser solvent volume, increases the volume of sedimented phase and naturally lowers the analytical signal due to dillution. So, optimization of disperser solvent volume is as important as extraction solvent volume.

#### **2.3.2.3 Extraction temperature and time**

Temperature is an important parameter in all of the equilibrium systems. But in DLLME temperature is a critical parameter. Because boiling point of the extraction and disperser solvents are limited the process. Extraction time is contact time between the sample and extraction solvent. It is clear that extraction time directy depends on extraction efficiency. But in the case of DLLME, time is not so important parameter due to high surface contact between the sample and fine droplets of extraction solvent. So in most of the reports, time has no effect on extraction efficiency.

#### **2.3.2.4 Salting out**

Despite other extraction methods, in DLLME salting out has dual effect. Similar to other extraction techniques addition of an inorganic salt, causes an increase in amount of extracted analytes. But in DLLME salt addition causes a significant increase in volume of sedimented phase. So effect of salt addition on extraction efficiency are controlled by these two factors.

#### **2.3.2.5 Complexation of metal ions prior to extraction**

Similar to SDME, extraction of metal ions with organic solvent needs to convert them to suitable form. Appropriate chealating agents must be selected and complexation conditions such as solution pH, concentration of ligand and etc, must be adjusted. It is clear that extraction of metal ions after conversion of them to organometallic compounds is possible.

#### **2.3.3 Application of DLLME for extraction of metal ions before determination by AAS**

A simple and powerful microextraction technique was used for determination of selenium in water samples using dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction (DLLME) followed by ET-AAS (Bidari et al., 2007). In this study, complex of Se and APDC extracted by a mixture of ethanol (disperser solvent) and carbon tetrachloride (extraction solvent) from water samples. The concentration of enriched analyte in the sedimented phase was determined by iridium-modified pyrolitic tube graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry. Determination of trace levels of lead is possible with DLLME followed by ET-AAS (Liang and sang, 2008). In the proposed approach, 1-phenyl-3-methyl-4-benzoyl-5-pyrazolone (PMBP) was used as a chelating agent, and carbon tetrachloride and ethanol were selected as extraction and dispersive solvents. Another simple DLLME-Flame AAS method was reported for determination Pd(II) as complex with thioridazine HCl (Ahmadzadeh Kokya and Farhadi, 2009). Ethanol as disperser solvent and chloroform as extraction solvent were used in this study.

Extraction of Co(II) as its complex with Br-TAO via a DLLME method was reported (Baliza et al., 2009). The procedure is based on a ternary system of solvents, where appropriate amounts of the extraction solvent, disperser solvent and the chelating agent Br-TAO are directly injected into an aqueous solution containing Co(II). A cloudy mixture is formed and the ions are extracted in the fine droplets of the extraction solvent. After extraction, the phase separation is performed with a rapid centrifugation, and cobalt is determined in the enriched phase by FAAS.

Use of ionic liquids is a novel development in DLLME. A new ionic liquid based DLLME method was developed for preconcentration and determination of Pb (II) and Cd (II) in aqueous samples containing very high salt concentrations (Yousefi and Shemirani, 2010). This is believed to arise from dissolving of the ionic liquids in aqueous samples with high salt content. In this method, the robustness of microextraction system against high salt concentration (up to 40%, w/v) is increased by introducing a common ion of the ionic liquid into the sample solution. The proposed method was applied satisfactorily to the preconcentration of lead and cadmium in saline samples. After preconcentration, the settled IL-phase was dissolved in 100μL ethanol and introduced to Flame-AAS.

#### **2.4 Liquid phase microextraction based on solidification of floating organic drop (LPME-SFO)**

Liquid phase microextraction based on solidification of floating organic drop (LPME-SFO) is one the newest versions of LPME (Khalili-Zanjani et al., 2007) in which the extraction solvent with lower density than water, low toxicity and proper melting point near room temperature (in the range of 10–30 C) was used. In this method, small volume of an extraction solvent is floated on the surface of aqueous solution. The aqueous sample solution is agitated for an optimized time. After the extraction, tube containing the sample is transferred in the ice bath and the floated extractant droplet solidified at low temperature. The solidified organic solvent can be separated from the sample and melted quickly at room temperature, which is then determined by appropriate analytical methods (Fig. 5).


72 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

Its clear that extraction solvent is the most important parameter in a LPME method. As we disscussed above, extraction solvent must be immicible with water and must be a good solvent for the analytes. Soloubility of the extraction solvent in water has an inverse relation with stability of cloudy suspension. Volume of extraction solvent is important too, because it is obvious that with increasing extraction solvent volume, amount of extracted analytes increase. But when we reach to quantitative recoveries, inrease of extraction solvent volume causes a significant decrease in an anlytical signal due to dillution and reducing enrichment factor. Extraction solvent can be a denser or lighter solvent than water. Usuall denser

Disperser solvents usually are polar solvents such as aceton, acetonitril and methanol. Disperser solvent acts as a bridge between two immicible phases. The role of an ideal disperser solvent is making more fine droplets of extraction solvent and dispesion of extraction phase in sample bulk. Amount of disperser solvent is also important. Increasing in disperser solvent volume, increases the volume of sedimented phase and naturally lowers the analytical signal due to dillution. So, optimization of disperser solvent volume is as

Temperature is an important parameter in all of the equilibrium systems. But in DLLME temperature is a critical parameter. Because boiling point of the extraction and disperser solvents are limited the process. Extraction time is contact time between the sample and extraction solvent. It is clear that extraction time directy depends on extraction efficiency. But in the case of DLLME, time is not so important parameter due to high surface contact between the sample and fine droplets of extraction solvent. So in most of the reports, time

Despite other extraction methods, in DLLME salting out has dual effect. Similar to other extraction techniques addition of an inorganic salt, causes an increase in amount of extracted analytes. But in DLLME salt addition causes a significant increase in volume of sedimented phase. So effect of salt addition on extraction efficiency are controlled by

Similar to SDME, extraction of metal ions with organic solvent needs to convert them to suitable form. Appropriate chealating agents must be selected and complexation conditions such as solution pH, concentration of ligand and etc, must be adjusted. It is clear that extraction of metal ions after conversion of them to organometallic compounds

**2.3.3 Application of DLLME for extraction of metal ions before determination by AAS**  A simple and powerful microextraction technique was used for determination of selenium in water samples using dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction (DLLME) followed by ET-AAS (Bidari et al., 2007). In this study, complex of Se and APDC extracted by a mixture of

solvents are tetrachloroethylene, trichloroethylene, carbon tetrachloride and etc.

**2.3.2.1 Kind and volume of extraction solvent** 

**2.3.2.2 Kind and volume of disperser solvent** 

important as extraction solvent volume. **2.3.2.3 Extraction temperature and time** 

has no effect on extraction efficiency.

**2.3.2.5 Complexation of metal ions prior to extraction** 

**2.3.2.4 Salting out** 

these two factors.

is possible.


Microextraction Techniques as a Sample Preparation Step for Metal Analysis 75

The selection of an appropriate extraction solvent is of major importance for the optimization of the LPME-SFO process. The selected extraction solvent must satisfy several requirements. First, it should be immiscible with water, have low volatility, low density, low melting point near room temperature and be able to extract the desired analytes. According to these considerations, limited number of the organic extraction solvents commonly used in LPME-SFO which are listed below. 1-Undecanol (13-15 C), 1-Dodecanol (22-24 C), 2- Dodecanol (17-18 C), 1-Bromo hexadecane (17-18 C), n-Hexadecane (18 C) and 1,10-

Generally, increasing sample solution temperature has a positive effect on extraction efficiency. Based on the extraction kinetics, higher temperatures would facilitate the diffusion and mass transfer of the analytes from sample solution to the organic solvent, and the time required to reach the equilibrium would be decreased. However, at high temperatures, the over-pressurization of the sample vial could make the extraction system unstable. On the other hand in LPME boiling point of the solvents is a limiting factor.

Similar to other LPME methods, increasing organic solvent volume increases extraction recovery. But after reaching quantitative recoveries, increasing solvent volume causes a significant decrease in enrichment factor. Usually in LPME-SOF, 5–100 μL of extraction

For the SFO-LLME, sample agitation is an important parameter that influences the extraction efficiency. According to the film theory of convective-diffusive mass transfer for LPME system, high stirring speed can decrease the thickness of the diffusion film in the aqueous phase, so the aqueous phase mass-transfer coefficient will be increased with increased stirring speed (rpm). But incresing stirring rate must be controlled, because it may

LPME is not an exhaustive extraction, so extraction time has great effect on extraction efficiency, precision, sensitivity, and the repeatability of the LPME-SFO. It is necessary to choose an appropriate extraction time to guarantee the equilibrium between aqueous and

As described before, salt addition can improve the extraction efficiency of the analytes due to salting out effect. But higher salt concentration can be affect physical properties of the extraction film. This causes reducing in the diffusion rates of the analytes into the organic

**2.4.3 Application of LPME-SFO for extraction of metal ions before determination by** 

LPME-SFO can be used for extraction of metal ions from aqeous solution in combination with ET-AAS. A LPME-SFO technique was used for the extraction of lead in water samples (Dadfarnia et al., 2008) 1-undecanol containing dithizone as the chelating agent was used as

be cause to sputtering of the solvent drops and influence the extraction efficiency.

**2.4.2.1 Selection of extraction solvent** 

**2.4.2.2 Effect of extraction temperature** 

**2.4.2.3 Effect of organic solvent volume** 

Dichlorodecane (14-16 C).

solvent is selected.

**2.4.2.6 Salting out** 

**AAS** 

**2.4.2.4 Effect of stirring rate** 

**2.4.2.5 Effect of extraction time** 

organic phases and the maximum extraction of analytes.

phase. Therefore, the amount of salt should be optimized in LPME-SFO.

LPME-SFO is only applicable for the analytes with high or moderate lipophilic property and can not be used to those neutral analytes with high hydrophilic property and this is the main disadvantages of the method.

Fig. 5.1 Floated organic solvent, 2) Wter bath, 3) Sample, 4) Stirring bar, 5) Heater-Stirrer, 6) Conical vial, 7) Spatula (Ying-Ying et. al., 2010)

#### **2.4.1 Thepritical aspects of LPME-SFO**

LPME-SFO is based on the distribution of the analytes between floated extraction solvent and the aqueous sample matrix. As mentioned previously, the organic extraction solvent of LPME-SFO must have the melting point near room temperature (in the range of 10–30 C) and lower density than water. It should be readily solidified at low temperatures, and thus its droplet can be collected easily. Maximum sensitivity and precision were obtained by stirring the sample solution until the equilibrium was obtained.

Distribution coefficient (K) is defined as the ratio between the analyte concentration in extraction solvent and sample solution. The enrichment factor (ER) and extraction recovery (ER) are calculated as follows:

$$EF = \frac{\mathcal{C}\_{o,F}}{\mathcal{C}\_{aq}} \tag{10}$$

Where *Co F*, and *Caq* are the analyte concentration in the organic solvent, and the initial concentration of the analyte in the aqueous sample, respectively.

$$ER(\%) = 100 \times \frac{\mathbb{C}\_{o,F} V\_{o,F}}{\mathbb{C}\_{aq} V\_{aq}} \tag{11}$$

Where *Vo F*, and *Vaq* are the volume of the organic phase and the volume of the aqueous sample, respectively.

#### **2.4.2 Factors affecting LPME-SFO**

The partitioning of the analytes between two phases (extraction solvent and the aqueous solution) was affected by various parameters, such as the type and volume of the organic solvent, aqueous sample volumes, the extraction time, the stirring rate, and salt addition. In order to design an accurate method, every parameter must be optimized.

#### **2.4.2.1 Selection of extraction solvent**

74 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

LPME-SFO is only applicable for the analytes with high or moderate lipophilic property and can not be used to those neutral analytes with high hydrophilic property and this is the

Fig. 5.1 Floated organic solvent, 2) Wter bath, 3) Sample, 4) Stirring bar, 5) Heater-Stirrer, 6)

LPME-SFO is based on the distribution of the analytes between floated extraction solvent and the aqueous sample matrix. As mentioned previously, the organic extraction solvent of LPME-SFO must have the melting point near room temperature (in the range of 10–30 C) and lower density than water. It should be readily solidified at low temperatures, and thus its droplet can be collected easily. Maximum sensitivity and precision were obtained by

Distribution coefficient (K) is defined as the ratio between the analyte concentration in extraction solvent and sample solution. The enrichment factor (ER) and extraction recovery

Where *Co F*, and *Caq* are the analyte concentration in the organic solvent, and the initial

, , (%) 100 *oF oF*

Where *Vo F*, and *Vaq* are the volume of the organic phase and the volume of the aqueous

The partitioning of the analytes between two phases (extraction solvent and the aqueous solution) was affected by various parameters, such as the type and volume of the organic solvent, aqueous sample volumes, the extraction time, the stirring rate, and salt addition. In

*aq aq C V*

*EF*

*o F*, *aq C*

*<sup>C</sup>* (10)

*C V* (11)

main disadvantages of the method.

Conical vial, 7) Spatula (Ying-Ying et. al., 2010)

stirring the sample solution until the equilibrium was obtained.

concentration of the analyte in the aqueous sample, respectively.

*ER*

order to design an accurate method, every parameter must be optimized.

**2.4.1 Thepritical aspects of LPME-SFO** 

(ER) are calculated as follows:

sample, respectively.

**2.4.2 Factors affecting LPME-SFO** 

The selection of an appropriate extraction solvent is of major importance for the optimization of the LPME-SFO process. The selected extraction solvent must satisfy several requirements. First, it should be immiscible with water, have low volatility, low density, low melting point near room temperature and be able to extract the desired analytes. According to these considerations, limited number of the organic extraction solvents commonly used in LPME-SFO which are listed below. 1-Undecanol (13-15 C), 1-Dodecanol (22-24 C), 2- Dodecanol (17-18 C), 1-Bromo hexadecane (17-18 C), n-Hexadecane (18 C) and 1,10- Dichlorodecane (14-16 C).

#### **2.4.2.2 Effect of extraction temperature**

Generally, increasing sample solution temperature has a positive effect on extraction efficiency. Based on the extraction kinetics, higher temperatures would facilitate the diffusion and mass transfer of the analytes from sample solution to the organic solvent, and the time required to reach the equilibrium would be decreased. However, at high temperatures, the over-pressurization of the sample vial could make the extraction system unstable. On the other hand in LPME boiling point of the solvents is a limiting factor.

#### **2.4.2.3 Effect of organic solvent volume**

Similar to other LPME methods, increasing organic solvent volume increases extraction recovery. But after reaching quantitative recoveries, increasing solvent volume causes a significant decrease in enrichment factor. Usually in LPME-SOF, 5–100 μL of extraction solvent is selected.

#### **2.4.2.4 Effect of stirring rate**

For the SFO-LLME, sample agitation is an important parameter that influences the extraction efficiency. According to the film theory of convective-diffusive mass transfer for LPME system, high stirring speed can decrease the thickness of the diffusion film in the aqueous phase, so the aqueous phase mass-transfer coefficient will be increased with increased stirring speed (rpm). But incresing stirring rate must be controlled, because it may be cause to sputtering of the solvent drops and influence the extraction efficiency.

#### **2.4.2.5 Effect of extraction time**

LPME is not an exhaustive extraction, so extraction time has great effect on extraction efficiency, precision, sensitivity, and the repeatability of the LPME-SFO. It is necessary to choose an appropriate extraction time to guarantee the equilibrium between aqueous and organic phases and the maximum extraction of analytes.

#### **2.4.2.6 Salting out**

As described before, salt addition can improve the extraction efficiency of the analytes due to salting out effect. But higher salt concentration can be affect physical properties of the extraction film. This causes reducing in the diffusion rates of the analytes into the organic phase. Therefore, the amount of salt should be optimized in LPME-SFO.

#### **2.4.3 Application of LPME-SFO for extraction of metal ions before determination by AAS**

LPME-SFO can be used for extraction of metal ions from aqeous solution in combination with ET-AAS. A LPME-SFO technique was used for the extraction of lead in water samples (Dadfarnia et al., 2008) 1-undecanol containing dithizone as the chelating agent was used as

Microextraction Techniques as a Sample Preparation Step for Metal Analysis 77

Two phase extraction mode: Extraction through hollow fiber membranes by passive diffusion of analytes from donor phase (the sample) into acceptor phase (extractant) is based

Where *Ceq*,*<sup>a</sup>* and *Ceq*,*<sup>d</sup>* are analyte concentration at equilibrium in acceptor and donor

Three phase extraction mode: Similar to two phase mode, this system is based on passive diffusion of analytes through the membrane, too. But two partitioning equilibrium system must be established. The first equilibrium between donor phase and organic phase (impregnated in membrane pores) and second one between organic phase and donor phase.

Where *Ceq*,*org* is the analyte concentration in organic phase at equilibrium also *Ka d*/ as partition coefficient of the analytes between acceptor and donor phases is the main force for performing the microextraction. Extraction recovery (R) in three phase system can be given as:

Several parameters affects hollow fiber based LPME. Kind of hollow fiber, nature of organic phase, volume of donor, acceptor and organic phases, pH of donor and acceptor phases, salt

The hollow fibers used in LPME should be compatible with the organic solvent. Polypropylene hollow fibers are the most popular fibers for this purpose. Common dimensions of employed hollow fibers are as listed below. Inner diameter 600 μm, wall thickness 200 μm, nominal and maximum pore sizes are 0.2 and 0.64 μm, respectively. Length of the hollow fiber is based on optimum volume of acceptor phase according to

An important step in method development for different modes of hollow fiber based LPME is organic solvent selection. Water solubility and polarity are the main characteristics of the

*KCC ad e* / ,, *<sup>q</sup> a e* / *<sup>q</sup> <sup>d</sup>* (12)

( ) /(100 ) *E VR V d a* (14)

*KCC org*/, , *d e <sup>q</sup> org* / *eq <sup>d</sup>* (15)

*K CC a or* / ,, *<sup>g</sup> eq a e* / *<sup>q</sup> org* (16)

/ , , // / . *K CC KK ad e <sup>q</sup> a eq d or <sup>g</sup> d a org* (17)

// / (100 . )( . . ) *R K VK V K V V a d a a d a or <sup>g</sup> d org <sup>d</sup>* (18)

/ / (100 ) /( ) *R KV KVV ad a ad a d* (13)

**2.5.1 Theoretical aspects of hollow fiber based LPME** 

on a partitioning equilibrium. Partition coefficient is presented by:

Where *Va* and *Vd* are volume of acceptor and donor phase solutions.

**2.5.2 Factors affecting hollow fiber based LPME** 

addition and sample agitation must be optimized.

**2.5.2.1 Kind of hollow fiber** 

volume of fibers lumen. **2.5.2.2 Organic solvent** 

phases, respectively. Extraction recovery and enrichment factor are given by:

floated organic drop for extraction of lead ions. After stirring the sample for a certain time, the sample vial was cooled in an ice bath for 5 min. The solidified extract was transferred into a conical vial where it melted immediately, and then 10 μL of it was analyzed by ET-AAS. Another LPME-SFO method was designed for extraction of Co(II) and Ni (II) as complexes with 1-(2-Pyridylazo)-2-naphthol (PAN) as chelating agent (Bidabadi et al., 2009). A highly efficient LPME-SFO method for the determination of arsenic by electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry (ETAAS) was reported (Ghambarian et al., 2010). In this method extraction of As(III) as its complex with APDC was carried out in ppb level. Another literature reported the same method for the determination of trace lead and cadmium in water samples (Rivas et al., 2010).

When LPME-SFO is coupled with flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS), direct injection analysis cannot be performed, since the volume of the extraction solvent is too little for Flame-AAS. For this purpose a LPME-SFO method was proposed for extraction of cadmium ions in different water samples for determination by Flame-AAS (Dadfarnia et al., 2009). In the method, the extraction solution was first diluted with ethanol to 250 μL and then 100 μL of it was analyzed by flow injection flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FI-FAAS).

#### **2.5 Hollow fibre based liquid phase microextraction**

An alternative concept for LPME was developed using hollow fiber membranes (Pedersen-Bjergaard, et al., 1999). This technique is based on the use of hollow fibers, typically made of polypropylene. This form of LPME consists of a donor phase (the sample), an acceptor phase (in the lumen of the hollow fiber) and the hollow fiber between them. Pores of the hollow fiber membrane are impregnated with organic solvent and the system is called as supporting liquid membrane. This configuration can be used in two modes; two phase and three phase. In two phase system donor phase is aqueous; acceptor phase is organic with oraganic solvent in hollow fiber pores. But in three phase system, donor phase and acceptor phase are both aqueous with hollow fiber impregnated with organic solvent (Fig. 6)

Fig. 6. Illustration of Hollow fiber based LPME (i) two phase (ii) three phase system (Psillakis et. al., 2003)

#### **2.5.1 Theoretical aspects of hollow fiber based LPME**

76 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

floated organic drop for extraction of lead ions. After stirring the sample for a certain time, the sample vial was cooled in an ice bath for 5 min. The solidified extract was transferred into a conical vial where it melted immediately, and then 10 μL of it was analyzed by ET-AAS. Another LPME-SFO method was designed for extraction of Co(II) and Ni (II) as complexes with 1-(2-Pyridylazo)-2-naphthol (PAN) as chelating agent (Bidabadi et al., 2009). A highly efficient LPME-SFO method for the determination of arsenic by electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry (ETAAS) was reported (Ghambarian et al., 2010). In this method extraction of As(III) as its complex with APDC was carried out in ppb level. Another literature reported the same method for the determination of trace lead and

When LPME-SFO is coupled with flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS), direct injection analysis cannot be performed, since the volume of the extraction solvent is too little for Flame-AAS. For this purpose a LPME-SFO method was proposed for extraction of cadmium ions in different water samples for determination by Flame-AAS (Dadfarnia et al., 2009). In the method, the extraction solution was first diluted with ethanol to 250 μL and then 100 μL of it was analyzed by flow injection flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FI-FAAS).

An alternative concept for LPME was developed using hollow fiber membranes (Pedersen-Bjergaard, et al., 1999). This technique is based on the use of hollow fibers, typically made of polypropylene. This form of LPME consists of a donor phase (the sample), an acceptor phase (in the lumen of the hollow fiber) and the hollow fiber between them. Pores of the hollow fiber membrane are impregnated with organic solvent and the system is called as supporting liquid membrane. This configuration can be used in two modes; two phase and three phase. In two phase system donor phase is aqueous; acceptor phase is organic with oraganic solvent in hollow fiber pores. But in three phase system, donor phase and acceptor

phase are both aqueous with hollow fiber impregnated with organic solvent (Fig. 6)

Fig. 6. Illustration of Hollow fiber based LPME (i) two phase (ii) three phase system

(Psillakis et. al., 2003)

cadmium in water samples (Rivas et al., 2010).

**2.5 Hollow fibre based liquid phase microextraction** 

Two phase extraction mode: Extraction through hollow fiber membranes by passive diffusion of analytes from donor phase (the sample) into acceptor phase (extractant) is based on a partitioning equilibrium. Partition coefficient is presented by:

$$\mathcal{K}\_{a/d} = \mathbb{C}\_{eq,a} \ne \mathbb{C}\_{eq,d} \tag{12}$$

Where *Ceq*,*<sup>a</sup>* and *Ceq*,*<sup>d</sup>* are analyte concentration at equilibrium in acceptor and donor phases, respectively. Extraction recovery and enrichment factor are given by:

$$R = \left(100K\_{a/d}V\_a\right) / \left(K\_{a/d}V\_a + V\_d\right) \tag{13}$$

$$E = \left(V\_d R\right) / \left(100 V\_a\right) \tag{14}$$

Where *Va* and *Vd* are volume of acceptor and donor phase solutions.

Three phase extraction mode: Similar to two phase mode, this system is based on passive diffusion of analytes through the membrane, too. But two partitioning equilibrium system must be established. The first equilibrium between donor phase and organic phase (impregnated in membrane pores) and second one between organic phase and donor phase.

$$\mathcal{K}\_{\text{org}/d} = \mathbb{C}\_{\text{eq}, \text{org}} / \mathbb{C}\_{\text{eq},d} \tag{15}$$

$$K\_{a/org} = \mathbb{C}\_{eq,a} \ne \mathbb{C}\_{eq,org} \tag{16}$$

$$\mathbf{K}\_{a/d} = \mathbf{C}\_{\text{eq},a} \;/\, \mathbf{C}\_{\text{eq},d} = \mathbf{K}\_{\text{org}/d} \mathbf{K}\_{a/\text{org}} \tag{17}$$

Where *Ceq*,*org* is the analyte concentration in organic phase at equilibrium also *Ka d*/ as partition coefficient of the analytes between acceptor and donor phases is the main force for performing the microextraction. Extraction recovery (R) in three phase system can be given as:

$$R = (100K\_{a/d}, V\_a)(K\_{a/d}, V\_a + K\_{org/d}, V\_{org} + V\_d) \tag{18}$$

#### **2.5.2 Factors affecting hollow fiber based LPME**

Several parameters affects hollow fiber based LPME. Kind of hollow fiber, nature of organic phase, volume of donor, acceptor and organic phases, pH of donor and acceptor phases, salt addition and sample agitation must be optimized.

#### **2.5.2.1 Kind of hollow fiber**

The hollow fibers used in LPME should be compatible with the organic solvent. Polypropylene hollow fibers are the most popular fibers for this purpose. Common dimensions of employed hollow fibers are as listed below. Inner diameter 600 μm, wall thickness 200 μm, nominal and maximum pore sizes are 0.2 and 0.64 μm, respectively. Length of the hollow fiber is based on optimum volume of acceptor phase according to volume of fibers lumen.

#### **2.5.2.2 Organic solvent**

An important step in method development for different modes of hollow fiber based LPME is organic solvent selection. Water solubility and polarity are the main characteristics of the

Microextraction Techniques as a Sample Preparation Step for Metal Analysis 79

was reported (Xia, et al., 2006). In this study extraction of Se (IV) and Se (VI) from water samples before determination by ICP-MS was investigated. The first report on use of hollow fiber based LPME before AAS is about determination of Cd (II) in sea water using electrothermal AAS (Peng, et al., 2007). In this three phase extraction system dithizone/oleic acid in 1-octanol – HNO3 was used as extraction phase 0.8 ng L-1 and 387 are LOD and preconcentration factor of the method, respectively. Other two phase and three phase methods for extraction of organomercury and As before electrothermal AAS were reported

Cloud point extraction (CPE), known also as phase separation extraction and surfactant (or micelle)-mediated phase separation is based on the phase behavior of non-ionic surfactants in aqueous solutions, which exhibit phase separation after an increase in temperature or the addition of a salting-out agent. Separation and preconcentration based on cloud point extraction (CPE) are becoming an important and practical application of surfactants in analytical chemistry. The technique is based on the property of most nonionic surfactants in aqueous solutions to form micelles and to separate into a surfactant-rich phase of a small volume and a diluted aqueous phase when heated to a temperature known as the cloud

The small volume of the surfactant-rich phase obtained with this methodology permits the design of extraction schemes that are simple, cheap, highly efficient, fast and environmental friendly in comparison with classical methods. CPE might be an interesting and efficient alternative, once it eliminates or reduces consumption of organic solvents significantly. Trace elements can be extracted to the surfactant-rich phase usually after formation of a

Surfactants are compounds that lower the surface tension of a liquid, the interfacial tension between two liquids or between a liquid and a solid. The term surfactant is a blend of surface active agent (Rosen, 2010). Surfactants are amphiphilic molecules, one of whose parts (the head) is polar or hydrophilic in nature and the other (the tail) hydrophobic (Fig. A). This latter part is generally a hydrocarbon chain with different numbers of carbon atoms and may be linear or branched. It may also contain aromatic rings. Therefore, a surfactant molecule contains both a water insoluble (oil soluble component) and a water soluble component. Surfactant molecules migrate to the water surface, where the insoluble hydrophobic groups may extend out of the bulk water phase, either into the air (Fig. B) or if water is mixed with an oil, into the oil phase, while the water soluble head group remains in the water phase. Surfactants in dilute aqueous solutions arrange on the surface. With increasing the concentration of the surfactant the solution surface becomes completely loaded with surfactant and any further additions must arrange as micelles (Fig. C). Therefore, when the surfactant concentration is increased above a certain threshold, called the critical micellar concentration (CMC), the surfactant molecules become dynamically associated to form molecular aggregates of colloidal size. These aggregates containing 60 to 100 monomers are at equilibrium with surfactant molecules in solution with concentration

hydrophobic complex with an appropriate chelating agent (ghaedi et al., 2009).

and summarized in a review article (Dadfarnia, et al., 2010).

**2.6 Cloud point extractin (CPE)** 

**2.6.1 Surfactants and micelles** 

point temperature.

near to CMC.

organic solvent which must be considered. To prevent dissolution of it in aqueous phase, it should have minimum solubility. Low volatility is also another important characteristic of the selected organic solvent which will restrict solvent evaporation during extraction. Solubility of the analytes in organic solvents and high partition coefficients of the analytes between two phases are other principle considerations in solvent selection.

#### **2.5.2.3 Agitation of the sample**

In order to improve extraction kinetics, use of factors increasing convection of the analytes from solution bulk into the extracting phase is usual. In this method sample and extracting phase are not in direct contact with each other and sample agitation facilitates transfer of the analytes through the supported liquid membrane. Stirring, vibration and sonication are popular agitation techniques. Suitability of the selected agitation method must be considered. Rate and power of agitation must be optimized to prevent air bubble formation around the membrane or accelerate solvent evaporation which causes repeatability and imprecision problems in analysis.

#### **2.5.2.4 Salt addition**

In both of the two phase and the three phase LPME methods, salting out effect must be investigated by adding optimized amounts of selected salt to donor phase. Positive effect of salt addition on extraction efficiency depends on nature of the analyte and ionic strength of the sample solution.

#### **2.5.2.5 Volumes of donor and acceptor solutions**

It's clear that, the main aim of all preconcentration techniques is reaching to higher enrichment factors. This is available with increasing the ratio of donor phase volume to acceptor phase volume. In this case kind of analytical instrument which LPME is coupled is important. Because various volumes are required for analyte introduction. In the case of the atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS) it depends on the mode of the instrument. For Flame-AAS appropriate minimized volume of the analyte solution is about one mL which is large enough in comparison to the volume of membrane lumen. But electrothermal-AAS is more compatible with this technique due to lower volumes (μL scale) of the samples need to be introduce to graphite furnace.

#### **2.5.2.6 Adjustment of pH**

pH of donor and acceptor phases must be adjusted according to the nature of the analytes. In both of the two phase and three phase modes of this technique extraction efficiency has great dependence to solution pH. If the analytes are dissociable in different pHs (weak acids and bases) effect of pH on extraction efficiency must be investigated.

#### **2.5.2.7 Extraction time**

In all of the extraction methods, extraction time is an important parameter. Because sample preparation is rate determining step of an analytical method. Mass-transfer of the analytes between two phases is a time consuming process. As discussed before sample agitation is one of the methods which is applied for faster extraction and lower extraction times.

#### **2.5.3 Application of the hollow fiber based LPME for extraction of the metal ions before atomic absorption spectrometric determination**

One decade after introduction of hollow fiber based LPME for enrichment of the organic compounds, the first application of this technique for extraction of inorganic compounds was reported (Xia, et al., 2006). In this study extraction of Se (IV) and Se (VI) from water samples before determination by ICP-MS was investigated. The first report on use of hollow fiber based LPME before AAS is about determination of Cd (II) in sea water using electrothermal AAS (Peng, et al., 2007). In this three phase extraction system dithizone/oleic acid in 1-octanol – HNO3 was used as extraction phase 0.8 ng L-1 and 387 are LOD and preconcentration factor of the method, respectively. Other two phase and three phase methods for extraction of organomercury and As before electrothermal AAS were reported and summarized in a review article (Dadfarnia, et al., 2010).

#### **2.6 Cloud point extractin (CPE)**

78 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

organic solvent which must be considered. To prevent dissolution of it in aqueous phase, it should have minimum solubility. Low volatility is also another important characteristic of the selected organic solvent which will restrict solvent evaporation during extraction. Solubility of the analytes in organic solvents and high partition coefficients of the analytes

In order to improve extraction kinetics, use of factors increasing convection of the analytes from solution bulk into the extracting phase is usual. In this method sample and extracting phase are not in direct contact with each other and sample agitation facilitates transfer of the analytes through the supported liquid membrane. Stirring, vibration and sonication are popular agitation techniques. Suitability of the selected agitation method must be considered. Rate and power of agitation must be optimized to prevent air bubble formation around the membrane or accelerate solvent evaporation which causes repeatability and

In both of the two phase and the three phase LPME methods, salting out effect must be investigated by adding optimized amounts of selected salt to donor phase. Positive effect of salt addition on extraction efficiency depends on nature of the analyte and ionic strength of

It's clear that, the main aim of all preconcentration techniques is reaching to higher enrichment factors. This is available with increasing the ratio of donor phase volume to acceptor phase volume. In this case kind of analytical instrument which LPME is coupled is important. Because various volumes are required for analyte introduction. In the case of the atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS) it depends on the mode of the instrument. For Flame-AAS appropriate minimized volume of the analyte solution is about one mL which is large enough in comparison to the volume of membrane lumen. But electrothermal-AAS is more compatible with this technique due to lower volumes (μL scale) of the samples need to

pH of donor and acceptor phases must be adjusted according to the nature of the analytes. In both of the two phase and three phase modes of this technique extraction efficiency has great dependence to solution pH. If the analytes are dissociable in different pHs (weak acids

In all of the extraction methods, extraction time is an important parameter. Because sample preparation is rate determining step of an analytical method. Mass-transfer of the analytes between two phases is a time consuming process. As discussed before sample agitation is

One decade after introduction of hollow fiber based LPME for enrichment of the organic compounds, the first application of this technique for extraction of inorganic compounds

one of the methods which is applied for faster extraction and lower extraction times.

**2.5.3 Application of the hollow fiber based LPME for extraction of the metal ions** 

and bases) effect of pH on extraction efficiency must be investigated.

**before atomic absorption spectrometric determination** 

between two phases are other principle considerations in solvent selection.

**2.5.2.3 Agitation of the sample** 

imprecision problems in analysis.

be introduce to graphite furnace.

**2.5.2.6 Adjustment of pH** 

**2.5.2.7 Extraction time** 

**2.5.2.5 Volumes of donor and acceptor solutions** 

**2.5.2.4 Salt addition** 

the sample solution.

Cloud point extraction (CPE), known also as phase separation extraction and surfactant (or micelle)-mediated phase separation is based on the phase behavior of non-ionic surfactants in aqueous solutions, which exhibit phase separation after an increase in temperature or the addition of a salting-out agent. Separation and preconcentration based on cloud point extraction (CPE) are becoming an important and practical application of surfactants in analytical chemistry. The technique is based on the property of most nonionic surfactants in aqueous solutions to form micelles and to separate into a surfactant-rich phase of a small volume and a diluted aqueous phase when heated to a temperature known as the cloud point temperature.

The small volume of the surfactant-rich phase obtained with this methodology permits the design of extraction schemes that are simple, cheap, highly efficient, fast and environmental friendly in comparison with classical methods. CPE might be an interesting and efficient alternative, once it eliminates or reduces consumption of organic solvents significantly. Trace elements can be extracted to the surfactant-rich phase usually after formation of a hydrophobic complex with an appropriate chelating agent (ghaedi et al., 2009).

#### **2.6.1 Surfactants and micelles**

Surfactants are compounds that lower the surface tension of a liquid, the interfacial tension between two liquids or between a liquid and a solid. The term surfactant is a blend of surface active agent (Rosen, 2010). Surfactants are amphiphilic molecules, one of whose parts (the head) is polar or hydrophilic in nature and the other (the tail) hydrophobic (Fig. A). This latter part is generally a hydrocarbon chain with different numbers of carbon atoms and may be linear or branched. It may also contain aromatic rings. Therefore, a surfactant molecule contains both a water insoluble (oil soluble component) and a water soluble component. Surfactant molecules migrate to the water surface, where the insoluble hydrophobic groups may extend out of the bulk water phase, either into the air (Fig. B) or if water is mixed with an oil, into the oil phase, while the water soluble head group remains in the water phase. Surfactants in dilute aqueous solutions arrange on the surface. With increasing the concentration of the surfactant the solution surface becomes completely loaded with surfactant and any further additions must arrange as micelles (Fig. C). Therefore, when the surfactant concentration is increased above a certain threshold, called the critical micellar concentration (CMC), the surfactant molecules become dynamically associated to form molecular aggregates of colloidal size. These aggregates containing 60 to 100 monomers are at equilibrium with surfactant molecules in solution with concentration near to CMC.

Microextraction Techniques as a Sample Preparation Step for Metal Analysis 81

Fig. 8. Experimental schemes for cloud point extraction of metal ions prior to atomic

from the aqueous to the surfactant-rich phase, is given by

Selectivity of analyte in the CPE process is described as:

Finally the concentration factor is given by:

The CPE of metal ion from micellar solutions was evaluated in terms of extraction recovery (ER), distribution coefficient (D), selectivity *SX A*/ and the concentration factor CF that are

The distribution coefficient is a parameter used to describe the degree of analyte partitioning

[ ] [ ] *S W*

where [ ] *A <sup>S</sup>* and [ ] *A <sup>W</sup>* are the final analyte concentrations in the surfactant-rich phase and in the aqueous phase, respectively. [ ] *A <sup>W</sup>* can be calculated from the mass balance equation:

where [ ] *A <sup>O</sup>* refers to the analyte concentration in the original aqueous solution prior to the extraction step, and *VO* is the volume of original aqueous solution. *VW* and *VS* are the volumes of aqueous solution and surfactant rich phase obtained after the extraction step,

> [] [] <sup>100</sup> [ ] *O W O*

> > *X*

*A*

The extraction recovery (percent of analyte extracted) can be expressed as:

*A A ER A*

/

*<sup>D</sup> <sup>S</sup>*

*X A*

Where *DX* and *DA* are distribution coefficient of foreign ion and analyte, respectively.

*<sup>A</sup>* (19)

[] [] [] *A V A V AV OO W W SS* (20)

(21)

*D* (22)

*<sup>A</sup> <sup>D</sup>*

absorption spectrometry.

**2.6.4 Calculations** 

defined as follows:

respectively.

Fig. 7. Schematic representation of the surfactant and formation of a micelle from its monomers beyond its critical micellar concentration (CMC).

#### **2.6.2 Phase separation in CPE**

When a micellar solution of a non-ionic surfactant is heated, it becomes turbid over a narrow temperature range, which is referred to as its cloud-point temperature (Hinze & Pramauro, 1993). Above the cloud-point temperature, the system initially in an isotropic phase is separated into two isotropic phases, one of them surfactant-rich phase which is separated from the bulk aqueous solution; and the other aqueous phase, in which the surfactant concentration will be approximately equal to the critical micelle concentration. The phenomenon is reversible and upon cooling, a single phase is again obtained. The mechanism by which separation occurs is poorly understood but some authors have explained the cloud point phenomenon on the basis of the dehydration process that occurs in the external layer of the micelles of non-ionic surfactants when temperature is increased (Hinze, 1987).

#### **2.6.3 Experimental procedure of CPE in metal analysis**

The extraction process of CPE for metal ions is very simple and is shown in Fig. 7. First, a few ml of the surfactant or a concentrated surfactant solution is added to some tens to hundreds of millilitres of an aqueous sample containing the metal ions. The final surfactant concentration must exceed its CMC in order to ensure formation of micelle aggregates. The chelating agent is added, where necessary, along with the surfactant, dissolved in an organic solvent or directly to the water, depending on its solubility. Next, the solution is heated above the cloud point and separation of the phases usually takes place after centrifugation. Any analyte solubilized in the hydrophobic core of the micelles, will separate and become concentrated in the small volume of the surfactant-rich phase. After cooling in an ice bath, the surfactant-rich phase became viscous and retain at the bottom of the tube. The supernatant aqueous phases can readily be discarded by inverting the tube.

Finally, a volume (microliter) of nitric acid in aqueous or organic solvent can be added to the surfactant-rich phase to reduce its viscosity and to facilitate sample handling prior to AAS assay.

Fig. 8. Experimental schemes for cloud point extraction of metal ions prior to atomic absorption spectrometry.

#### **2.6.4 Calculations**

80 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

Fig. 7. Schematic representation of the surfactant and formation of a micelle from its

When a micellar solution of a non-ionic surfactant is heated, it becomes turbid over a narrow temperature range, which is referred to as its cloud-point temperature (Hinze & Pramauro, 1993). Above the cloud-point temperature, the system initially in an isotropic phase is separated into two isotropic phases, one of them surfactant-rich phase which is separated from the bulk aqueous solution; and the other aqueous phase, in which the surfactant concentration will be approximately equal to the critical micelle concentration. The phenomenon is reversible and upon cooling, a single phase is again obtained. The mechanism by which separation occurs is poorly understood but some authors have explained the cloud point phenomenon on the basis of the dehydration process that occurs in the external layer of the micelles of non-ionic surfactants when temperature is increased

The extraction process of CPE for metal ions is very simple and is shown in Fig. 7. First, a few ml of the surfactant or a concentrated surfactant solution is added to some tens to hundreds of millilitres of an aqueous sample containing the metal ions. The final surfactant concentration must exceed its CMC in order to ensure formation of micelle aggregates. The chelating agent is added, where necessary, along with the surfactant, dissolved in an organic solvent or directly to the water, depending on its solubility. Next, the solution is heated above the cloud point and separation of the phases usually takes place after centrifugation. Any analyte solubilized in the hydrophobic core of the micelles, will separate and become concentrated in the small volume of the surfactant-rich phase. After cooling in an ice bath, the surfactant-rich phase became viscous and retain at the bottom of the tube. The supernatant aqueous phases can readily be discarded by inverting

Finally, a volume (microliter) of nitric acid in aqueous or organic solvent can be added to the surfactant-rich phase to reduce its viscosity and to facilitate sample handling prior to AAS

monomers beyond its critical micellar concentration (CMC).

**2.6.3 Experimental procedure of CPE in metal analysis** 

**2.6.2 Phase separation in CPE** 

(Hinze, 1987).

the tube.

assay.

The CPE of metal ion from micellar solutions was evaluated in terms of extraction recovery (ER), distribution coefficient (D), selectivity *SX A*/ and the concentration factor CF that are defined as follows:

The distribution coefficient is a parameter used to describe the degree of analyte partitioning from the aqueous to the surfactant-rich phase, is given by

$$D = \frac{[A]\_S}{[A]\_W} \tag{19}$$

where [ ] *A <sup>S</sup>* and [ ] *A <sup>W</sup>* are the final analyte concentrations in the surfactant-rich phase and in the aqueous phase, respectively. [ ] *A <sup>W</sup>* can be calculated from the mass balance equation:

$$\{A\}\_O V\_O = \lbrack A\rbrack\_W V\_W + \lbrack A\rbrack\_S V\_S \tag{20}$$

where [ ] *A <sup>O</sup>* refers to the analyte concentration in the original aqueous solution prior to the extraction step, and *VO* is the volume of original aqueous solution. *VW* and *VS* are the volumes of aqueous solution and surfactant rich phase obtained after the extraction step, respectively.

The extraction recovery (percent of analyte extracted) can be expressed as:

$$ER = \frac{[A]\_O - [A]\_W}{[A]\_O} \times 100\tag{21}$$

Selectivity of analyte in the CPE process is described as:

$$S\_{X/A} = \frac{D\_X}{D\_A} \tag{22}$$

Where *DX* and *DA* are distribution coefficient of foreign ion and analyte, respectively. Finally the concentration factor is given by:

Microextraction Techniques as a Sample Preparation Step for Metal Analysis 83

must be manageable, a compromise must be reached so that the surfactant concentration

The cloud point of micellar solutions can be controlled by addition of salts, alcohols, nonionic surfactants and some organic compounds (salting-out effects). To date, most of the studies conducted have shown that ionic strength has no appreciable effect on the extraction efficiency. An increase in the ionic strength in the CPE does not seriously alter the efficiency of extraction of the chemical forms. Moreover, the addition of a salt can markedly facilitate the phase separation process. As demonstrated with some non-ionic surfactant systems, it

Optimal incubation time and equilibration temperature are necessary to complete the reaction, and to achieve easy phase separation and preconcentration as efficient as possible. The greatest analyte preconcentration factors are thus expected under conditions where the CPE is conducted using equilibration temperature that are well above the cloud point temperature of the surfactant. It was desirable to employ the shortest equilibration time and the lowest possible equilibration temperature, which compromise completion of the reaction

The use of CPE coupled with atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS) offers a conventional alternative to more traditional extraction systems and permits the design of extraction schemes that are simple, cheap, of high efficiency, reducing in extraction time and environmentally clean methodology due to low consumption of a solvent, apart from the results that comparable to those obtained with other separation procedures. CPE technique has been successfully employed for the preconcentration of micro amounts of several metals in different matrices, as prior step before their determinations by Atomic Absorption

Watanabe et al. used this unconventional liquid–liquid separation to extract metal ions for the first time (Watanabe & Tanaka, 1978). They extracted Ni using Triton X-100 but this surfactant has a relatively high cloud point, around 70 C. Later, to extract Zn, they used PONPE 7.5, which requires a lower temperature (around 5 C) for the phase separation. This surfactant and Triton X-114 which has a very convenient cloud point were used in other studies of metal ion extraction. Cu (Kulichenko et al., 2003), Mn ( Doroschuk et al., 2004), Co (Nascentes & Arruda, 2003), Cd and Ni (Manzoori & Karim-Nezhad, 2004), Ag and Au (Mesguita da Silva et al., 1998) were determined by FAAS. CPE was also applied for extraction of Fe(III) (Ohashi et al., 2005) and As(III) and As(V) (Shemirani et al., 2005) before determination by ET-AAS. Cd, Cu, Pb, and Zn (Chen & Teo, 2001) were simultaneous extracted as complex with 1-(2-thiazolylazo)-2-naphthol (TAN) using TritonX-114 prior to determination by FAAS. Several ligands such as 1-(2-pyridylaso)-2-naphthol (PAN), 2-(2 thiazoylazo)-4-methylphenol (TAC), dialkyldithiophosphates (DDTP), 4-(2-pyridylazo) resorcinol (PAR), 2-(5-bromo-2-pyridylazo)-5-diethilaminophenol (Br-PADAP) have been

will allow a high phase ratio and a manageable surfactant-rich phase.

**2.6.5.5 Effects of equilibration temperature and incubation time** 

**2.6.6 Applications of CPE in atomic absorption spectrometry** 

**2.6.5.4 Effect of Ionic strength** 

alters the density of the bulk aqueous phase.

and efficient separation of phases.

Spectrometry.

used in CPE of metal ions.

$$\text{CF} = \frac{m\_{\text{S}}}{m\_{\text{W}}} = \frac{[A]\_{\text{S}}V\_{\text{S}}}{[A]\_{\text{W}}V\_{\text{W}}} = \frac{[A]\_{\text{O}}V\_{\text{O}} - [A]\_{\text{W}}V\_{\text{W}}}{[A]\_{\text{W}}V\_{\text{W}}} \tag{23}$$

Where *mS* and *mW* are total mass of analyte in the surfactant rich phase and aqeous phase, respectively.

#### **2.6.5 Factors affecting the CPE efficiency**

In CPE, extraction needs to be carried out under optimal conditions in order to maximize the preconcentration factor and extraction recovery. It is well known that the extraction/preconcentration process can be altered by pH, complexing agent, the types and concentration of surfactant, ionic strength (additive), equilibration temperature and incubation time (Quina & Hinze, 1999).

#### **2.6.5.1 Effect of solution pH**

The separation of metal ions by CPE involves prior formation of a complex with sufficient hydrophobicity to be extracted into the small volume of surfactant-rich phase. The formation of metal-ligand comples and its chemical stability are two important factors for CPE. The pH, which plays a unique role on formation of the complex and subsequent extraction, is proved to be a main parameter for CPE. Extraction yield depends on the pH at which complex formation is carried out (Biparva & Hadjmohammadi, 2007).

#### **2.6.5.2 Effect of the complexing agent**

Generally, CPE of a metal ion is taken place via a complex formation of the analyte with a lipophilic ligand. These complexes interact with the micellar aggregate and can be extracted from the aqueous solution into the surfactant-rich phase. The selectivity and efficiency of the method depend directly on the hydrophobicity of the ligand and the complex formed, the apparent equilibrium constants in the micellar medium, the kinetics of the complex formation, and the transfere of the complex between the phases (Constantine, 2002; Carabias-Martinez, et al., 2000).

#### **2.6.5.3 Effect of surfactant type and concentration**

Depending on the nature of the hydrophilic group, surfactants are classified as non-ionic, zwitterionic, cationic, and anionic. Up to now, non-ionic, zwitterionic and anionic surfactants are most widely used for CPE of metal ions. However, it is very important to select an appropriate surfactant for a successful CPE analysis since it can directly affect the extraction and preconcentration, and accuracy of the final analytical results. Reports showed that Triton X-114 and PONPE-7.5 (cloud point temperature, near room temperature) (Paleologos et al., 2000, 2001) are proper surfactants to perform CPE for trace elements because of its commercial availability in a high purified homogeneous form, low toxicity and cost. Also, low cloud point temperature (23–26 °C) and high density of the surfactantrich phase facilitates phase separation by centrifugation. A successful cloud point extraction

should maximize the extraction efficiency by minimizing the phase volume ratio ( ) *<sup>S</sup> W V V* . This

shows that the smaller surfactant concentration ptovides higher preconcentration factor; but when the volume of surfactant-rich phase is small, the extraction process becomes more difficult and the accuracy and reproducibility probably suffer (Eiguren Fernandez et al., 1999; Moreno Cordero et al., 1993). However, since the volume of the surfactant- rich phase must be manageable, a compromise must be reached so that the surfactant concentration will allow a high phase ratio and a manageable surfactant-rich phase.

#### **2.6.5.4 Effect of Ionic strength**

82 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

Where *mS* and *mW* are total mass of analyte in the surfactant rich phase and aqeous phase,

In CPE, extraction needs to be carried out under optimal conditions in order to maximize the preconcentration factor and extraction recovery. It is well known that the extraction/preconcentration process can be altered by pH, complexing agent, the types and concentration of surfactant, ionic strength (additive), equilibration temperature and

The separation of metal ions by CPE involves prior formation of a complex with sufficient hydrophobicity to be extracted into the small volume of surfactant-rich phase. The formation of metal-ligand comples and its chemical stability are two important factors for CPE. The pH, which plays a unique role on formation of the complex and subsequent extraction, is proved to be a main parameter for CPE. Extraction yield depends on the pH at

Generally, CPE of a metal ion is taken place via a complex formation of the analyte with a lipophilic ligand. These complexes interact with the micellar aggregate and can be extracted from the aqueous solution into the surfactant-rich phase. The selectivity and efficiency of the method depend directly on the hydrophobicity of the ligand and the complex formed, the apparent equilibrium constants in the micellar medium, the kinetics of the complex formation, and the transfere of the complex between the phases (Constantine, 2002;

Depending on the nature of the hydrophilic group, surfactants are classified as non-ionic, zwitterionic, cationic, and anionic. Up to now, non-ionic, zwitterionic and anionic surfactants are most widely used for CPE of metal ions. However, it is very important to select an appropriate surfactant for a successful CPE analysis since it can directly affect the extraction and preconcentration, and accuracy of the final analytical results. Reports showed that Triton X-114 and PONPE-7.5 (cloud point temperature, near room temperature) (Paleologos et al., 2000, 2001) are proper surfactants to perform CPE for trace elements because of its commercial availability in a high purified homogeneous form, low toxicity and cost. Also, low cloud point temperature (23–26 °C) and high density of the surfactantrich phase facilitates phase separation by centrifugation. A successful cloud point extraction

should maximize the extraction efficiency by minimizing the phase volume ratio ( ) *<sup>S</sup>*

shows that the smaller surfactant concentration ptovides higher preconcentration factor; but when the volume of surfactant-rich phase is small, the extraction process becomes more difficult and the accuracy and reproducibility probably suffer (Eiguren Fernandez et al., 1999; Moreno Cordero et al., 1993). However, since the volume of the surfactant- rich phase

*W V V*

. This

which complex formation is carried out (Biparva & Hadjmohammadi, 2007).

respectively.

**2.6.5 Factors affecting the CPE efficiency** 

incubation time (Quina & Hinze, 1999).

**2.6.5.2 Effect of the complexing agent** 

Carabias-Martinez, et al., 2000).

**2.6.5.3 Effect of surfactant type and concentration** 

**2.6.5.1 Effect of solution pH** 

[] [] [] [] [] *S SS OO W W W WW W W m AV A V A V CF m AV AV*

(23)

The cloud point of micellar solutions can be controlled by addition of salts, alcohols, nonionic surfactants and some organic compounds (salting-out effects). To date, most of the studies conducted have shown that ionic strength has no appreciable effect on the extraction efficiency. An increase in the ionic strength in the CPE does not seriously alter the efficiency of extraction of the chemical forms. Moreover, the addition of a salt can markedly facilitate the phase separation process. As demonstrated with some non-ionic surfactant systems, it alters the density of the bulk aqueous phase.

#### **2.6.5.5 Effects of equilibration temperature and incubation time**

Optimal incubation time and equilibration temperature are necessary to complete the reaction, and to achieve easy phase separation and preconcentration as efficient as possible. The greatest analyte preconcentration factors are thus expected under conditions where the CPE is conducted using equilibration temperature that are well above the cloud point temperature of the surfactant. It was desirable to employ the shortest equilibration time and the lowest possible equilibration temperature, which compromise completion of the reaction and efficient separation of phases.

#### **2.6.6 Applications of CPE in atomic absorption spectrometry**

The use of CPE coupled with atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS) offers a conventional alternative to more traditional extraction systems and permits the design of extraction schemes that are simple, cheap, of high efficiency, reducing in extraction time and environmentally clean methodology due to low consumption of a solvent, apart from the results that comparable to those obtained with other separation procedures. CPE technique has been successfully employed for the preconcentration of micro amounts of several metals in different matrices, as prior step before their determinations by Atomic Absorption Spectrometry.

Watanabe et al. used this unconventional liquid–liquid separation to extract metal ions for the first time (Watanabe & Tanaka, 1978). They extracted Ni using Triton X-100 but this surfactant has a relatively high cloud point, around 70 C. Later, to extract Zn, they used PONPE 7.5, which requires a lower temperature (around 5 C) for the phase separation. This surfactant and Triton X-114 which has a very convenient cloud point were used in other studies of metal ion extraction. Cu (Kulichenko et al., 2003), Mn ( Doroschuk et al., 2004), Co (Nascentes & Arruda, 2003), Cd and Ni (Manzoori & Karim-Nezhad, 2004), Ag and Au (Mesguita da Silva et al., 1998) were determined by FAAS. CPE was also applied for extraction of Fe(III) (Ohashi et al., 2005) and As(III) and As(V) (Shemirani et al., 2005) before determination by ET-AAS. Cd, Cu, Pb, and Zn (Chen & Teo, 2001) were simultaneous extracted as complex with 1-(2-thiazolylazo)-2-naphthol (TAN) using TritonX-114 prior to determination by FAAS. Several ligands such as 1-(2-pyridylaso)-2-naphthol (PAN), 2-(2 thiazoylazo)-4-methylphenol (TAC), dialkyldithiophosphates (DDTP), 4-(2-pyridylazo) resorcinol (PAR), 2-(5-bromo-2-pyridylazo)-5-diethilaminophenol (Br-PADAP) have been used in CPE of metal ions.

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#### **3. Conclusion**

Analysis of metallic analytes is so important in environmental, biological and food samples. Due to complex matrix of real samples and trace concentration of them use of sample preparation methods is necessary. Development of efficient sample preparation methods in agreement with green chemistry is one of the most exciting research fields for analytical chemists. Growing number of scientific publishing in this area shows emerging needs for newer methods with higher concentration factors, higher recoveries, more cheap and simple and environmental friendly methods. All of the techniques discussed in this chapter have some advantages and some limitations. An analyst must be able to choose the best method according to his problem. Kind of analyte and sample, complexity of the sample, range of concentration which analyte exist in the sample are some of the parameters which must be considerd.

#### **4. Acknowledgment**

Financial supports of Iranian Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research (ACECR) from our research projects gratefully acknowledged. Also the authors express their deep sense of gratitude to INTECH publishing company for their efforts in order to development of science and technology.

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**5** 

*Iran* 

**Application of Atomic Absorption for** 

**Organic-Inorganic Nanocomposites** 

Roozbeh Javad Kalbasi1,2 and Neda Mosaddegh1,2

*Islamic Azad University, 311-86145 Shahreza, Isfahan, 2Razi Chemistry Research Center, Shahreza Branch,* 

*1Department of Chemistry, Shahreza Branch,* 

*Islamic Azad University, Shahreza, Isfahan* 

**Determination of Metal Nanoparticles in** 

The Pd-catalyzed Suzuki cross-coupling reaction has been shown as an efficient method for the construction of C-C bonds and plays an important role in pharmaceutical industry and organic synthesis (Makhubela et al., 2010; Venkatesan & Santhanalakshmi, 2010; Zhao et al., 2011). Numerous Pd complexes, such as palladacycles (Mu et al., 2011) and N-heterocyclic carbine (Chanjuan et al., 2008), have been developed for use in these reactions. However, these Pd(0) or Pd(II) complexes cause difficulties in the synthesis and purication of the nal product. Another class of catalysts for these reactions, namely heterogeneous catalysts, is easy to prepare and readily separated from the products (Jana et al., 2009; Tamami &

In catalytic applications, a uniform dispersion of nanoparticles and an effective control of particle size are usually expected. However, nanoparticles frequently aggregate to yield bulk-like materials, which greatly reduce the catalytic activity and selectivity. Therefore, they must be embedded in a matrix such as polymer or macromolecular organic ligands (Sanchez-Delgado et al., 2007; Luo & Sun, 2007). However, nanoparticle-polymer composites usually suffer from disadvantages such as absence of complete heterogeneity and high temperature annealing, which generally causes thermal degradation of organic polymers. In addition, to avoid the problems associated with metal nanoparticles such as homogeneity, recyclability and the separation of the catalyst from reaction system, some other works have focused on immobilizing metal nanoparticles on suitable support materials such as immobilization in pores of heterogeneous supports (Thomas et al., 2003; Jacquin et al., 2003), like ordered mesoporous silica. Although nanoparticle-mesoporous materials are completely heterogeneous, the hydrophilicity of these catalysts causes a reduction in the activity of such catalysts in organic reactions. Therefore, preparation of organic-inorganic

The discovery of M41S-type ordered mesoporous materials opened a new class of periodic porous solids (Huo et al. 1996). Mesoporous silica structures have been regarded as ideal

hybrid catalysts with a hydrophobe-hydrophile nature is interesting.

**1. Introduction** 

Ghasemi, 2010)


### **Application of Atomic Absorption for Determination of Metal Nanoparticles in Organic-Inorganic Nanocomposites**

Roozbeh Javad Kalbasi1,2 and Neda Mosaddegh1,2 *1Department of Chemistry, Shahreza Branch, Islamic Azad University, 311-86145 Shahreza, Isfahan, 2Razi Chemistry Research Center, Shahreza Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shahreza, Isfahan Iran* 

#### **1. Introduction**

88 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

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Environmentally Benign Alternative Separation Approach. *Industrial & Engineering* 

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Ultra Trace Amounts of Arsenic(III) and Arsenic(V) in Tap Water and Total Arsenic in Biological Samples by Cloud Point Extraction and Electrothermal Atomic

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Developments in liquid-phase microextraction method based on solidification of

Dispersive Liquid–Liquid Microextraction Against High Concentration of Salt for Preconcentration of Trace Metals in Saline Aqueous Samples: Application to the The Pd-catalyzed Suzuki cross-coupling reaction has been shown as an efficient method for the construction of C-C bonds and plays an important role in pharmaceutical industry and organic synthesis (Makhubela et al., 2010; Venkatesan & Santhanalakshmi, 2010; Zhao et al., 2011). Numerous Pd complexes, such as palladacycles (Mu et al., 2011) and N-heterocyclic carbine (Chanjuan et al., 2008), have been developed for use in these reactions. However, these Pd(0) or Pd(II) complexes cause difficulties in the synthesis and purication of the nal product. Another class of catalysts for these reactions, namely heterogeneous catalysts, is easy to prepare and readily separated from the products (Jana et al., 2009; Tamami & Ghasemi, 2010)

In catalytic applications, a uniform dispersion of nanoparticles and an effective control of particle size are usually expected. However, nanoparticles frequently aggregate to yield bulk-like materials, which greatly reduce the catalytic activity and selectivity. Therefore, they must be embedded in a matrix such as polymer or macromolecular organic ligands (Sanchez-Delgado et al., 2007; Luo & Sun, 2007). However, nanoparticle-polymer composites usually suffer from disadvantages such as absence of complete heterogeneity and high temperature annealing, which generally causes thermal degradation of organic polymers. In addition, to avoid the problems associated with metal nanoparticles such as homogeneity, recyclability and the separation of the catalyst from reaction system, some other works have focused on immobilizing metal nanoparticles on suitable support materials such as immobilization in pores of heterogeneous supports (Thomas et al., 2003; Jacquin et al., 2003), like ordered mesoporous silica. Although nanoparticle-mesoporous materials are completely heterogeneous, the hydrophilicity of these catalysts causes a reduction in the activity of such catalysts in organic reactions. Therefore, preparation of organic-inorganic hybrid catalysts with a hydrophobe-hydrophile nature is interesting.

The discovery of M41S-type ordered mesoporous materials opened a new class of periodic porous solids (Huo et al. 1996). Mesoporous silica structures have been regarded as ideal

Application of Atomic Absorption for Determination of

absorption spectroscopy was used.

**2. Experimental method 2.1 Catalyst characterization** 

**2.2 Catalyst preparation 2.2.1 Preparation of SBA-15** 

was carried out by stirring at 35

**PVP/SBA-15)** 

Metal Nanoparticles in Organic-Inorganic Nanocomposites 91

useful transformation showed considerable level of reusability besides very good activity. Reusability of the catalyst is very important. So in this study we introduce a catalyst that can be reused up to 5 times without losing its catalytic efficiency. For determination of the amount of remained Pd after each cycle of the reaction on the catalyst structure, atomic

The samples were analyzed using FT-IR spectroscopy (using a Perkin Elmer 65 in KBr matrix in the range of 4000–400 cm−1). The BET specific surface areas and BJH pore size distribution of the samples were determined by adsorption–desorption of nitrogen at liquid nitrogen temperature, using a Series BEL SORP 18. The X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) of the catalyst was carried out on a Bruker D8Advance X-ray diffractometer using nickel ltered Cu Kα radiation at 40 kV and 20 mA. Moreover, scanning electron microscope (SEM) studies were performed on Philips, XL30, SE detector. The thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) data were obtained by a Setaram Labsys TG (STA) in a temperature range of 30–650 C and heating rate of 10 C*/*min in N2 atmosphere. Transmission electron microscope (TEM) observations were performed on a JEOL JEM.2011 electron microscope at an accelerating voltage of 200.00Kv using EX24093JGT detector in order to obtain information on the size of Pd nanoparticles. The DRS UV-Vis spectra were recorded with JASCO spectrometer, V-670 from 190 to 2700 nm. Moreover, Pd content of the catalyst was estimated using atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) (Perkin-Elmer, AAnalyst 300).

Mesoporous silica SBA-15 was prepared using Pluronic P123 (EO20PO70EO20) template as a structure directing agent and tetraethylorthosilicate (TEOS) as the silica precursor. In a typical synthesis, Pluronic P123 (2 g ) was dissolved at room temperature in H3PO4 (4.16 mL, 85%) and deionized water (75.37 mL), then TEOS (4.58 mL) was added to the solution and synthesis

placed at 100 C for 24 h. Then, the solution was filtered, washed with deionized water, and finally dried at 95 C for 12 h in air. Template removal was performed by calcination in air

N-vinyl-2-pyrrolidone (NVP) (0.5 mL, 4.6 mmol) and SBA-15 (0.5 g) in 7 mL tetrahydrofuran (THF) were placed in a round bottom flask. Benzoyl peroxide (3 % mol, 0.034 g) was added and the mixture was heated to 65-70°C for 5 h while being stirred under N2 gas. The resulting white fine powder composite (PVP/SBA-15) was collected by filtration, washed

Pd-PVP/SBA-15 nanocomposite was synthesized as follows (Scheme 1): PVP/SBA-15 (0.1 g) and 10 mL of an aqueous acidic solution (CHCl = 0.09 M) of Pd(OAc)2 (0.025 g, 0.111 mmol)

using two successive steps; first heating at 250 C for 3 h and then at 550 C for 4 h.

**2.2.2 Preparation of poly(N-vinyl-2-pyrrolidone)/SBA-15 (PVP/SBA-15)** 

several times with THF, and finally dried at 60 C under reduced pressure.

**2.2.3 Preparation of Pd nanoparticle-poly(N-vinyl-2-pyrrolidone)/SBA-15 (Pd-**

C for 24 h in sealed Teflon breakers, and it was subsequently

supports for heterogeneous catalysts due to their high surface area, tunable pore size, and alignment. In particular, the SBA-15 framework synthesized by Zhao et al. (Zhao et al., 1998) has a highly ordered hexagonal mesostructure with parallel channels and adjustable pore size in the range of 2-10 nm (Kalbasi et al, 2010). This size regime is relevant to catalysis, since the catalytically active components are metal particles in the 2-10 nm size range. SBA-15 is well suited as a structure that can contain individual metal particles within its mesopores, and the pores are wide enough to permit facile diffusion of reactants and products.

Hybrid organic–inorganic polymers have received increasing interest from research groups because of their unique properties (Mark, 2006; Zheng et al., 2008; Chung, 2002). Nevertheless, among the different researches on these materials, there are relatively a few reports on the application of organic-inorganic hybrid polymer as a heterogeneous catalyst (Morales et al., 2010; Ma et al., 2010; Alves et al., 2009). Recently, in our previous studies (Kalbasi et al., 2010; Kalbasi et al., 2010; Kalbasi et al., 2011; Kalbasi & Mosaddegh, 2011), Hybrid organic–inorganic polymers were used as catalysts. The hybrid materials could be obtained by combining organic polymers with inorganic materials (Run et al., 2007). These organic–inorganic hybrid materials could be prepared by various methods, depending on what kind of interaction is employed between organic polymers and inorganic elements, or on how organic moieties are introduced to inorganic phases. An in situ polymerization, which is the simultaneous polymerization of organic monomers in the presence of mesoporous materials, is an important method for the preparation of composite materials without chemical interaction.

There are a lot of methods for characterization of these nanoparticles supported on hybrid materials. However, one of the best methods for determination the amounts of the metal nanoparticles is atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS). For many years, atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS), both ame (FAAS) and electrothermal (ETAAS), has been widely used for the determination of metals in various materials (Ghanemi et al., 2011). At present, AAS is the most widely used method for determination of metal as long as the sample can be dissolved in acids. Separation, pre-concentration and dissolution of samples are the vital steps in many procedures, owing to the very low concentration of these metals in many samples and the complexity of the matrix. Among the AAS methods developed, the determinations for Pd and Rh are relatively sensitive (Scaccia & Goszczynska, 2004). Efforts have been made to make methods reliable and practical.

In this study, Pd nanoparticle-poly(N-vinyl-2-pyrrolidone)/SBA-15 (Pd-PVP/SBA-15) nanocomposite was prepared as a highly efficient catalyst by in situ polymerization method. The sample was studied by XRD, FT-IR, UV-Vis, TG, BET, TEM and AAS techniques. The main goal of this catalytic synthesis was to introduce a novel and efficient organic-inorganic composite to expand the use of these types of composites for carbon-carbon coupling reaction. This nanocomposite was tested for catalytic activity for Suzuki-Miyaura crosscoupling reactions between phenylboronic acid and several aryl halides. The reaction was carried out in the presence of water at room temperature. The amount of Pd nanoparticles has critical effect on the catalytic activity of the catalyst. So the effect of metal amounts for the synthesis of Pd-PVP/SBA-15 has been investigated. In addition, the effects of reaction temperature, the amount of catalyst, amount of support and solvent, were investigated as well as recyclability of the heterogeneous composite. The catalyst used for this synthetically useful transformation showed considerable level of reusability besides very good activity. Reusability of the catalyst is very important. So in this study we introduce a catalyst that can be reused up to 5 times without losing its catalytic efficiency. For determination of the amount of remained Pd after each cycle of the reaction on the catalyst structure, atomic absorption spectroscopy was used.

### **2. Experimental method**

90 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

supports for heterogeneous catalysts due to their high surface area, tunable pore size, and alignment. In particular, the SBA-15 framework synthesized by Zhao et al. (Zhao et al., 1998) has a highly ordered hexagonal mesostructure with parallel channels and adjustable pore size in the range of 2-10 nm (Kalbasi et al, 2010). This size regime is relevant to catalysis, since the catalytically active components are metal particles in the 2-10 nm size range. SBA-15 is well suited as a structure that can contain individual metal particles within its mesopores, and the pores are wide enough to permit facile diffusion of reactants and

Hybrid organic–inorganic polymers have received increasing interest from research groups because of their unique properties (Mark, 2006; Zheng et al., 2008; Chung, 2002). Nevertheless, among the different researches on these materials, there are relatively a few reports on the application of organic-inorganic hybrid polymer as a heterogeneous catalyst (Morales et al., 2010; Ma et al., 2010; Alves et al., 2009). Recently, in our previous studies (Kalbasi et al., 2010; Kalbasi et al., 2010; Kalbasi et al., 2011; Kalbasi & Mosaddegh, 2011), Hybrid organic–inorganic polymers were used as catalysts. The hybrid materials could be obtained by combining organic polymers with inorganic materials (Run et al., 2007). These organic–inorganic hybrid materials could be prepared by various methods, depending on what kind of interaction is employed between organic polymers and inorganic elements, or on how organic moieties are introduced to inorganic phases. An in situ polymerization, which is the simultaneous polymerization of organic monomers in the presence of mesoporous materials, is an important method for the preparation of composite materials

There are a lot of methods for characterization of these nanoparticles supported on hybrid materials. However, one of the best methods for determination the amounts of the metal nanoparticles is atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS). For many years, atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS), both ame (FAAS) and electrothermal (ETAAS), has been widely used for the determination of metals in various materials (Ghanemi et al., 2011). At present, AAS is the most widely used method for determination of metal as long as the sample can be dissolved in acids. Separation, pre-concentration and dissolution of samples are the vital steps in many procedures, owing to the very low concentration of these metals in many samples and the complexity of the matrix. Among the AAS methods developed, the determinations for Pd and Rh are relatively sensitive (Scaccia & Goszczynska, 2004). Efforts

In this study, Pd nanoparticle-poly(N-vinyl-2-pyrrolidone)/SBA-15 (Pd-PVP/SBA-15) nanocomposite was prepared as a highly efficient catalyst by in situ polymerization method. The sample was studied by XRD, FT-IR, UV-Vis, TG, BET, TEM and AAS techniques. The main goal of this catalytic synthesis was to introduce a novel and efficient organic-inorganic composite to expand the use of these types of composites for carbon-carbon coupling reaction. This nanocomposite was tested for catalytic activity for Suzuki-Miyaura crosscoupling reactions between phenylboronic acid and several aryl halides. The reaction was carried out in the presence of water at room temperature. The amount of Pd nanoparticles has critical effect on the catalytic activity of the catalyst. So the effect of metal amounts for the synthesis of Pd-PVP/SBA-15 has been investigated. In addition, the effects of reaction temperature, the amount of catalyst, amount of support and solvent, were investigated as well as recyclability of the heterogeneous composite. The catalyst used for this synthetically

products.

without chemical interaction.

have been made to make methods reliable and practical.

#### **2.1 Catalyst characterization**

The samples were analyzed using FT-IR spectroscopy (using a Perkin Elmer 65 in KBr matrix in the range of 4000–400 cm−1). The BET specific surface areas and BJH pore size distribution of the samples were determined by adsorption–desorption of nitrogen at liquid nitrogen temperature, using a Series BEL SORP 18. The X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) of the catalyst was carried out on a Bruker D8Advance X-ray diffractometer using nickel ltered Cu Kα radiation at 40 kV and 20 mA. Moreover, scanning electron microscope (SEM) studies were performed on Philips, XL30, SE detector. The thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) data were obtained by a Setaram Labsys TG (STA) in a temperature range of 30–650 C and heating rate of 10 C*/*min in N2 atmosphere. Transmission electron microscope (TEM) observations were performed on a JEOL JEM.2011 electron microscope at an accelerating voltage of 200.00Kv using EX24093JGT detector in order to obtain information on the size of Pd nanoparticles. The DRS UV-Vis spectra were recorded with JASCO spectrometer, V-670 from 190 to 2700 nm. Moreover, Pd content of the catalyst was estimated using atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) (Perkin-Elmer, AAnalyst 300).

### **2.2 Catalyst preparation**

#### **2.2.1 Preparation of SBA-15**

Mesoporous silica SBA-15 was prepared using Pluronic P123 (EO20PO70EO20) template as a structure directing agent and tetraethylorthosilicate (TEOS) as the silica precursor. In a typical synthesis, Pluronic P123 (2 g ) was dissolved at room temperature in H3PO4 (4.16 mL, 85%) and deionized water (75.37 mL), then TEOS (4.58 mL) was added to the solution and synthesis was carried out by stirring at 35 C for 24 h in sealed Teflon breakers, and it was subsequently placed at 100 C for 24 h. Then, the solution was filtered, washed with deionized water, and finally dried at 95 C for 12 h in air. Template removal was performed by calcination in air using two successive steps; first heating at 250 C for 3 h and then at 550 C for 4 h.

#### **2.2.2 Preparation of poly(N-vinyl-2-pyrrolidone)/SBA-15 (PVP/SBA-15)**

N-vinyl-2-pyrrolidone (NVP) (0.5 mL, 4.6 mmol) and SBA-15 (0.5 g) in 7 mL tetrahydrofuran (THF) were placed in a round bottom flask. Benzoyl peroxide (3 % mol, 0.034 g) was added and the mixture was heated to 65-70°C for 5 h while being stirred under N2 gas. The resulting white fine powder composite (PVP/SBA-15) was collected by filtration, washed several times with THF, and finally dried at 60 C under reduced pressure.

#### **2.2.3 Preparation of Pd nanoparticle-poly(N-vinyl-2-pyrrolidone)/SBA-15 (Pd-PVP/SBA-15)**

Pd-PVP/SBA-15 nanocomposite was synthesized as follows (Scheme 1): PVP/SBA-15 (0.1 g) and 10 mL of an aqueous acidic solution (CHCl = 0.09 M) of Pd(OAc)2 (0.025 g, 0.111 mmol)

Application of Atomic Absorption for Determination of

X +

**3. Results and discussion 3.1 Catalyst characterization** 

**3.1.1 XRD** 

Pd-PVP/SBA-15.

Scheme 2. Suzuki-Miyaura coupling reaction

Metal Nanoparticles in Organic-Inorganic Nanocomposites 93

The small angle XRD patterns of the SBA-15, PVP/SBA-15 and Pd-PVP/SBA-15 are shown in the Fig. 1. One intense peak at about 0.9–0.95° and two weak peaks at about 1.5–1.65° and 1.7–1.9° can be indexed as (100), (110), and (200) reflections associated with two-dimensional hexagonal symmetry (*P6mm*) (Kalbasi et al., 2010). The PVP/SBA-15 and Pd-PVP/SBA-15 (2Ө = 0.7-6) samples show the same pattern indicating that the structure of the SBA-15 (100) is retained even after the support of the surface of the SBA-15 with PVP and Pd (Fig. 1). However, the intensity of the characteristic reflection peaks of the PVP/SBA-15 and Pd-PVP/SBA-15 (2Ө = 0.7-6) samples are found to be reduced (Fig. 1). This may be attributed to the symmetry destroyed by the hybridization of SBA-15 which is also found in the ordered mesoporous silica loading with guest matter (Kalbasi et al., 2010). In addition, composites contain much less SBA-15 due to the dilution of the siliceous material by PVP and Pd;

R.T, K2CO3, H2O Pd-PVP/SBA-15

B(OH)2

therefore, this dilution can also account for a decrease in the peak intensity.

Fig. 1. The powder XRD pattern of (a) mesoporous silica SBA-15, (b) PVP/SBA-15 and (c)

were placed in a round bottom flask. The mixture was heated to 80 C for 5 h while being stirred under N2 gas. Then, 0.6 mL (9.89 mmol) aqueous solution of hydrazine hydrate (80 vol.%) was added to the mixture drop by drop in 15-20 minutes. After that, the solution was stirred at 60 C for 1 h. Afterwards, the solution was filtered and precipitated, and was washed sequentially with chloroform and methanol to remove excess N2H4.H2O and was dried in room temperature to yield palladium nanoparticle-poly(N-vinyl-2 pyrrolidone)/SBA-15 composite (Pd-PVP/SBA-15).

In order to specify the amount of Pd, the composite should be decomposed by perchloric acid, nitric acid, fluoric acid and hydrochloric acid. For this purpose, Pd-PVP/SBA-15 nanocomposite (0.1 g), perchloric acid (0.5 mL), nitric acid (0.5 mL) and the known amount of water were placed in a round bottom flask. The mixture was heated for 1 h to evaporate the liquids. Then, to the precipitated, hydrofluoric acid (2.5 mL) and hydrochloric acid (2.5 mL) were added and the mixture was heated again for 2 h to evaporate the liquids. In the last step, hydrochloric acid (0.5 mL) and water (5 mL) were added to the precipitated and the mixture was heated for 30-60 minutes. Then, the Pd content of the catalyst was estimated by Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS). The Pd content of the catalyst estimated by AAS was 0.56 mmol g-1.

Scheme 1. Preparation of Pd-PVP-SBA-15

#### **2.3 General procedure for Suzuki-Miyaura coupling reaction**

The general procedure was as follows (Scheme 2): In the typical procedure for Suzuki-Miyaura coupling reaction, a mixture of iodobenzene (1 mmol), phenylboronic acid (1.5 mmol), K2CO3 (5 mmol), and catalyst (0.12 g, Pd-PVP/SBA-15) in H2O (5 mL) was placed in a round bottom flask. The suspension was stirred at room temperature for 8 h. The progress of reaction was monitored by Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) using n-hexane as eluent. After completion of the reaction (monitored by TLC), for the reaction work-up, the catalyst was removed from the reaction mixture by filtration, and then the reaction products were extracted with CH2Cl2 (3×5 mL). The solvent was removed under reduced pressure. The crude product was purified by flash column chromatography (hexane or hexane/ethyl acetate) to afford the desired coupling product (98% isolated yield).

$$\left(\bigvee^{\lambda}\right)^{\lambda}, \left(\bigvee^{\mathsf{P\{O\mathsf{H}\}\_{2}}}\right)^{\mathsf{B\{O\mathsf{H}\}\_{2}}} \xrightarrow[\mathsf{R\{T,\mathsf{K\_{2}CO\_{3},\mathsf{H}\_{2}O}\}}] \rightarrow \left(\bigvee^{\mathsf{V}}\right)^{\mathsf{V}}$$

Scheme 2. Suzuki-Miyaura coupling reaction

#### **3. Results and discussion**

#### **3.1 Catalyst characterization**

#### **3.1.1 XRD**

92 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

were placed in a round bottom flask. The mixture was heated to 80 C for 5 h while being stirred under N2 gas. Then, 0.6 mL (9.89 mmol) aqueous solution of hydrazine hydrate (80 vol.%) was added to the mixture drop by drop in 15-20 minutes. After that, the solution was stirred at 60 C for 1 h. Afterwards, the solution was filtered and precipitated, and was washed sequentially with chloroform and methanol to remove excess N2H4.H2O and was dried in room temperature to yield palladium nanoparticle-poly(N-vinyl-2-

In order to specify the amount of Pd, the composite should be decomposed by perchloric acid, nitric acid, fluoric acid and hydrochloric acid. For this purpose, Pd-PVP/SBA-15 nanocomposite (0.1 g), perchloric acid (0.5 mL), nitric acid (0.5 mL) and the known amount of water were placed in a round bottom flask. The mixture was heated for 1 h to evaporate the liquids. Then, to the precipitated, hydrofluoric acid (2.5 mL) and hydrochloric acid (2.5 mL) were added and the mixture was heated again for 2 h to evaporate the liquids. In the last step, hydrochloric acid (0.5 mL) and water (5 mL) were added to the precipitated and the mixture was heated for 30-60 minutes. Then, the Pd content of the catalyst was estimated by Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS). The Pd content of the catalyst estimated by AAS

> O H O H O H

N O

**Reduction**

N O

**Pd(II)-PVP/SBA-15 Pd(0)-PVP/SBA-15**

The general procedure was as follows (Scheme 2): In the typical procedure for Suzuki-Miyaura coupling reaction, a mixture of iodobenzene (1 mmol), phenylboronic acid (1.5 mmol), K2CO3 (5 mmol), and catalyst (0.12 g, Pd-PVP/SBA-15) in H2O (5 mL) was placed in a round bottom flask. The suspension was stirred at room temperature for 8 h. The progress of reaction was monitored by Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) using n-hexane as eluent. After completion of the reaction (monitored by TLC), for the reaction work-up, the catalyst was removed from the reaction mixture by filtration, and then the reaction products were extracted with CH2Cl2 (3×5 mL). The solvent was removed under reduced pressure. The crude product was purified by flash column chromatography (hexane or hexane/ethyl

N O

O H O H O H N O

N O

> O H O H O H

N O

N O

N O

N O

pyrrolidone)/SBA-15 composite (Pd-PVP/SBA-15).

**Benzoylperoxide THF / Reflux**

**N-VP**

**SBA-15 PVP/SBA-15**

**PVP/SBA-15 Hydrazin hydrate Pd(OAc)2**

**2.3 General procedure for Suzuki-Miyaura coupling reaction** 

acetate) to afford the desired coupling product (98% isolated yield).

was 0.56 mmol g-1.

**Step 1:**

**Step 2:**

**HCl / H2O**

Scheme 1. Preparation of Pd-PVP-SBA-15

The small angle XRD patterns of the SBA-15, PVP/SBA-15 and Pd-PVP/SBA-15 are shown in the Fig. 1. One intense peak at about 0.9–0.95° and two weak peaks at about 1.5–1.65° and 1.7–1.9° can be indexed as (100), (110), and (200) reflections associated with two-dimensional hexagonal symmetry (*P6mm*) (Kalbasi et al., 2010). The PVP/SBA-15 and Pd-PVP/SBA-15 (2Ө = 0.7-6) samples show the same pattern indicating that the structure of the SBA-15 (100) is retained even after the support of the surface of the SBA-15 with PVP and Pd (Fig. 1). However, the intensity of the characteristic reflection peaks of the PVP/SBA-15 and Pd-PVP/SBA-15 (2Ө = 0.7-6) samples are found to be reduced (Fig. 1). This may be attributed to the symmetry destroyed by the hybridization of SBA-15 which is also found in the ordered mesoporous silica loading with guest matter (Kalbasi et al., 2010). In addition, composites contain much less SBA-15 due to the dilution of the siliceous material by PVP and Pd; therefore, this dilution can also account for a decrease in the peak intensity.

Fig. 1. The powder XRD pattern of (a) mesoporous silica SBA-15, (b) PVP/SBA-15 and (c) Pd-PVP/SBA-15.

Application of Atomic Absorption for Determination of

nanoparticles (Metin et al., 2008; Hirai et al.,1985).

Metal Nanoparticles in Organic-Inorganic Nanocomposites 95

of PVP/SBA-15 (Fig. 3b), the new band at 1666 cm-1 is corresponds to the carbonyl bond of PVP (Iwamoto et al., 2009). Moreover, the presence of peaks at around 2800-3000 cm-1 corresponds to the aliphatic C–H stretching in PVP/SBA-15 (Fig. 3b). The appearance of the above bands showed that PVP has been attached to the surface of SBA-15 and the PVP/SBA-15 has been obtained. As shown in Pd-PVP/SBA-15 spectrum (Fig. 3c), the band around 1666 cm-1 which corresponds to carbonyl bond of PVP, is shifted to lower wave numbers (1639 cm-1) (red shift). Moreover, the peak intensity of the carbonyl bond in the spectrum of Pd-PVP/SBA-15 is lower than that of PVP/SBA-15. This may be due to the interaction between the Pd nanoparticles and C=O groups. This means that the double bond CO stretches become weak by coordinating to Pd nanoparticles. Thus, it is confirmed that PVP molecules exist on the surface of the Pd nanoparticles, and coordinate to the Pd

Fig. 3. FT-IR spectra of (a) mesoporous silica SBA-15, (b) PVP/SBA-15 and (c) Pd-

The representative N2 adsorption–desorption isotherms of the SBA-15 (a), PVP/SBA-15 (b) and Pd-PVP/SBA-15 (c) are shown in Fig. 4. The mesoporous materials all exhibit clear H1-

PVP/SBA-15

**3.1.4 BET** 

The wide angle XRD pattern of the Pd-PVP/SBA-15 nanocomposite is shown in Fig. 1. All diffraction peaks in the XRD pattern are from the *fcc* Pd (Harish et al., 2009). The average grain sizes of the Pd nanoparticles in the nanocomposite were estimated from the full width at half maximum of the diffraction peaks using Scherrer equation. The average grain size of the Pd nanoparticles is about 7 nm for Pd-PVP/SBA-15. The average grain size of the Pd nanoparticles is the same as the average particle size of the Pd nanoparticles determined by the TEM observations, which indicates that the Pd nanoparticles are single crystals.

#### **3.1.2 TEM**

The morphologies of SBA-15 (Fig. 2a), Pd-PVP/SBA-15 nanocomposite (Fig. 2b) and the distribution of Pd nanoparticles in the Pd-PVP/SBA-15 (Fig. 2c) were studied by the TEM observations. The typical TEM micrographs (Fig. 2) clearly show that the Pd-PVP/SBA-15 nanocomposite have a hexagonal pore array structure. In the side view micrographs of the nanocomposite (Fig. 2b), the dark spots are the Pd nanoparticles. It can be seen in Fig. 2 that most of the Pd nanoparticles are distributed within the channels of the mesoporous silica. The particle sizes of the Pd nanoparticles in Pd-PVP/SBA-15 are between 3 and 5 nm (Fig. 2c).

Fig. 2. TEM images for (a) SBA-15 and (b,c) Pd-PVP/SBA-15.

#### **3.1.3 FT-IR**

Fig. 3 shows the FT-IR spectra of SBA-15 (a), PVP/SBA-15 (b), and Pd-PVP/SBA-15 (c). The characteristic bands at around 1080, 810 and 480 cm-1 may be assigned to Si–O–Si asymmetrical stretching vibration, symmetrical stretching vibration and bending vibration, respectively, which is seen in the Fig 3. a,b,c. In addition, the band at around 950-965 cm-1 is related to Si–OH vibrations of the surface silanols (Fig. 3), which is characteristic of mesoporous silica. The existence of PVP in the PVP/SBA-15 composite is evidenced by the appearance of typical PVP vibration on the FT-IR spectrum (Fig. 3b). In the FT-IR spectrum

The wide angle XRD pattern of the Pd-PVP/SBA-15 nanocomposite is shown in Fig. 1. All diffraction peaks in the XRD pattern are from the *fcc* Pd (Harish et al., 2009). The average grain sizes of the Pd nanoparticles in the nanocomposite were estimated from the full width at half maximum of the diffraction peaks using Scherrer equation. The average grain size of the Pd nanoparticles is about 7 nm for Pd-PVP/SBA-15. The average grain size of the Pd nanoparticles is the same as the average particle size of the Pd nanoparticles determined by

The morphologies of SBA-15 (Fig. 2a), Pd-PVP/SBA-15 nanocomposite (Fig. 2b) and the distribution of Pd nanoparticles in the Pd-PVP/SBA-15 (Fig. 2c) were studied by the TEM observations. The typical TEM micrographs (Fig. 2) clearly show that the Pd-PVP/SBA-15 nanocomposite have a hexagonal pore array structure. In the side view micrographs of the nanocomposite (Fig. 2b), the dark spots are the Pd nanoparticles. It can be seen in Fig. 2 that most of the Pd nanoparticles are distributed within the channels of the mesoporous silica. The particle sizes of the Pd nanoparticles in Pd-PVP/SBA-15 are between 3 and 5 nm (Fig. 2c).

Fig. 3 shows the FT-IR spectra of SBA-15 (a), PVP/SBA-15 (b), and Pd-PVP/SBA-15 (c). The characteristic bands at around 1080, 810 and 480 cm-1 may be assigned to Si–O–Si asymmetrical stretching vibration, symmetrical stretching vibration and bending vibration, respectively, which is seen in the Fig 3. a,b,c. In addition, the band at around 950-965 cm-1 is related to Si–OH vibrations of the surface silanols (Fig. 3), which is characteristic of mesoporous silica. The existence of PVP in the PVP/SBA-15 composite is evidenced by the appearance of typical PVP vibration on the FT-IR spectrum (Fig. 3b). In the FT-IR spectrum

the TEM observations, which indicates that the Pd nanoparticles are single crystals.

Fig. 2. TEM images for (a) SBA-15 and (b,c) Pd-PVP/SBA-15.

**3.1.2 TEM** 

**3.1.3 FT-IR** 

of PVP/SBA-15 (Fig. 3b), the new band at 1666 cm-1 is corresponds to the carbonyl bond of PVP (Iwamoto et al., 2009). Moreover, the presence of peaks at around 2800-3000 cm-1 corresponds to the aliphatic C–H stretching in PVP/SBA-15 (Fig. 3b). The appearance of the above bands showed that PVP has been attached to the surface of SBA-15 and the PVP/SBA-15 has been obtained. As shown in Pd-PVP/SBA-15 spectrum (Fig. 3c), the band around 1666 cm-1 which corresponds to carbonyl bond of PVP, is shifted to lower wave numbers (1639 cm-1) (red shift). Moreover, the peak intensity of the carbonyl bond in the spectrum of Pd-PVP/SBA-15 is lower than that of PVP/SBA-15. This may be due to the interaction between the Pd nanoparticles and C=O groups. This means that the double bond CO stretches become weak by coordinating to Pd nanoparticles. Thus, it is confirmed that PVP molecules exist on the surface of the Pd nanoparticles, and coordinate to the Pd nanoparticles (Metin et al., 2008; Hirai et al.,1985).

Fig. 3. FT-IR spectra of (a) mesoporous silica SBA-15, (b) PVP/SBA-15 and (c) Pd-PVP/SBA-15

#### **3.1.4 BET**

The representative N2 adsorption–desorption isotherms of the SBA-15 (a), PVP/SBA-15 (b) and Pd-PVP/SBA-15 (c) are shown in Fig. 4. The mesoporous materials all exhibit clear H1-

Application of Atomic Absorption for Determination of

thermal stability was enhanced greatly after hybridization.

**3.1.5 TG-DTA** 

PVP/SBA-15.

**3.1.6 Uv-Vis** 

Metal Nanoparticles in Organic-Inorganic Nanocomposites 97

Fig. 5 presents the TGA curves of SBA-15 (a), PVP (b), PVP/SBA-15 (c) and Pd-PVP/SBA-15 (d) under N2 atmosphere. The mass loss at temperature <100 °C (around 6%, w/w) is attributed to desorption of water present in the surfaces of the SBA-15 (Fig. 5a). The TGA curves of PVP show a small mass loss (around 7.5%, w/w) in the temperature range 50–150 °C, which is apparently associated with adsorbed water (Fig. 5b). At temperatures above 200 °C, PVP shows one main stage of degradation. The mass loss for PVP in the second step is equal to 80% (w/w) which corresponds to the effective degradation of the polymer (Fig. 5b). Thermo analysis of PVP/SBA-15 shows two steps of mass loss (Fig. 5c). The first step (around 3%, w/w) that occurs at temperature <150 °C is related to desorption of water. The second step (around 9%, w/w) which appeared at 220 °C is attributed to degradation of the polymer, and the degradation ended at 400 °C (Fig. 5c). By comparing the PVP and PVP/SBA-15 curves, one can find that PVP/SBA-15 has higher thermal stability and slower degradation rate than PVP (Fig. 5b,c). Therefore, after hybridization, the thermal stability is enhanced and this is very important for the catalyst application. However, for Pd-PVP/SBA-15 sample, two separate weight loss steps are seen (Fig. 5d). The first step (around 5%, w/w) appearing at temperature <100 °C corresponds to the loss of water. The second weight loss (about 200–500 °C) amounts around 6% (w/w) is related to the degradation of the polymer. Obviously, the hybrid Pd-PVP/SBA-15 shows higher thermal stability than PVP/SBA-15. It may be attributed to the presence of Pd nanoparticles in the composite structure. Therefore, it is very important for the catalyst application that the

Fig. 5. TGA curves of (a) mesoporous silica SBA-15, (b) PVP, (c) PVP/SBA-15 and (d) Pd-

Fig. 6 displays the result of UV-Vis spectra of Pd-PVP/SBA-15. The UV-Vis spectra of Pd(OAc)2 which reveal a peak at 400 nm refer to the existence of Pd(II) (Ahmadian et al.,2007). As mentioned in the experimental section, and according to scheme 1, Pd nanoparticle-PVP/SBA-15 was prepared by adding hydrazine hydrate to the Pd (II)- PVP/SBA-15. However, as can be seen in Fig. 6, there isn't any peak at 400 nm in the UV-Vis

type hysteresis loops indicative of mesoporous materials with one-dimensional cylindrical channels (Kalbasi et al., 2010) and narrow pore size distributions. The BET surface areas, the BJH pore diameters, and the pore volumes for the SBA-15, PVP-SBA-15 and Pd-PVP/SBA-15 nanocomposite are summarized in Table 1. A specific surface area of 1430 m2/g, a pore volume of 1.9 cm3/g, and a pore diameter of 9.9 nm are obtained from the isotherm of SBA-15. After hybridization with PVP through in situ polymerization, PVP/SBA-15 exhibits a smaller specific area, pore size and pore volume in comparison with those of pure SBA-15, which might be due to the presence of polymer on the surface of the SBA-15 (Table 1 and Fig. 4). However, there is a noticeable increase in pore diameter for Pd-PVP/SBA-15, and the pore volume of Pd-PVP/SBA-15 is smaller than that of PVP/SBA-15. It might be due to the incorporation of Pd nanoparticles into the pores of PVP/SBA-15 composite (Chytil et al., 2005).

According to the results, Pd-PVP/SBA-15 still has a mesoporous form with reasonable surface area and it is suitable to act as a catalyst.


a Total pore volume.

Table 1. Surface area analyses of mesoporous silica SBA-15, PVP/SBA-15 and Pd-PVP/SBA-15 samples obtained from N2 adsorption.

Fig. 4. N2 adsorption-desorption isotherms of mesoporous silica SBA-15, PVP/SBA-15 and Pd-PVP/SBA-15.

#### **3.1.5 TG-DTA**

96 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

type hysteresis loops indicative of mesoporous materials with one-dimensional cylindrical channels (Kalbasi et al., 2010) and narrow pore size distributions. The BET surface areas, the BJH pore diameters, and the pore volumes for the SBA-15, PVP-SBA-15 and Pd-PVP/SBA-15 nanocomposite are summarized in Table 1. A specific surface area of 1430 m2/g, a pore volume of 1.9 cm3/g, and a pore diameter of 9.9 nm are obtained from the isotherm of SBA-15. After hybridization with PVP through in situ polymerization, PVP/SBA-15 exhibits a smaller specific area, pore size and pore volume in comparison with those of pure SBA-15, which might be due to the presence of polymer on the surface of the SBA-15 (Table 1 and Fig. 4). However, there is a noticeable increase in pore diameter for Pd-PVP/SBA-15, and the pore volume of Pd-PVP/SBA-15 is smaller than that of PVP/SBA-15. It might be due to the incorporation of Pd nanoparticles into the pores of PVP/SBA-15 composite (Chytil et al.,

According to the results, Pd-PVP/SBA-15 still has a mesoporous form with reasonable

Mesoporous silica SBA-15 1430 1.09 9.90

PVP/SBA-15 465 0.93 4.03

Pd-PVP/SBA-15 102 0.13 4.61

Table 1. Surface area analyses of mesoporous silica SBA-15, PVP/SBA-15 and Pd-PVP/SBA-

Fig. 4. N2 adsorption-desorption isotherms of mesoporous silica SBA-15, PVP/SBA-15 and

(m2 g-1) VP (cm3 g-1) a BJH pore diameter

(nm)

2005).

a Total pore volume.

Pd-PVP/SBA-15.

surface area and it is suitable to act as a catalyst.

15 samples obtained from N2 adsorption.

Sample BET surface area

Fig. 5 presents the TGA curves of SBA-15 (a), PVP (b), PVP/SBA-15 (c) and Pd-PVP/SBA-15 (d) under N2 atmosphere. The mass loss at temperature <100 °C (around 6%, w/w) is attributed to desorption of water present in the surfaces of the SBA-15 (Fig. 5a). The TGA curves of PVP show a small mass loss (around 7.5%, w/w) in the temperature range 50–150 °C, which is apparently associated with adsorbed water (Fig. 5b). At temperatures above 200 °C, PVP shows one main stage of degradation. The mass loss for PVP in the second step is equal to 80% (w/w) which corresponds to the effective degradation of the polymer (Fig. 5b). Thermo analysis of PVP/SBA-15 shows two steps of mass loss (Fig. 5c). The first step (around 3%, w/w) that occurs at temperature <150 °C is related to desorption of water. The second step (around 9%, w/w) which appeared at 220 °C is attributed to degradation of the polymer, and the degradation ended at 400 °C (Fig. 5c). By comparing the PVP and PVP/SBA-15 curves, one can find that PVP/SBA-15 has higher thermal stability and slower degradation rate than PVP (Fig. 5b,c). Therefore, after hybridization, the thermal stability is enhanced and this is very important for the catalyst application. However, for Pd-PVP/SBA-15 sample, two separate weight loss steps are seen (Fig. 5d). The first step (around 5%, w/w) appearing at temperature <100 °C corresponds to the loss of water. The second weight loss (about 200–500 °C) amounts around 6% (w/w) is related to the degradation of the polymer. Obviously, the hybrid Pd-PVP/SBA-15 shows higher thermal stability than PVP/SBA-15. It may be attributed to the presence of Pd nanoparticles in the composite structure. Therefore, it is very important for the catalyst application that the thermal stability was enhanced greatly after hybridization.

Fig. 5. TGA curves of (a) mesoporous silica SBA-15, (b) PVP, (c) PVP/SBA-15 and (d) Pd-PVP/SBA-15.

#### **3.1.6 Uv-Vis**

Fig. 6 displays the result of UV-Vis spectra of Pd-PVP/SBA-15. The UV-Vis spectra of Pd(OAc)2 which reveal a peak at 400 nm refer to the existence of Pd(II) (Ahmadian et al.,2007). As mentioned in the experimental section, and according to scheme 1, Pd nanoparticle-PVP/SBA-15 was prepared by adding hydrazine hydrate to the Pd (II)- PVP/SBA-15. However, as can be seen in Fig. 6, there isn't any peak at 400 nm in the UV-Vis

Application of Atomic Absorption for Determination of

I

OCH3

CH3

Cl Cl

1

2

3

5

6

7

c R.T. d 95 °C. I

I

4 Br

I

K2CO3 (5 eq ), H2O (5 mL).

by Pd-PVP/SBA-15 a

b Isolated yield.

O O

Br

Cl

Entry Substrate Product Yield

Metal Nanoparticles in Organic-Inorganic Nanocomposites 99

a Reaction conditions: Pd-PVP/SBA-15 (0.12 g), iodobenzene (1 mmol), phenylboronic acid (1.5 mmol),

Table 3. Suzuki-Miyaura reaction of aromatic aryl halides and phenylboronic acid catalyzed

Using our optimized reaction conditions, we selected a series of aryl iodides, some aryl bromides and aryl chloride in the Suzuki reaction. All reactions were performed using 1:1.5 stoichiometric ratios of aryl halides and phenylboronic acid in air. The results are summarized in Table 3. Reactions were carried out in water at different times. In some cases, coupling reactions with aryl iodide (entry 3), aryl bromide (entry 4) and aryl chloride (entry 7) required higher temperature (95 °C) in order to obtain excellent yields. The results are listed in Table 3. It is well known that activation of C-Cl bond is much more difficult than C-Br and C-I bonds, and in general requires harsher reaction conditions in a heterogeneous

(%) b

Time (h)

OCH3 90 12 c 92-94 91-92

CH3 90 8 d 47-49 45-50

60 12 d 121-123 120-122

96 4 c 31-35 32.5-33.5

95 10 c 71-73 70-72

90 14 d 71-73 70-72

98 8 c 71-73 70-72

Mp (C)

Found Reported ref

Xu et al.

Xu et al.

Xu et al.

Xu et al.

Xu et al.

Xu et al.

Xu et al.

spectra of Pd-PVP/SBA-15, which indicates complete reduction of Pd(II) to Pd nanoparticles.

Fig. 6. UV-Vis spectra of Pd-PVP/SBA-15.

#### **3.2 Catalytic activity**

In this section, we firstly investigated the corresponding parameters for the Suzuki crosscoupling reaction. It includes different solvents and bases for the room-temperature Suzuki reaction, of iodobenzene, and phenylboronic acid in the presence of 0.12 g (Pd-PVP/SBA-15) catalyst. The molar ratio of iodobenzene to phenylboronic acid was set at 1:1.5 for the Suzuki cross-coupling reaction. Solvent plays a crucial role in the rate and the product distribution of Suzuki-Miyaura coupling reactions. Since water is known to increase the activity of the Suzuki–Miyaura catalyst (Bedford et al., 2003), two kinds of solvents were used: H2O or MeOH/H2O (3:1 v/v). In recent years, a large number of studies have been devoted by academic and industrial research groups to the development of environmentally friendly processes. In this context, the use of water as a reaction medium in transition metalcatalyzed processes has merited increasing attention and is currently one of the most important targets of sustainable chemistry (Anastas et al., 2000). Water, an inexpensive, readily available, non-in flammable, non toxic solvent, provides remarkable advantages over common organic solvents both from an economic and an environmental point of view. The experimental results show that the time the reaction is completed is rarely shorter in the case of using MeOH/H2O (3:1 v/v) as a solvent, but neat H2O was chosen because of the advantages of using water that were mentioned above.

We then examined the effect of bases for the Suzuki reaction. The inorganic bases including K2CO3 and Na3PO4 afforded high yields of 70–98%, as shown in Table 2. However, the organic base NEt3 gave a lower yield of 30% as shown in Table 2, entry 3. Thus, K2CO3 was selected as the base and H2O as the solvent.


a Reaction conditions: Pd-PVP/SBA-15 (0.12 g), iodobenzene (1 mmol), phenylboronic acid (1.5 mmol), base (5 eq ), H2O (5 mL), room temperature, 8 h.

b Isolated Yield.

Table 2. Effect of different bases on Suzuki-Miyaura reaction a


a Reaction conditions: Pd-PVP/SBA-15 (0.12 g), iodobenzene (1 mmol), phenylboronic acid (1.5 mmol), K2CO3 (5 eq ), H2O (5 mL).

b Isolated yield.

c R.T.

98 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

spectra of Pd-PVP/SBA-15, which indicates complete reduction of Pd(II) to Pd

In this section, we firstly investigated the corresponding parameters for the Suzuki crosscoupling reaction. It includes different solvents and bases for the room-temperature Suzuki reaction, of iodobenzene, and phenylboronic acid in the presence of 0.12 g (Pd-PVP/SBA-15) catalyst. The molar ratio of iodobenzene to phenylboronic acid was set at 1:1.5 for the Suzuki cross-coupling reaction. Solvent plays a crucial role in the rate and the product distribution of Suzuki-Miyaura coupling reactions. Since water is known to increase the activity of the Suzuki–Miyaura catalyst (Bedford et al., 2003), two kinds of solvents were used: H2O or MeOH/H2O (3:1 v/v). In recent years, a large number of studies have been devoted by academic and industrial research groups to the development of environmentally friendly processes. In this context, the use of water as a reaction medium in transition metalcatalyzed processes has merited increasing attention and is currently one of the most important targets of sustainable chemistry (Anastas et al., 2000). Water, an inexpensive, readily available, non-in flammable, non toxic solvent, provides remarkable advantages over common organic solvents both from an economic and an environmental point of view. The experimental results show that the time the reaction is completed is rarely shorter in the case of using MeOH/H2O (3:1 v/v) as a solvent, but neat H2O was chosen because of the

We then examined the effect of bases for the Suzuki reaction. The inorganic bases including K2CO3 and Na3PO4 afforded high yields of 70–98%, as shown in Table 2. However, the organic base NEt3 gave a lower yield of 30% as shown in Table 2, entry 3. Thus, K2CO3 was

Base Yield (%) b K2CO3 98 Na3PO4 70 Et3N 30 a Reaction conditions: Pd-PVP/SBA-15 (0.12 g), iodobenzene (1 mmol), phenylboronic acid (1.5 mmol),

nanoparticles.

Fig. 6. UV-Vis spectra of Pd-PVP/SBA-15.

advantages of using water that were mentioned above.

selected as the base and H2O as the solvent.

base (5 eq ), H2O (5 mL), room temperature, 8 h.

Table 2. Effect of different bases on Suzuki-Miyaura reaction a

b Isolated Yield.

**3.2 Catalytic activity** 

d 95 °C.

Table 3. Suzuki-Miyaura reaction of aromatic aryl halides and phenylboronic acid catalyzed by Pd-PVP/SBA-15 a

Using our optimized reaction conditions, we selected a series of aryl iodides, some aryl bromides and aryl chloride in the Suzuki reaction. All reactions were performed using 1:1.5 stoichiometric ratios of aryl halides and phenylboronic acid in air. The results are summarized in Table 3. Reactions were carried out in water at different times. In some cases, coupling reactions with aryl iodide (entry 3), aryl bromide (entry 4) and aryl chloride (entry 7) required higher temperature (95 °C) in order to obtain excellent yields. The results are listed in Table 3. It is well known that activation of C-Cl bond is much more difficult than C-Br and C-I bonds, and in general requires harsher reaction conditions in a heterogeneous

Application of Atomic Absorption for Determination of

Center of Excellence in Chemistry is gratefully acknowledged.

*Catalysis A: Chemical,* Vol.326, No.1-2, pp. 99–106

*Catalysis A: Chemical,* Vol.337, No.1-2, pp. 56–60

**5. Acknowledgements** 

231-241

No.26, pp. 3842–3846

2015-2017

20-30

239–251

*Letters*, Vol.50, No.34, pp. 4820–4823

*Chemical,* Vol.322, No.1-2, pp. 98–105

*A: General*. Vol.251, No.1, pp. 131-141.

*Communication*. Vol.8, No.12, pp. 2115-2118

**6. References** 

Metal Nanoparticles in Organic-Inorganic Nanocomposites 101

The support by Shahreza Branch, Islamic Azad University (IAUSH) Research Council and

Makhubela, B.C.E.; Jardine, A.; Smith, G.S. (2011). Pd nanosized particles supported on

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Zhao, H.; Peng, J.; Xiao, R.; Cai, M. (2011). A simple, efcient and recyclable phosphine-free

Mu, B.; Li, T.; Li, C.; Liu, P.; Shang, W.; Wu, Y. (2009). Langmuir–Blodgett lms of

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Yuranov, I.; Moeckli, P.; Suvorova, E.; Buffat, P.; Kiwi-Minsker, L.; Renken, A. (2003).

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chitosan and 6-deoxy-6-amino chitosan as recyclable catalysts for Suzuki–Miyaura and Heck cross-coupling reactions. *Applied Catalysis A: General,* Vol.393, No.1-2, pp.

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catalysis system (Yin & Liebscher, 2007; Martin & Buchwald, 2008). Thus, the catalyst afforded average to excellent yields of biaryl products even at room temperature. In the literature, only a few catalysts are known for affecting the Suzuki-Miyaura cross-coupling reactions under mild conditions (Littke et al., 2000; Cuia et al., 2007; Marion et al., 2006, Navarro et al., 2006; Fairlamb et al., 2004).

The catalyst reuse and stability were checked using Suzuki reaction of iodobenzene with phenylboronic acid at room temperature in present water as solvent. The catalyst was separated from the reaction mixture after each experiment by simple filtration, washed with diethylether and acetone and dried carefully before using it in the subsequent run. The results showed that this catalyst could be reused without any modification, 5 times. It should be mentioned that there was rarely low catalyst leaching (4.5%) (Pd content of the catalyst was determined by AAS after each cycle) during the reaction and the catalyst exhibited high stability until 5 recycles (Table 4).


a Reaction conditions: Pd-PVP/SBA-15 (0.12 g), iodobenzene (1 mmol), phenylboronic acid (1.5 mmol), K2CO3

(5 eq), H2O (5 mL), room temperature. b Isolated yield.

c Estimated by AAS.

Table 4. The catalyst reusability for the Suzuki-Miyaura reaction a

#### **4. Conclusion**

In this chapter, we demonstrated a facile palladium nanoparticle-PVP preparation inside modified mesoporous silica and the utilization of this nanocomposite as a new heterogeneous organic hybrid catalyst system. The catalytic activity of this catalyst was excellent for Suzuki-Miyaura cross-coupling reaction of aryl chloride, bromide and iodides at room temperature under aerobic conditions. Further, easy catalyst recovery and reasonable recycling (at least 5 times) efficiency of the catalyst made it an ideal system for coupling reactions in the aqueous phase. For determination of the amount of remained Pd on the catalyst structure, atomic absorption spectroscopy was used.

There are various methods such as XRD, BET, TEM, FT-IR, UV-Vis and etc. for characterization of solid catalysts. Estimation of the stability of the catalysts is one the important factors for the performance of the catalysts. The stability of the catalysts is directly related to the amounts leaching of the active species of the catalysts. AAS is the best technique for determination of the metal leaching in the catalysts containing metal nanoparticles.

### **5. Acknowledgements**

The support by Shahreza Branch, Islamic Azad University (IAUSH) Research Council and Center of Excellence in Chemistry is gratefully acknowledged.

#### **6. References**

100 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

catalysis system (Yin & Liebscher, 2007; Martin & Buchwald, 2008). Thus, the catalyst afforded average to excellent yields of biaryl products even at room temperature. In the literature, only a few catalysts are known for affecting the Suzuki-Miyaura cross-coupling reactions under mild conditions (Littke et al., 2000; Cuia et al., 2007; Marion et al., 2006,

The catalyst reuse and stability were checked using Suzuki reaction of iodobenzene with phenylboronic acid at room temperature in present water as solvent. The catalyst was separated from the reaction mixture after each experiment by simple filtration, washed with diethylether and acetone and dried carefully before using it in the subsequent run. The results showed that this catalyst could be reused without any modification, 5 times. It should be mentioned that there was rarely low catalyst leaching (4.5%) (Pd content of the catalyst was determined by AAS after each cycle) during the reaction and the catalyst

(mmol in 0.12 g catalyst) c Yield (%) Cycle b

fresh 98 0.0672 98 0.0670 95 0.0661 93 0.0659 91 0.0651 87 0.0643 a Reaction conditions: Pd-PVP/SBA-15 (0.12 g), iodobenzene (1 mmol), phenylboronic acid (1.5 mmol),

In this chapter, we demonstrated a facile palladium nanoparticle-PVP preparation inside modified mesoporous silica and the utilization of this nanocomposite as a new heterogeneous organic hybrid catalyst system. The catalytic activity of this catalyst was excellent for Suzuki-Miyaura cross-coupling reaction of aryl chloride, bromide and iodides at room temperature under aerobic conditions. Further, easy catalyst recovery and reasonable recycling (at least 5 times) efficiency of the catalyst made it an ideal system for coupling reactions in the aqueous phase. For determination of the amount of remained Pd

There are various methods such as XRD, BET, TEM, FT-IR, UV-Vis and etc. for characterization of solid catalysts. Estimation of the stability of the catalysts is one the important factors for the performance of the catalysts. The stability of the catalysts is directly related to the amounts leaching of the active species of the catalysts. AAS is the best technique for determination of the metal leaching in the catalysts containing metal

Pd content of catalyst

Navarro et al., 2006; Fairlamb et al., 2004).

exhibited high stability until 5 recycles (Table 4).

K2CO3

c Estimated by AAS.

**4. Conclusion** 

nanoparticles.

(5 eq), H2O (5 mL), room temperature. b Isolated yield.

Table 4. The catalyst reusability for the Suzuki-Miyaura reaction a

on the catalyst structure, atomic absorption spectroscopy was used.


Application of Atomic Absorption for Determination of

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**6** 

 *Ukraine* 

**Flame Spectrometry in Analysis** 

*State Scientific Institution "Institute for Single Crystals"* 

T.V. Sheina and K.N. Belikov

*of National Academy of Sciences* 

**of Refractory Oxide Single Crystals** 

This chapter is devoted to the use of flame atomic-emission and atomic-absorption spectrometry techniques to determine the stoichiometric composition, as well as studying the regularities of distribution of impurities and dopants in single crystals based on refractory oxides used as active media for solid-state lasers (leucosapphire, ruby, yttriumaluminium garnet), laser light modulators (strontium titanate), scintillation detectors (cadmium tungstate), solid electrolytes (β-alumina), medical implants (leucosapphire). Growth of high quality single crystals requires not only adherence to specifications and the growing parameters but reliable methods of analytical control of their composition. Last years along with so-called F-centre forming elements, the increasing attention is given to alkali and alkali-earth impurities which also may cause worsening of quality of single

crystals (Dobrovinskaya et al.,2007; Nagornaya et al., 2005; Tupitsyna et al., 2009).

Digestion of refractory oxide single crystals is one of the most complicated and important stage of the procedure of analysis. Condensed phosphoric acid is recommended as an effective reagent for sample preparation of single crystals of oxide compounds. For the rapid flame spectrometry determination of alkali metals and calcium impurities, procedures of the sample preparation of water extracts of *α*- and *γ*-forms of aluminum oxide, yttriumaluminum garnet and magnesium-aluminates used as raw materials for single crystals growing are proposed. It is also shown the effectiveness of ultrasonic sample preparation technique followed by the direct determination of Co and Ni in suspensions of *α*-Al2O3.

**2. Phosphoric acid digestion of refractory oxide single crystals followed by** 

The most commonly used methods of digestion of sparingly soluble substances have a number of shortcomings. Alkali fusion techniques result in high blank values for alkali-earth elements and totally unsuitable for alkali elements determination. Heating of single crystals samples with different acid mixtures is time consuming and not always effective procedure even when autoclave digestion method is used (Foner,1984; Haines, 1988; Homeier et al.,

digestion of minerals and oxides condensed phosphoric acid can be successfully applied (Bock, 1979; Hannaker, 1984; Mizoguchi, 1978). It can be obtained by dissolving of P2O5 in

shchik et al., 1986; Morikava, 1987; Otruba, 1990). It is shown, that for the acid

**1. Introduction** 

**flame spectrometry analysis** 

1988; Krasil'

Xu, Q.; Duan, W-L.; Lei, Z-Y.; Zhu, Z-B.; Shi, M. (2005). A novel cis-chelated Pd(II)–NHC complex for catalyzing Suzuki and Heck-type cross-coupling reactions. *Tetrahedron*, Vol.61, No.47, pp. 11225–11229

### **Flame Spectrometry in Analysis of Refractory Oxide Single Crystals**

T.V. Sheina and K.N. Belikov

*State Scientific Institution "Institute for Single Crystals" of National Academy of Sciences Ukraine* 

#### **1. Introduction**

104 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

Xu, Q.; Duan, W-L.; Lei, Z-Y.; Zhu, Z-B.; Shi, M. (2005). A novel cis-chelated Pd(II)–NHC

*Tetrahedron*, Vol.61, No.47, pp. 11225–11229

complex for catalyzing Suzuki and Heck-type cross-coupling reactions.

This chapter is devoted to the use of flame atomic-emission and atomic-absorption spectrometry techniques to determine the stoichiometric composition, as well as studying the regularities of distribution of impurities and dopants in single crystals based on refractory oxides used as active media for solid-state lasers (leucosapphire, ruby, yttriumaluminium garnet), laser light modulators (strontium titanate), scintillation detectors (cadmium tungstate), solid electrolytes (β-alumina), medical implants (leucosapphire).

Growth of high quality single crystals requires not only adherence to specifications and the growing parameters but reliable methods of analytical control of their composition. Last years along with so-called F-centre forming elements, the increasing attention is given to alkali and alkali-earth impurities which also may cause worsening of quality of single crystals (Dobrovinskaya et al.,2007; Nagornaya et al., 2005; Tupitsyna et al., 2009).

Digestion of refractory oxide single crystals is one of the most complicated and important stage of the procedure of analysis. Condensed phosphoric acid is recommended as an effective reagent for sample preparation of single crystals of oxide compounds. For the rapid flame spectrometry determination of alkali metals and calcium impurities, procedures of the sample preparation of water extracts of *α*- and *γ*-forms of aluminum oxide, yttriumaluminum garnet and magnesium-aluminates used as raw materials for single crystals growing are proposed. It is also shown the effectiveness of ultrasonic sample preparation technique followed by the direct determination of Co and Ni in suspensions of *α*-Al2O3.

#### **2. Phosphoric acid digestion of refractory oxide single crystals followed by flame spectrometry analysis**

The most commonly used methods of digestion of sparingly soluble substances have a number of shortcomings. Alkali fusion techniques result in high blank values for alkali-earth elements and totally unsuitable for alkali elements determination. Heating of single crystals samples with different acid mixtures is time consuming and not always effective procedure even when autoclave digestion method is used (Foner,1984; Haines, 1988; Homeier et al., 1988; Krasil' shchik et al., 1986; Morikava, 1987; Otruba, 1990). It is shown, that for the acid digestion of minerals and oxides condensed phosphoric acid can be successfully applied (Bock, 1979; Hannaker, 1984; Mizoguchi, 1978). It can be obtained by dissolving of P2O5 in

Flame Spectrometry in Analysis of Refractory Oxide Single Crystals 107

remaining in system is a orthophosphoric acid. The nearest homologues have more strongly

Н3РО4 + Н4Р2О7 Н4РО4+ + Н3Р2О7-

Thus, along with consumption of Н3РО4 in condensation processes the yield of the molecular di - and triphosphate forms increases. Also, formation of the highest, more acidic

The obtained data allows us to consider that the solvent action factors are: (1) acid-base

following forms where acid function increases in the order: О2- <OH - <H2O <H3O+, (2) complexing properties of di - and triphosphate anions. A complex formation with other polyphosphates is less probable owing to a smaller yield of these compounds and high

The following empirical characteristics describing processes of digestion of different compounds in condensed phosphoric acid were obtained: (a) conditional solubility (mass of dissolved material per 1 cm3 of H3PO4); (b) optimum temperature of dissolution (*topt*, °C); (c) average dissolution rate at fixed temperature (V, g min-1); (d) degree of dissolution (*α,* %). Kinetics of dissolving *α*-Al2O3 and CdWO4 was investigated. A mixture of 0.3 g of *α*-Al2O3 and 10 ml of H3PO4 or 0.6 g of CdWO4 and 5 ml of H3PO4 was kept at fixed temperature for a definite time. Then, after centrifugation, concentration of Al in solution was determined by flame atomic absorption spectrometry and concentrations of Cd and W were determined by

Kinetic curves of dissolving Al2O3 and CdWO4 (Fig. 1) are s-shaped where initial and finite parts correspond to low dissolution rate which is limited by evaporation of water and decreasing of content of solid phase in reaction volume, respectively. A middle part of curves is linear and corresponds to the maximum dissolution rate (97 % of CdWO4 and 80- 85 % of Al2O3 go in solution) when simultaneous processes of acid-base transformations, polycondensation of H3PO4 and forming of metal phosphate complexes are take place.

100 *3 2 3' 1 2' 1'*

0 10 20 30

*, min*

) and CdWO4 (1 -3) in condensed phosphoric acid:

+ + Н4Р3О10-

+ cation with formation of the

Н3РО4 + Н5Р3О<sup>10</sup> Н4РО<sup>4</sup>

pronounced acid function and the following equilibriums take place:

homologues leads to augmentation of probability of formation Н4РО4 +.

transformations of О2- anion in the reaction with Н4РО<sup>4</sup>

X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (Mirenskaya et al., 1994).

0

Fig. 1. Kinetics of dissolving Al2O3 (1' – 3'

215 oC (1, 1'), 270 oC (2, 2'), 330 oC (3, 3').

50

*, %*

viscosity of medium.

75 % orthophosphoric acid. Also, upon heating orthophosphoric acid, condensation of the phosphoric groups can be induced by driving off the water formed from condensation (Mizoguchi, 1978; Zolotovitskaya et al., 1984). Sometimes, dehydration is performed at the reduced pressure and temperature 260…300 ºC (Corbridge, 1990). Condensation of orthophosphoric acid leads to forming the mix of polyphosphoric acids which are strong complexing agents having high dissolving ability (Zolotovitskaya et al., 1984, 1997; Trachevskii et al. 1996).

In this section the main results on application of condensed phosphoric acid for the digestion of wide range of compounds are presented. Among the investigated materials were aluminium oxide single crystals and fusion mixtures; magnesium aluminium spinel doped with Fe, Ni, Co, V, Ti; yttrium aluminium garnet; gallium scandium gadolinium garnet doped with Nd; cadmium tungstate; strontium titanate and other functional materials.

#### **2.1 Thermally activated acid-base transformations in the system "condensed phosphoric acid – oxide material"**

The composition of the polyacids obtained after heating of an orthophosphoric acid, the mechanism of solvent action of polyphosphoric acids as well as the composition of complex compounds formed during digestion of analysed materials in condensed phosphoric acid has been studied by heteronuclear NMR spectroscopy (Trachevskii et al., 1996). The NMR spectra (31P, 17O, 27Al, 113Cd) of liquid and solid samples were recorded on Bruker CXP-200 spectrometer using single and multipulse sequences as well as magic angle spinning techniques.

Heating-up to 400 °C of 75 % orthophosphoric acid leads to driving off the water and to forming linear polyphosphoric acids. Identification of the obtained substances was performed using 31P NMR spectroscopy of water solutions of corresponding salts as well as water solutions derived from melts partly neutralized by ammonia.

In the investigated temperature range (20…400 ºC) a set of processes of orthophosphoric acid transformations can be expressed by the following equation:

$$n\,\mathrm{H\_3PO\_4} \leftrightarrow \mathrm{H\_{n+2}P\_nO\_{3n+1} + (n-1)\,\mathrm{H\_2O}}$$

where *n* = 1…12.

From the point of view of prediction of reactivity of dissolvent the effect of upfield shift of signals in 31Р NMR spectra, corresponding to consecutive thermal generation of polyphosphatic homologues (with *п*=2, 3, 4) (Trachevskii et al., 1996) is important. The analogous trend of change of signals was observed at shift of acid-base equilibriums towards augmentation of protonation of anions:


With driving off the water, the equilibrium Н3РО4 + Н2О Н3О+ + Н2РО4- is shifting towards formation of molecular form Н3РО4. At these conditions the strongest base

75 % orthophosphoric acid. Also, upon heating orthophosphoric acid, condensation of the phosphoric groups can be induced by driving off the water formed from condensation (Mizoguchi, 1978; Zolotovitskaya et al., 1984). Sometimes, dehydration is performed at the reduced pressure and temperature 260…300 ºC (Corbridge, 1990). Condensation of orthophosphoric acid leads to forming the mix of polyphosphoric acids which are strong complexing agents having high dissolving ability (Zolotovitskaya et al., 1984, 1997;

In this section the main results on application of condensed phosphoric acid for the digestion of wide range of compounds are presented. Among the investigated materials were aluminium oxide single crystals and fusion mixtures; magnesium aluminium spinel doped with Fe, Ni, Co, V, Ti; yttrium aluminium garnet; gallium scandium gadolinium garnet doped with Nd; cadmium tungstate; strontium titanate and other functional

The composition of the polyacids obtained after heating of an orthophosphoric acid, the mechanism of solvent action of polyphosphoric acids as well as the composition of complex compounds formed during digestion of analysed materials in condensed phosphoric acid has been studied by heteronuclear NMR spectroscopy (Trachevskii et al., 1996). The NMR spectra (31P, 17O, 27Al, 113Cd) of liquid and solid samples were recorded on Bruker CXP-200 spectrometer using single and multipulse sequences as well as magic angle spinning

Heating-up to 400 °C of 75 % orthophosphoric acid leads to driving off the water and to forming linear polyphosphoric acids. Identification of the obtained substances was performed using 31P NMR spectroscopy of water solutions of corresponding salts as well as

In the investigated temperature range (20…400 ºC) a set of processes of orthophosphoric

*п* Н3РО4 Н*п+*2Р*п*О*3п+1* + (*п*-1) Н2О

From the point of view of prediction of reactivity of dissolvent the effect of upfield shift of signals in 31Р NMR spectra, corresponding to consecutive thermal generation of polyphosphatic homologues (with *п*=2, 3, 4) (Trachevskii et al., 1996) is important. The analogous trend of change of signals was observed at shift of acid-base equilibriums

РО43- + *п* Н+ Н3-*<sup>п</sup>*РО4, *n* = 0…3

Р2О44- + *п* Н<sup>+</sup> Н4-*<sup>п</sup>*Р2О7, *n* = 0…4

Р3О105- + *п* Н<sup>+</sup> Н 5-*<sup>п</sup>*Р2О7, *n* = 0…5 With driving off the water, the equilibrium Н3РО4 + Н2О Н3О+ + Н2РО4- is shifting towards formation of molecular form Н3РО4. At these conditions the strongest base

water solutions derived from melts partly neutralized by ammonia.

acid transformations can be expressed by the following equation:

towards augmentation of protonation of anions:

**2.1 Thermally activated acid-base transformations in the system "condensed** 

Trachevskii et al. 1996).

**phosphoric acid – oxide material"** 

materials.

techniques.

where *n* = 1…12.

remaining in system is a orthophosphoric acid. The nearest homologues have more strongly pronounced acid function and the following equilibriums take place:

$$\begin{aligned} \mathrm{H\_3PO\_4} + \mathrm{H\_4P\_2O\_7} &\leftrightarrow \mathrm{H\_4PO\_4^\*} + \mathrm{H\_3P\_2O\_7^\*} \\\\ \mathrm{H\_3PO\_4} + \mathrm{H\_5P\_3O\_{10}} &\leftrightarrow \mathrm{H\_4PO\_4^\*} + \mathrm{H\_4P\_3O\_{10}} \end{aligned}$$

Thus, along with consumption of Н3РО4 in condensation processes the yield of the molecular di - and triphosphate forms increases. Also, formation of the highest, more acidic homologues leads to augmentation of probability of formation Н4РО4 +.

The obtained data allows us to consider that the solvent action factors are: (1) acid-base transformations of О2- anion in the reaction with Н4РО<sup>4</sup> + cation with formation of the following forms where acid function increases in the order: О2- <OH - <H2O <H3O+, (2) complexing properties of di - and triphosphate anions. A complex formation with other polyphosphates is less probable owing to a smaller yield of these compounds and high viscosity of medium.

The following empirical characteristics describing processes of digestion of different compounds in condensed phosphoric acid were obtained: (a) conditional solubility (mass of dissolved material per 1 cm3 of H3PO4); (b) optimum temperature of dissolution (*topt*, °C); (c) average dissolution rate at fixed temperature (V, g min-1); (d) degree of dissolution (*α,* %). Kinetics of dissolving *α*-Al2O3 and CdWO4 was investigated. A mixture of 0.3 g of *α*-Al2O3 and 10 ml of H3PO4 or 0.6 g of CdWO4 and 5 ml of H3PO4 was kept at fixed temperature for a definite time. Then, after centrifugation, concentration of Al in solution was determined by flame atomic absorption spectrometry and concentrations of Cd and W were determined by X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (Mirenskaya et al., 1994).

Kinetic curves of dissolving Al2O3 and CdWO4 (Fig. 1) are s-shaped where initial and finite parts correspond to low dissolution rate which is limited by evaporation of water and decreasing of content of solid phase in reaction volume, respectively. A middle part of curves is linear and corresponds to the maximum dissolution rate (97 % of CdWO4 and 80- 85 % of Al2O3 go in solution) when simultaneous processes of acid-base transformations, polycondensation of H3PO4 and forming of metal phosphate complexes are take place.

Fig. 1. Kinetics of dissolving Al2O3 (1' – 3' ) and CdWO4 (1 -3) in condensed phosphoric acid: 215 oC (1, 1'), 270 oC (2, 2'), 330 oC (3, 3').

Flame Spectrometry in Analysis of Refractory Oxide Single Crystals 109

α-Al2O3 charge 0.3…0.4 270 16 0.05 α-Al2O3 single crystal 0.15 290…300 30 0.016 α-Al2O3:Ti charge 0.3 270 13 0.09 α-Al2O3:Ti single crystal 0.2 300 25 0.02 *m*Al2O3·*n*Y2O3 charge 0.3…0.4 270 11 0.07 *m*Al2O3·*n*Y2O3·*k*Nd2O3 charge 0.3…0.5 270 10 0.09

crystal 0.2…0.3 300…320 20 0.05

*m*Al2O3·*nMg*O charge 0.3…0.6 270 5 0.20 *m*Al2O3·*nMg*O:Ni charge 0.3 270 6 0.20 *m*Al2O3·*nMg*O:Ni single crystal 0.1 270 18 0.03

Table 1. Optimum conditions of digestion of some single crystals and raw materials in

**2.2 Flame spectrophotometric analysis of phosphate solutions of refractory oxides**  The combination of a highly effective digestion technique with flame atomic-emission (FAES) and atomic-absorption (FAAS) analysis of the phosphate solutions was used for the determination of Na, K, Ca in α-Al2O3; Са in SrTiO3; Na, K, Ca, Mg in CdWO4; dopants Li, Na, Mg in β-Al2O3; Nd in yttrium aluminium garnet; Ti, V, Fe, Cо, Ni in corundum; Li, Rb, Cs, Sr, Ba in CdWO4; a stoichiometric composition of garnets (*n-x)*Y2O3·*x*Nd2O3·*m*Al2O3 and

Flame spectrometry measurements were performed on a spectrophotometer "Saturn" (Ukraine) with use of acetylene-air, propane-butane-nitrous oxide and acetylene-nitrous oxide gas mixtures. The processes taking place during flame atomization of materials and excitation are well studied (Havezov et al., 1983; Haswell, 1991; Hill, 2005; L'vov et al., 1975; Magyar, 1987; Welz , 1999). However, application of flame spectrometry in analysis of solutions of the complex composition especially containing metal phosphate complexes, demands to study of influence of various factors on absorption and emission signals of analytes. Most essential of them are the main composition of solution and conditions of atomization of material in a flame. The last depends on the chosen gas mixture, a fuel/oxidant ratio, zone of photometric observations. The numerous data available in the

**2.2.1 Effects of redox characteristics of the flame and the height of the burner on** 

The redox characteristics of a flame defined by the fuel/oxidant ratio were estimated visually, basing on the height of the inner cone (l, mm) which was changed over a range from 1 to 5 for acetylene-air, propane-butane-nitrous oxide flames and from 1 to 40 for

MgO·*k*Al2O3 where *n* can vary from 1 to 3, *m* and *k* - from 1 to 5, *x -* from 0 to 0,2.

SrTiO3 charge 0.1 330 9 0.010 CdWO4 charge 0.6…0.8 265 9 > 0.40 CdWO4 single crystal 0.6…0.8 270 15 0.40 NaBi(WO4)2 single crystal 0.4…0.8 300…330 8 > 0.40

Temperature, °C

Digestion time, minutes

Conditional solubility, g cm-3

mass, g

Material Sample

*m*Al2O3·*n*Y2O3·*k*Nd2O3 single

condensed phosphoric acid

literature on this problem are ambiguous.

**analytical signals** 

In Fig. 2 dependences of dissolution rate of different fusion mixtures and single crystals on temperature are presented. The mass of samples was 0.05…2.00 g and volume of H3PO3 was 10 ml for Al2O3 or TiO2 and 5 ml for WO3. Dramatic increase in dissolution rate is observed at 210…270 °C for charge and at 250…300 °C for single crystals. Optimum values of temperature for dissolving of fusion mixtures and single crystals were 270 and 300 °C, respectively. It was unreasonable to dissolve such materials at higher temperatures due to formation of sparingly soluble vitreous products. The obtained data were used for optimization of sample preparation procedures of some oxide materials (Table 1).

Fig. 2. Dependence of dissolution rate of different fusion mixtures (—) and single crystals (- - -) on temperature

NMR-spectroscopy data (Trachevskii et al., 1996) has allowed us to explain high hydrolytic stability of phosphate decomposition products. Analysis of 31Р NMR spectra for the system of K2WO4 - Н3РО4 has shown that after dilution there are significant amounts of diphosphate anions and their complexes with tungsten in solutions. Presence of specified diphosphate complexes as well as solvable orthophosphate complexes is the main reason of stability of diluted solutions. Obviously, similar processes cause the same behavior of other oxide materials studied in this work.

In Fig. 2 dependences of dissolution rate of different fusion mixtures and single crystals on temperature are presented. The mass of samples was 0.05…2.00 g and volume of H3PO3 was 10 ml for Al2O3 or TiO2 and 5 ml for WO3. Dramatic increase in dissolution rate is observed at 210…270 °C for charge and at 250…300 °C for single crystals. Optimum values of temperature for dissolving of fusion mixtures and single crystals were 270 and 300 °C, respectively. It was unreasonable to dissolve such materials at higher temperatures due to formation of sparingly soluble vitreous products. The obtained data were used for optimization of sample preparation procedures of some oxide materials

(Table 1).

0,00

crystals (- - -) on temperature

oxide materials studied in this work.

0,04

0,08

0,12

0,2

0,4

*a*

*V, g/min*

200 300

 *-Al2O3*

*t, o C*

 *-Al2O3:Ti*

*CdWO4*

*Y3Al5O12:Nd Y3Al5O12*

Fig. 2. Dependence of dissolution rate of different fusion mixtures (—) and single

NMR-spectroscopy data (Trachevskii et al., 1996) has allowed us to explain high hydrolytic stability of phosphate decomposition products. Analysis of 31Р NMR spectra for the system of K2WO4 - Н3РО4 has shown that after dilution there are significant amounts of diphosphate anions and their complexes with tungsten in solutions. Presence of specified diphosphate complexes as well as solvable orthophosphate complexes is the main reason of stability of diluted solutions. Obviously, similar processes cause the same behavior of other

0,000

0,002

0,004

0,006

0,008

0,010

0,012

*V, g/min*

*b*

200 300

*Y3Al5O12:Nd*

*SrTiO3 MgAl2O4: Ni*

> *-Al2O3:Ti*

 *-Al2O3*

*t, o C*

*MgAl2O2*

*CdWO4*

*MgAl2O4: Ni*

*NaBi(WO4)2*


Table 1. Optimum conditions of digestion of some single crystals and raw materials in condensed phosphoric acid

#### **2.2 Flame spectrophotometric analysis of phosphate solutions of refractory oxides**

The combination of a highly effective digestion technique with flame atomic-emission (FAES) and atomic-absorption (FAAS) analysis of the phosphate solutions was used for the determination of Na, K, Ca in α-Al2O3; Са in SrTiO3; Na, K, Ca, Mg in CdWO4; dopants Li, Na, Mg in β-Al2O3; Nd in yttrium aluminium garnet; Ti, V, Fe, Cо, Ni in corundum; Li, Rb, Cs, Sr, Ba in CdWO4; a stoichiometric composition of garnets (*n-x)*Y2O3·*x*Nd2O3·*m*Al2O3 and MgO·*k*Al2O3 where *n* can vary from 1 to 3, *m* and *k* - from 1 to 5, *x -* from 0 to 0,2.

Flame spectrometry measurements were performed on a spectrophotometer "Saturn" (Ukraine) with use of acetylene-air, propane-butane-nitrous oxide and acetylene-nitrous oxide gas mixtures. The processes taking place during flame atomization of materials and excitation are well studied (Havezov et al., 1983; Haswell, 1991; Hill, 2005; L'vov et al., 1975; Magyar, 1987; Welz , 1999). However, application of flame spectrometry in analysis of solutions of the complex composition especially containing metal phosphate complexes, demands to study of influence of various factors on absorption and emission signals of analytes. Most essential of them are the main composition of solution and conditions of atomization of material in a flame. The last depends on the chosen gas mixture, a fuel/oxidant ratio, zone of photometric observations. The numerous data available in the literature on this problem are ambiguous.

#### **2.2.1 Effects of redox characteristics of the flame and the height of the burner on analytical signals**

The redox characteristics of a flame defined by the fuel/oxidant ratio were estimated visually, basing on the height of the inner cone (l, mm) which was changed over a range from 1 to 5 for acetylene-air, propane-butane-nitrous oxide flames and from 1 to 40 for

Flame Spectrometry in Analysis of Refractory Oxide Single Crystals 111

for the solutions of different composition. It can be seen that there is a correlation between the maximum of analytical signal and the height of the inner cone. In the presence of a "heavy" matrix the specified maximums shift to a hotter flame zone which is located directly over an inner cone or close to it. In some cases (see curves *a, e*) maximums are diffuse. Buffer additions of chlorides of alkali metals have no effect on the position of maximum. Also, it is found that analytical signals of alkali metals do not depend

Gas flow rate, L h-1 Height

Oxidant

620

AA 95 620 2…3 8…9 PBNO 60 600 2…3 7…8 ANO 480 580 10 9

690

690

(600) 1…2 6…9

(600) 1…2 6…9

Combustible gas

> 100 (85)

of inner cone, mm

(600) 3 6…9

Burner height, mm

Flame1

AA (PBNO)

Ca FAES 422.7 ANO 425 580 1…2 5…6 Sr FAES 460.7 ANO 440 580 2 5…6 Ba FAES 535.5 ANO 440…450 580 2…4 5…6

Y FAAS 410.2 ANO 550 560 25…30 12 Nd FAES 492.4 ANO 515…530 580 30 10 Ti FAAS 365.3 ANO 515…530 580 30…35 10 V FAAS 318.4 ANO 515…530 580 30…35 10

Generally, change of optimum fuel/oxidant ratio as well as the height of the burner can lead to the considerable decrease in sensitivity and increase uncertainty in FAES and FAAS

(PBNO)

(PBNO)

<sup>1</sup> AA - acetylene-air, PBNO - propane-butane-nitrous oxide, ANO - acetylene-nitrous oxide

FAES 396.1 ANO 490 560 5…10 9 FAAS 309.2 ANO 530 560 15…20 8

> 70 (60)

> 70 (60)

considerably on the height of the burner.

nm

670.8

Element Method Wavelength,

FAES

Na 589.0 K 766.5 Rb 780.0 Cs 852.1

Mg FAAS 285.2

Co FAAS 240.7 ANO

Ni FAAS 232.0 ANO

analyses of phosphate solutions.

Table 2. Optimum operating conditions of the atomizer

Li

Al

acetylene-nitrous oxide flame. It was considered that acetylene-air and propane-butanenitrous oxide flames were oxidative, stoichiometrical or reducing when l was equal to 1…2, 3…4 and 5…6, respectively. The corresponding values for the acetylene-nitrous oxide flame were 1…2, 2…35 and 40…45.

In order to investigate effect of redox characteristics of the flame on analytical signals they were recorded at different distances above the burner orifice while l value was constant. It has been found that analytical signals of all elements of interest depend on redox characteristics of a flame. Most distinctly these dependences are appeared for the metals forming hardly dissociated compounds (alkali-earth and rare-earth elements, Al) even when a high-temperature flame is used (Maitra, 1987; Pupyshev. et al., 1990).

As an example, in Fig. 3 dependences of analytical signals of Al and Y on the height of the inner cone of the flame are presented.

Fig. 3. Dependence of absorption signals of Al (1) and Y (2) and an emission signal of Al (3) in phosphate solutions of Y3Al5O12 on the inner cone of the flame (*l,* mm*)* 

It can be seen that at determination of these elements, especially by atomic-emission method, it is necessary to select a fuel/oxidant ratio very carefully. For alkali-earth metals, Mg and metals of subgroup Fe composition of gas mixture is less critical, however also is important enough. So, sensitivity of the determination of alkali-earth metals in the presence of Н3РО4 in acetylene-air oxidizing flame is ~2 times lower, than in stoichiometrical or reducing flame. In Table 2 optimum operating conditions for the determination a number of elements in phosphate solutions are resulted. It is found that the optimal fuel/oxidant ratio does not depend on the sample matrix. Fig. 4 demonstrates dependences of analytical signals of Mg, Ca, Sr, Ba, Al and Y from the height of the burner

acetylene-nitrous oxide flame. It was considered that acetylene-air and propane-butanenitrous oxide flames were oxidative, stoichiometrical or reducing when l was equal to 1…2, 3…4 and 5…6, respectively. The corresponding values for the acetylene-nitrous oxide flame

In order to investigate effect of redox characteristics of the flame on analytical signals they were recorded at different distances above the burner orifice while l value was constant. It has been found that analytical signals of all elements of interest depend on redox characteristics of a flame. Most distinctly these dependences are appeared for the metals forming hardly dissociated compounds (alkali-earth and rare-earth elements, Al) even when

As an example, in Fig. 3 dependences of analytical signals of Al and Y on the height of the

10 20 30 40

*l, mm*

Fig. 3. Dependence of absorption signals of Al (1) and Y (2) and an emission signal of Al (3)

It can be seen that at determination of these elements, especially by atomic-emission method, it is necessary to select a fuel/oxidant ratio very carefully. For alkali-earth metals, Mg and metals of subgroup Fe composition of gas mixture is less critical, however also is important enough. So, sensitivity of the determination of alkali-earth metals in the presence of Н3РО4 in acetylene-air oxidizing flame is ~2 times lower, than in stoichiometrical or reducing flame. In Table 2 optimum operating conditions for the determination a number of elements in phosphate solutions are resulted. It is found that the optimal fuel/oxidant ratio does not depend on the sample matrix. Fig. 4 demonstrates dependences of analytical signals of Mg, Ca, Sr, Ba, Al and Y from the height of the burner

*2*

*3 1*

a high-temperature flame is used (Maitra, 1987; Pupyshev. et al., 1990).

0

in phosphate solutions of Y3Al5O12 on the inner cone of the flame (*l,* mm*)* 

40

80

120

*Analytical signal, a.u.*

160

were 1…2, 2…35 and 40…45.

inner cone of the flame are presented.

for the solutions of different composition. It can be seen that there is a correlation between the maximum of analytical signal and the height of the inner cone. In the presence of a "heavy" matrix the specified maximums shift to a hotter flame zone which is located directly over an inner cone or close to it. In some cases (see curves *a, e*) maximums are diffuse. Buffer additions of chlorides of alkali metals have no effect on the position of maximum. Also, it is found that analytical signals of alkali metals do not depend considerably on the height of the burner.


Table 2. Optimum operating conditions of the atomizer

Generally, change of optimum fuel/oxidant ratio as well as the height of the burner can lead to the considerable decrease in sensitivity and increase uncertainty in FAES and FAAS analyses of phosphate solutions.

<sup>1</sup> AA - acetylene-air, PBNO - propane-butane-nitrous oxide, ANO - acetylene-nitrous oxide

Flame Spectrometry in Analysis of Refractory Oxide Single Crystals 113

Therefore, effect of phosphate ions on emission signals of Al, alkali, alkali-earth elements and absorption signals of Mg, Al, Y, Ti, V, Fe, Co, Ni in different flames at the constant concentration of the phosphoric acid (12.4 mas. %) has been investigated. The results presented in Fig. 5 show that effect of a phosphoric acid on analytical signals is

In an acetylene-air flame Н3РО4 shows strong depressing effect on all alkali elements. This effect increases in the order Li <Na, K <Rb <Cs, that is in a good agreement with the literary data (Henrion et al., 1979*).* In a propane-butane-nitrous oxide flame effect of Н3РО4 on Li, K signals practically misses. For Rb and Cs the depressing effect is smaller, and for Na is

It is noted that effect of phosphate ions on analytical signals of analysed elements depends essentially on a composition of gas mixture. For example, in an oxidative acetylene-air flames an emission signal of K in the presence of Н3РО4 decreases for 90 %, whereas in a stoichiometrical flame it decreases for 70 %. It is noted also that a continuous background caused by presence of a phosphoric acid is much lower in a stoichiometrical flame, rather than in oxidative or reducing one. Apparently, character of effect of phosphate ions on analytical signals in various flames is caused not only their temperature, but composition also. It is possible to explain depressing activity of phosphates by formation of hardly

It is found that phosphoric acid in an acetylene-air flame has small depressing effect on an absorption signal of Mg which is incremented with augmentation of the content of this element. In a propane-butane-nitrous oxide flame, effect of phosphates on an absorption signals of traces of Mg is absent, whereas at high concentrations of Mg its analytical signal slightly decreases. Emission signals of Сa, Sr, Ba, Nd and absorption signals of Тi and V in an acetylene-nitrous oxide flame in the presence of a phosphoric acid increase by 20, 22, 13 and 9 %, respectively. Apparently, it is possible to explain these phenomena by the fact that a high temperature of a flame and a reducing medium (red zone) promotes more effective atomisation of substance. Phosphoric acid can interfere with formation of carbides of the Ti and V in a reducing red zone and as it stated in (Magyar, 1987), promotes formation more volatile oxides of metals (for example, V2O5 is more flying oxide than other oxides of this

The phosphoric acid depresses absorption signals of Fe, Ni, Co (by 20-23 %) both in acetylene-air and propane-butane-nitrous oxide flames, irrespective of their redox characteristics. The received results differ from ones described in (L'vov et al., 1975) in which it is specified that effect of acids on Fe group elements in an oxidative acetylene-air

Thus, effect of phosphate ions on analytical signals of analysed elements depends on the physicochemical characteristics of elements, their concentration in phosphate solution and

vaporable compounds. Such effect is more typical for an acetylene-air flame.

**2.2.2 Solvent effects on the absorption and emission spectra of analysed elements**  Effect of phosphate ions on analytical signals of alkali, alkali-earth, transition and other elements was studied in detail in many papers (Magyar, 1987; Smets, 1980). However, these results look rather discordant. This fact can be explained by variety of spectrometers and hardware parameters used as well as by quite different concentrations of phosphate ions

and analysed elements.

greater, than in an acetylene-air flame.

various.

element).

flame misses.

operation parameters of an atomizer.

Fig. 4. Dependence of absorption signals (А) of Mg (a), AlI and YII (f) and emission signals (I) of Ca (b, e), Sr (c), Ba (d), AlIII on the height of the burner (h, mm). Flames: acetylene-air (-· - · -), acetylene – nitrous oxide (---), propane – butane - nitrous oxide (- - -). 1 – model solution of element; 2 – Element + H3PO4; 3 - Element + H3PO4 + CdWO4; 4 - Element + H3PO4 + CdWO4 + NaCl. *l* – position of inner cone

Fig. 4. Dependence of absorption signals (А) of Mg (a), AlI and YII (f) and emission signals (I) of Ca (b, e), Sr (c), Ba (d), AlIII on the height of the burner (h, mm). Flames: acetylene-air (-· - · -), acetylene – nitrous oxide (---), propane – butane - nitrous oxide (- - -). 1 – model solution of element; 2 – Element + H3PO4; 3 - Element + H3PO4 + CdWO4; 4 - Element +

H3PO4 + CdWO4 + NaCl. *l* – position of inner cone

#### **2.2.2 Solvent effects on the absorption and emission spectra of analysed elements**

Effect of phosphate ions on analytical signals of alkali, alkali-earth, transition and other elements was studied in detail in many papers (Magyar, 1987; Smets, 1980). However, these results look rather discordant. This fact can be explained by variety of spectrometers and hardware parameters used as well as by quite different concentrations of phosphate ions and analysed elements.

Therefore, effect of phosphate ions on emission signals of Al, alkali, alkali-earth elements and absorption signals of Mg, Al, Y, Ti, V, Fe, Co, Ni in different flames at the constant concentration of the phosphoric acid (12.4 mas. %) has been investigated. The results presented in Fig. 5 show that effect of a phosphoric acid on analytical signals is various.

In an acetylene-air flame Н3РО4 shows strong depressing effect on all alkali elements. This effect increases in the order Li <Na, K <Rb <Cs, that is in a good agreement with the literary data (Henrion et al., 1979*).* In a propane-butane-nitrous oxide flame effect of Н3РО4 on Li, K signals practically misses. For Rb and Cs the depressing effect is smaller, and for Na is greater, than in an acetylene-air flame.

It is noted that effect of phosphate ions on analytical signals of analysed elements depends essentially on a composition of gas mixture. For example, in an oxidative acetylene-air flames an emission signal of K in the presence of Н3РО4 decreases for 90 %, whereas in a stoichiometrical flame it decreases for 70 %. It is noted also that a continuous background caused by presence of a phosphoric acid is much lower in a stoichiometrical flame, rather than in oxidative or reducing one. Apparently, character of effect of phosphate ions on analytical signals in various flames is caused not only their temperature, but composition also. It is possible to explain depressing activity of phosphates by formation of hardly vaporable compounds. Such effect is more typical for an acetylene-air flame.

It is found that phosphoric acid in an acetylene-air flame has small depressing effect on an absorption signal of Mg which is incremented with augmentation of the content of this element. In a propane-butane-nitrous oxide flame, effect of phosphates on an absorption signals of traces of Mg is absent, whereas at high concentrations of Mg its analytical signal slightly decreases. Emission signals of Сa, Sr, Ba, Nd and absorption signals of Тi and V in an acetylene-nitrous oxide flame in the presence of a phosphoric acid increase by 20, 22, 13 and 9 %, respectively. Apparently, it is possible to explain these phenomena by the fact that a high temperature of a flame and a reducing medium (red zone) promotes more effective atomisation of substance. Phosphoric acid can interfere with formation of carbides of the Ti and V in a reducing red zone and as it stated in (Magyar, 1987), promotes formation more volatile oxides of metals (for example, V2O5 is more flying oxide than other oxides of this element).

The phosphoric acid depresses absorption signals of Fe, Ni, Co (by 20-23 %) both in acetylene-air and propane-butane-nitrous oxide flames, irrespective of their redox characteristics. The received results differ from ones described in (L'vov et al., 1975) in which it is specified that effect of acids on Fe group elements in an oxidative acetylene-air flame misses.

Thus, effect of phosphate ions on analytical signals of analysed elements depends on the physicochemical characteristics of elements, their concentration in phosphate solution and operation parameters of an atomizer.

Flame Spectrometry in Analysis of Refractory Oxide Single Crystals 115

combustible gas in a gas mixture. Increase in analytical signals of Na in the yttrium-aluminium

1.08 1.14

0.30 1.00

0.50 0.90

0.99 1.13

An absorption signal of Mg in the presence of Al decreases slightly and with increase of the Mg concentration the rate of effect of Al increases. Use of a propane-butane-nitrous oxide

Aluminium based compounds (Al2O3, magnesium aluminium spinel, yttrium-aluminium garnet) show depressing effect on analytical signals of Ca, even in a high-temperature acetylene-nitrous oxide flame. The rate of depressing effect increases in the order yttriumaluminium garnet < magnesium aluminium spinel < Al2O3 which is correlated with aluminium content in these compounds. Increase in analytical signals of Ca in SrTiO3 matrix

Ca 5…200 ANO 1.25 0.39 0.78 0.45 1.10 1.55

Sr 10…100 ANO 1.28 1.10 Ba 10…500 ANO 1.50 1.48

1.14 1.12

Н3РО<sup>4</sup> Al2O3 Y3Al5O12 MgAl2O4 CdWO4 SrTiO3

1.08 0.98

0.89 1.01 1.00

0.55 0.98

0.53 0.98

0.55

0.50 0.90

1.00 1.12 0.97

1.00 1.00

1.00

0.97

1.08

0.95

garnet matrix is observed, whereas analytical signals of K do not change substantially.

tion, ppm Flame2 Relative intensity of signals

0.22 0.55 1.00

0.86 0.85 0.52 0.27

0.30 1.00

0.17

0.14

0.74 0.81 0.90 1.00

V 200…2400 ANO 1.08 1.25 1.25

0.79 0.76

0.81 0.80

can be explained by the fact that Sr acts as an ionization buffer (Havezov,1983).

2 AA - acetylene-air, PBNO - propane-butane-nitrous oxide, ANO - acetylene-nitrous oxide

Table 3. Effect of matrix components on analytical signals of elements

Element

Na

Mg

Concentra-

2,0…8,0 % 0,2…1,0 % 5…200 5…200

AA AA PBNO

AA AA AA PBNO

AA PBNO

AA PBNO

AA PBNO

AA PBNO AA PBNO

Ti 200…2400 ANO 1.06 1.30

PBNO

PBNO

flame allows analyst to eliminate matrix effect completely.

Nd 2,0…10,0 % AA 1.08 2.04

Li 0,2…6,0 % 10…500 10…500

<sup>К</sup> 10…500 10…500

Rb 10…500 10…500

Cs 10…500 10…500

> 0,2…2,0 % 0,2…2,0 % 5…50 5…50

Ni 200…2400 AA

Co 200…2400 AA

Fig. 5. Effect of H3PO4 on emission analytical signals (*I*) of alkali and alkali-earth elements (*a, b, c, d, f )* and absorption signals (А) of Mg (*e*) in acetylene-air (---), acetylene – nitrous oxide (- · - · -), propane- butane – nitrous oxide (- - -). Curves 1, (1') – model solution of element; 2, 2' – element + Н3РО4. \*The burner is perpendicular to the optical axis

#### **2.2.3 Matrix effects**

Results of investigation of effect of major elements (Al, W, Ti) of high-melting compounds on analytical signals of analysed elements are presented in Table 3. Concentration of the phosphoric acid was 12.4 mas. %. Measurement conditions matched those given in Table 2. One can see that in comparison with effect of a phosphoric acid, Al increments emission signals of Li and Na. With increase of the Na concentration the rate of this effect decreases. Al shows depressing effect on the emission signal of K, and the rate of this effect depends on redox characteristics of a flame and is incremented with decrease of the content of a

Fig. 5. Effect of H3PO4 on emission analytical signals (*I*) of alkali and alkali-earth elements (*a, b, c, d, f )* and absorption signals (А) of Mg (*e*) in acetylene-air (---), acetylene – nitrous oxide (- · - · -), propane- butane – nitrous oxide (- - -). Curves 1, (1') – model solution of element;

Results of investigation of effect of major elements (Al, W, Ti) of high-melting compounds on analytical signals of analysed elements are presented in Table 3. Concentration of the phosphoric acid was 12.4 mas. %. Measurement conditions matched those given in Table 2. One can see that in comparison with effect of a phosphoric acid, Al increments emission signals of Li and Na. With increase of the Na concentration the rate of this effect decreases. Al shows depressing effect on the emission signal of K, and the rate of this effect depends on redox characteristics of a flame and is incremented with decrease of the content of a

2, 2' – element + Н3РО4. \*The burner is perpendicular to the optical axis

**2.2.3 Matrix effects** 


combustible gas in a gas mixture. Increase in analytical signals of Na in the yttrium-aluminium garnet matrix is observed, whereas analytical signals of K do not change substantially.

Table 3. Effect of matrix components on analytical signals of elements

An absorption signal of Mg in the presence of Al decreases slightly and with increase of the Mg concentration the rate of effect of Al increases. Use of a propane-butane-nitrous oxide flame allows analyst to eliminate matrix effect completely.

Aluminium based compounds (Al2O3, magnesium aluminium spinel, yttrium-aluminium garnet) show depressing effect on analytical signals of Ca, even in a high-temperature acetylene-nitrous oxide flame. The rate of depressing effect increases in the order yttriumaluminium garnet < magnesium aluminium spinel < Al2O3 which is correlated with aluminium content in these compounds. Increase in analytical signals of Ca in SrTiO3 matrix can be explained by the fact that Sr acts as an ionization buffer (Havezov,1983).

<sup>2</sup> AA - acetylene-air, PBNO - propane-butane-nitrous oxide, ANO - acetylene-nitrous oxide

Flame Spectrometry in Analysis of Refractory Oxide Single Crystals 117

*1,3,4 2 1 2 3,4*

*2*

 flame **PB-N2O**

> *3 4*

Fig. 6. Influence of Al on absorption signals of Mg (*a*) in acetylene-air, propane-butanenitrous oxide and acetylene-nitrous oxide flames; Y (*b*) in an acetylene-nitrous oxide flame. 1

It was also found that interferences of Na, K, Ca, Mg during their determination in CdWO4, Al2O3, yttrium-aluminium garnet and magnesium aluminium spinel can be eliminated by using of a cesium chloride buffer. In this case, it is possible to determine all these elements

**2.2.5 Some practical applications of phosphoric acid digestion of refractory oxide** 

components, dopants and microimpurities in single crystals and raw materials.

Our investigations have shown efficiency of use of a condensed phosphoric acid for dissolution of different refractory oxide single crystals. The data presented in the previous sections were used for the development of new procedures for determination of main

For the determination of a stoichiometric composition of yttrium-aluminium garnet and magnesium aluminium spinel, powder reference materials 3Y2O3·5Al2O3 and MgO·Al2O3 were used. The content of metals in these compounds was determined precisely by chelatometry. Calibration standards were prepared by dissolving of different masses of a powder reference material in condensed phosphoric acid. All solution contained CsCl as a spectroscopic buffer. An acetylene-nitrous oxide flame was used in the most cases but the determination of Mg is also possible with use of a propane-butane-nitrous oxide flame. Tables 4 and 5 contain data on the methods accuracy check and comparison with the results

As can be seen from the Table 4, high concentrations of Al can be determined by both FAES and FAAS methods but the last one is more preferable. It was found that K and Na can be determined in sparingly soluble tungstates KGd(WO4)2 and BiNa(WO4)2 after their dissolving in a condensed phosphoric acid with a confidence interval not exceeding 0.5…0,7

– Mg (Y) + Н3РО4; 2 - Mg (Y) + Н3РО4 + Al; 3 - Mg (Y) + Н3РО4 + Al + La

0

40

80

120

*A*

*b*

*1*

*2*

*3,4*

0,0 0,2 0,4

*CY2O3, g/dm3*

 **flame C2H2-N2O**

 flame **C2H2- air**

0,10 0,15 0,20

*CMgO, g/dm3*

**single crystals followed by flame spectrometry analysis** 

*1*

0

from the same solution.

of chelatometry (in terms of oxides).

40

80

120

160 *A*

*a*

 flame **C2H2-N2O**

Results of our investigations have shown that absorption signals of hardly volatile elements such as Ti and V, and emission signals of Nd in the presence of Al2O3 are increased. Probably, it can be explained by decrease of partial pressure of elemental oxygen and the considerable facilitation of atomisation of oxides of analysed elements in the presence of aluminium (Grossmann, 1987).

In an acetylene-air flame Al demonstrates depressing effect on analytical signals of nickel and cobalt which is more substantial for Ni. On the contrary, absorption signals of Co and Ni in a propane-butane-nitrous oxide flame are increased.

It is known from the literary (Henrion et al., 1979*)* that W has a depressing effect on emission signals of alkali metals which is incremented in the order Li < Na < K < Rb < Cs. As have shown results of our investigations, in the presence of cadmium and phosphate ions, tungsten acts quite differently. As can be seen from Table 3, a cadmium tungstate matrix does not affect analytical signals of alkali metals in acetylene-air and propanebutane-nitrous oxide flames.

Absorption signals of Mg in a cadmium tungstate matrix in acetylene-air and propanebutane-nitrous oxide flames are reduced by 80 and 30 %, respectively. This matrix has a weak depressing effect on emission signals of alkali-earth elements in an acetylene-nitrous oxide flame.

Thus, character and power of matrix effect in phosphoric acid solutions of examined materials depend on the nature of the element to be analysed, measurement conditions and a composition of a gas mixture. Optimisation of these parameters allows analyst to minimise matrix effect.

#### **2.2.4 Interference effects of analysed elements in phosphate solutions**

Avoiding of interference effects is of significant importance in the high-precision determination of a stoichiometric composition of functional materials. Study of interferences of Mg, Al and Y in yttrium-aluminium garnet and magnesium aluminium spinel was performed using solutions prepared by digestion in a phosphoric acid of oxides and mixtures of oxides of these elements. The content of each oxide in a mixture matched to stoichiometric relationships 3Y2O3· 5Al2O3 and MgO·Al2O3 or by 2-5 times differed from them. The content of dissolved oxides in solutions was 0.5-3 g L-1. It was found that in an acetylene-air flame a strong depressing effect of Al on absorption signals of Mg is observed. In a propane-butane-nitrous oxide flame this effect is weaker, whereas in an acetylene-nitrous oxide flame it is insignificant (Fig. 6). Authors (Havezov, 1983; Lueske, 1992) explained this fact by formation of MgAl2O4 spinel which stability depends on the composition of a flame and temperature. Magnesium reduces emission and absorption signals of Al that leads to parallel shift of the calibration line without change its bias. In the presence of Y the small increase of emission signals of Al is observed. At the same time Y does not affect absorption signals of Al. Analytical signals of Y decrease in the presence of Al (Fig. 6b).

For elimination of such interferences a lanthanum nitrate modifier is found to be the most effective. Introduction in solutions not less than 1 mas. % of the lanthanum interfering with forming low-volatile compounds at the moment of evaporation of droplets of an aerosol [], allows to eliminate all interferences almost completely (except depressing effect of Al on absorption signals of Mg in an acetylene-air flame). The content of *n·*Y2O3·*k*Al2O3 or MgO·*k*Al2O3 (at *k* <3) in solutions should not exceed 1 g L-1 or 0.5 g L-1 of MgO·*k*Al2O3 (at *k* >3). In order to prevent precipitation of lanthanum compounds, analysed solutions should contain not less than 1.4 M of HNO3.

Results of our investigations have shown that absorption signals of hardly volatile elements such as Ti and V, and emission signals of Nd in the presence of Al2O3 are increased. Probably, it can be explained by decrease of partial pressure of elemental oxygen and the considerable facilitation of atomisation of oxides of analysed elements in the presence of

In an acetylene-air flame Al demonstrates depressing effect on analytical signals of nickel and cobalt which is more substantial for Ni. On the contrary, absorption signals of Co and

It is known from the literary (Henrion et al., 1979*)* that W has a depressing effect on emission signals of alkali metals which is incremented in the order Li < Na < K < Rb < Cs. As have shown results of our investigations, in the presence of cadmium and phosphate ions, tungsten acts quite differently. As can be seen from Table 3, a cadmium tungstate matrix does not affect analytical signals of alkali metals in acetylene-air and propane-

Absorption signals of Mg in a cadmium tungstate matrix in acetylene-air and propanebutane-nitrous oxide flames are reduced by 80 and 30 %, respectively. This matrix has a weak depressing effect on emission signals of alkali-earth elements in an acetylene-nitrous

Thus, character and power of matrix effect in phosphoric acid solutions of examined materials depend on the nature of the element to be analysed, measurement conditions and a composition of a gas mixture. Optimisation of these parameters allows analyst to minimise

Avoiding of interference effects is of significant importance in the high-precision determination of a stoichiometric composition of functional materials. Study of interferences of Mg, Al and Y in yttrium-aluminium garnet and magnesium aluminium spinel was performed using solutions prepared by digestion in a phosphoric acid of oxides and mixtures of oxides of these elements. The content of each oxide in a mixture matched to stoichiometric relationships 3Y2O3· 5Al2O3 and MgO·Al2O3 or by 2-5 times differed from them. The content of dissolved oxides in solutions was 0.5-3 g L-1. It was found that in an acetylene-air flame a strong depressing effect of Al on absorption signals of Mg is observed. In a propane-butane-nitrous oxide flame this effect is weaker, whereas in an acetylene-nitrous oxide flame it is insignificant (Fig. 6). Authors (Havezov, 1983; Lueske, 1992) explained this fact by formation of MgAl2O4 spinel which stability depends on the composition of a flame and temperature. Magnesium reduces emission and absorption signals of Al that leads to parallel shift of the calibration line without change its bias. In the presence of Y the small increase of emission signals of Al is observed. At the same time Y does not affect absorption signals of Al. Analytical signals of Y

For elimination of such interferences a lanthanum nitrate modifier is found to be the most effective. Introduction in solutions not less than 1 mas. % of the lanthanum interfering with forming low-volatile compounds at the moment of evaporation of droplets of an aerosol [], allows to eliminate all interferences almost completely (except depressing effect of Al on absorption signals of Mg in an acetylene-air flame). The content of *n·*Y2O3·*k*Al2O3 or MgO·*k*Al2O3 (at *k* <3) in solutions should not exceed 1 g L-1 or 0.5 g L-1 of MgO·*k*Al2O3 (at *k* >3). In order to prevent precipitation of lanthanum compounds, analysed solutions should

**2.2.4 Interference effects of analysed elements in phosphate solutions** 

aluminium (Grossmann, 1987).

butane-nitrous oxide flames.

decrease in the presence of Al (Fig. 6b).

contain not less than 1.4 M of HNO3.

oxide flame.

matrix effect.

Ni in a propane-butane-nitrous oxide flame are increased.

Fig. 6. Influence of Al on absorption signals of Mg (*a*) in acetylene-air, propane-butanenitrous oxide and acetylene-nitrous oxide flames; Y (*b*) in an acetylene-nitrous oxide flame. 1 – Mg (Y) + Н3РО4; 2 - Mg (Y) + Н3РО4 + Al; 3 - Mg (Y) + Н3РО4 + Al + La

It was also found that interferences of Na, K, Ca, Mg during their determination in CdWO4, Al2O3, yttrium-aluminium garnet and magnesium aluminium spinel can be eliminated by using of a cesium chloride buffer. In this case, it is possible to determine all these elements from the same solution.

#### **2.2.5 Some practical applications of phosphoric acid digestion of refractory oxide single crystals followed by flame spectrometry analysis**

Our investigations have shown efficiency of use of a condensed phosphoric acid for dissolution of different refractory oxide single crystals. The data presented in the previous sections were used for the development of new procedures for determination of main components, dopants and microimpurities in single crystals and raw materials.

For the determination of a stoichiometric composition of yttrium-aluminium garnet and magnesium aluminium spinel, powder reference materials 3Y2O3·5Al2O3 and MgO·Al2O3 were used. The content of metals in these compounds was determined precisely by chelatometry. Calibration standards were prepared by dissolving of different masses of a powder reference material in condensed phosphoric acid. All solution contained CsCl as a spectroscopic buffer. An acetylene-nitrous oxide flame was used in the most cases but the determination of Mg is also possible with use of a propane-butane-nitrous oxide flame. Tables 4 and 5 contain data on the methods accuracy check and comparison with the results of chelatometry (in terms of oxides).

As can be seen from the Table 4, high concentrations of Al can be determined by both FAES and FAAS methods but the last one is more preferable. It was found that K and Na can be determined in sparingly soluble tungstates KGd(WO4)2 and BiNa(WO4)2 after their dissolving in a condensed phosphoric acid with a confidence interval not exceeding 0.5…0,7

Flame Spectrometry in Analysis of Refractory Oxide Single Crystals 119

Condensed phosphoric acid digestion

> (2.4±0.2)·10-2 (8.4±0.4)·10-2 (2.5±0.2)·10-2

> > 4.4±0.1 3.0±0.1 5.0±0.1 8.0±0.1

1.24±0.04

Table 6. Results of the determination of dopants in aluminium oxide based materials (*n*=3;

Some metrological characteristics of developed procedures are presented in the Table 7. Thus, phosphoric acid digestion is a very effective and universal method of sample preparation of refractory oxide single crystals and raw materials. In some cases this is the only method suitable for the successive determination of alkali metals in single crystals since

range, мас.% RSD%

Dopants

Impurities

14…4 10…3 15…2 13…2 12…2 9…2

5…1 4…2 4…1 1

14…7 13…2 10…2

12…3 13…2 13…9

sample solutions obtained by alkali fusion may have extremely high blank signals.

110-2…2.0 510-3…2.0 710-3…2.0 710-3…2.0 710-3…2.0 710-3…2.0

110-3…10.0 0.2…10.0 0.2…2.0 0.2…2.0

*m*Al2O3 *n*Y2O3 Nd 0.2…6.0 11…5 0.5…4.2

510-4…210-2 110-3…510-2 110-3…210-1

510-4…210-2 110-3…510-2 510-4…210-2

Nd 0.77±0.04

Compound Element Concentration

Ti V Co (AA) Co (PBNO) Ni (AA) Ni (PBNO)

Li Na Mg (AA) Mg (PBNO)

> Na K Ca

> Na K Ca

Concentration, mas. % Flame spectrometry Arc atomic-

> Fusion with LiBO2

(2.5±0.1)·10-2

4.3±0.2 2.8±0.2 5.1±0.2 8.0±0.2

0.76±0.02 1.27±0.03

emission spectroscopy

(10±2)·10-2 (3.0±0.3)·10-2

> 0.85±0.06 1.40±0.09

Typical abundance of the element, mas. %

> 510-3…0.4 510-3…0.4 0.01…0.6

<710-3…0.13

110-3…0.7 0.7…6.0 0.8

<510-4…0.19 <110-3…0.06 110-3…0.03

<510-4…710-3 <510-4…910-3 710-4…210-3

Compound Element


Ti V Ni

α-Al2O3

Yttriumaluminium garnet

α-Al2O3, *m*Al2O3 *n*MgO


α-Al2O3

*m*Al2O3 *n*Y2O3

P=0.95)


mas. %. Moreover, the absence of matrix effect allowed carrying out the analysis with use of calibration standards containing solvent and analysed elements only (CsCl was used a spectroscopic buffer for the determination of Na).

Table 4. Accuracy check of the developed procedures


Table 5. Comparison of results obtained by chelatometry and FAES (*n*=3; P=0.95)

Accuracy of developed procedures for the determination of dopants in aluminium oxide based materials was checked by comparison with results obtained by an independent method as well as using a different method of sample preparation (Table 6). The proposed procedures are more precise than arc atomic emission analysis and do not require large amounts of samples as is required in X-ray fluorescence analysis.

 <sup>3</sup> Number of degrees freedom

mas. %. Moreover, the absence of matrix effect allowed carrying out the analysis with use of calibration standards containing solvent and analysed elements only (CsCl was used a

> Technical requirements, mas.%

> > 57.1 1.3 42.9 1.0

> > 68.9 1.0 31.1 0.5

> > 27.2 0.5 70.3 1.3

Accuracy of developed procedures for the determination of dopants in aluminium oxide based materials was checked by comparison with results obtained by an independent method as well as using a different method of sample preparation (Table 6). The proposed procedures are more precise than arc atomic emission analysis and do not require large

Table 5. Comparison of results obtained by chelatometry and FAES (*n*=3; P=0.95)

Abundance,

mas. % df3 RSD%

FAES 42.8 42.7 36 1.2 1.19 (2.02) FAAS 42.8 42.8 44 1.2 0 (2.02) FAES 31.4 31.2 24 2.1 1.67 (2.06) FAAS 31.4 31.5 40 2.2 0.98 (2.02)

FAAS 56.8 56.7 44 1.8 0.68 (2.02) FAAS 68.8 69.1 42 2.3 1.31 (2.02)

FAES 70.2 69.9 21 1.0 2.19 (2.08) FAAS 70.2 70.3 48 1.0 0.98 (2.01)

FAAS 27.2 27.3 35 1.1 1.97 (2.03)

27.2 27.2 33 0.8 0 (2.01)

56.4 0.6 42.6 0.3

69.2 1.0 31.2 0.4

27.2 0.1 70.3 0.5

Found, mas.%

FAAS Chelatometry

56.8 0.2 42.7 0.1

69.2 1.0 31.2 0.4

27.2 0.1 70.2 0.2

Stated Found P=0.95)

*t*-test (critical value,

spectroscopic buffer for the determination of Na).

Material Oxide Method

Al2O3

Y2O3

Al2O3

MgO

Compound Oxide

3Y2O3 5Al2O3

Y2O3 Al2O3

MgO Al2O3

<sup>3</sup> Number of degrees freedom

FААS (propanebutanenitrous oxide flame)

Table 4. Accuracy check of the developed procedures

Y2O3 Al2O3

Y2O3 Al2O3

MgO Al2O3

amounts of samples as is required in X-ray fluorescence analysis.

Yttriumaluminium garnet

Magnesium aluminium spinel


Table 6. Results of the determination of dopants in aluminium oxide based materials (*n*=3; P=0.95)

Some metrological characteristics of developed procedures are presented in the Table 7. Thus, phosphoric acid digestion is a very effective and universal method of sample preparation of refractory oxide single crystals and raw materials. In some cases this is the only method suitable for the successive determination of alkali metals in single crystals since sample solutions obtained by alkali fusion may have extremely high blank signals.


Flame Spectrometry in Analysis of Refractory Oxide Single Crystals 121

even to < 100 microns. The average time of the spontaneous sedimentation of these oxide

0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140

It is possible to make the following assumptions concerning effects of transferring of impurities of alkali metals and Ca in an aqueous phase during the extraction procedure

 along with increase of specific surface of materials during grinding, a great number of microinhomogeneities and defects are appeared on a surface of particles

*γ*-А12О3 and Y3Al5O12 fine powders (<< 1 µm) are partly hydrated and some amounts of

 after calcination of alum at temperature of 1200 ºC there is a part of unevaporated sulphates of alkali metals in the obtained aluminium oxide. The full decomposition of suphates takes place at higher temperatures (Chebotkevich, 1975; Hanamirova,1983).

 it was experimentally confirmed by other authors (Ermolenko et al., 1971; Hanamirova, 1983; Uksche, 1977 that at temperatures of 600-1200 ºC aluminate of alkali and alkaliearth element of spinel type are generated. Owing to a "quasiliquid" state of cationic sublattice ions of alkali metals can migrate freely via interblock clefts and substitute each other in the spinel cluster (Uksche, 1977). Aluminates of alkaline and alkali-earth metals in water are hydrolyzed to А1(OH)3 and hydroxyaluminates (Hanamirova,

Apparently, in aqueous suspensions of А12О3 and Y3Al5O12 all these factors may take place and may have a different contribution depending on the dispersity and "prehistory" of material. It was found that the optimum sample mass/water volume ratio is 0.1 g per 10 ml of water. The time of obtaining of transparent extracts was 10 and 12 hours for *α*-A12O3 and *γ*-А12О3 (Y3Al5O12), respectively. It is a compromise between the sensitivity of analysis and

Optimum conditions of the flame spectrometry determination of Na, K and Ca in aqueous extracts of Al2O3 and Y3Al5O12 have been studied. It has been found that Na, K and Ca

Fig. 7. Effect of *α*-A12O3 particle size on the recovery of Na, K and Ca

(Dobrovinskaya et al., 2007; Hanamirova, 1983; Foner, 1984);

Sulphates of alkali metals have a good solubility in water;

Particle size, m

*Ca*

*Na <sup>K</sup>*


materials depends on the dispersity of powders and is equal to 8 hours for

12 hours for


60

70

80

Recovery, %

irrespective of Al2O3 modifications:

Al(OH)3 are always present;

1983; Remi, 1973).

sample preparation time.

90

100


Table 7. Metrological characteristics of procedures of flame spectrometry analysis of single crystals with phosphoric acid digestion at the stage of sample preparation

#### **3. Analysis of aqueous extracts of powders based on aluminium oxide**

The traditional methods of sample preparation of aluminium oxide such as fusion with fluxes and selective acid dissolution in autoclaves are time consuming and unsafe.

Digestion of oxide materials in condensed phosphoric acid is express and reliable method. However, a strong depressing effect of phosphoric acid on analytical signals in atomic spectrometry does not allow to provide low detection limits for many elements. Recently, procedures of the direct analysis of oxide materials from aqueous suspension are widely used, but this method (see section 4) requires use of standards identical to analysed samples. This section contains results of the study of aqueous extraction of K, Na, Ca, V, Ni and Co from α-, γ-Al2O3, *m*Al2O3· *n*Y2O3 and *m*Al2O3· *n*MgO used as raw materials for single crystals growing.

#### **3.1 Flame spectrometry determination of alkali metals and Ca in aqueous extracts of**  *α***- and** *γ***-Al2O3**

Commercially available extra pure *γ*-Al2O3 powders (Donetsk Plant for Chemical Reagents, Ukraine) were used throughout. *α*-Al2O3 was obtained by calcination of ammonia alum at 1200 ºC during 3 hours (Chebotkevich, 1975), Y3Al5O12 was synthesized from Al2O3 and Y2O3 by calcination at 1200 ºC (Neiman et al., 1980). *α*-Al2O3 was powdered in a leucosapphire mortal and sifted through 40, 60, 100 and 160 microns sieves. Particle size of *γ* -A12O3 and Y3Al5O12 initially was less than 1 µm.

Leaching procedure was carried out in quartz beakers (50 ml) at ambient temperature by mixing of powders with ultrapure water to obtain stable suspension followed by spontaneous sedimentation of a solid phase. Heating of the sample has appeared unacceptable owing to oxide adherence to beaker walls. It was also found that the spontaneous sedimentation of Al2O3 solid phase and Al(OН)3 formed during leaching is an optimum technique of sample preparation. Centrifugation of suspension is found to be unsuitable because of formation of very stable suspension. Especially, this is typical for fine powders of *γ*-А12О3 and Y3Al5O12.

Effect of *α*-A12O3 particle size on the recovery of Na, K and Ca is shown in Fig. 7. One can see that the full extraction of elements is observed up to particle size < 60 microns and for K

10-4…410-3 10-4…210-3 10-4…210-3 10-4…210-2 10-3…210-1 10-4…110-2 10-4…110-2 10-2…210-2

SrTiO3 Ca 510-4…310-2 4…2 410-4 Table 7. Metrological characteristics of procedures of flame spectrometry analysis of single

The traditional methods of sample preparation of aluminium oxide such as fusion with

Digestion of oxide materials in condensed phosphoric acid is express and reliable method. However, a strong depressing effect of phosphoric acid on analytical signals in atomic spectrometry does not allow to provide low detection limits for many elements. Recently, procedures of the direct analysis of oxide materials from aqueous suspension are widely used, but this method (see section 4) requires use of standards identical to analysed samples. This section contains results of the study of aqueous extraction of K, Na, Ca, V, Ni and Co from α-, γ-Al2O3, *m*Al2O3· *n*Y2O3 and *m*Al2O3· *n*MgO used as raw materials for single crystals

**3.1 Flame spectrometry determination of alkali metals and Ca in aqueous extracts of** 

Commercially available extra pure *γ*-Al2O3 powders (Donetsk Plant for Chemical Reagents, Ukraine) were used throughout. *α*-Al2O3 was obtained by calcination of ammonia alum at 1200 ºC during 3 hours (Chebotkevich, 1975), Y3Al5O12 was synthesized from Al2O3 and Y2O3 by calcination at 1200 ºC (Neiman et al., 1980). *α*-Al2O3 was powdered in a leucosapphire mortal and sifted through 40, 60, 100 and 160 microns sieves. Particle size of

Leaching procedure was carried out in quartz beakers (50 ml) at ambient temperature by mixing of powders with ultrapure water to obtain stable suspension followed by spontaneous sedimentation of a solid phase. Heating of the sample has appeared unacceptable owing to oxide adherence to beaker walls. It was also found that the spontaneous sedimentation of Al2O3 solid phase and Al(OН)3 formed during leaching is an optimum technique of sample preparation. Centrifugation of suspension is found to be unsuitable because of formation of very stable suspension. Especially, this is typical for fine

Effect of *α*-A12O3 particle size on the recovery of Na, K and Ca is shown in Fig. 7. One can see that the full extraction of elements is observed up to particle size < 60 microns and for K

**3. Analysis of aqueous extracts of powders based on aluminium oxide** 

fluxes and selective acid dissolution in autoclaves are time consuming and unsafe.

crystals with phosphoric acid digestion at the stage of sample preparation

range, мас.% RSD%

6…3 7…3 6…2 5…2 6…2 6…2 2…1 3

Typical abundance of the element, mas. %

> <110-4 210-4…110-2 <210-4 <510-4 <510-3 <110-4 <210-4 <510-3

Compound Element Concentration

Li Na K Rb Cs Mg, Ca Sr Ba

*γ* -A12O3 and Y3Al5O12 initially was less than 1 µm.

powders of *γ*-А12О3 and Y3Al5O12.

CdWO4

growing.

*α***- and** *γ***-Al2O3**

even to < 100 microns. The average time of the spontaneous sedimentation of these oxide materials depends on the dispersity of powders and is equal to 8 hours for -Al2O3 and 10- 12 hours for -Al2O3 and Y3Al5O12.

Fig. 7. Effect of *α*-A12O3 particle size on the recovery of Na, K and Ca

It is possible to make the following assumptions concerning effects of transferring of impurities of alkali metals and Ca in an aqueous phase during the extraction procedure irrespective of Al2O3 modifications:


Apparently, in aqueous suspensions of А12О3 and Y3Al5O12 all these factors may take place and may have a different contribution depending on the dispersity and "prehistory" of material. It was found that the optimum sample mass/water volume ratio is 0.1 g per 10 ml of water. The time of obtaining of transparent extracts was 10 and 12 hours for *α*-A12O3 and *γ*-А12О3 (Y3Al5O12), respectively. It is a compromise between the sensitivity of analysis and sample preparation time.

Optimum conditions of the flame spectrometry determination of Na, K and Ca in aqueous extracts of Al2O3 and Y3Al5O12 have been studied. It has been found that Na, K and Ca

Flame Spectrometry in Analysis of Refractory Oxide Single Crystals 123

0 20 40 60 80 100 120

0 5 10 15 20

Fig. 9. Dependence of recovery of Co(Ni) on the exposure time

Fig. 8. Dependence of recovery of Co(Ni) on the ultrasonic dispenser driving power

**I, W**

**min**

**78 W** 

**91 W** 

**104 W** 

10

10

20

30

**Recovery, %**

40

50

60

(τ =5 min)

15

20

**Recovery, %**

25

increase analytical signals of each other. Al and Y up to concentration of 10 mg L-1 do not affect analytical signals of Na and Ca but increase the analytical signal of K. Using of CsCl as a spectroscopic buffer (2 g L-1) has allowed us to eliminate interference effects completely.

The results of analysis of aluminium based oxide materials obtained using the proposed method of sample preparation and digestion in condensed phosphoric acid are shown in Table 8.

One can see that aqueous extraction technique provides lower limits of determination (LOD) of Na, K and Ca and does not yield to more complicated techniques described in (Krasil' shchik et al., 1989; Slovak et al., 1981). The developed technique can be used for the express quality control of fusion mixtures of А12О3 and Y3Al5O12 of different dispersity and for the determination of alkali metals dopants in А12О3 charge.


Table 8. Comparison of results obtained using two different methods of sample preparation (*n*=3; P = 0.95)

#### **3.2 Flame spectrometry determination of dopants Co and Ni in subacid aqueous extracts of α- and γ-Al2O3**

The possibility of application of subacid aqueous extraction technique combined with ultrasonic and microwave treatment for the determination of Co and Ni in α- and γ-Al2O3 fusion mixtures was studied.

An ultrasonic dispenser UZDN-A (Selmi, Ukraine) with operating frequency of 22 kHz a microwave digestion system MDS-2000 (CEM, USA) were used for the treatment of subacid aqueous suspensions of Al2O3 powders. Fractions with particle size less than 40 µm were used throughout. 0.1 g of α-Al2O3:Co(Ni) or mAl2O3·nMgO:Co(Ni) was mixed with 10 ml of water and 0.2 ml of HNO3 and then ultrasonic treatment was applied. Solutions obtained after the spontaneous sedimentation of solid phase were used for analysis.

It was found that recovery of Co and Ni is quite similar and increases with augmentation of intensity of ultrasonic irradiation and processing time (Fig. 8 and 9). The maximum in Fig. 8 corresponds to optimum cavitation conditions. However, the maximum recovery at the optimum conditions (I = 78 W, τ =15 min) was only 50 %. It was assumed that only those atoms located on grains boundary (not entered into crystal lattice owing to various ionic radiuses of cobalt (nickel) and aluminium (Dobrovinskaya et al., 2007) have been extracted.

increase analytical signals of each other. Al and Y up to concentration of 10 mg L-1 do not affect analytical signals of Na and Ca but increase the analytical signal of K. Using of CsCl as a spectroscopic buffer (2 g L-1) has allowed us to eliminate interference effects completely. The results of analysis of aluminium based oxide materials obtained using the proposed method of sample preparation and digestion in condensed phosphoric acid are shown in

One can see that aqueous extraction technique provides lower limits of determination (LOD) of Na, K and Ca and does not yield to more complicated techniques described in

RSD% Cmin,

ppm

0.2

0.2

130±3 2 140±8 4

28±1 2 28±2 4

for the determination of alkali metals dopants in А12О3 charge.

Found, ppm

9,1±0,4 3

9,1±0,3 3




Table 8. Comparison of results obtained using two different methods of sample preparation

The possibility of application of subacid aqueous extraction technique combined with ultrasonic and microwave treatment for the determination of Co and Ni in α- and γ-Al2O3

An ultrasonic dispenser UZDN-A (Selmi, Ukraine) with operating frequency of 22 kHz a microwave digestion system MDS-2000 (CEM, USA) were used for the treatment of subacid aqueous suspensions of Al2O3 powders. Fractions with particle size less than 40 µm were used throughout. 0.1 g of α-Al2O3:Co(Ni) or mAl2O3·nMgO:Co(Ni) was mixed with 10 ml of water and 0.2 ml of HNO3 and then ultrasonic treatment was applied. Solutions obtained

It was found that recovery of Co and Ni is quite similar and increases with augmentation of intensity of ultrasonic irradiation and processing time (Fig. 8 and 9). The maximum in Fig. 8 corresponds to optimum cavitation conditions. However, the maximum recovery at the optimum conditions (I = 78 W, τ =15 min) was only 50 %. It was assumed that only those atoms located on grains boundary (not entered into crystal lattice owing to various ionic radiuses of cobalt (nickel) and aluminium (Dobrovinskaya et al., 2007) have been extracted.

**3.2 Flame spectrometry determination of dopants Co and Ni in subacid aqueous** 

after the spontaneous sedimentation of solid phase were used for analysis.

shchik et al., 1989; Slovak et al., 1981). The developed technique can be used for the express quality control of fusion mixtures of А12О3 and Y3Al5O12 of different dispersity and

Aqueous extracts Digestion in condensed

5 67±2 2 66±5 6

10 43±2 1 40±4 7

Found, ppm

11±2 10

< 10 13

phosphoric acid

RSD% Cmin,

ppm

Table 8.

(Krasil'

Material Element



(*n*=3; P = 0.95)

**extracts of α- and γ-Al2O3** 

fusion mixtures was studied.

Fig. 8. Dependence of recovery of Co(Ni) on the ultrasonic dispenser driving power (τ =5 min)

Fig. 9. Dependence of recovery of Co(Ni) on the exposure time

Flame Spectrometry in Analysis of Refractory Oxide Single Crystals 125

Accuracy of the developed procedure for the determination of dopants in aluminium oxide based materials was proved by comparison with the results obtained by FAAS after digestion of samples in condensed phosphoric acid (Table 9). The obtained results are in

The proposed sample preparation technique has allowed us to improve limits of determination of Co and Ni owing to exclusion of acid solvents from analytical procedure

Found, ppm RSD% Cmin,

Ni 800 ± 20 2

Ni 1600 ± 20 1

sample preparation techniques (*n* = 10; P = 0.95)

Aqueous extracts Digestion in condensed

10

10

Co 190 ± 10 4 210 ± 30 5

Co 790 ± 20 2 810 ± 20 4

Table 9. Comparison of results of the determination of Co and Ni with use of two different

**4. Direct flame atomic absorption determination of Co and Ni dopants from** 

Whereas Co and Ni dopants cannot be extracted quantitatively to aqueous phase during ultrasonic treatment of Al2O3 suspensions, it is possible to use directly such suspensions in analysis by flame atomic absorption spectrometry. Under ultrasonic irradiation the average size of suspended particles of a powder of Al2O3 decreases and suspension of very good stability and uniformity is formed. This is an important factor which affects degree of atomization and detection limits. For example, analytical signals of Co and Ni in such suspensions are two times higher in comparison with those obtained in suspensions prepared at ambient temperature by mechanical agitation. If there are certified reference materials available, this analysis technique has a number of benefits such us speed and low

In this work calibration standards were prepared by using melt fusion technique. It was found that for the determination 100…2000 ppm of Co(Ni) it is necessary to have not less than five calibration standards with concentrations of an analyte increased by a factor of 2- 2.5. Calibration standards were prepared as follows. Extra pure ammonia alum was melted in platinum crucible on a hot plate and then cobalt (or nickel) sulphate preliminary calcined

**aqueous suspensions of aluminium oxide based materials** 

phosphoric acid

ppm

50

50

ppm Found, ppm RSD% Cmin,

810 ± 20 4

1610 ± 20 5

good agreement with each other.

Material Element


*m*Al2O3· *n*MgO: Co(Ni)

labor expenditures.

and use of aqueous calibration standards.

Thus, ultrasonic treatment of aqueous suspensions of Al2O3 powders is found to be unsuitable for quantitative analysis of extracts. However, as have shown our further investigations, it is possible to use successfully suspensions of α-Al2O3 for direct determination of Co and Ni dopants (see section 4).

Extraction of Co and Ni from subacid aqueous suspensions of Al2O3 powders using microwave heating in closed vessels was found to be more effective. Dependence of recovery of Co and Ni on time of exposure (at pressure of 100 psi) and acidity of aqueous suspensions was studied. 0.05, 0.2, 0.5 and 1 ml of HNO3 were added to 10 ml of aqueous suspensions of Al2O3 in order to obtain the samples with different acidity. As can be seen from Fig. 10, the most principal parameter is exposure time. Obviously, the transfer of dopants into solution under microwave heating is caused by deterioration of surface layers and activation of diffusion-controlled transfer processes.

Fig. 10. Dependence of recovery of Co(Ni) on time of exposure and acidity of aqueous suspensions

Thus, ultrasonic treatment of aqueous suspensions of Al2O3 powders is found to be unsuitable for quantitative analysis of extracts. However, as have shown our further investigations, it is possible to use successfully suspensions of α-Al2O3 for direct

Extraction of Co and Ni from subacid aqueous suspensions of Al2O3 powders using microwave heating in closed vessels was found to be more effective. Dependence of recovery of Co and Ni on time of exposure (at pressure of 100 psi) and acidity of aqueous suspensions was studied. 0.05, 0.2, 0.5 and 1 ml of HNO3 were added to 10 ml of aqueous suspensions of Al2O3 in order to obtain the samples with different acidity. As can be seen from Fig. 10, the most principal parameter is exposure time. Obviously, the transfer of dopants into solution under microwave heating is caused by deterioration of surface layers

0,0 0,2 0,4 0,6 0,8 1,0

Fig. 10. Dependence of recovery of Co(Ni) on time of exposure and acidity of aqueous

**V (HNO3**

**), ml**

= 45 min

 = 30 min = 15 min

= 5 min

= 2 min

determination of Co and Ni dopants (see section 4).

and activation of diffusion-controlled transfer processes.

40

60

**Recovery, %**

suspensions

80

100

Accuracy of the developed procedure for the determination of dopants in aluminium oxide based materials was proved by comparison with the results obtained by FAAS after digestion of samples in condensed phosphoric acid (Table 9). The obtained results are in good agreement with each other.

The proposed sample preparation technique has allowed us to improve limits of determination of Co and Ni owing to exclusion of acid solvents from analytical procedure and use of aqueous calibration standards.


Table 9. Comparison of results of the determination of Co and Ni with use of two different sample preparation techniques (*n* = 10; P = 0.95)

#### **4. Direct flame atomic absorption determination of Co and Ni dopants from aqueous suspensions of aluminium oxide based materials**

Whereas Co and Ni dopants cannot be extracted quantitatively to aqueous phase during ultrasonic treatment of Al2O3 suspensions, it is possible to use directly such suspensions in analysis by flame atomic absorption spectrometry. Under ultrasonic irradiation the average size of suspended particles of a powder of Al2O3 decreases and suspension of very good stability and uniformity is formed. This is an important factor which affects degree of atomization and detection limits. For example, analytical signals of Co and Ni in such suspensions are two times higher in comparison with those obtained in suspensions prepared at ambient temperature by mechanical agitation. If there are certified reference materials available, this analysis technique has a number of benefits such us speed and low labor expenditures.

In this work calibration standards were prepared by using melt fusion technique. It was found that for the determination 100…2000 ppm of Co(Ni) it is necessary to have not less than five calibration standards with concentrations of an analyte increased by a factor of 2- 2.5. Calibration standards were prepared as follows. Extra pure ammonia alum was melted in platinum crucible on a hot plate and then cobalt (or nickel) sulphate preliminary calcined

Flame Spectrometry in Analysis of Refractory Oxide Single Crystals 127

The proposed sample preparation methods for water extracts of aluminium oxide powders and yttrium-aluminium garnet allows to carry out an express determination of alkaline metals, calcium, nickel and cobalt in raw materials for single crystals growing. These sample preparation methods ensure low blank signals and better reproducibility of analytical

Limits of determination of impurities in all investigated materials after phosphoric acid digestion were 1…5 ppm. Na, K and Ca can be determined in aqueous extracts of Al2O3

It was shown that Co and Ni dopants can be determined by FAAS directly from aqueous

Bock R. (1979). *A handbook of decomposition methods in analytical chemistry.* Glasgow,

Corbridge D.E.C. (1990). *Phosphorus: an outline of its chemistry biochemistry and technology.* 4-th

Dobrovinskaya E.; Lytvynov L.; Pischik V. (2007). *Sapphire in science and engineering.*

Ermolenko N.F.; Efros M.D.; Oboturov A.V. (1971). *Regulirovanie poristoi struktury okisnykh* 

Foner H.A. (1984). High-pressure acid dissolution of refractory alumina for trace element determination, *Analyt. Chem,* Vol. 56, No. 4, pp. 856-859, ISSN 0003-2700 Grossmann O. (1987). Application of experimental design for investigating the

spectrometry, A*nal. сhim. асta.* V.203, No 1, pp. 55-66, ISSN 0003-2670 Haines J.(1988). Sample preparation for AA, *Lab Pract,* Vol. 37, No. 10 pp. 85-86, 88, ISSN

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Henrion G.; Marquardt D.; Lunk H.-J. et al. (1979*).* Flammenphotometrische bestimmung

Kharkov. STS «Institute for Single Crystals» National Academy of Sciences of

determination of titanium in glass ceramics by flame atomic absorption

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von kaliumspuren in wolfram, *Z. Chem*., Vol. 19, No. 10, pp 383-384, ISSN 0044-

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signals as compared to acid digestion technique.

suspensions of aluminium oxide based materials.

with the limit of determination of 0.2 ppm.

**6. References** 

0023-6853

[Russian]

2402.

Er.: AN Arm. SSR [Russian]

No. 12, pp. 1153-1157, ISSN 0039-9140

at 1200 °C was added. The melt was thoroughly stirred and dried under an infrared lamp. The solids was placed into a muffle furnace and heated slowly during 4 hours up to 1100 °C with subsequent holding during 3 hours with subsequent calcination at this temperature during 3 hours. After cooling aluminium oxide was ground to powder in a teflon mortal during an hour and sifted through a 40 µm sieve. Content of dopant in the prepared samples was approved by chelatometry. All subsequent procedures were the same as those described above.

Determined results were consistent with those obtained by analysis of samples digested in condensed phosphoric acid (Table 10).

As can be seen from Table 10, the proposed method has lower relative standard deviations as compared to the acid digestion procedure.


Table 10. Comparison of results of the determination of Co and Ni with use of two different sample preparation techniques (*n* = 6; P = 0.95)

#### **5. Conclusion**

The results presented in this chapter show that flame atomic spectrometry can be successfully used for the express control of stoichiometric and impurity composition of refractory oxide single crystals such us Al2O3, yttrium-aluminium garnet, cadmium tungstate, strontium titanate. Precision and accuracy of analytical procedure as well as metrological characteristics depend strongly on the technique of sample preparation. Use of condensed phosphoric acid as a solvent allows in comparison with traditional techniques of decomposition to unify a sample preparation procedure and to reduce the time of analysis by 5-10 times.

Optimum conditions of digestion of refractory oxide materials in condensed phosphoric acid are established. Influence of solvent, matrix and chemical interference effects on analytical signals of analysed elements with use of different mixed gas flames are also studied. It is shown that in some cases use of a propane-butane-nitrous oxide flame which is preferable and can significantly depress effects of macrocomponents and solvent. Determination of stoichiometric composition of single crystals requires paying much more attention to interference effects as well as matching of analysed materials to calibration standards as compared to impurities determination procedures.

The developed analytical procedures allow to evaluate major elements content such us Mg, Al and Y in different oxide compounds with relative standard deviations (%) 0.8…1.2, 1.0…1.5 and 1.5…2.5, respectively.

The proposed sample preparation methods for water extracts of aluminium oxide powders and yttrium-aluminium garnet allows to carry out an express determination of alkaline metals, calcium, nickel and cobalt in raw materials for single crystals growing. These sample preparation methods ensure low blank signals and better reproducibility of analytical signals as compared to acid digestion technique.

Limits of determination of impurities in all investigated materials after phosphoric acid digestion were 1…5 ppm. Na, K and Ca can be determined in aqueous extracts of Al2O3 with the limit of determination of 0.2 ppm.

It was shown that Co and Ni dopants can be determined by FAAS directly from aqueous suspensions of aluminium oxide based materials.

#### **6. References**

126 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

at 1200 °C was added. The melt was thoroughly stirred and dried under an infrared lamp. The solids was placed into a muffle furnace and heated slowly during 4 hours up to 1100 °C with subsequent holding during 3 hours with subsequent calcination at this temperature during 3 hours. After cooling aluminium oxide was ground to powder in a teflon mortal during an hour and sifted through a 40 µm sieve. Content of dopant in the prepared samples was approved by chelatometry. All subsequent procedures were the same as those

Determined results were consistent with those obtained by analysis of samples digested in

As can be seen from Table 10, the proposed method has lower relative standard deviations

Element Aqueous suspensions Digestion in condensed phosphoric

4 2

2 2

Table 10. Comparison of results of the determination of Co and Ni with use of two different

The results presented in this chapter show that flame atomic spectrometry can be successfully used for the express control of stoichiometric and impurity composition of refractory oxide single crystals such us Al2O3, yttrium-aluminium garnet, cadmium tungstate, strontium titanate. Precision and accuracy of analytical procedure as well as metrological characteristics depend strongly on the technique of sample preparation. Use of condensed phosphoric acid as a solvent allows in comparison with traditional techniques of decomposition to unify a sample preparation procedure and to reduce the time of analysis

Optimum conditions of digestion of refractory oxide materials in condensed phosphoric acid are established. Influence of solvent, matrix and chemical interference effects on analytical signals of analysed elements with use of different mixed gas flames are also studied. It is shown that in some cases use of a propane-butane-nitrous oxide flame which is preferable and can significantly depress effects of macrocomponents and solvent. Determination of stoichiometric composition of single crystals requires paying much more attention to interference effects as well as matching of analysed materials to calibration

The developed analytical procedures allow to evaluate major elements content such us Mg, Al and Y in different oxide compounds with relative standard deviations (%) 0.8…1.2,

standards as compared to impurities determination procedures.

Found, ppm RSD% Found, ppm RSD%

acid

5 4

4 3

510 ± 30 1100 ± 50

1100 ± 50 2200 ± 70

described above.

**5. Conclusion** 

by 5-10 times.

condensed phosphoric acid (Table 10).

Co 520 ± 20

Ni 1100 ± 20

1.0…1.5 and 1.5…2.5, respectively.

as compared to the acid digestion procedure.

990 ± 20

2100 ± 40

sample preparation techniques (*n* = 6; P = 0.95)


Flame Spectrometry in Analysis of Refractory Oxide Single Crystals 129

Neiman A.Ya.; Tkachenko E.V.; Kvichko L.A. et al. (1980). Conditions and

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Patnaik P.; Dean J.A. (2004). *Dean's analytical chemistry handbook*. 2nd ed. Mc GRAW-Hill

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Trachevskii V.V; Druzenko T.V; Potapova V.G. et al. (1996). Acidic-alkaline transformation

Trachevskii V.V; Druzenko T.V; Potapova V.G. et al. (1996). NMR studying of metal oxide

Tupitsyna I.A., Grinyov B.V.; KatrunovK.A. et al. (2009). Radiation Damage in CWO

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suspensions, A*nal. сhim. асta.* V.129, No 1, pp. 263-267, ISSN 0003-2670 Smets B. (1980). Vaporisation interference of sulphate and phosphate anions on the calsium

acetylene-nitrous oxide flame, *Zhurnal analiticheskoi khimii,* Vol. 45, No. 12, pp. 2389-

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decomposition procedures for atomic absorption spectrometric analysis of prehistorical ceramics, *Fr. Z. anal. Chem.,* Vol. 331, No. 7, pp. 725-729, ISSN 0937-

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Vol. 41, No. 4, pp. 586-590, ISSN 0044-4502 [Russian]

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decomposition of some difficultly soluble substances, *Zhurnal analiticheskoi khimii,*

alkaline earths in flame atomic absorption spectrometry. 2. The behavior of magnesium and calcium, *Fr. Z. anal. Chem.,* Vol. 344, No. 6, pp. 242-246, ISSN

absorption analysis. Communication 4. Calculated temperature values and equilibrium composition of acetylene- nitrous oxide and acetylene-air flames, *Zhurnal analiticheskoi khimii,* Vol. 30, No.5, pp. 846-852, ISSN 0044-4502

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**7** 

**Interference Effects of Excess Ca, Ba and Sr on** 

**Absorption Spectrometry: Characterization in** 

Group II elements constitute an environmentally important group of metals. Calcium ranks 5th in relative abundance in nature. It occurs in limestone, dolomite, gypsum and gypsiferous shale, from which it can leach into underground and surface waters. Calcium content of natural waters can range from zero to several hundred milligrams per liter, depending on the source and treatment of the water. Magnesium occurs in nature in close association with calcium. It ranks 8th in abundance among the elements, and is a common constituent of natural waters. As with calcium, concentrations of magnesium in natural water may vary from zero to several hundred milligrams per litre, depending on source and treatment of the water. Calcium and magnesium salts contribute to water hardness. Concentrations of Mg above 125 mg/L can have cathartic and diuretic effects on the water (APHA, 1992). Barium ranks 16th in relative abundance in nature, and occurs in trace amounts in natural waters. Strontium resembles calcium, and interferes in the determination of calcium by gravimetric and titrimetric methods. Although most portable water supplies contain little strontium, levels as high as 39 mg/L have been detected in well water (APHA,

FAAS and ICP-AES are the preferred methods for determining Gp II elements including Mg. Signal enhancement and/or depression were reported previous when Gp II elements were determined by atomic absorption spectrometry in the presence of other Gp II elements as interferents by several authors (Zadgorska and Krasnobaeva, 1977; Czobik and Matousek, 1978; Kos'cielniak and Parczewski, 1982; Smith and Browner, 1984; Zaranyika and Chirenje, 1999). Our approach to the study of interelement effects in atomic spectrometry involves a technique of probing changes in the number densities of the excited and ground states. Experimental analyte line emission intensity (I) and line absorbance (A) signal ratios, I'/I and A'/A, respectively, where the prime denotes readings taken in the presence of the interferent, are determined and compared to theoretical values derived assuming steady state kinetics. The method was used to follow collisional processes on the excitation and

**1. Introduction** 

1992).

**Terms of a Simplified Collisional Rate Model** 

**Mg Absorbance During Flame Atomic** 

*1Chemistry Department, University of Zimbabwe, Mt Pleasant, Harare, 2Chemistry Department, Bindura University of Science Education, Bindura,* 

Mark F. Zaranyika1, Albert T. Chirenje1

and Courtie Mahamadi2

*Zimbabwe* 

Zolotovitskaya E.S.; Potapova V.G. (1984). Application of the phosphoric acid as solvent in the analysis of monocrystals based on aluminium oxide, *Zhurnal analiticheskoi khimii,* Vol. 39, No. 10, pp. 1781-1785, ISSN 0044-4502 [Russian]

### **Interference Effects of Excess Ca, Ba and Sr on Mg Absorbance During Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry: Characterization in Terms of a Simplified Collisional Rate Model**

Mark F. Zaranyika1, Albert T. Chirenje1 and Courtie Mahamadi2 *1Chemistry Department, University of Zimbabwe, Mt Pleasant, Harare, 2Chemistry Department, Bindura University of Science Education, Bindura, Zimbabwe* 

#### **1. Introduction**

130 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

the analysis of monocrystals based on aluminium oxide, *Zhurnal analiticheskoi* 

Zolotovitskaya E.S.; Potapova V.G. (1984). Application of the phosphoric acid as solvent in

*khimii,* Vol. 39, No. 10, pp. 1781-1785, ISSN 0044-4502 [Russian]

Group II elements constitute an environmentally important group of metals. Calcium ranks 5th in relative abundance in nature. It occurs in limestone, dolomite, gypsum and gypsiferous shale, from which it can leach into underground and surface waters. Calcium content of natural waters can range from zero to several hundred milligrams per liter, depending on the source and treatment of the water. Magnesium occurs in nature in close association with calcium. It ranks 8th in abundance among the elements, and is a common constituent of natural waters. As with calcium, concentrations of magnesium in natural water may vary from zero to several hundred milligrams per litre, depending on source and treatment of the water. Calcium and magnesium salts contribute to water hardness. Concentrations of Mg above 125 mg/L can have cathartic and diuretic effects on the water (APHA, 1992). Barium ranks 16th in relative abundance in nature, and occurs in trace amounts in natural waters. Strontium resembles calcium, and interferes in the determination of calcium by gravimetric and titrimetric methods. Although most portable water supplies contain little strontium, levels as high as 39 mg/L have been detected in well water (APHA, 1992).

FAAS and ICP-AES are the preferred methods for determining Gp II elements including Mg. Signal enhancement and/or depression were reported previous when Gp II elements were determined by atomic absorption spectrometry in the presence of other Gp II elements as interferents by several authors (Zadgorska and Krasnobaeva, 1977; Czobik and Matousek, 1978; Kos'cielniak and Parczewski, 1982; Smith and Browner, 1984; Zaranyika and Chirenje, 1999). Our approach to the study of interelement effects in atomic spectrometry involves a technique of probing changes in the number densities of the excited and ground states. Experimental analyte line emission intensity (I) and line absorbance (A) signal ratios, I'/I and A'/A, respectively, where the prime denotes readings taken in the presence of the interferent, are determined and compared to theoretical values derived assuming steady state kinetics. The method was used to follow collisional processes on the excitation and

Interference Effects of Excess Ca, Ba and Sr on Mg Absorbance During Flame

acetylene FAAS in the presence of excess Ca and Sr as interferents.

equipped with automatic fuel gas flow rate optimization for each element.

Deuterium lamp to correct for background signal.

mL/min. (n = 8), and mean nebulization efficiency of 6.31.7%

sulphuric acid 0.0002%); Deionized water of conductivity 0.001Sm-1.

monitor 5 seconds after aspiration.

(n = 8) were obtained.

**2.2 Materials** 

**2.3 Procedure**

**2. Experimental 2.1 Equipment** 

Atomic Absorption Spectrometry: Characterization in Terms of a Simplified Collisional Rate Model 133

The aims of the present work were to investigate and characterize, in terms of a simplified collisional rate model, the interference effects observed when Mg is determined by air-

An AA-6401 Shimadzu Spectrophotometer with an aberration-corrected Czerney-Turner mounted monochromator, automatic two step gain adjustment beam balance, automatic baseline drift correction using electrical double beam signal processing in peak height and area modes, was used in conjunction with an air-cooled 100-mm slot burner with a stainless steel head with a Pt-Ir capillary nebulizer with a Teflon orifice, glass impact bead and polypropylene chamber, and an air-acetylene flame. The air was supplied by a Toshiba Toscon compressor at 0.35 MPa input pressure, while the fuel gas was supplied from a pressuresed tank (BOC Zimbabwe (Pvt) Ltd, Harare), at 2.0 mL/min. Under these conditions the temperature of the flame was approximately 2573K [3-5], confirmed by a personal communication obtained from Shimadzu Inc., Japan. The spectrophotometer is

Experiments were carried out using Hamamatsu Photonics hollow cathode lamps (Hamamatsu, Japan) as source. The lamps was operated at the recommended minimum current of 8 mA for Mg respectively. Measurements were made using the 285.2 nm Mg line. The spectrophotometer employs a high speed 2-wavelength simultaneous measurement

The nebulization chamber of the spectrophotometer was cleaned with triply distilled water to remove any deposited solids after each set of runs. The instrument was optimized for absorbance measurements, and care was taken not to change the instrumental settings/conditions until all measurements involving a particular interferent were completed. The average absorbance reading was recorded on the instrument computer

Instrumental parameters employed were as follows: Spectral band pass, 0.5 nm; Burner height, 7 mm; Burner angle, 0o; Acetylene fuel flow rate, 2.0 L/min.; Air input pressure, 0.35 MPa. Minimum Hollow cathode lamp current 8 mA. A mean aspiration rate of 3.000.06

The following were used: Calcium chloride AR grade (impurities present: sulphate 0.005%, total nitrogen 0.005%, phosphorous 0.001%, lead 0.001%, iron 0.0005%, magnesium 0.01%, sodium 0.01% and potassium 0.01%); magnesium chloride AR grade (impurities: free acid 0.001%, magnesium oxide 0.0005%, nitrogen compounds 0.0002%, arsenic 0.0001%, barium 0.0002%, calcium 0.00055%, potassium 0.005%, sodium 0.0055%, and zinc 0.0025%); Strontium chloride AR grade (impurities: water insoluble matter 0.005%, sulphate 0.001%, lead 0.0002%, iron 0.0001%, zinc 0.0001%, barium 0.02%, and substances not precipitated by

Four sets of standard solutions each containing 1 – 30 mg/L Mg were prepared from a freshly prepared stock solution. Three sets were spiked with 1000 mg/L Ca or Sr each

ionization of K resulting from the presence excess Na as interferent (Zaranyika et al., 1991). The approach assumes no change in the rate of introduction of analyte atoms into the excitation source, and no change in the temperature of the torch or flame, upon the simultaneous introduction of an easily ionized interferent element.

Our argument is that according to the local thermodynamic equilibrium (LTE) approach, atomic line absorption and atomic line emission intensities are directly proportional to the population of the ground and excited states, respectively, i.e., AN0 and INj whereas Nj and N0 are related by the Boltzmann equation (Boumans, 1966):

$$N\_j = N\_o. \left(\frac{\mathcal{g}\_j}{\mathcal{g}\_o}\right) \exp\left(-\Delta E \,/kT\right) \tag{1}$$

where *gj* and *g0* are the statistical weights of the excited and ground states, respectively, *k* is the Boltzmann constant, *T* is the absolute temperature and *E* is the difference in the energies of the two electronic states involved in the transition. If the rate of introduction of the analyte atoms into the plasma is kept constant, and we assume no change in the plasma temperature on simultaneous introduction of interfering metal atoms with the analyte, we may write:

$$N\_j \, \text{V} = N\_o \left(\frac{\mathcal{g}\_j}{\mathcal{g}\_o}\right) \exp\left(-\Delta \text{E} \, / \, kT\right) \tag{2}$$

where the primes denote the actual populations of analyte ground state and excited atoms in the presence of the interferent. Combining equations 1 and 2, we have

$$\frac{\dot{N}\_{\dot{j}}\,'}{\dot{N}\_{\dot{j}}} = \frac{N\_o\,'}{N\_o} \tag{3}$$

Hence,

$$\frac{I'}{I} = \frac{A'}{A} = \frac{n\_u}{n\_u} \tag{4}$$

where *nu* is number density of the excited state.

Equation 4 suggests that the effects of collisional processes on the excitation, and line emission of the analyte atoms resulting from the presence of interferent atoms may be followed by measuring the absorption or emission intensities of a given concentration of analyte atoms in the absence and presence of the interferent, and comparing the I'/I and A'/A ratios plotted versus analyte concentration. Applying the approach to absorption spectrometry, the following situations may be identified:


The aims of the present work were to investigate and characterize, in terms of a simplified collisional rate model, the interference effects observed when Mg is determined by airacetylene FAAS in the presence of excess Ca and Sr as interferents.

### **2. Experimental**

#### **2.1 Equipment**

132 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

ionization of K resulting from the presence excess Na as interferent (Zaranyika et al., 1991). The approach assumes no change in the rate of introduction of analyte atoms into the excitation source, and no change in the temperature of the torch or flame, upon the

Our argument is that according to the local thermodynamic equilibrium (LTE) approach, atomic line absorption and atomic line emission intensities are directly proportional to the population of the ground and excited states, respectively, i.e., AN0 and INj whereas Nj

> *o <sup>g</sup> N N E kT g*

where *gj* and *g0* are the statistical weights of the excited and ground states, respectively, *k* is

energies of the two electronic states involved in the transition. If the rate of introduction of the analyte atoms into the plasma is kept constant, and we assume no change in the plasma temperature on simultaneous introduction of interfering metal atoms with the analyte, we

' ' exp / *<sup>j</sup>*

where the primes denote the actual populations of analyte ground state and excited atoms

' ' ' *<sup>u</sup>*

Equation 4 suggests that the effects of collisional processes on the excitation, and line emission of the analyte atoms resulting from the presence of interferent atoms may be followed by measuring the absorption or emission intensities of a given concentration of analyte atoms in the absence and presence of the interferent, and comparing the I'/I and A'/A ratios plotted versus analyte concentration. Applying the approach to absorption

i. No collisional effects, and therefore no change in the populations of the ground and

*I A n*

*u*

*o <sup>g</sup> N N kT g* 

> ' *<sup>j</sup>* ' *<sup>o</sup> j o N N*

. exp / *<sup>j</sup>*

(1)

(2)

*E* is the difference in the

*N N* (3)

*I An* (4)

simultaneous introduction of an easily ionized interferent element.

and N0 are related by the Boltzmann equation (Boumans, 1966):

the Boltzmann constant, *T* is the absolute temperature and

may write:

Hence,

*j o*

*j o*

in the presence of the interferent. Combining equations 1 and 2, we have

where *nu* is number density of the excited state.

excited states of analyte atoms: A'/A=1

iv. Increase in excited state population: A'/A>1 v. Depopulation of excited state: A'/A<1

spectrometry, the following situations may be identified:

ii. Increase of ground state, e.g. suppression of ionization: A'/A>1 iii. Depopulation of ground state, e.g. charge transfer reactions: A'/A<1 An AA-6401 Shimadzu Spectrophotometer with an aberration-corrected Czerney-Turner mounted monochromator, automatic two step gain adjustment beam balance, automatic baseline drift correction using electrical double beam signal processing in peak height and area modes, was used in conjunction with an air-cooled 100-mm slot burner with a stainless steel head with a Pt-Ir capillary nebulizer with a Teflon orifice, glass impact bead and polypropylene chamber, and an air-acetylene flame. The air was supplied by a Toshiba Toscon compressor at 0.35 MPa input pressure, while the fuel gas was supplied from a pressuresed tank (BOC Zimbabwe (Pvt) Ltd, Harare), at 2.0 mL/min. Under these conditions the temperature of the flame was approximately 2573K [3-5], confirmed by a personal communication obtained from Shimadzu Inc., Japan. The spectrophotometer is equipped with automatic fuel gas flow rate optimization for each element.

Experiments were carried out using Hamamatsu Photonics hollow cathode lamps (Hamamatsu, Japan) as source. The lamps was operated at the recommended minimum current of 8 mA for Mg respectively. Measurements were made using the 285.2 nm Mg line. The spectrophotometer employs a high speed 2-wavelength simultaneous measurement Deuterium lamp to correct for background signal.

The nebulization chamber of the spectrophotometer was cleaned with triply distilled water to remove any deposited solids after each set of runs. The instrument was optimized for absorbance measurements, and care was taken not to change the instrumental settings/conditions until all measurements involving a particular interferent were completed. The average absorbance reading was recorded on the instrument computer monitor 5 seconds after aspiration.

Instrumental parameters employed were as follows: Spectral band pass, 0.5 nm; Burner height, 7 mm; Burner angle, 0o; Acetylene fuel flow rate, 2.0 L/min.; Air input pressure, 0.35 MPa. Minimum Hollow cathode lamp current 8 mA. A mean aspiration rate of 3.000.06 mL/min. (n = 8), and mean nebulization efficiency of 6.31.7%

(n = 8) were obtained.

#### **2.2 Materials**

The following were used: Calcium chloride AR grade (impurities present: sulphate 0.005%, total nitrogen 0.005%, phosphorous 0.001%, lead 0.001%, iron 0.0005%, magnesium 0.01%, sodium 0.01% and potassium 0.01%); magnesium chloride AR grade (impurities: free acid 0.001%, magnesium oxide 0.0005%, nitrogen compounds 0.0002%, arsenic 0.0001%, barium 0.0002%, calcium 0.00055%, potassium 0.005%, sodium 0.0055%, and zinc 0.0025%); Strontium chloride AR grade (impurities: water insoluble matter 0.005%, sulphate 0.001%, lead 0.0002%, iron 0.0001%, zinc 0.0001%, barium 0.02%, and substances not precipitated by sulphuric acid 0.0002%); Deionized water of conductivity 0.001Sm-1.

#### **2.3 Procedure**

Four sets of standard solutions each containing 1 – 30 mg/L Mg were prepared from a freshly prepared stock solution. Three sets were spiked with 1000 mg/L Ca or Sr each

Interference Effects of Excess Ca, Ba and Sr on Mg Absorbance During Flame

**3. Results and discussion** 

recombination respectively.

Atomic Absorption Spectrometry: Characterization in Terms of a Simplified Collisional Rate Model 135

The experimental A'/A curves in Fig. 1 show a sharp increase in line absorbance signal enhancement with decrease in the concentration of the analyte in the test solution below about 10 mg/L. Similar results were reported previously in a study of mutual atomization interference effects between Group I elements (Zaranyika and Makuhunga, 1997). Absorbance signal enhancement is attributed to suppression of ionization, which is equivalent to collisional ion-electron radiative recombination. The major processes affecting

analyte ground state population in the flame are represented schematically in Fig. 2.

Fig. 2. Proposed kinetic scheme: The subscripts AX2, o, u, and + denote analyte salt, ground state, excited state and ion respectively; M denotes interferent; kD, k, k' denote rate constants for thermal dissociation, excitation from the ground state and excitation the excited state respectively; kCT and kCT' denote rate constants for collisional charge transfer involving interferent atoms and ions respectively; kc(o) and kc(1) denote rate constants for collisional radiative recombination to the ground state and excited state respectively; khv and kR denote rate constants for radiative relaxation and analyte atom and counter- atom

Assuming a steady state with respect to the analyte ground state and the excited state:

<sup>2</sup> ( ) <sup>0</sup> *<sup>A</sup> D AX c o u e CT Mo h u o CT o M R o X dn k n k nn k nn k n k n k nn k nn dt*

 (5)

respectively; while one set each was left unspiked. The concentration of the interferent was kept in excess at 1000 mg/L while that of the analyte was kept at 0 -30 mg/L to minimize changes in the physical properties of the test solution. Any such changes in physical properties would affect the set of solutions to be analyzed to the same extent, and this was compensated for by taking blank readings of the solution containing the interferent only.

Absorbance (A) readings were made for the spiked sets of solutions, as well as the unspiked set using distilled water as blank. The readings for the spiked sets of Mg solutions were then adjusted for blank readings of the solution containing the interferent only. A'/A ratios were calculated and plotted against Mg concentration in the test solution in Figure 1. Preliminary experiments were run to determine the aspiration rate and nebulization efficiency for the type of solutions under analysis. A mean aspiration rate (n = 8) of 3.000.06 mL/min and a mean nebulization efficiency (n = 8) of 6.31.7% were obtained.

Fig. 1. Interference effects of excess Ca and Sr on Mg absorbance during air-acetylene FAAS.

#### **2.4 Theoretical calculations**

Ground state number densities were calculated assuming an aspiration rate of 3 mL/min. and 6 % nebulization efficiency as measured above, and a temperature of 2573 K for the airacetylene flame as noted above. Ionic number densities were calculated on the basis of the Saha relationship (Allen, 1955). Data obtained are shown in Table 1, in column headed 'no (cm-3s-1)'.


aBased on Saha relationship. M = element; = degree of ionization assuming 2573 K flame temperature. c = analyte concentration in the test solution.

Table 1. Ground state atom, ion and pre-thermal equilibration "hot" electron number densities, ne\*.

#### **3. Results and discussion**

134 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

respectively; while one set each was left unspiked. The concentration of the interferent was kept in excess at 1000 mg/L while that of the analyte was kept at 0 -30 mg/L to minimize changes in the physical properties of the test solution. Any such changes in physical properties would affect the set of solutions to be analyzed to the same extent, and this was compensated for by taking blank readings of the solution containing the interferent only. Absorbance (A) readings were made for the spiked sets of solutions, as well as the unspiked set using distilled water as blank. The readings for the spiked sets of Mg solutions were then adjusted for blank readings of the solution containing the interferent only. A'/A ratios were calculated and plotted against Mg concentration in the test solution in Figure 1. Preliminary experiments were run to determine the aspiration rate and nebulization efficiency for the type of solutions under analysis. A mean aspiration rate (n = 8) of 3.000.06 mL/min and a

Fig. 1. Interference effects of excess Ca and Sr on Mg absorbance during air-acetylene FAAS.

Ground state number densities were calculated assuming an aspiration rate of 3 mL/min. and 6 % nebulization efficiency as measured above, and a temperature of 2573 K for the airacetylene flame as noted above. Ionic number densities were calculated on the basis of the Saha relationship (Allen, 1955). Data obtained are shown in Table 1, in column headed 'no

aBased on Saha relationship. M = element; = degree of ionization assuming 2573 K flame temperature.

Table 1. Ground state atom, ion and pre-thermal equilibration "hot" electron number

mean nebulization efficiency (n = 8) of 6.31.7% were obtained.

**2.4 Theoretical calculations** 

c = analyte concentration in the test solution.

(cm-3s-1)'.

densities, ne\*.

The experimental A'/A curves in Fig. 1 show a sharp increase in line absorbance signal enhancement with decrease in the concentration of the analyte in the test solution below about 10 mg/L. Similar results were reported previously in a study of mutual atomization interference effects between Group I elements (Zaranyika and Makuhunga, 1997). Absorbance signal enhancement is attributed to suppression of ionization, which is equivalent to collisional ion-electron radiative recombination. The major processes affecting analyte ground state population in the flame are represented schematically in Fig. 2.

Fig. 2. Proposed kinetic scheme: The subscripts AX2, o, u, and + denote analyte salt, ground state, excited state and ion respectively; M denotes interferent; kD, k, k' denote rate constants for thermal dissociation, excitation from the ground state and excitation the excited state respectively; kCT and kCT' denote rate constants for collisional charge transfer involving interferent atoms and ions respectively; kc(o) and kc(1) denote rate constants for collisional radiative recombination to the ground state and excited state respectively; khv and kR denote rate constants for radiative relaxation and analyte atom and counter- atom recombination respectively.

Assuming a steady state with respect to the analyte ground state and the excited state:

$$\frac{d\mathbf{n}\_A}{dt} = k\_D \mathbf{n}\_{AX\_2} + k\_{c(o)} \mathbf{n}\_u \mathbf{n}\_e' + k\_{CT} \mathbf{n}\_+ \mathbf{n}\_{Mo} + k\_{h\nu} \mathbf{n}\_u' - k\_{\phi} \mathbf{n}\_o' - k\_{\subset}' \mathbf{n}\_o \mathbf{n}\_{M+} - k\_R \mathbf{n}\_o' \mathbf{n}\_X = \mathbf{0} \tag{5}$$

Interference Effects of Excess Ca, Ba and Sr on Mg Absorbance During Flame

( )

( )

*o CR o*

*o*

( )

Two further limiting cases can be defined for Eq. 13, thus:

Limiting Case IIA (LC IIA):

also be linear with an intercept of unity.

Limiting Case IIB (LC IIB):

It can be shown that

equal to at least nX/nX'.

Eq. 14 becomes

Or

Atomic Absorption Spectrometry: Characterization in Terms of a Simplified Collisional Rate Model 137

*CT m R X k k n kn*

( ) *CR o e CT mo o o CR o e n k nn k nn n k nn*

Since ne' = n+ ne = n+ + nmo, where ne represents the change in the electron number density in the presence of the interferent, and is the degree of ionization of the interferent,

> ( ) ( ) 1 *o m CR o CT <sup>o</sup>*

> > 1 *o mo*

i.e., absorbance signal enhancement is directly proportional to interferent number density and inversely proportional to analyte number density. In addition, if we assume that A'/A = no'/no, a plot of A'/A versus nmo/n+, should be linear with an intercept of unity. At constant interferent concentration in the test solution, a plot of A'/A versus 1/n+, should

> *R X k kn*

 

i.e., although the absorbance signal enhancement is still dependent on interferent number density and inversely proportional to analyte number density, the enhancement observed will be reduced by a factor of at least nX/nX'. In addition, if we assume the A'/A = no'/no, a plot of A'/A versus nmo/n+ should give a non-linear slope dependent on the concentration of interferent metal atom and counter atom, and with an intercept that is less than unity and

Table 2 shows the slope, intercept and R2 values for the regression plots of A'/A versus nmo/n+ obtained when the enhancement factor A'/A for Mg is determined in the presence and absence of Ca and Sr as interferents. It is apparent from the data in Table 2 that the

( ) ( ) 1 *<sup>o</sup> CR o CT mo R X o CR o CT mo R X*

*n n k k k n n k n k n kn*

*n kn n n*

*n n k k n kn* 

 

 

(14)

(16)

(13)

(15)

(17)

 

*o CR o e CT mo R X o CR o e CT m R X*

*n k nn k nn k kn n k nn k k n kn*

$$\frac{dn\_{\rm u}}{dt} = k\_{\phi}n'\_{o} - k\_{h\nu}n'\_{\rm u} - k'\_{\Delta}n'\_{\rm u} = 0 \tag{6}$$

Rearranging Eq. 6, we have

$$(k\_{h\upsilon} \mathbf{n}\_u' = \left(\frac{k\_{h\upsilon}}{k\_{h\upsilon} + k\_{\Lambda}'}\right) k\_{\phi} \mathbf{n}\_o' \tag{7}$$

Substituting into Eq. 5 and rearranging:

$$n\_o' = \frac{k\_D n\_{AX\_2} + k\_{CR(o)} n\_+ n\_e' + k\_{CT} n\_+ n\_{mo}}{k\_{CT}' n\_{m+} + k\_R n\_X' + k\_\phi \left(1 - \frac{k\_{lv}}{k\_{lv} + k\_\Lambda'}\right)}\tag{8}$$

$$m\_o' = \frac{k\_D n\_{AX\_2} + k\_{CR(o)} n\_+ n\_e' + k\_{CT} n\_+ n\_{mo}}{k\_{CT}' n\_{m+} + k\_R n\_X' + k\_\phi'} \tag{9}$$

Where

$$k'\_{\phi} = k\_{\phi} \left( 1 - \frac{k\_{hv}}{k\_{hv} + k'\_{\Lambda}} \right) \tag{10}$$

Therefore

$$\frac{n\_o'}{n\_o} = \left[\frac{k\_D n\_{AX\_2} + k\_{\rm CR\{o\}} n\_+ n\_e' + k\_{\rm CT} n\_+ n\_{mo}}{k\_D n\_{AX\_2} + k\_{\rm CR\{o\}} n\_+ n\_e}\right] \left(\frac{k\_\phi' + k\_R n\_X}{k\_\phi' + k\_{\rm CT}' n\_{m+} + k\_R n\_X'}\right) \tag{11}$$

Two major limiting cases can be defined for Eq. 11, thus: Limiting Case I (LC I):

$$k\_{\rm D}n\_{\rm A\times 2} \succ \gets k\_{\rm cR(o)}n\_{+}n'\_{e} + k\_{\rm cT}n\_{+}n\_{m}$$

$$\frac{n'\_{o}}{n\_{o}} = \frac{k'\_{\phi} + k\_{\rm R}n\_{X}}{k'\_{\phi} + k'\_{\rm CT}n\_{m+} + k\_{\rm R}n'\_{X}}\tag{12}$$

Since *kRnX'>>kRnX, no'/no* will be less than unity, i. e., a depression of absorbency signal is expected in this case, contrary to the experimental results in Fig. 1. Although the present work reports analyte line absorption signal enhancement, analyte line absorption signal depression has been reported by several workers (Herrmann and Alkemade, 1963; Brown et al., 1987). Analyte line absorption signal depression conforming to Eq. 12 was also reported previously at low flame temperature when 0.2 – 1.0 mg/L K solutions were determined in the presence of 1000 mg/L Na in the secondary reaction zones of the air-acetylene flame (Zaranyika et al., 1991).

*Limiting Case II (LC II):* 

$$k\_{\text{ $\mathcal{D}$ }} n\_{\text{ $\mathcal{R}$ }} \prec \prec k\_{\text{ $\mathcal{R}$ } \text{( $\mathcal{D}$ ,}} n\_{\text{ $\mathcal{D}$ }}$$

$$\frac{m\_o'}{m\_o} = \left[\frac{k\_{CR(o)}\eta\_+\eta\_e' + k\_{CT}\eta\_+\eta\_{mo}}{k\_{CR(o)}\eta\_+\eta\_e}\right] \left(\frac{k\_\phi' + k\_R\eta\_X}{k\_\phi' + k\_{CT}'\eta\_{m+} + k\_R\eta\_X'}\right) \tag{13}$$

Two further limiting cases can be defined for Eq. 13, thus: Limiting Case IIA (LC IIA):

$$\begin{aligned} k'\_{\boldsymbol{\sigma}} &\succ k'\_{\boldsymbol{c}\boldsymbol{\tau}} n\_{\boldsymbol{m}\_{\boldsymbol{\sigma}}} + k\_{\boldsymbol{n}} n'\_{\boldsymbol{\chi}} \\\\ \frac{m'\_{\boldsymbol{o}}}{m\_{\boldsymbol{o}}} &= \frac{k\_{\text{CR}\{o\}} n\_{+} n'\_{\boldsymbol{e}} + k\_{\boldsymbol{C}\boldsymbol{T}} n\_{+} n\_{\boldsymbol{m}\boldsymbol{o}}}{k\_{\boldsymbol{C}\text{R}\{o\}} n\_{+} n\_{\boldsymbol{e}}} \end{aligned} \tag{14}$$

Since ne' = n+ ne = n+ + nmo, where ne represents the change in the electron number density in the presence of the interferent, and is the degree of ionization of the interferent, Eq. 14 becomes

$$\frac{n\_o'}{n\_o} = 1 + \left(\frac{\alpha k\_{CR(o)} + k\_{CT}}{k\_{CR(o)}}\right) \frac{n\_{mo}}{n\_+} \tag{15}$$

Or

136 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

0 *<sup>u</sup> o hu u dn kn k n kn*

> *hv hv u o hv <sup>k</sup> k n k n k k*

*D AX CR o e CT mo*

<sup>2</sup> *D AX CR o e CT mo* ( )

*k n k nn k nn*

*<sup>k</sup> k n kn k*

*CT m R X k n k nn k nn*

 

*<sup>k</sup> k k*

( ) *o D AX CR o e CT mo R X o D AX CR o e CT m R X*

*n k n k nn k nn k kn n k n k nn k k n kn*

 

( ) *D C* <sup>2</sup> *AX <sup>R</sup> o eCT mo kn k nn k nn*

Since *kRnX'>>kRnX, no'/no* will be less than unity, i. e., a depression of absorbency signal is expected in this case, contrary to the experimental results in Fig. 1. Although the present work reports analyte line absorption signal enhancement, analyte line absorption signal depression has been reported by several workers (Herrmann and Alkemade, 1963; Brown et al., 1987). Analyte line absorption signal depression conforming to Eq. 12 was also reported previously at low flame temperature when 0.2 – 1.0 mg/L K solutions were determined in the presence of 1000 mg/L Na in the secondary reaction zones of the air-acetylene flame

( ) *D C* <sup>2</sup> *AX <sup>R</sup> o e kn k nn*

*o R X o CT m R X*

*n k kn n k k n kn* 

*k n kn k*

1 *hv hv*

*k k*

<sup>2</sup> ( )

*CT m R X*

 

 

1

*hv*

(12)

(10)

*hv*

*k k*

(6)

(7)

(8)

(9)

(11)

 

*dt*

*o*

*o*

*n*

2

Two major limiting cases can be defined for Eq. 11, thus:

2 ( )

*n*

Rearranging Eq. 6, we have

Where

Therefore

Limiting Case I (LC I):

(Zaranyika et al., 1991). *Limiting Case II (LC II):* 

Substituting into Eq. 5 and rearranging:

$$\frac{n\_o'}{n\_o} = 1 + \frac{kn\_{mo}}{n\_+} \tag{16}$$

i.e., absorbance signal enhancement is directly proportional to interferent number density and inversely proportional to analyte number density. In addition, if we assume that A'/A = no'/no, a plot of A'/A versus nmo/n+, should be linear with an intercept of unity. At constant interferent concentration in the test solution, a plot of A'/A versus 1/n+, should also be linear with an intercept of unity.

Limiting Case IIB (LC IIB):

$$k'\_{\boldsymbol{\phi}} \prec\prec k\_n n\_{\times}$$

It can be shown that

$$\frac{m\_o'}{m\_o} = \left| \mathbf{1} + \left( \frac{\alpha k\_{CR(o)} + k\_{CT}}{k\_{CR(o)}} \right) \frac{n\_{mo}}{n\_+} \right| \left( \frac{k\_R n\_X}{\alpha k\_{CT}' n\_{mo} + k\_R n\_X'} \right) \tag{17}$$

i.e., although the absorbance signal enhancement is still dependent on interferent number density and inversely proportional to analyte number density, the enhancement observed will be reduced by a factor of at least nX/nX'. In addition, if we assume the A'/A = no'/no, a plot of A'/A versus nmo/n+ should give a non-linear slope dependent on the concentration of interferent metal atom and counter atom, and with an intercept that is less than unity and equal to at least nX/nX'.

Table 2 shows the slope, intercept and R2 values for the regression plots of A'/A versus nmo/n+ obtained when the enhancement factor A'/A for Mg is determined in the presence and absence of Ca and Sr as interferents. It is apparent from the data in Table 2 that the

Interference Effects of Excess Ca, Ba and Sr on Mg Absorbance During Flame

*o*

*n n* 

And

energy.

comparison.

assumption, then Eq. 15 becomes

excess Ca and Sr as interferents:

Atomic Absorption Spectrometry: Characterization in Terms of a Simplified Collisional Rate Model 139

where the subscripts *a* and *m* denote analyte and interferent respectively. If we make this

1 exp( / ) *o e <sup>a</sup>*

Table 3 shows the fraction of such electrons having the appropriate energy, and Table 1 shows the corresponding pre-thermal equilibration number density of "hot" electrons, ne\*, arising from the analyte, Mg (ne\* = n+), and the interferents Ca and Sr (ne\* = n+exp(-Ea'/kT)). \*Ea' = IPa – IPm.

Table 3. Pre-thermal equilibration fraction of electrons having the requisite activation

/

/

*o Mg Sr*

*o Mg Ca*

interference observed experimentally. If assume that

Substitution of the appropriate quantities from Table 1 and 4 into Eq. 24 yields Eqs. 25 and 26 for the absorbance signal enhancement factor, no'/no, for the presence of 1000 g/ mL

3.0604 10 <sup>1</sup> *<sup>o</sup>*

2.1132 10 <sup>1</sup> *<sup>o</sup>*

A major objective for kinetic modeling of interference effects is to be able to predict the

*A n A n*

then the calibration curve obtained in the presence of the interferent can be predicted. Theoretical calibration curves predicted on the basis of Eqs 25 and 26 for the effects of 1000 mg/L excess Ca, Br and Sr respectively on the absorbance signal of Mg in the air-acetylene flame are shown in Fig. 3, together with the experimental A' calibration curves for

*o o*

*n x n c* 

*n x n c* 

1

1

(25)

(26)

(27)

*n n E kT*

*E IP IP a am* (22)

0 *E IP IP aaa* (23)

(24)



Table 2. Regression data: A'/A vs nmo/n+ for Mg

Signal enhancement in the presence of easily ionizable elements (EIEs) in atomic absorption spectrometry is commonly attributed to suppression of ionization (Foster Jr. and Hume, 1959; Smit et al., 1951). Supression of ionization is in effect collisional radiative recombination, and assumes that in Eq. 14 *CR o e CT mo* ( ) *k nn k nn* so that Eq. 14 reduces to

$$\frac{m\_o'}{m\_o} = \frac{k\_{\rm CR(o)} \eta\_+ m\_e'}{k\_{\rm CR(o)} \eta\_+ m\_e} = 1 + \frac{k\_{\rm CR(o)} \eta\_+ \Delta \eta\_e}{k\_{\rm CR(o)} \eta\_+ m\_e} \tag{18}$$

Or

$$\frac{n\_o'}{n\_o} = 1 + \frac{k\_c n\_+ \Delta n\_e \exp(-E\_a'/kT)}{k\_c n\_+ n\_e \exp(-E\_a/kT)} = 1 + \frac{\Delta n\_e \exp(-E\_a'/kT)}{n\_e \exp(-E\_a/kT)}\tag{19}$$

where ne is the change in electron number density upon the addition of the interferent, i.e., ne = nm+, *Ea'* and *Ea* are the activation energies for the electrons from the ionization of the interferent and analyte respectively, and. kc is the collisional rate constant given by (Weston and Schwarz, 1972):

$$k\_c = Q\_{12} \left(\frac{8kT}{\pi\mu}\right)^{1/2} \tag{20}$$

where Q12 is collision cross-section between particles 1 and 2, and is their reduced mass. If we assume thermal equilibrium conditions, then all the electrons will require the same activation, i.e., Ea' = Ea, and Eq. 19 reduces to

$$\frac{m\_o'}{m\_o} = 1 + \frac{\Delta n\_e}{n\_e} \tag{21}$$

where ne = nm+ and ne = n+. It is apparent that substitution for ne and ne from Table 1 will yield values of no'/no up to three orders of magnitude greater than experimental A'/A values at low Mg concentrations. If however we assume pre-thermal equilibrium collisional radiative recombination, then the electrons from the ionization of the interferent would require further activation by an amount of energy equal to the difference between the ionization potentials of the analyte and that of the interferent, i.e., in eq. 19,

Interference Effects of Excess Ca, Ba and Sr on Mg Absorbance During Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry: Characterization in Terms of a Simplified Collisional Rate Model 139

$$E\_a' = IP\_a - IP\_m \tag{22}$$

And

138 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

intercept values of 1.09 and 1.22 obtained are close to unity, in close agreement with Eq. 11. These data suggest that the signal enhancement obtained when Mg is determined in the

Signal enhancement in the presence of easily ionizable elements (EIEs) in atomic absorption spectrometry is commonly attributed to suppression of ionization (Foster Jr. and Hume, 1959; Smit et al., 1951). Supression of ionization is in effect collisional radiative recombination, and assumes that in Eq. 14 *CR o e CT mo* ( ) *k nn k nn* so that Eq. 14 reduces to

> ( ) ( ) ( ) ( ) 1 *CR o e CR o e <sup>o</sup> o CR o e CR o e n k nn k n n n k nn k nn*

exp( / ) exp( / ) 1 1

where ne is the change in electron number density upon the addition of the interferent, i.e., ne = nm+, *Ea'* and *Ea* are the activation energies for the electrons from the ionization of the interferent and analyte respectively, and. kc is the collisional rate constant given by (Weston

> 12 8

where Q12 is collision cross-section between particles 1 and 2, and is their reduced mass. If we assume thermal equilibrium conditions, then all the electrons will require the same

> 1 *o e o e n n n n*

where ne = nm+ and ne = n+. It is apparent that substitution for ne and ne from Table 1 will yield values of no'/no up to three orders of magnitude greater than experimental A'/A values at low Mg concentrations. If however we assume pre-thermal equilibrium collisional radiative recombination, then the electrons from the ionization of the interferent would require further activation by an amount of energy equal to the difference between the

 

*kT k Q*

*c*

ionization potentials of the analyte and that of the interferent, i.e., in eq. 19,

*o ce a e a o ce a e a n k n n E kT n E kT n k n n E kT n E kT*

 

exp( / ) exp( / )

1/2

(19)

 

(18)

(20)

(21)

presence of excess of Ca and Sr as interferents conforms to LC IIA.

Table 2. Regression data: A'/A vs nmo/n+ for Mg

activation, i.e., Ea' = Ea, and Eq. 19 reduces to

Or

and Schwarz, 1972):

$$E\_a = IP\_a - IP\_a = 0\tag{23}$$

where the subscripts *a* and *m* denote analyte and interferent respectively. If we make this assumption, then Eq. 15 becomes

$$\frac{n\_o'}{n\_o} = 1 + \frac{\Delta n\_e}{n\_+} \exp(-E\_a'/kT) \tag{24}$$

Table 3 shows the fraction of such electrons having the appropriate energy, and Table 1 shows the corresponding pre-thermal equilibration number density of "hot" electrons, ne\*, arising from the analyte, Mg (ne\* = n+), and the interferents Ca and Sr (ne\* = n+exp(-Ea'/kT)). \*Ea' = IPa – IPm.


Table 3. Pre-thermal equilibration fraction of electrons having the requisite activation energy.

Substitution of the appropriate quantities from Table 1 and 4 into Eq. 24 yields Eqs. 25 and 26 for the absorbance signal enhancement factor, no'/no, for the presence of 1000 g/ mL excess Ca and Sr as interferents:

$$\left(\frac{n\_o'}{n\_o}\right)\_{\text{Mg/Ca}} = 1 + \frac{3.0604 \text{x} \,\text{10}^{-1}}{\sqrt{c}}\tag{25}$$

$$\left(\frac{n\_o'}{n\_o}\right)\_{\text{Mg/Sr}} = 1 + \frac{2.1132x10^{-1}}{\sqrt{c}}\tag{26}$$

A major objective for kinetic modeling of interference effects is to be able to predict the interference observed experimentally. If assume that

$$\frac{A'}{A} = \frac{n'\_o}{n\_o} \tag{27}$$

then the calibration curve obtained in the presence of the interferent can be predicted. Theoretical calibration curves predicted on the basis of Eqs 25 and 26 for the effects of 1000 mg/L excess Ca, Br and Sr respectively on the absorbance signal of Mg in the air-acetylene flame are shown in Fig. 3, together with the experimental A' calibration curves for comparison.

Interference Effects of Excess Ca, Ba and Sr on Mg Absorbance During Flame

**4. Conclusions** 

radiative recombination.

**5. Acknowledgements** 

14, 2702-2708.

Association, Washington DC, 1992.

Analytical Chemistry, 357, 249-257.

ed., Interscience Publishers, New York.

9780387987460, London.

Spectrometry, 2, 201-204.

Chemistry, 341, 577-585.

spectrometry. Analytical Chemistry, 50, 1, 2-10.

Zimbabwe (UZ).

**6. References** 

Atomic Absorption Spectrometry: Characterization in Terms of a Simplified Collisional Rate Model 141

From the foregoing discussion we conclude that the interference effects between Group II elements can be characterized using a simplified rate model that takes into account collisional radiative recombination, charge transfer between analyte and interferent species, and collisional recombination between analyte atom and counter atom. The model predicts that, depending on the specific experimental conditions employed, interference effects in flame atomic spectrometry can manifest themselves as enhancements (Eq. 15) or depressions (Eqs. 12 and 17) of the analyte line absorbance signal. Data relating to the signal enhancement interference effects of excess Ca and Sr on Mg absorbance signal during airacetylene flame absorption spectrometry suggest that the signal enhancement can be simulated on the basis of a simplified rate model that assumes pre-LTE ion-electron

This work was supported by a grant from the Research Board of the University of

American Public Health Association (APHA), American Water Works Association (AWWA)

Czobik, E.J., and Matousek, J.P., (1978). Interference effects in furnace atomic absorption

Smith, D.D., and Browner, R.F., (1984). Influence of aerosol drop size on signals and

Zaranyika, M.F., and Makuhunga, P., (1997). A possible steady state kinetic model for the

Allen, C.W., (1955). Astrophysical Quantities, 2nd Ed., Athlone Press, ISBN: 13:

Herrmann, R., and Alkemade, C.T.J., (1963). Chemical analysis by flame photometry. 2nd

Brown, A.A, Roberts, D.J., and Kahokola, K.V., (1987). Methods for improving the sensitivity

Zaranyika, M.F., Nyakonda, C., and Moses, P., (1991). Effect of excess sodium on the

and Water Environment Federation (WEF), in Standard Methods for the examination of water and wastewater, 18th Ed., A .E. Greenberg (APHA), L. S. Clesceri (WEF) and A. D. Eaton (AWWA), eds. American Public Health

interferences in flame atomic absorption spectrometry. Analytical Chemistry, 56,

atomization process during flame atomic spectrometry: Application to mutual atomization interference effects between group I elements. Fresenius Journal of

in flame atomic absorption spectrometry. Journal of Analytical Atomic

excitation of potassium in an air-acetylene flame: a steady state kinetic model which takes into account collisional excitation. Fresenius Journal of Analytical

Fig. 3. Theoretical and experimental A' calibration curves: Effect of excess Ca (A), Ba (B) and Sr (C) on Mg absorbance during air-acetylene FAAS.

It is apparent from Fig. 3A that Eq. 24 leads to close agreement between theory and experiment at Mg concentrations below about 5 mg/L when Mg is determined in the presence of excess Ca, while the theoretical curve deviates slightly from the experimental curve above this concentration. In contrast to the case when Mg is determined in the presence of excess Ca, exact agreement between theory and experiment is obtained throughout the range of Mg concentrations studied when determined in the presence of excess Sr. Although the work presented in this paper is rather limited in scope, the remarkable success of the model in predicting the interference of excess Sr on the absorbance signal of Mg, confirms the potential of the model as represented by Eq. 24 in simulating the absorbance signal enhancement interference effects during flame atomic spectrometry. Further work is underway to test the model on other systems.

#### **4. Conclusions**

140 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

0 10 20 30

Fig. 3. Theoretical and experimental A' calibration curves: Effect of excess Ca (A), Ba (B) and

It is apparent from Fig. 3A that Eq. 24 leads to close agreement between theory and experiment at Mg concentrations below about 5 mg/L when Mg is determined in the presence of excess Ca, while the theoretical curve deviates slightly from the experimental curve above this concentration. In contrast to the case when Mg is determined in the presence of excess Ca, exact agreement between theory and experiment is obtained throughout the range of Mg concentrations studied when determined in the presence of excess Sr. Although the work presented in this paper is rather limited in scope, the remarkable success of the model in predicting the interference of excess Sr on the absorbance signal of Mg, confirms the potential of the model as represented by Eq. 24 in simulating the absorbance signal enhancement interference effects during flame atomic

spectrometry. Further work is underway to test the model on other systems.

C. Effect of xs Sr on Mg absorbance

A' o = Theoretical

[Mg] mg/L

+ = Experimental

0 10 20 30

A. Effect of xs Ca on Mg absorbance

[Mg] mg/L

2

1

0

Sr (C) on Mg absorbance during air-acetylene FAAS.

Experimental

Theoretical

0.5

1.5

A'

2.5

From the foregoing discussion we conclude that the interference effects between Group II elements can be characterized using a simplified rate model that takes into account collisional radiative recombination, charge transfer between analyte and interferent species, and collisional recombination between analyte atom and counter atom. The model predicts that, depending on the specific experimental conditions employed, interference effects in flame atomic spectrometry can manifest themselves as enhancements (Eq. 15) or depressions (Eqs. 12 and 17) of the analyte line absorbance signal. Data relating to the signal enhancement interference effects of excess Ca and Sr on Mg absorbance signal during airacetylene flame absorption spectrometry suggest that the signal enhancement can be simulated on the basis of a simplified rate model that assumes pre-LTE ion-electron radiative recombination.

#### **5. Acknowledgements**

This work was supported by a grant from the Research Board of the University of Zimbabwe (UZ).

#### **6. References**


**8** 

Mary Millikan

*Victoria University* 

*Australia* 

**Nutritional Metals in Foods by AAS** 

It is well known that a balanced diet is essential in maintaining good health. Hence, the nutritional value of foods is an important aspect that should be considered especially with respect to metal intake such as iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, selenium, manganese, copper, chromium and zinc. Iron being required for the haemoglobin; calcium for relaxing the central nervous system; magnesium to prevent muscle spasms; potassium and sodium for electrolyte balance; selenium has a number of functions including deactivating heavy metals from external exposure; manganese and copper are linked to superoxide dismutase (SOD): chromium stabilizes blood sugar and zinc is important in the

An overview of the literature will be given of applications of Fame AA together with some references to Graphite Furnace AA to the analyses of foods such as: meat the main source of iron; dairy products, the source of calcium and fruit and vegetables for a range of metals. Comparisons will be given of metal content in these products particularly in meat and dairy products. Of the metals listed above, not all of these will be considered in every product: only where they are the metal of highest concentration. The aim of this chapter is to give a general comparison of the metal content in these products, which will not be exhaustive, particularly, with respect to fruit and vegetables but the ones most commonly consumed. The emphasis is on nutrition and to give the general reader and health professional a concise view of the metal content of these food products. From scientific aspect the methodology for Flame AA is relative straight forward, as is the work up for instrument presentation but there are often extra procedures that are required depending on the matrix

Flame Atomic absorption spectroscopy even though it is a well-established technique that was discovered about fifty years ago is still used extensively today for trace metal analyses

The method for the analyses of metals in a wide range of samples from food, agriculture, mining, environmental, pharmaceutical and biochemical industries was made possible by the discovery of a new technique in the early 1950's by Dr. Alan Walsh. Like many scientists before him, he was not in his laboratory when the idea came to him but in his vegetable garden one Sunday morning in 1952. The idea proved successful and was the basis of the

**2. History of the discovery of flame atomic absorption spectroscopy** 

**1. Introduction** 

healing of wounds.

that are essential for obtaining a valid result.

in industry, commercial laboratories and universities.

*Sch. of Engineering & Science, FOHES & ISI* 


## **Nutritional Metals in Foods by AAS**

#### Mary Millikan

*Sch. of Engineering & Science, FOHES & ISI Victoria University Australia* 

#### **1. Introduction**

142 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

Weston, R.E., Schwarz, H.A., (1972). Chemical Kinetics, Prentice-Hall, ISBN: 9780131286603,

Foster, W.H Jr., and Hume D.N., (1959). Mutual cation interference effects in flame

Smit J., Alkamade C.T.J., and Verschure, J.M.C., (1951). A contribution to the development

Zadgorska, Z and Krasnobaeva, N (1977), Influence of the anionic component of the additive

Kos'cielniak, P and Parczewski, A (1982), Theoretical model of alkali metals interferences in

Zaranyika, M. F and Chirenje, A. T (1999), A possible steady-state kinetic model for the

Boumans, P. W. J. M (1966), Theory of Spectrochemical Excitations, Higler and Watts,

flame emission spectrometry, Spectrochim. Acta 37B, 881-887.

of the flame-photometric determination of sodium and potassium in blood serum.

on the relative intensity of atomic spectral lines in the analysis of dry residues from

atomization process during flame atomic spectrometry: Application to atomization interference effects of alumimiun on Group II elements. Fresenius J. Anal. Chem,

photometry. Analytical Chemistry, 31:2033-2036.

Biochimica ET Biophysica Acta, 6, 508-523.

solutions, Spectrochim. Acta. 32B, 357-363.

New Jersey.

364, 208-214.

London.

It is well known that a balanced diet is essential in maintaining good health. Hence, the nutritional value of foods is an important aspect that should be considered especially with respect to metal intake such as iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, selenium, manganese, copper, chromium and zinc. Iron being required for the haemoglobin; calcium for relaxing the central nervous system; magnesium to prevent muscle spasms; potassium and sodium for electrolyte balance; selenium has a number of functions including deactivating heavy metals from external exposure; manganese and copper are linked to superoxide dismutase (SOD): chromium stabilizes blood sugar and zinc is important in the healing of wounds.

An overview of the literature will be given of applications of Fame AA together with some references to Graphite Furnace AA to the analyses of foods such as: meat the main source of iron; dairy products, the source of calcium and fruit and vegetables for a range of metals. Comparisons will be given of metal content in these products particularly in meat and dairy products. Of the metals listed above, not all of these will be considered in every product: only where they are the metal of highest concentration. The aim of this chapter is to give a general comparison of the metal content in these products, which will not be exhaustive, particularly, with respect to fruit and vegetables but the ones most commonly consumed. The emphasis is on nutrition and to give the general reader and health professional a concise view of the metal content of these food products. From scientific aspect the methodology for Flame AA is relative straight forward, as is the work up for instrument presentation but there are often extra procedures that are required depending on the matrix that are essential for obtaining a valid result.

Flame Atomic absorption spectroscopy even though it is a well-established technique that was discovered about fifty years ago is still used extensively today for trace metal analyses in industry, commercial laboratories and universities.

#### **2. History of the discovery of flame atomic absorption spectroscopy**

The method for the analyses of metals in a wide range of samples from food, agriculture, mining, environmental, pharmaceutical and biochemical industries was made possible by the discovery of a new technique in the early 1950's by Dr. Alan Walsh. Like many scientists before him, he was not in his laboratory when the idea came to him but in his vegetable garden one Sunday morning in 1952. The idea proved successful and was the basis of the

Nutritional Metals in Foods by AAS 145

Calcium is responsible for strong bones and teeth and accounts for ninety percent of the calcium in the body whereas the other one percent is circulating in fluids in order to ionise calcium. The metal's function is related to transmitting nerve impulses; contractions of muscles; blood clotting; activation of some enzyme reactions and secretion of hormones Magnesium has many roles including supporting the functioning of the immune system; assists in preventing dental decay by retaining the calcium in tooth enamel; it has an important role in the synthesis of proteins, fat, nucleic acids; glucose metabolism as well as membrane transport system of cells. Magnesium also plays a role in muscle contraction and cell integrity. Potassium and sodium work together in muscle contraction nerve transmission. Sodium is important in muscle contraction and nerve transmission Sodium ions are the main regulators of extra cellular fluid and volume

These are particularly important for health promotion and prevention of disease. Trace

The non-metals also in the group are iodine and fluorine that will not be discussed. Copper has the role of assisting in the formation of haemoglobin, helping to prevent anemia as well as being involved in several enzymes. Chromium function is related to stabilising blood sugar levels with respect to insulin required for release of energy from glucose. Iron is the central metal in the haemoglobin molecule for oxygen transport in the blood and is portion of myoglobin located in muscles. Manganese is one of the co-factors in a number of enzymes as is molybdenum. Selenium has several roles such as regulating the thyroid hormone as well as being part of an enzyme that protects against oxidation (Whitney and Rofles 2002). Selenium has also been reported as assisting in deactivating

The Recommended Daily Intake, RDI of metals is related directly to age, and gender. The requirements for babies,, toddlers,, children , adolescents, and elderly vary with gender and country due to soil type. These requirements are continually being reviewed in the light of more research that is undertaken by food regulating bodies such as Food Standards Australia and New Zealand, FSANZ, United Stated of America, Food and Drug Administration, FDA, and European Authorities to name three such groups. The work done by these bodies includes all food groups in addition to vitamins, minerals: cereals, fat, protein, carbohydrates, sugars and so on, as well as research on different age groups in particular locations in many countries, to assist in maintaining and improving the health of

(Whitney and Rofles 2002).

metals being considered in this work are:

**3.3 RDI of minerals according to age and gender** 

the various groups and the population in general.

**3.2 Trace minerals** 

 copper, chromium, iron, manganese, molybdenum selenium zinc.

heavy metals.

atomic absorption spectrophotometer, an instrument for quantitative chemical analyses of metals (Hannaford 2002) that did not require slow wet chemical procedures. Techtron Pty. Ltd., Melbourne, Australia, manufactured the first instrument based on his design in the mid 1960's. The company was taken over many years later by Varian Australia Inc. and several months ago by Agilent Technologies Pty. Ltd, Melbourne who still manufactures an instrument based on this early technology. (Hannaford 2002)

The scientific importance of Alan's idea was that he realized in his attempt to measure the concentration of metals in solution by spectroscopic means, he had been trying to measure the incorrect parameter. Rather than measuring emission he should have been measuring absorbance. When he mentioned this to his colleague John Willis (CSIRO, Division of Chemical Physics) he said that they had considered this aspect before and that it would not work because of the emitted light at the same wavelength. The reply Alan gave was that this could be overcome by having a chopper to eliminate this emission and to use an amplifier. Several days later Alan measured the absorbance of sodium but his colleague at this time did not appreciate the significance of this major scientific breakthrough that was the basic principle of the instrument (Hannaford 2002) .

Fig. 1. Photograph of prototype Atomic Absorption Spectrometer build by Dr. Alan Walsh, with permission from Agilent Australia, Mulgrave, Victoria., where the instrument is located.

#### **3. Nutritional significance of minerals in the diet**

Minerals are divided into two groups Essential and Trace minerals, which is related to the quantity required and found in the body, the former being present in the largest amounts. These minerals will now be discussed briefly in this order.

#### **3.1 Essential minerals**

The essential metals are the macro metals:


atomic absorption spectrophotometer, an instrument for quantitative chemical analyses of metals (Hannaford 2002) that did not require slow wet chemical procedures. Techtron Pty. Ltd., Melbourne, Australia, manufactured the first instrument based on his design in the mid 1960's. The company was taken over many years later by Varian Australia Inc. and several months ago by Agilent Technologies Pty. Ltd, Melbourne who still manufactures an

The scientific importance of Alan's idea was that he realized in his attempt to measure the concentration of metals in solution by spectroscopic means, he had been trying to measure the incorrect parameter. Rather than measuring emission he should have been measuring absorbance. When he mentioned this to his colleague John Willis (CSIRO, Division of Chemical Physics) he said that they had considered this aspect before and that it would not work because of the emitted light at the same wavelength. The reply Alan gave was that this could be overcome by having a chopper to eliminate this emission and to use an amplifier. Several days later Alan measured the absorbance of sodium but his colleague at this time did not appreciate the significance of this major scientific breakthrough that was the basic

Fig. 1. Photograph of prototype Atomic Absorption Spectrometer build by Dr. Alan Walsh, with permission from Agilent Australia, Mulgrave, Victoria., where the instrument is

Minerals are divided into two groups Essential and Trace minerals, which is related to the quantity required and found in the body, the former being present in the largest amounts.

instrument based on this early technology. (Hannaford 2002)

principle of the instrument (Hannaford 2002) .

**3. Nutritional significance of minerals in the diet** 

These minerals will now be discussed briefly in this order.

located.

**3.1 Essential minerals** 

 Calcium Magnesium Potassium Sodium

The essential metals are the macro metals:

Calcium is responsible for strong bones and teeth and accounts for ninety percent of the calcium in the body whereas the other one percent is circulating in fluids in order to ionise calcium. The metal's function is related to transmitting nerve impulses; contractions of muscles; blood clotting; activation of some enzyme reactions and secretion of hormones Magnesium has many roles including supporting the functioning of the immune system; assists in preventing dental decay by retaining the calcium in tooth enamel; it has an important role in the synthesis of proteins, fat, nucleic acids; glucose metabolism as well as membrane transport system of cells. Magnesium also plays a role in muscle contraction and cell integrity. Potassium and sodium work together in muscle contraction nerve transmission. Sodium is important in muscle contraction and nerve transmission Sodium ions are the main regulators of extra cellular fluid and volume (Whitney and Rofles 2002).

#### **3.2 Trace minerals**

These are particularly important for health promotion and prevention of disease. Trace metals being considered in this work are:


The non-metals also in the group are iodine and fluorine that will not be discussed. Copper has the role of assisting in the formation of haemoglobin, helping to prevent anemia as well as being involved in several enzymes. Chromium function is related to stabilising blood sugar levels with respect to insulin required for release of energy from glucose. Iron is the central metal in the haemoglobin molecule for oxygen transport in the blood and is portion of myoglobin located in muscles. Manganese is one of the co-factors in a number of enzymes as is molybdenum. Selenium has several roles such as regulating the thyroid hormone as well as being part of an enzyme that protects against oxidation (Whitney and Rofles 2002). Selenium has also been reported as assisting in deactivating heavy metals.

#### **3.3 RDI of minerals according to age and gender**

The Recommended Daily Intake, RDI of metals is related directly to age, and gender. The requirements for babies,, toddlers,, children , adolescents, and elderly vary with gender and country due to soil type. These requirements are continually being reviewed in the light of more research that is undertaken by food regulating bodies such as Food Standards Australia and New Zealand, FSANZ, United Stated of America, Food and Drug Administration, FDA, and European Authorities to name three such groups. The work done by these bodies includes all food groups in addition to vitamins, minerals: cereals, fat, protein, carbohydrates, sugars and so on, as well as research on different age groups in particular locations in many countries, to assist in maintaining and improving the health of the various groups and the population in general.

Nutritional Metals in Foods by AAS 147

generally in lower amounts. Trace metals include: copper, manganese, zinc and chromium. Metal analyses in meat including beef, pork, poultry and fish will be discussed with some comments on sample preparation and values of the metals obtained in these

A comprehensive study of the analyses of iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, manganese, copper, zinc and manganese in foods including meat was undertaken by Maurer (Maurer 1977) here he compared three extraction methods using HNO3 or HCl/HNO3 or dry ashing at 450oC. The main focus of this research was to thoroughly evaluate each of the three extraction procedures for the metals listed on a wide variety of food, to determine the daily consumption per person over given time intervals. Recoveries were also determined for the different extraction methods. Results obtained indicated that extraction with the combined acids was the most suitable procedure for all metals, particularly for copper and zinc when compared with dry ashing, which was markedly, affected by the matrix. Recoveries were high for all metals: in the high nineties except for zinc that was only 87%. A Perkin-Elmer (model 300) instrument was employed where calcium and magnesium were analysed with nitrous oxide/acetylene while air/acetylene was used for the other elements. Siong (Siong, Khor Swan, and Siti Mizura 1989) compared the analysis of iron in meat and other foods using AA and the phenanthroline colorimetric method. The two methods compared well for the foods tested and also gave satisfactory recoveries. Values iron obtained for some meat products are as follows: beef extract 10.66; canned beef liver rendang 4.20; canned chicken curry 2.82; chicken heart 2.05; corned beef 1.67; duck 0.69; roast4ed duck 0.84; canned mutton curry 3.67 where all

**Cu Mn Se Zn** 

meat **0.90** 0.61 **0.12** 0.052 **0.044** 0.017 24 11 liver **9.0** 4.0 **3.0** 0.52 0.50 0.062 **74** 2 kidney 6.1 2.0 1.5 0.24 **1.9** 0.35 **22** 3.3

meat **0.87** 0.12 **0.093** 0.044 0.030 0.020 **49**  18 liver **39** 27 **3.2** 0.67 0.030 0.035 40 8.5 kidney 3.7 0.59 1.1 0.24 **0.86** 0.28 16 1.5 Table 2. Portion of data extracted from (Jorhem et al. 1989) showing in a horizontal row the

A study was conducted by (Jorhem et al. 1989), on the levels of the trace metals aluminium, chromium, cobalt, copper, manganese, nickel and selenium in the kidney, liver and meat of Swedish cattle and pigs at the slaughter houses and verified using standard reference materials. Data for aluminium and nickel will not be discussed, only the other beneficial

concentrations in mg/kg of the four elements per product.

samples

**PIG** 

**CATTLE** 

**5.1 Selected metals in some meat** 

values are expressed as mg Fe/100 g.


Table 1. The table above represents RDI values recommended by experts and agencies for a normal adult population. http:// lenntech.com/recommended-daly-intake.htm

#### **3.4 Analyses of foods with respect to safety and toxicity**

Fresh foods and others are monitored regularly for safety and to be sure that the level of undesirable metals is below the safe limit or not present at all. Similarly, the dietary surveys test for these as well as the nutritional value of the various food groups.

#### **4. Variation of mineral content according to soil and country**

According the age of the rocks that contain the minerals and type of rocks and soil with respect to their geological age, the mineral content will vary considerably, as well as different minerals being found in the respective rocks. There can be similar soil types that occur in countries that are not near each other. For example, gold was found in California and in Australia in the mid 1800's when the gold rush took place and prospectors came from many countries to make their fortunes. Soil can vary considerably within a particular region, state, territory or through out a particular country with respect to minerals found in the soil. Soils are studied by agriculturalists and farmers, so they can add certain minerals when they are in low levels in order to increase the yield and quality of crops. Even within a particular paddock or field the soil can vary so farmers need to add fertilizers and minerals appropriately in order to obtain a uniform yield of the crop (Dundas and Pawluk 1977). Hence mineral levels for the countries will vary accordingly to the soils and the additives required for maximum crop yield and the fortification of crops, cereals or grains to ensure that the products manufactured would still give sufficient portion of the RDI to maintain the health of the population . RDI allowances of minerals will essentially be very similar in most countries for the various age and gender groups but in some cases extra fortification of foods will be required where there is a low level of an essential or trace mineral.

#### **5. Metals in meat**

The principal source of iron in the diet is mainly from meat, particularly, red meat. Other metals are also important such as calcium, magnesium, sodium and potassium, but are

Table 1. The table above represents RDI values recommended by experts and agencies for a

Fresh foods and others are monitored regularly for safety and to be sure that the level of undesirable metals is below the safe limit or not present at all. Similarly, the dietary surveys

According the age of the rocks that contain the minerals and type of rocks and soil with respect to their geological age, the mineral content will vary considerably, as well as different minerals being found in the respective rocks. There can be similar soil types that occur in countries that are not near each other. For example, gold was found in California and in Australia in the mid 1800's when the gold rush took place and prospectors came from many countries to make their fortunes. Soil can vary considerably within a particular region, state, territory or through out a particular country with respect to minerals found in the soil. Soils are studied by agriculturalists and farmers, so they can add certain minerals when they are in low levels in order to increase the yield and quality of crops. Even within a particular paddock or field the soil can vary so farmers need to add fertilizers and minerals appropriately in order to obtain a uniform yield of the crop (Dundas and Pawluk 1977). Hence mineral levels for the countries will vary accordingly to the soils and the additives required for maximum crop yield and the fortification of crops, cereals or grains to ensure that the products manufactured would still give sufficient portion of the RDI to maintain the health of the population . RDI allowances of minerals will essentially be very similar in most countries for the various age and gender groups but in some cases extra fortification of foods will be required where there is a low level

The principal source of iron in the diet is mainly from meat, particularly, red meat. Other metals are also important such as calcium, magnesium, sodium and potassium, but are

normal adult population. http:// lenntech.com/recommended-daly-intake.htm

test for these as well as the nutritional value of the various food groups.

**4. Variation of mineral content according to soil and country** 

**Major minerals Recommended Daily Intake , RDI** 

Calcium 1000 mg Magnesium **350** mg Potassium **3500** mg Sodium 2400 mg

Chromium 120 μg Copper 2 mg Iron 15 mg Manganese 5 mg Molybdenum 75 μg Selenium 35 μg Zinc 15 mg

**3.4 Analyses of foods with respect to safety and toxicity** 

**Trace minerals** 

of an essential or trace mineral.

**5. Metals in meat** 

generally in lower amounts. Trace metals include: copper, manganese, zinc and chromium. Metal analyses in meat including beef, pork, poultry and fish will be discussed with some comments on sample preparation and values of the metals obtained in these samples

#### **5.1 Selected metals in some meat**

A comprehensive study of the analyses of iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, manganese, copper, zinc and manganese in foods including meat was undertaken by Maurer (Maurer 1977) here he compared three extraction methods using HNO3 or HCl/HNO3 or dry ashing at 450oC. The main focus of this research was to thoroughly evaluate each of the three extraction procedures for the metals listed on a wide variety of food, to determine the daily consumption per person over given time intervals. Recoveries were also determined for the different extraction methods. Results obtained indicated that extraction with the combined acids was the most suitable procedure for all metals, particularly for copper and zinc when compared with dry ashing, which was markedly, affected by the matrix. Recoveries were high for all metals: in the high nineties except for zinc that was only 87%. A Perkin-Elmer (model 300) instrument was employed where calcium and magnesium were analysed with nitrous oxide/acetylene while air/acetylene was used for the other elements. Siong (Siong, Khor Swan, and Siti Mizura 1989) compared the analysis of iron in meat and other foods using AA and the phenanthroline colorimetric method. The two methods compared well for the foods tested and also gave satisfactory recoveries. Values iron obtained for some meat products are as follows: beef extract 10.66; canned beef liver rendang 4.20; canned chicken curry 2.82; chicken heart 2.05; corned beef 1.67; duck 0.69; roast4ed duck 0.84; canned mutton curry 3.67 where all values are expressed as mg Fe/100 g.


Table 2. Portion of data extracted from (Jorhem et al. 1989) showing in a horizontal row the concentrations in mg/kg of the four elements per product.

A study was conducted by (Jorhem et al. 1989), on the levels of the trace metals aluminium, chromium, cobalt, copper, manganese, nickel and selenium in the kidney, liver and meat of Swedish cattle and pigs at the slaughter houses and verified using standard reference materials. Data for aluminium and nickel will not be discussed, only the other beneficial

Nutritional Metals in Foods by AAS 149

curry 16.1 and beef extract 40.4. They compared the AA analyses with potassium permanganate titration where both methods were satisfactory using the paired t-test (p< .0.05). For only two groups legumes and vegetables there was a significant difference in the two methods. Analyses of mechanically de-boned poultry from five Dutch processors was undertaken by (Germs and Stennenberg 1978) employing AA and oxidimetry procedures. The mean AA calcium content was found to be 2.36 g/kg. Of the two oxidimetry methods used, the AOAC procedure gave the best agreement with the AA method where the coefficient of correlation was equal to 0.9996 and the standard error of regression, 0.05. Nakamura (Nakamura 1973) determined the water-extractable calcium content of chicken breast during postmortem aging by AA where he addressed the anionic and cationic interferences. In order to eliminate the anionic interferences, he added a 1% solution of the di-sodium salt of EDTA to the test solutions. In contrast, cationic interferences were overcome by adding a known amount of calcium to the test solutions to being the concentration to 0.1 mM. Results showed that the calcium content increased during the postmortem aging and reached a maximum after twenty-four hours. Atomic absorption spectroscopy and a modified AOAC fibre method were used to determine magnesium and manganese in meat –soy blends. It was found that in regular ground beef the magnesium and manganese levels were 151 mg/kg and 7.4 mg/kg, 4.9%

Copper and other metals in meat were analysed by (Ybanez, Montoro, and Bueso 1983) using both dry ashing and wet digestion with HNO2 and H2O2 , essentially there was not any significant difference in the two methods of sample preparation. Samples analysed included both cold and cooked ham; mortadella, Frankfurters and liver paste. Recoveries for added metal for copper was found to be 100%. Copper determined in bovine liver standard was 193 10 μg/g. The limit of detection for copper was determined as 0.17 μg/g. An analysis of copper and zinc in meat and meat analogues was done by Schaefer *et al* (Schaefer et al. 1979). Sample work up was carried out with nitric/perchloric acid digestion followed by flame AA. The mean zinc content found in meat and meat analogues was 3.36 and 1.07 mg/100g respectively while the copper content was 0.09 and 0.32 mg/100 g in the same product order. It can be seen that there is a contrast between the two metals in meat products: zinc being higher is meat whereas copper is higher in the analogues. Work undertaken by (Dalton and Malanoski 1969) determined copper and lead in meat ad meat products but used dry ashing at 500oC for sample preparation unlike Schaefer's group who

Zinc and magnesium were analysed in a range of Philippine foods by AAS. Samples were prepared for analyses by hydrochloric acid extraction of the metals. One of the major advantages of the technique was the short sample preparation time for AA compared to other procedures such as gravimetric and colorimetric methods. A variety of foods were

Selenium is not an easy metal to analyse and reports in the literature are few. Research by (Hoenig and van Hoeyweghen 1986) determined selenium and arsenic in animal tissues and addressed the spectral interferences that are due to calcium and magnesium phosphates. Their method employed platform furnace atomic absorption spectrometry and deuterium background correction. The interferences just mentioned cannot be corrected using the deuterium arc. To overcome these interferences in animal tissues, they added nickel nitrate to the samples. The quantity added is critical as less than 20 mμg nickel nitrate added to a 10

soy flour, respectively (Formo, Honold, and MacLean 1974).

used wet digestion. Copper was found to be in the 1–5 ppm range.

analysed that included meat and poultry (Lustre and Lacebal 1976)

metals. In general, all the samples were prepared for analysis by dry ashing at 450oC with some extra procedures required for some metals before ashing. Copper, manganese and zinc were analysed by Flame AA employing a Vanian AA-6 instrument equipped with a H2 lamp for background; correction using an air/acetylene flame. The method of standard addition was used for manganese, hydride/generation AAS for selenium whereas chromium and cobalt were analysed by graphite furnace AA.

In Table 2, it can be seen in at a glance, the metal content in meat, liver and kidney from pigs and cattle. From the results shown, it is clear that liver and kidney are good sources of dietary copper. The manganese levels in this study are low and the authors attribute it the method of standard additions used in the AA analyses. Reported data shows the best source of selenium is pig kidney but the results are generally low in Scandinavian due to the soil. Meat products are an excellent source of zinc, especially liver. Data for chromium is not shown but the results indicated that these products are a poor source of this metal in the diet. Cobalt data also is not shown was found to be four times higher in cattle liver than in pig's liver being 0.043 0.028. The authors compared their results with the published literature for the above metals, as well as others, not stated here, for the three parameter in Table 2 for pigs and cattle and found there was good agreement with other countries that included Austria, Australia, Finland, FRG, Italy, Norway, Sweden and USA, however, not all metals studied had data from all of these countries.

Tinggi'group (Tinggi, Reilly, and Patterson 1997) have reported chromium and manganese levels in some meat products. The samples that were anlysed included the following: chicken (cooked); beef steak; ham; lamb chops and sausages. Results obtained are given below:


Table 3. Chromium (ng/kg) and Mn (mg/kg) concentrations in meat products.

It is interesting to note in Table 3 that the highest level of chromium is in beef steak 49.0 ng/kg and since it is related to blood sugar levels would account for the feeling of satiety and sustaining of energy after consuming beef in comparison to chicken with the low level of 12.2 ng of chromium. Manganese in contrast is highest in ham 2.0 mg/kg but lowest in chicken .12 mg/kg.

Siong *et al* (Siong, Khor Swan, and Siti Mizura 1989) analysed the calcium content of eight food groups that included meat and fish. Samples were from local markets and stores, they were homogenized, oven dried in air then the charred and ashed in a muffle furnace at 550oC. A Varian instrument was used employing an air/acetylene flame. Some selected values from the large range of products analysed reported in mg Ca/100g included: debonded chicken feet 25.1; chicken heart 6.0; canned beef rendang 31.1; canned mutton

metals. In general, all the samples were prepared for analysis by dry ashing at 450oC with some extra procedures required for some metals before ashing. Copper, manganese and zinc were analysed by Flame AA employing a Vanian AA-6 instrument equipped with a H2 lamp for background; correction using an air/acetylene flame. The method of standard addition was used for manganese, hydride/generation AAS for selenium whereas chromium and

In Table 2, it can be seen in at a glance, the metal content in meat, liver and kidney from pigs and cattle. From the results shown, it is clear that liver and kidney are good sources of dietary copper. The manganese levels in this study are low and the authors attribute it the method of standard additions used in the AA analyses. Reported data shows the best source of selenium is pig kidney but the results are generally low in Scandinavian due to the soil. Meat products are an excellent source of zinc, especially liver. Data for chromium is not shown but the results indicated that these products are a poor source of this metal in the diet. Cobalt data also is not shown was found to be four times higher in cattle liver than in pig's liver being 0.043 0.028. The authors compared their results with the published literature for the above metals, as well as others, not stated here, for the three parameter in Table 2 for pigs and cattle and found there was good agreement with other countries that included Austria, Australia, Finland, FRG, Italy, Norway, Sweden and USA, however, not

Tinggi'group (Tinggi, Reilly, and Patterson 1997) have reported chromium and manganese levels in some meat products. The samples that were anlysed included the following: chicken (cooked); beef steak; ham; lamb chops and sausages. Results obtained are given

It is interesting to note in Table 3 that the highest level of chromium is in beef steak 49.0 ng/kg and since it is related to blood sugar levels would account for the feeling of satiety and sustaining of energy after consuming beef in comparison to chicken with the low level of 12.2 ng of chromium. Manganese in contrast is highest in ham 2.0 mg/kg but lowest in

Siong *et al* (Siong, Khor Swan, and Siti Mizura 1989) analysed the calcium content of eight food groups that included meat and fish. Samples were from local markets and stores, they were homogenized, oven dried in air then the charred and ashed in a muffle furnace at 550oC. A Varian instrument was used employing an air/acetylene flame. Some selected values from the large range of products analysed reported in mg Ca/100g included: debonded chicken feet 25.1; chicken heart 6.0; canned beef rendang 31.1; canned mutton

**Meat Cr (ng/kg) Mn (mg/kg)**  Chicken (cooked) 12.2 5.0 0.19 0.01 Beef steak 49.0 1.8 0.52 0.2 Ham 26.4 2.7 2.0 0.2

Sausages 32.0 1.4 1.2 0.3 Table 3. Chromium (ng/kg) and Mn (mg/kg) concentrations in meat products.

Lamb chops 30.0 0.36

cobalt were analysed by graphite furnace AA.

all metals studied had data from all of these countries.

below:

chicken .12 mg/kg.

curry 16.1 and beef extract 40.4. They compared the AA analyses with potassium permanganate titration where both methods were satisfactory using the paired t-test (p< .0.05). For only two groups legumes and vegetables there was a significant difference in the two methods. Analyses of mechanically de-boned poultry from five Dutch processors was undertaken by (Germs and Stennenberg 1978) employing AA and oxidimetry procedures. The mean AA calcium content was found to be 2.36 g/kg. Of the two oxidimetry methods used, the AOAC procedure gave the best agreement with the AA method where the coefficient of correlation was equal to 0.9996 and the standard error of regression, 0.05. Nakamura (Nakamura 1973) determined the water-extractable calcium content of chicken breast during postmortem aging by AA where he addressed the anionic and cationic interferences. In order to eliminate the anionic interferences, he added a 1% solution of the di-sodium salt of EDTA to the test solutions. In contrast, cationic interferences were overcome by adding a known amount of calcium to the test solutions to being the concentration to 0.1 mM. Results showed that the calcium content increased during the postmortem aging and reached a maximum after twenty-four hours. Atomic absorption spectroscopy and a modified AOAC fibre method were used to determine magnesium and manganese in meat –soy blends. It was found that in regular ground beef the magnesium and manganese levels were 151 mg/kg and 7.4 mg/kg, 4.9% soy flour, respectively (Formo, Honold, and MacLean 1974).

Copper and other metals in meat were analysed by (Ybanez, Montoro, and Bueso 1983) using both dry ashing and wet digestion with HNO2 and H2O2 , essentially there was not any significant difference in the two methods of sample preparation. Samples analysed included both cold and cooked ham; mortadella, Frankfurters and liver paste. Recoveries for added metal for copper was found to be 100%. Copper determined in bovine liver standard was 193 10 μg/g. The limit of detection for copper was determined as 0.17 μg/g. An analysis of copper and zinc in meat and meat analogues was done by Schaefer *et al* (Schaefer et al. 1979). Sample work up was carried out with nitric/perchloric acid digestion followed by flame AA. The mean zinc content found in meat and meat analogues was 3.36 and 1.07 mg/100g respectively while the copper content was 0.09 and 0.32 mg/100 g in the same product order. It can be seen that there is a contrast between the two metals in meat products: zinc being higher is meat whereas copper is higher in the analogues. Work undertaken by (Dalton and Malanoski 1969) determined copper and lead in meat ad meat products but used dry ashing at 500oC for sample preparation unlike Schaefer's group who used wet digestion. Copper was found to be in the 1–5 ppm range.

Zinc and magnesium were analysed in a range of Philippine foods by AAS. Samples were prepared for analyses by hydrochloric acid extraction of the metals. One of the major advantages of the technique was the short sample preparation time for AA compared to other procedures such as gravimetric and colorimetric methods. A variety of foods were analysed that included meat and poultry (Lustre and Lacebal 1976)

Selenium is not an easy metal to analyse and reports in the literature are few. Research by (Hoenig and van Hoeyweghen 1986) determined selenium and arsenic in animal tissues and addressed the spectral interferences that are due to calcium and magnesium phosphates. Their method employed platform furnace atomic absorption spectrometry and deuterium background correction. The interferences just mentioned cannot be corrected using the deuterium arc. To overcome these interferences in animal tissues, they added nickel nitrate to the samples. The quantity added is critical as less than 20 mμg nickel nitrate added to a 10

Nutritional Metals in Foods by AAS 151

Anglerfish (Ang) and Octopus (Oct) that came from coastal markets in Portugal. Flame AAS was used to determine the content of Cu, Cr, Ni, Hg, Pb and Cd employing a Varian (Australia) Spectr AA20 spectrometer. Sample preparation was achieved by means of incineration and dissolution in nitric acid. An EDXRF spectrometer was used for the determination of K, Ca, Fe, Rb, Se and Zn. Of the elements studied, it was fond that calcium and potassium were the most abundant elements detected in the fish samples. The highest potassium level detected was found in octopus with an average value of 12,660 μg/g dry weight and the lowest in Axillary sea bream being 6.170 μg/g. Common sea bream had the highest calcium content of 788 μg/g whereas White sea bream had the lowest value of 444 μg/g. The highest iron concentration in these fish was observed for Octapus at 109 μg/g and the lowest for Forkbeard at only 6.4 μg/g. In a Turkish study, nine fish were studied for their trace metal levels. The fish from the Black Sea were: European anchovy; Whiting; Red mullet; Bluefish; Atlantic horse mackerel; Flathead mullet and Atlantic bonito. Two species from the Aegean Sea were Black swordfish and Gilthead sea bream. A Perkin Elmer AAnalyst 700 AAS instrument equipped with a HGA graphite furnace and deuterium background correction was used for the analyses of chromium, copper, lead and nickel. Flame AA with an air/acetylene flame was employed by (Uluozlu *et al*. 2007) to determine the copper, iron, manganese and zinc content of fish samples.. Of the fish studied, Bluefish had the highest copper content of 1.83 ± 0.10 μg/g and the lowest level for European anchovy ± 0.08 μg/g. For chromium, the highest level was again for European Anchovy at 1.98 ± 0.10 μg/g but the lowest value for Atlantic horse mackerel 0.95 ± 0.07 μg/g; red mullet has the highest iron level 163 ± 12 μg/g and Bluefish the lowest 698.6 ± 5.3 μg/g; manganese gave the highest level of .54 ± 0.50 μg/g and the lowest for Bluefish 1.28 ± 0.10 μg/g and lastly zinc had the highest level for Red mullet of 106 ± 9.1 μg/g and the lowest level for Bluefish at 35.4 ± 3.2 μg/g. Hence, it can be seen that Red mullet had the highest zinc and iron levels, which were considerably higher than any of the other metals just

Traditionally, dairy foods are the main source of calcium in the diet where milk, yogurt and cheese are the foods commonly consumed. Calcium and also magnesium are the most important metals for building strong bones and teeth and to prevent rickets and osteoporosis in older citizens particularly women. Vitamins A and D as well am magnesium are usually added to over the counter dietary supplements to ensure adequate absorption of the calcium. In addition, magnesium is also present in milk and dairy products but ii is in larger quantities in leafy green vegetables in the form of chlorophyll being the central metal. Although magnesium is present in dairy products it is in considerably lower concentrations

A method for the analysis of calcium and magnesium in dairy products has been reported by (Brandao, Matos, and Ferreira) employing a high resolution continuum source flame atomic absorption spectrometer (HF-CS-FAAS) using secondary lines. The advantage of using these secondary lines is that samples with high concentration of these elements did

mentioned in this analysis.

**7. Metals in some dairy products** 

so the following discussion with be focusing mainly on calcium.

**7.1 Calcium and some other metals in milk and yogurt** 

μl sample does not allow correct development of analyte absorbance signals but more than this causes a loss of sensitivity. It was found that the measurement of peak height was the most suitable approach as integrated absorbance was partly influenced by the matrix. For different animal matrices the slope constants of working curves obtained were very close hence direct calibration was possible. Results were verified by analyses of a number of reference materials.

Investigation of the effect of adding selenium to chicken feed on the amount found in chicken meat and eggs was done by (Turker and Erol 2009). The method used was hydridegeneration atomic absorption spectrometry. Optimisation of conditions for the technique such as HCl and NaBH4 concentrations; flow rate of carrier gas; analytical parameters and the effects of digestion procedures on the analyses were all determined. The limits for detection and quantification were 0.78 and 2.35 mg/l respectively. Validation of the method was done by means of certified reference materials. Fortification of the chicken feed increased the levels of selenium in the meat and eggs. Four digestion methods: two dry ashing and two wet ashing procedures for trace metal analysis of Pb, Cd, Cu and Zn were evaluated for pork meat and fish (Zachariadis et al. 1995). Results showed that the wet ashng with HNO3/HCl mixture gave the best results: For pork meat the copper level was determined to be 0.208 mg/kg and zinc 7.63 mg/kg. The data was collect on a Perkin-Elmer Model 2380 instrument with a HGA-400 graphite furnace that included a Deuterium lamp background corrector.

#### **6. Metals in fish**

Most of the analyses of metals in fish are related to heavy metals analysis to monitor pollutants such as zinc, cadmium, mercury and arsenic. Such metals find their way into the marine life in estuaries and rivers due to effluent from heavy industry accidentally leaking into the water ways or by faulty filtering systems and practice that do not comply with the Environmental Protection Agency in that particular country. Most commercial fishing is undertaken in deep-sea waters where these metals would not be a problem, however, fish caught in rivers and estuaries that are many kilometers from heavy industry can sometimes still be affected by metals carried by currents that cause pollution where it is not expected. Reports of beneficial metals analysed by AA in fish are few. Salmon, for example is a good source of calcium since in canned products the bones are not usually removed, except in specialty products. In this discussion emphasis will be given to t nutritional metals and the other metal pollutants will not be mentioned. In their paper, (Carvalho, Santiago, and Nunes 2005) stated that fish are an important source of lipids, proteins, liposoluble vitamins and polyunsaturated fatty acids that are important in assisting to reduce hypertension, cancer risk and coronary heart disease.

#### **6.1 Limited references to some beneficial metals in fish**

An analysis of essential and heavy metal levels in edible fish muscle was undertaken by (Carvalho, Santiago, and Nunes 2005) who employed two different techniques: energydisperive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) and flame AAS. Samples of nine fish were analysed, namely, Forkbeard (For), Meagre (Mea), White sea bream (WSB), Axillary sea bream (ASB), Red sea bream (RSB), Common sea bream (CSB), Rockfish (Roc), Common sole (Cso),

μl sample does not allow correct development of analyte absorbance signals but more than this causes a loss of sensitivity. It was found that the measurement of peak height was the most suitable approach as integrated absorbance was partly influenced by the matrix. For different animal matrices the slope constants of working curves obtained were very close hence direct calibration was possible. Results were verified by analyses of a number of

Investigation of the effect of adding selenium to chicken feed on the amount found in chicken meat and eggs was done by (Turker and Erol 2009). The method used was hydridegeneration atomic absorption spectrometry. Optimisation of conditions for the technique such as HCl and NaBH4 concentrations; flow rate of carrier gas; analytical parameters and the effects of digestion procedures on the analyses were all determined. The limits for detection and quantification were 0.78 and 2.35 mg/l respectively. Validation of the method was done by means of certified reference materials. Fortification of the chicken feed increased the levels of selenium in the meat and eggs. Four digestion methods: two dry ashing and two wet ashing procedures for trace metal analysis of Pb, Cd, Cu and Zn were evaluated for pork meat and fish (Zachariadis et al. 1995). Results showed that the wet ashng with HNO3/HCl mixture gave the best results: For pork meat the copper level was determined to be 0.208 mg/kg and zinc 7.63 mg/kg. The data was collect on a Perkin-Elmer Model 2380 instrument with a HGA-400 graphite furnace that included a Deuterium lamp

Most of the analyses of metals in fish are related to heavy metals analysis to monitor pollutants such as zinc, cadmium, mercury and arsenic. Such metals find their way into the marine life in estuaries and rivers due to effluent from heavy industry accidentally leaking into the water ways or by faulty filtering systems and practice that do not comply with the Environmental Protection Agency in that particular country. Most commercial fishing is undertaken in deep-sea waters where these metals would not be a problem, however, fish caught in rivers and estuaries that are many kilometers from heavy industry can sometimes still be affected by metals carried by currents that cause pollution where it is not expected. Reports of beneficial metals analysed by AA in fish are few. Salmon, for example is a good source of calcium since in canned products the bones are not usually removed, except in specialty products. In this discussion emphasis will be given to t nutritional metals and the other metal pollutants will not be mentioned. In their paper, (Carvalho, Santiago, and Nunes 2005) stated that fish are an important source of lipids, proteins, liposoluble vitamins and polyunsaturated fatty acids that are important in assisting to reduce hypertension, cancer

An analysis of essential and heavy metal levels in edible fish muscle was undertaken by (Carvalho, Santiago, and Nunes 2005) who employed two different techniques: energydisperive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) and flame AAS. Samples of nine fish were analysed, namely, Forkbeard (For), Meagre (Mea), White sea bream (WSB), Axillary sea bream (ASB), Red sea bream (RSB), Common sea bream (CSB), Rockfish (Roc), Common sole (Cso),

reference materials.

background corrector.

risk and coronary heart disease.

**6.1 Limited references to some beneficial metals in fish** 

**6. Metals in fish** 

Anglerfish (Ang) and Octopus (Oct) that came from coastal markets in Portugal. Flame AAS was used to determine the content of Cu, Cr, Ni, Hg, Pb and Cd employing a Varian (Australia) Spectr AA20 spectrometer. Sample preparation was achieved by means of incineration and dissolution in nitric acid. An EDXRF spectrometer was used for the determination of K, Ca, Fe, Rb, Se and Zn. Of the elements studied, it was fond that calcium and potassium were the most abundant elements detected in the fish samples. The highest potassium level detected was found in octopus with an average value of 12,660 μg/g dry weight and the lowest in Axillary sea bream being 6.170 μg/g. Common sea bream had the highest calcium content of 788 μg/g whereas White sea bream had the lowest value of 444 μg/g. The highest iron concentration in these fish was observed for Octapus at 109 μg/g and the lowest for Forkbeard at only 6.4 μg/g. In a Turkish study, nine fish were studied for their trace metal levels. The fish from the Black Sea were: European anchovy; Whiting; Red mullet; Bluefish; Atlantic horse mackerel; Flathead mullet and Atlantic bonito. Two species from the Aegean Sea were Black swordfish and Gilthead sea bream. A Perkin Elmer AAnalyst 700 AAS instrument equipped with a HGA graphite furnace and deuterium background correction was used for the analyses of chromium, copper, lead and nickel. Flame AA with an air/acetylene flame was employed by (Uluozlu *et al*. 2007) to determine the copper, iron, manganese and zinc content of fish samples.. Of the fish studied, Bluefish had the highest copper content of 1.83 ± 0.10 μg/g and the lowest level for European anchovy ± 0.08 μg/g. For chromium, the highest level was again for European Anchovy at 1.98 ± 0.10 μg/g but the lowest value for Atlantic horse mackerel 0.95 ± 0.07 μg/g; red mullet has the highest iron level 163 ± 12 μg/g and Bluefish the lowest 698.6 ± 5.3 μg/g; manganese gave the highest level of .54 ± 0.50 μg/g and the lowest for Bluefish 1.28 ± 0.10 μg/g and lastly zinc had the highest level for Red mullet of 106 ± 9.1 μg/g and the lowest level for Bluefish at 35.4 ± 3.2 μg/g. Hence, it can be seen that Red mullet had the highest zinc and iron levels, which were considerably higher than any of the other metals just mentioned in this analysis.

#### **7. Metals in some dairy products**

Traditionally, dairy foods are the main source of calcium in the diet where milk, yogurt and cheese are the foods commonly consumed. Calcium and also magnesium are the most important metals for building strong bones and teeth and to prevent rickets and osteoporosis in older citizens particularly women. Vitamins A and D as well am magnesium are usually added to over the counter dietary supplements to ensure adequate absorption of the calcium. In addition, magnesium is also present in milk and dairy products but ii is in larger quantities in leafy green vegetables in the form of chlorophyll being the central metal. Although magnesium is present in dairy products it is in considerably lower concentrations so the following discussion with be focusing mainly on calcium.

#### **7.1 Calcium and some other metals in milk and yogurt**

A method for the analysis of calcium and magnesium in dairy products has been reported by (Brandao, Matos, and Ferreira) employing a high resolution continuum source flame atomic absorption spectrometer (HF-CS-FAAS) using secondary lines. The advantage of using these secondary lines is that samples with high concentration of these elements did

Nutritional Metals in Foods by AAS 153

Milk products Mo level (g/g) Skimmed milk 0.034 ± 0.01

 Sample (A) 0.37 0.05 Sample (B) **0.22** 0.03 Sample (C) 0.27 0.02 Sample (D) 0.30 0.04 Sample (E) **0.40** 0.02

 Sample (A) **0.43** 0.03 Sample (B) **0.36**  0.01 Sample (C) 0.37 0.06

 Sample (A) **1.57** 0.28 Sample (B) **0.040** 0.006 Sample (c) 0.32 0.01

From Table 4, it can be seen that the range of Mo in whole milk samples was in the range 0.22 to 0.40 μg/g while the level in skimmed milk was considerable lower, 0.034 μg/g;

A Perkin-Elmer–303 Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer was used to analyse copper, iron, manganese, magnesium, potassium, sodium and calcium in butter samples. Samples were prepared by two methods, either by direct dry ashing or by dry-ashing of the HNO3 extract. Dry ashing was not suitable for copper, iron and manganese due sample loss and a wide range of results as well as being a very time consuming procedure. In contrast, for the other metals both methods gave satisfactory results. Three factories were included in the study, namely, 58 butter samples were obtained from Latvian dairy factories (LD); 33 from the Vladimir region factories (VR) and 58 from Krasnodar district factories.(KD). Results

**Metal in mg/kg Latvian Distract Valadimir Region Krasnodar District** 

Table 5. Results from (Lovachev et al. 1972) comparing the seven metal concentrations from

Table 4. Mo concentrations in μg/g for milk products determined by

infant formula 0.36 to 0.43 μg/g and milk based drinks 0.040 to 1.57 μg/g.

from these three factories in mg/kg can be seen in the Table 5 below.

Calcium **144 168 172**  Copper 0.82 1.45 1.26 Iron 1.57 1.84 2.15 Potassium **173 197 144**  Magnesium 14.4 19 21.2 Manganese **0.05 0.1 0.004**  Sodium 74 151 146

Whole milk:

Milk based drinks

Infant formula

(Regina de Amorim et al.).

the three regions.

**7.4 Analyses of some metals in butter** 

not need substantial dilution. Samples of milk powder, cow milk and yogurt were obtained from local supermarkets in Salvador City Brazil. In order to prepare the samples for analysis two methods were used: slurry sampling and digestion. Data obtained indicated that there was not any significant difference in the results for the two procedures. The instrument used was an Analytik jenna Model ContrAA 300 High Resolution-Continuum Source Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometer (GI.E. Berlin, Germany) equipped with a xenon short-arc lamp XBO 301 with a nominal power of 300 watt. A nitrous oxide/acetylene flame was used for the for the analysis of calcium and magnesium. For yogurt samples the calcium and magnesium levels were found to be 1.40 and 0.13 mg/g respectively. Values of calcium and magnesium in whole milk were 1.23 and 0.12 mg/mL respectively while for skim milk the concentrations were almost the same. In milk powder, however, the values were higher, namely, 8.92 and 0.83 mg/g for calcium and magnesium in this order. In contrast for skim milk the calcium and magnesium concentrations were 1.21 and 0.118 mg/g. A detailed study by (Miquel et al. 2005) for calcium, iron and zinc in toddler milk-based formula were 861 ±, 27; 12 ± 5; 7 ± 5 mg/L and for soluble fraction in the same product the values obtained were 704 ± 24; 7 ± 1 and 5 ± 1 mg/L, respectively. The chromium content of *acidaphilus* milk culture was reported by (Larsen and Rasmussen 1991) as 0.76 ng/mL: for cream 0.67 ng/mL; low fat cream, 13% fat, 0.77 ng/mL and yogurt 2.2 ng/mL.. A value of 14.3 4.0 mg/kg for chromium and 0.27 0.05 mg/kg for manganese in yogurt was reported by (Tinggi, Reilly, and Patterson 1997).

#### **7.2 Manganese and chromium levels in milk powders**

A procedure for the determination of manganese in dried milk employing a Zeeman furnace AAS was reported by (Koops and Westerbeek 1993). Samples were prepared for analysis by boiling them in nitric acid for 15 minutes then adding magnesium and palladium as matrix modifiers. Manganese levels were determined in 36 dried whole milk powder samples. It was found that the average manganese concentration of the samples was 0.21 mg/g of total solids present. Hence, these results showed that it was possible to calculate the manganese content for reconstituted milk as approximately 25 μg/kg. An analysis of the chromium and manganese levels in skim milk was determined by (Tinggi, Reilly, and Patterson 1997) who found they were 6.7 ± 1.5 ng/kg and 0.40 ± 0.20 ng/kg respectively.

#### **7.3 Molybdenum in milk products**

Although molybdenum is a essential trace metal, there are few references in the literature of atomic absorption analyses of molybdenum in foods, this may be because it is not a straight forward metal to analyse, as matrix modifiers are required. Determination of the concentration of molybdenum in skimmed milk based drinks and infant food samples was done by (Regina de Amorim et al.) using a graphite furnace AAS. A considerable amount to time was spent in evaluating matrix modifiers and temperature programming to optimize the procedure. Samples were obtained from a local store in Brazil: they were dissolved in ultra pure water, sonicated then used without further pre-digestion. The analyses were performed on a Perkin Elmer AAnalyst 300 atomic absorption spectrometer (Norwalk, CT,USA) fitted with an HGA 800 graphite furnace and AS-72 autosampler using argon purge gas. Values obtained for the molybdenum levels in the milk products are given below:

not need substantial dilution. Samples of milk powder, cow milk and yogurt were obtained from local supermarkets in Salvador City Brazil. In order to prepare the samples for analysis two methods were used: slurry sampling and digestion. Data obtained indicated that there was not any significant difference in the results for the two procedures. The instrument used was an Analytik jenna Model ContrAA 300 High Resolution-Continuum Source Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometer (GI.E. Berlin, Germany) equipped with a xenon short-arc lamp XBO 301 with a nominal power of 300 watt. A nitrous oxide/acetylene flame was used for the for the analysis of calcium and magnesium. For yogurt samples the calcium and magnesium levels were found to be 1.40 and 0.13 mg/g respectively. Values of calcium and magnesium in whole milk were 1.23 and 0.12 mg/mL respectively while for skim milk the concentrations were almost the same. In milk powder, however, the values were higher, namely, 8.92 and 0.83 mg/g for calcium and magnesium in this order. In contrast for skim milk the calcium and magnesium concentrations were 1.21 and 0.118 mg/g. A detailed study by (Miquel et al. 2005) for calcium, iron and zinc in toddler milk-based formula were 861 ±, 27; 12 ± 5; 7 ± 5 mg/L and for soluble fraction in the same product the values obtained were 704 ± 24; 7 ± 1 and 5 ± 1 mg/L, respectively. The chromium content of *acidaphilus* milk culture was reported by (Larsen and Rasmussen 1991) as 0.76 ng/mL: for cream 0.67 ng/mL; low fat cream, 13% fat, 0.77 ng/mL and yogurt 2.2 ng/mL.. A value of 14.3 4.0 mg/kg for chromium and 0.27 0.05 mg/kg for manganese in yogurt was reported by

A procedure for the determination of manganese in dried milk employing a Zeeman furnace AAS was reported by (Koops and Westerbeek 1993). Samples were prepared for analysis by boiling them in nitric acid for 15 minutes then adding magnesium and palladium as matrix modifiers. Manganese levels were determined in 36 dried whole milk powder samples. It was found that the average manganese concentration of the samples was 0.21 mg/g of total solids present. Hence, these results showed that it was possible to calculate the manganese content for reconstituted milk as approximately 25 μg/kg. An analysis of the chromium and manganese levels in skim milk was determined by (Tinggi, Reilly, and Patterson 1997) who

Although molybdenum is a essential trace metal, there are few references in the literature of atomic absorption analyses of molybdenum in foods, this may be because it is not a straight forward metal to analyse, as matrix modifiers are required. Determination of the concentration of molybdenum in skimmed milk based drinks and infant food samples was done by (Regina de Amorim et al.) using a graphite furnace AAS. A considerable amount to time was spent in evaluating matrix modifiers and temperature programming to optimize the procedure. Samples were obtained from a local store in Brazil: they were dissolved in ultra pure water, sonicated then used without further pre-digestion. The analyses were performed on a Perkin Elmer AAnalyst 300 atomic absorption spectrometer (Norwalk, CT,USA) fitted with an HGA 800 graphite furnace and AS-72 autosampler using argon purge gas. Values obtained for the molybdenum levels in the milk products are given

(Tinggi, Reilly, and Patterson 1997).

**7.3 Molybdenum in milk products** 

below:

**7.2 Manganese and chromium levels in milk powders** 

found they were 6.7 ± 1.5 ng/kg and 0.40 ± 0.20 ng/kg respectively.


Table 4. Mo concentrations in μg/g for milk products determined by (Regina de Amorim et al.).

From Table 4, it can be seen that the range of Mo in whole milk samples was in the range 0.22 to 0.40 μg/g while the level in skimmed milk was considerable lower, 0.034 μg/g; infant formula 0.36 to 0.43 μg/g and milk based drinks 0.040 to 1.57 μg/g.

#### **7.4 Analyses of some metals in butter**

A Perkin-Elmer–303 Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer was used to analyse copper, iron, manganese, magnesium, potassium, sodium and calcium in butter samples. Samples were prepared by two methods, either by direct dry ashing or by dry-ashing of the HNO3 extract. Dry ashing was not suitable for copper, iron and manganese due sample loss and a wide range of results as well as being a very time consuming procedure. In contrast, for the other metals both methods gave satisfactory results. Three factories were included in the study, namely, 58 butter samples were obtained from Latvian dairy factories (LD); 33 from the Vladimir region factories (VR) and 58 from Krasnodar district factories.(KD). Results from these three factories in mg/kg can be seen in the Table 5 below.


Table 5. Results from (Lovachev et al. 1972) comparing the seven metal concentrations from the three regions.

Nutritional Metals in Foods by AAS 155

manganese, iron, phosphorous and zinc in lower amounts 100 – 1000 mg/l. There were also trace amounts of cadmium, copper, lead, nickel, silicon, strontium and selenium. The average values found for eight determinations of three juices from fruit grown in different

Tin is not a desirable metal but a contaminant and was analysed in a number of juices, purees and fruit by the Comite Europeen de Normalisation (Foodstuffs. Determination of trace elements. Determination of tin by flame and graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS and GFAAS) after pressure digestion 2009) in a collaborative study.. Some of the products analysed included: carrot puree, tomato puree, pineapple, mixed fruits, powdered peach and tomato. Samples were prepared by pressure-assisted digestion then analysed by flame AAS or graphite furnace AAS. Data obtained for the products analysed were in the range of 43 – 260 mg/kg for AAS and or 2.5 – 269 mg/kg for graphite

Slurried fruit samples were tested by (Cabrera, Lorenzo, and Lopez 1995) for the levels of cadmium, copper, iron, lead and selenium by Electrothermal AAS. Only results for copper, iron and selenium will be mentioned, as these are the nutritional metals as distinct from the others that are contaminants. In addition, to the sample preparation of slurries, the samples were also mineralized in a microwave acid-digested bomb and the data compared for accuracy and precision. A total of 40 samples comprising 8 types of fruit that are regularly consumed were tested. These samples were: banana; custard apple; kiwifruit; mango, medlar, papaya; pineapple and strawberries. For these fruit samples the mean range of the metals copper, iron and selenium were 2.00 – 5.50 μg/g; 0.050 - .0.396 μg/g and 0.010 – 0.020 μg/g, respectively. Chromium and manganese were analysed (Tinggi, Reilly, and Patterson 1997) in fruit by AAS, after wet digestion but found that these two metals were relatively low in fruit when compared to other foods. Fruit samples tested were: apple; banana;

locations in the above region were: 0.20, 0.23 and 0.10 mg/L selenium.

**8.2 Beneficial metal concentrations in some fruits** 

grapes; orange; pear; pineapple (canned) and rock melon.

**Fruit Cr (ng/kg) Mn (mg/kg)** 

Apple 19.3 3.3 0.5 0.1 Banana 5.2 1.3 **3.3** 0.9 Grapes **4.3** 1.2 0.6 0.1 Orange 6.3 1.2 **0.4** 0.1 Pear 12.6 1.8 0.8 0.1

Rock melon 9.8 1.5 **0.4** 0.1

Table 6. Concentrations of chromium (ng/kg) and manganese (mg/kg) in selected fruit

It can be seen in the Table 6 that the chromium levels in these fruit samples ranged from 4.3 ng /kg in grapes to 21.3 ng/kg in pineapple. In contrast the manganese concentrations were higher than those for chromium in these same samples where the range was from 0.4 mg/kg

Pineapple (canned) **21.3** 1.5

for both orange and rock melon up to 3.3 mg/kg for banana.

furnace AAS.

samples.

It can be seen from Table 5 that the highest metal concentration was potassium in the Valadimir Regiion, 197 mg/kg followed by 173 mg/kg in the Latvian District. Calcium was the metal with the highest concentration of 172 mg/kg in the Krasnodar District. In the Valadimir Region the calcium level was 168 mg/kg but in the Latvian District it was 144 mg/kg. The metal with the lowest concentration in these three regions was for manganese: 0.05 mg/kg; 0.1 mg/kg and 0.004 mg/kg for Lativan, Valadimir and Krasnodar areas, respectively.

#### **7.5 Chromium levels in cheese**

Results are given below for analyses obtained by (Larsen and Rasmussen 1991) using a Zeeman graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry to determine chromium, cadmium and lead in some Danish dairy products including cheese. Only data for chromium in cheese samples will be presented here. A Perkin Elmer model 5000 Zeenam atomic absorption instrument with a HA 500 graphite furnace and autosampler AS40 were employed for the analyses. Cheese samples were cut into small cubes then ashed in a bomb with nitric acid for four hours then ashed overnight. Chromium concentrations for six cheese samples that the authors state are only indicative, due to the small sample set, will now be given: Brie 45, 20 ng/mL; Camembert 30, 13 ng/mL; Danbo 45, 8.6 ng/mL; Danbo 45, 19 ng/mL; Havarti 60, 4.6 ng/mL and Maribo 45, 20 ng/mL. The authors state that the results obtained in this work compare well with other countries. Chromium and manganese levels in cheese were also reported by (Tinggi, Reilly, and Patterson 1997) as 95.0 29.2 ng/kg and 1.1 0.2 mg/kg, respectively.

#### **8. Selected metals in fruit**

Some of the metal analyses on fruit products are, in fact, related to metal analyses in fruit juices and purees that are often related to authenticity and country or region of origin. This is to detect adulteration with an inferior juice since metal analyses are indicative of the soil type and hence the location. Authenticity studies including metal analyses are usually in conjunction with other techniques such as GC/MS as well as AAS. Some examples will be given on juice and fruit with a limited number of metals. Other studies are related to contaminants such as tin from canned fruit and juices. Even though this article is directed to nutritional metals a few examples will be given of tin concentrations in canned fruit products for interest.

#### **8.1 Examples of metal analyses in fruit juices and purees**

Selenium levels in wild fruit juice from the mountainous area in north China, Lantingguo, was reported by (Yongming et al. 1996) using a graphite furnace AAS. Electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry using a Perkin-Elmer 5000 atomic absorption spectrometer linked to a Model HGA 500 graphite furnace with a selenium HCL was the instrument set up employed for this work. This analysis was complicated by the fact that there were other interfering ions present in the juice, hence matrix modifiers were necessary. It was found that the modifier consisting of 10 μg of platinum and 200 μg of nickel gave the most satisfactory results. As already mentioned the metal content in the juice are related to the different fruit growing regions. Other metals found in these locations that interferes with the Se analyses include: potassium greater that 1000 mg/L followed by calcium, magnesium,

It can be seen from Table 5 that the highest metal concentration was potassium in the Valadimir Regiion, 197 mg/kg followed by 173 mg/kg in the Latvian District. Calcium was the metal with the highest concentration of 172 mg/kg in the Krasnodar District. In the Valadimir Region the calcium level was 168 mg/kg but in the Latvian District it was 144 mg/kg. The metal with the lowest concentration in these three regions was for manganese: 0.05 mg/kg; 0.1 mg/kg and 0.004 mg/kg for Lativan, Valadimir and Krasnodar areas,

Results are given below for analyses obtained by (Larsen and Rasmussen 1991) using a Zeeman graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry to determine chromium, cadmium and lead in some Danish dairy products including cheese. Only data for chromium in cheese samples will be presented here. A Perkin Elmer model 5000 Zeenam atomic absorption instrument with a HA 500 graphite furnace and autosampler AS40 were employed for the analyses. Cheese samples were cut into small cubes then ashed in a bomb with nitric acid for four hours then ashed overnight. Chromium concentrations for six cheese samples that the authors state are only indicative, due to the small sample set, will now be given: Brie 45, 20 ng/mL; Camembert 30, 13 ng/mL; Danbo 45, 8.6 ng/mL; Danbo 45, 19 ng/mL; Havarti 60, 4.6 ng/mL and Maribo 45, 20 ng/mL. The authors state that the results obtained in this work compare well with other countries. Chromium and manganese levels in cheese were also reported by (Tinggi, Reilly, and Patterson 1997) as 95.0 29.2

Some of the metal analyses on fruit products are, in fact, related to metal analyses in fruit juices and purees that are often related to authenticity and country or region of origin. This is to detect adulteration with an inferior juice since metal analyses are indicative of the soil type and hence the location. Authenticity studies including metal analyses are usually in conjunction with other techniques such as GC/MS as well as AAS. Some examples will be given on juice and fruit with a limited number of metals. Other studies are related to contaminants such as tin from canned fruit and juices. Even though this article is directed to nutritional metals a few examples will be given of tin concentrations in canned fruit

Selenium levels in wild fruit juice from the mountainous area in north China, Lantingguo, was reported by (Yongming et al. 1996) using a graphite furnace AAS. Electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry using a Perkin-Elmer 5000 atomic absorption spectrometer linked to a Model HGA 500 graphite furnace with a selenium HCL was the instrument set up employed for this work. This analysis was complicated by the fact that there were other interfering ions present in the juice, hence matrix modifiers were necessary. It was found that the modifier consisting of 10 μg of platinum and 200 μg of nickel gave the most satisfactory results. As already mentioned the metal content in the juice are related to the different fruit growing regions. Other metals found in these locations that interferes with the Se analyses include: potassium greater that 1000 mg/L followed by calcium, magnesium,

respectively.

**7.5 Chromium levels in cheese** 

ng/kg and 1.1 0.2 mg/kg, respectively.

**8.1 Examples of metal analyses in fruit juices and purees** 

**8. Selected metals in fruit** 

products for interest.

manganese, iron, phosphorous and zinc in lower amounts 100 – 1000 mg/l. There were also trace amounts of cadmium, copper, lead, nickel, silicon, strontium and selenium. The average values found for eight determinations of three juices from fruit grown in different locations in the above region were: 0.20, 0.23 and 0.10 mg/L selenium.

Tin is not a desirable metal but a contaminant and was analysed in a number of juices, purees and fruit by the Comite Europeen de Normalisation (Foodstuffs. Determination of trace elements. Determination of tin by flame and graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS and GFAAS) after pressure digestion 2009) in a collaborative study.. Some of the products analysed included: carrot puree, tomato puree, pineapple, mixed fruits, powdered peach and tomato. Samples were prepared by pressure-assisted digestion then analysed by flame AAS or graphite furnace AAS. Data obtained for the products analysed were in the range of 43 – 260 mg/kg for AAS and or 2.5 – 269 mg/kg for graphite furnace AAS.

#### **8.2 Beneficial metal concentrations in some fruits**

Slurried fruit samples were tested by (Cabrera, Lorenzo, and Lopez 1995) for the levels of cadmium, copper, iron, lead and selenium by Electrothermal AAS. Only results for copper, iron and selenium will be mentioned, as these are the nutritional metals as distinct from the others that are contaminants. In addition, to the sample preparation of slurries, the samples were also mineralized in a microwave acid-digested bomb and the data compared for accuracy and precision. A total of 40 samples comprising 8 types of fruit that are regularly consumed were tested. These samples were: banana; custard apple; kiwifruit; mango, medlar, papaya; pineapple and strawberries. For these fruit samples the mean range of the metals copper, iron and selenium were 2.00 – 5.50 μg/g; 0.050 - .0.396 μg/g and 0.010 – 0.020 μg/g, respectively. Chromium and manganese were analysed (Tinggi, Reilly, and Patterson 1997) in fruit by AAS, after wet digestion but found that these two metals were relatively low in fruit when compared to other foods. Fruit samples tested were: apple; banana; grapes; orange; pear; pineapple (canned) and rock melon.


Table 6. Concentrations of chromium (ng/kg) and manganese (mg/kg) in selected fruit samples.

It can be seen in the Table 6 that the chromium levels in these fruit samples ranged from 4.3 ng /kg in grapes to 21.3 ng/kg in pineapple. In contrast the manganese concentrations were higher than those for chromium in these same samples where the range was from 0.4 mg/kg for both orange and rock melon up to 3.3 mg/kg for banana.

Nutritional Metals in Foods by AAS 157

while the chromium content was below 0.05 mg/kg. An analysis of Fe, Zn and Cu in some foods consumed in Mexico including vegetables, legumes, fruits, cereals and animal foods was reported by Lopez and co-workers (Lopez et al. 1999). Considering these products, it was found that the zinc level had a range of 0.018 mg/100g to 9.193mg/100 g for strawberry and beef. The iron concentrations were from 0.113 mg/100g to 19.82 mg/10g for yogurt and commercial cereal but the latter was fortified with minerals. Copper was not detected in all foods but was found to be the highest in beef liver, namely 3.371 mg/100g. Selenium levels in some Egyptian foods were determined by electro-thermal (ETAAS) and hydride generation (HGAAS) atomic absorption spectrometry by (Hussein and Bruggeman 1999). They found the metal was only in trace amounts: in the range of 1-33 μg/kg. Other products

**Vegetable Chromium (ng/kg) Manganese (mg/kg)** 

Table 7. Chromium and manganese concentrations in some vegetables in ng/kg and mg/kg

Table 8. Results of AAS Ca analyses, selected examples in vegetable, edible portion, from

Calcium levels in many foods have been reported by (Siong, Khor Swan, and Siti Mizura 1989): some results will now be given for a selection of the vegetables tested. Two methods

Bean (boiled) 5.3 ± 1.6 3.4 ± 0.4 Broccoli (boiled) 8.0 ± 2.0 1.2 ± 0.1` Carrot (boiled) 13.0 ± 2.3 1.5 ± 0.1 Cauliflower (boiled) 6.3 ± 1.6 1.1 ± 0.2 Lettuce 9.2 ± 1.3 1.3 ± 0.1 Peas (frozen) 28.3 ± 3.5 **6.0 ± 1.2**  Potato (roasted) 19.0 ± 2.2 **0.9 ± 0.06**  Pumpkin (boiled) 16.0 ± 2.2 **0.9 ± 0.2**  Tomatoes **30.0 ± 2.1** 2.0 ± 0.1 Zucchini 6.3 ± 1.2 1.3 ± 0.3

**Vegetable mg Ca/100 g** 

Asparagus (fresh) 13.9 Asparagus (canned) 14.7 Leek 16.2 Mushrooms (fresh) - grey oyster **1.0**  Peak (fresh) – garden 62.5 Radish (pickled) - Chinese 94.9 Rhubarb (petioles) - ;pie ;plant 268.9 **Seaweed (agar) 510.2**  Spinach - Ceylon 116.2 Spinach -*Bayam pasi* 319.4 Tomato – tree 11.2 Yam bean 12.4

were tested but are not reported here.

respectively (mean ± SD)

part of a table by Siong.

Fifteen elements were analysed by flame AAS after microwave-assisted digestion of the cultivar citrus reticulate Blanco CV. Ougan fruits. The analyses gave high concentrations of these metals at both of the ripeness stages (Mojsiewicz-Pienkowska and Lukasiak 2003)

#### **8.3 Analyses of tin a contaminant in canned fruit and fruit juices**

A report by (Dogan and Haerdi 1980) on the analysis of the tin content in peaches, pears, pineapple, mandarin, peeled tomato and fruit cocktail by a number ot techniques including AAS will now be presented. Sample preparation was achived by using Lumatom, which is a trade organic chemical that contains quaternary ammonium hydroxide suspended in isopropanol. After this sample preparation procedure the.fruit and juice samples were introduced directly into the graphite AAS instrument. The tin concentrations levels were: quartered mandarin 68 ppm; peeled tomato 57 ppm and fruit cocktail 57 ppm. Rigin (Rigin 1979) used flameless AAS to determine the tin levels in canned tomato, apple and orange juice. The results for 5 replicates of each sample after three months storage for canned tomato, apple an orange juice were 12.1, 2.75 and 30.5 μg/ml respectively. After twelve months, however, the values had increased to 76.3, 4.26 and 45.4 μg/ml for the samples in the same order as for three months storage. Wehrer *et al* (Wehrer, Thiersault, and Laugel 1976) used AAS with wet and dry ashing to determine tin content of canned samples including stewed apples. The concentration of tin in the stewed apples for ten replicates was 52.4 mg/kg after 2N HCl digestion and 57.5 mg/kg after dry ashing that involvd calcinations using magnesium nitrate. Vijan and Chan (Vijan and Chan 1976) determined the tin content of a number of different types of samples including apple, apple/cherry, apple/pineapple and tomato juices. For the first three products the tin level was less than 0.1 μg/ml but for tomato juice it was considerably higher at 90 μg/ml.

#### **9. Metal levels in vegetables**

Detailed analyses of chromium and manganese on a wide range of food groups has been undertaken by (Tinggi, Reilly, and Patterson 1997) at this point in time the discussion will be limited to vegetables. The results show that the chromium levels are lower (ng/kg) in the vegetables analysed than in manganese (mg/kg) where the sample sizes ranged from 3 to 5 per vegetable. Vegetables studied included: beans (boiled); broccoli (boiled); carrot (boiled); cauliflower (boiled); lettuce; peas (frozen); potato (roasted); pumpkin (boiled);); tomatoes and zucchini. Portion of the data for these two elements have been extracted from the study under consideration in this section and will be presented below in Table 7.

It can be seen from Table 7 that the highest level of chromium is in tomatoes, 30 ng/kg, and the lowest level in boiled bean 5.3 ng/kg. Whereas for manganese the highest level was for frozen peas, 6.0 mg/kg, while the lowest value was for potato and pumpkin that were equal at 0.9 mg/kg. Hence tomato is a good source of chromium, which stabilizes the blood sugar levels and peas are a good source of manganese.

A study on the mineral levels in some Slovenian foods that are regularly consumed was undertaken by (Zuliani et al. 2005) After sample workup employing microwave-assisted digestion the samples were analysed by flame and electrothermal atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The minerals content investigated in this study were, Zn, Cu, Cd, Pb and Ni. It was found that the samples tested did not contain any Cd, Pb or Ni contamination. Zinc levels reported for cabbage and tomatoes were less than 50 mg/kg. Copper content, in contrast, was between 2 and 3 mg/kg in the majority of the samples

Fifteen elements were analysed by flame AAS after microwave-assisted digestion of the cultivar citrus reticulate Blanco CV. Ougan fruits. The analyses gave high concentrations of these metals at both of the ripeness stages (Mojsiewicz-Pienkowska and Lukasiak 2003)

A report by (Dogan and Haerdi 1980) on the analysis of the tin content in peaches, pears, pineapple, mandarin, peeled tomato and fruit cocktail by a number ot techniques including AAS will now be presented. Sample preparation was achived by using Lumatom, which is a trade organic chemical that contains quaternary ammonium hydroxide suspended in isopropanol. After this sample preparation procedure the.fruit and juice samples were introduced directly into the graphite AAS instrument. The tin concentrations levels were: quartered mandarin 68 ppm; peeled tomato 57 ppm and fruit cocktail 57 ppm. Rigin (Rigin 1979) used flameless AAS to determine the tin levels in canned tomato, apple and orange juice. The results for 5 replicates of each sample after three months storage for canned tomato, apple an orange juice were 12.1, 2.75 and 30.5 μg/ml respectively. After twelve months, however, the values had increased to 76.3, 4.26 and 45.4 μg/ml for the samples in the same order as for three months storage. Wehrer *et al* (Wehrer, Thiersault, and Laugel 1976) used AAS with wet and dry ashing to determine tin content of canned samples including stewed apples. The concentration of tin in the stewed apples for ten replicates was 52.4 mg/kg after 2N HCl digestion and 57.5 mg/kg after dry ashing that involvd calcinations using magnesium nitrate. Vijan and Chan (Vijan and Chan 1976) determined the tin content of a number of different types of samples including apple, apple/cherry, apple/pineapple and tomato juices. For the first three products the tin level was less than

Detailed analyses of chromium and manganese on a wide range of food groups has been undertaken by (Tinggi, Reilly, and Patterson 1997) at this point in time the discussion will be limited to vegetables. The results show that the chromium levels are lower (ng/kg) in the vegetables analysed than in manganese (mg/kg) where the sample sizes ranged from 3 to 5 per vegetable. Vegetables studied included: beans (boiled); broccoli (boiled); carrot (boiled); cauliflower (boiled); lettuce; peas (frozen); potato (roasted); pumpkin (boiled);); tomatoes and zucchini. Portion of the data for these two elements have been extracted from the study

It can be seen from Table 7 that the highest level of chromium is in tomatoes, 30 ng/kg, and the lowest level in boiled bean 5.3 ng/kg. Whereas for manganese the highest level was for frozen peas, 6.0 mg/kg, while the lowest value was for potato and pumpkin that were equal at 0.9 mg/kg. Hence tomato is a good source of chromium, which stabilizes the blood sugar

A study on the mineral levels in some Slovenian foods that are regularly consumed was undertaken by (Zuliani et al. 2005) After sample workup employing microwave-assisted digestion the samples were analysed by flame and electrothermal atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The minerals content investigated in this study were, Zn, Cu, Cd, Pb and Ni. It was found that the samples tested did not contain any Cd, Pb or Ni contamination. Zinc levels reported for cabbage and tomatoes were less than 50 mg/kg. Copper content, in contrast, was between 2 and 3 mg/kg in the majority of the samples

**8.3 Analyses of tin a contaminant in canned fruit and fruit juices** 

0.1 μg/ml but for tomato juice it was considerably higher at 90 μg/ml.

under consideration in this section and will be presented below in Table 7.

**9. Metal levels in vegetables** 

levels and peas are a good source of manganese.

while the chromium content was below 0.05 mg/kg. An analysis of Fe, Zn and Cu in some foods consumed in Mexico including vegetables, legumes, fruits, cereals and animal foods was reported by Lopez and co-workers (Lopez et al. 1999). Considering these products, it was found that the zinc level had a range of 0.018 mg/100g to 9.193mg/100 g for strawberry and beef. The iron concentrations were from 0.113 mg/100g to 19.82 mg/10g for yogurt and commercial cereal but the latter was fortified with minerals. Copper was not detected in all foods but was found to be the highest in beef liver, namely 3.371 mg/100g. Selenium levels in some Egyptian foods were determined by electro-thermal (ETAAS) and hydride generation (HGAAS) atomic absorption spectrometry by (Hussein and Bruggeman 1999). They found the metal was only in trace amounts: in the range of 1-33 μg/kg. Other products were tested but are not reported here.


Table 7. Chromium and manganese concentrations in some vegetables in ng/kg and mg/kg respectively (mean ± SD)


Table 8. Results of AAS Ca analyses, selected examples in vegetable, edible portion, from part of a table by Siong.

Calcium levels in many foods have been reported by (Siong, Khor Swan, and Siti Mizura 1989): some results will now be given for a selection of the vegetables tested. Two methods

Nutritional Metals in Foods by AAS 159

**Element Legumes Leafy vegetables Root vegetables** 

Table 9. Mean concentrations of metals, mg/kg in legumes, leafy and root vegetable grown

In addition to the analyses on calcium in foods, (Siong, Khor Swan, and Siti Mizura 1989) also undertook a similar study for iron levels, again employing a Varian Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer model 175 using an air/acetylene flame. Analyses of iron in foods are important as it is a mineral that is often lacking in diets low in red meat, which is necessary to prevent anaemia Readily available information assists consumers and health care professionals to advise on foods that contain this element where the total RDA for that metal is kept in mind. The edible portions of the samples were homogenized, oven dried, charred then ashed in a muffle furnace. The AAS method was compared with a colorimetric phenanthroline procedure where the results indicated that both methods were found to be satisfactory for iron analyses although AAS would be a less time consuming. Only some

Calcium 514 **2580 390**  Chromium **0.07 0.08 0.09**  Copper 2.28 0.6 0.7 Iron 30.02 15.5 12.9 Potassium 0.67 0.39 0.41 Magnesium **790.00** 359.0 157 Manganese 10.6 8.3 4.3 Sodium 4.16 90.1 727 Zinc 16.30 4.2 3.4

in Jamaica

data for vegetables by AAS will b e given below.

**Vegetable mg Fe/100 g** 

Table 10. Concentration of iron in mg/100 g of edible portion of vegetables

It is interesting to note from Table 10 that the highest level of iron is in dried seaweed at 22.94 mg Fe/100 g, followed by canned Asparagus, 7.06 mg Fe/100 g and then seaweed

**Asparagus (canned) 7.06**  Asparagus (fresh) 0.55 Broccoli 0.47 **Cucumber (hairy) 0.15**  Leek 0.33 Mushrooms (fresh) grey oyster 0.84 Mustard leaves (Chinese) 1.35 Mustard leaves (Indian) 1.46 Peas (fresh) garden 0.75 **Seaweed (agar)** 5.33 **Seaweed (dried) 22.94**  Spinach (Ceylon) 0.88 Spinach (red) 2.64 Spinach (*Bayam duri*) 1..69 Yam bean **0.26** 

were compared AAS and potassium permanganate titration. A Varian Atomic Absorption spectrophotometer, Model 175 using an air/acetylene flame was used for the analyses. Samples were prepared for introduction into the instrument by ashing. Data for the two methods were in good agreement, however, only AAS results will be given for some vegetables reported by Siong's group.

For the vegetables listed in Table 8, seaweed contains the highest concentration of calcium being 510.2 mg/100 g. Spinach followed next with a value of 319.4 mg/10g.whereas fresh mushrooms contain only 1 mg/100 g of calcium, the lowest concentration reported in this group. Atomic absorption spectroscopy was used to determine the mineral content of hummyad (*Rumex vesicarius*) leaves that are grown in both the northern and central areas of Saudi Arabia.. Elements analysed included calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, potassium, sodium and zinc. The range of values (Alfawaz 2006) obtained for these metals are as follows: calcium 1790 – 2680 mg/100 g; copper 24.1 – 43.5 mg/100 g; iron 1320 – 2270 mg/100 g; potassium 2710 – 3230 mg100 g; sodium 846 – 1100 mg/ 100 g and zinc 3.7 – 8.8 mg/100 g. Hence, it is clear that this plant is very rich in calcium, iron and potassium, the highest mineral content being for potassium followed by calcium and iron indicating that these leaves are a nutritious source of these essential metals The germanium content in different foods including vegetables was determined by (McMahon, Regan, and Hughes 2006) using a Graphite furnace atomic absorption instrument. Sample workup was via drying and ashing. Values for several vegetables are as follows: carrot 0.60 μg/g; potato 1.85 μg/g; garlic 2.79 μg/g. and soy mince 9.39 μg/g. The latter sample having the highest germanium content of the vegetables tested. Food, crops and soils in Taiwan were analysed by (Huang, Wen, and Chern 1987) for the selenium content. Metals found in soils are directly related to the uptake of minerals in plants. Considering soil in the Taiwan region, the selenium level was determined to be in the range 0.03 – 0.23 ppm. Selenium content in crops, fruit and vegetables, in contrast, was reported to be approximately 0.1 ppm, however, for mushrooms the level was higher, namely, 0.55 ppm.

An analysis of two cultivars of onions grown in Venezuela: Yellow Granex PRR 502 and 438 Granex were tested for the concentrations of calcium, copper, iron, manganese, potassium and zinc, by total reflection X-ray fluorescence (TXRF), then the results compared with those from FAAS. A more efficient sample preparation was employed where the samples were acid extracted from the crude products using an ultrasonic bath, avoiding time consuming digestion. Sample work up was also compared with wet and dry ashing. The mineral content of the onions is important so the soils can have more elements added if, required, to improve their nutritional value. It was found that the ultrasound work up and dry ashing gave similar results. Levels of calcium copper and iron were found to be significantly greater in the Yellow Granex cultivar while potassium, manganese and zinc were significantly higher in 438 Granex. Levels of calcium and potassium were very much greater than the concentrations of the other elements: potassium being slightly higher than calcium, irrespective of the work up procedure: ultrasonic extraction or wet or dry ashing methods (Alvarez et al. 2003). A thorough analyses of a wide range of metals in Jamaican foods has been reported to (Howe et al. 2005) for legumes, leafy and root vegetables, fruit and other root crops. Only some metals levels will be mentioned here for the first three products listed above. Data will be given for calcium, chromium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, sodium and zinc. Comparison data was also undertaken with other countries but will not be given here.

were compared AAS and potassium permanganate titration. A Varian Atomic Absorption spectrophotometer, Model 175 using an air/acetylene flame was used for the analyses. Samples were prepared for introduction into the instrument by ashing. Data for the two methods were in good agreement, however, only AAS results will be given for some

For the vegetables listed in Table 8, seaweed contains the highest concentration of calcium being 510.2 mg/100 g. Spinach followed next with a value of 319.4 mg/10g.whereas fresh mushrooms contain only 1 mg/100 g of calcium, the lowest concentration reported in this group. Atomic absorption spectroscopy was used to determine the mineral content of hummyad (*Rumex vesicarius*) leaves that are grown in both the northern and central areas of Saudi Arabia.. Elements analysed included calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, potassium, sodium and zinc. The range of values (Alfawaz 2006) obtained for these metals are as follows: calcium 1790 – 2680 mg/100 g; copper 24.1 – 43.5 mg/100 g; iron 1320 – 2270 mg/100 g; potassium 2710 – 3230 mg100 g; sodium 846 – 1100 mg/ 100 g and zinc 3.7 – 8.8 mg/100 g. Hence, it is clear that this plant is very rich in calcium, iron and potassium, the highest mineral content being for potassium followed by calcium and iron indicating that these leaves are a nutritious source of these essential metals The germanium content in different foods including vegetables was determined by (McMahon, Regan, and Hughes 2006) using a Graphite furnace atomic absorption instrument. Sample workup was via drying and ashing. Values for several vegetables are as follows: carrot 0.60 μg/g; potato 1.85 μg/g; garlic 2.79 μg/g. and soy mince 9.39 μg/g. The latter sample having the highest germanium content of the vegetables tested. Food, crops and soils in Taiwan were analysed by (Huang, Wen, and Chern 1987) for the selenium content. Metals found in soils are directly related to the uptake of minerals in plants. Considering soil in the Taiwan region, the selenium level was determined to be in the range 0.03 – 0.23 ppm. Selenium content in crops, fruit and vegetables, in contrast, was reported to be approximately 0.1 ppm, however,

An analysis of two cultivars of onions grown in Venezuela: Yellow Granex PRR 502 and 438 Granex were tested for the concentrations of calcium, copper, iron, manganese, potassium and zinc, by total reflection X-ray fluorescence (TXRF), then the results compared with those from FAAS. A more efficient sample preparation was employed where the samples were acid extracted from the crude products using an ultrasonic bath, avoiding time consuming digestion. Sample work up was also compared with wet and dry ashing. The mineral content of the onions is important so the soils can have more elements added if, required, to improve their nutritional value. It was found that the ultrasound work up and dry ashing gave similar results. Levels of calcium copper and iron were found to be significantly greater in the Yellow Granex cultivar while potassium, manganese and zinc were significantly higher in 438 Granex. Levels of calcium and potassium were very much greater than the concentrations of the other elements: potassium being slightly higher than calcium, irrespective of the work up procedure: ultrasonic extraction or wet or dry ashing methods (Alvarez et al. 2003). A thorough analyses of a wide range of metals in Jamaican foods has been reported to (Howe et al. 2005) for legumes, leafy and root vegetables, fruit and other root crops. Only some metals levels will be mentioned here for the first three products listed above. Data will be given for calcium, chromium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, sodium and zinc. Comparison data was also undertaken with other countries

vegetables reported by Siong's group.

for mushrooms the level was higher, namely, 0.55 ppm.

but will not be given here.


Table 9. Mean concentrations of metals, mg/kg in legumes, leafy and root vegetable grown in Jamaica

In addition to the analyses on calcium in foods, (Siong, Khor Swan, and Siti Mizura 1989) also undertook a similar study for iron levels, again employing a Varian Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer model 175 using an air/acetylene flame. Analyses of iron in foods are important as it is a mineral that is often lacking in diets low in red meat, which is necessary to prevent anaemia Readily available information assists consumers and health care professionals to advise on foods that contain this element where the total RDA for that metal is kept in mind. The edible portions of the samples were homogenized, oven dried, charred then ashed in a muffle furnace. The AAS method was compared with a colorimetric phenanthroline procedure where the results indicated that both methods were found to be satisfactory for iron analyses although AAS would be a less time consuming. Only some data for vegetables by AAS will b e given below.


Table 10. Concentration of iron in mg/100 g of edible portion of vegetables

It is interesting to note from Table 10 that the highest level of iron is in dried seaweed at 22.94 mg Fe/100 g, followed by canned Asparagus, 7.06 mg Fe/100 g and then seaweed

Nutritional Metals in Foods by AAS 161

In Table 12, interesting to note that cabbage has such a high level of calcium at 20160 mg/kg and carrots contain 1920 mg/kg of sodium. Red kidney beans are good source of iron having 76.5 mg/kg that is an excellent source of this metal for vegetarians. Cow peas, in addition to containing a very high level of magnesium, 1620 mg/kg also have a

Essential and trace mineral content in a number of tomato fruit cultivars was determined by (Ruiz et al. 1995) Their work is reported here under the section on vegetables as in Australia and some other countries, tomatoes are regarded as a vegetable. Essential minerals studied were calcium, magnesium, potassium and sodium while the trace metals were copper, iron, manganese and zinc. Data on samples reported here are new cultivars that were being developed in order to increase their health benefits. The four cultivars under consideration are: S. *lycopersicum*; S. *pimpinellofilium*; S. *cheesmaniae* and S. *harbrochaites.* Samples were grown in a greenhouse during the spring-summer time in Valencia, Spain. Preparation of the sample was firstly by freeze-drying,, ashing at 450oC and finally making up in acids: 50% HCl and HNO3. A Perkin-Elmer 2280 spectrophotometer was employed using an air/acetylene flame for the analyses. Results from the study will now presented in the table below and cam be compared with other data for tomatoes reported by other researchers in

Sample Ca Mg K Na Cu Fe Mn Zn

36.89 **±**  1.48

54.94 **±**  2.65

**84.4 ±** 1.49

82.61 **±**  2.89

Table 13. The concentrations of the essential and trace metals for the four cultivars A, B, C

0.43 **±** 0.02

0.74 **±** 0.02

0.72 **±**  0.01

0.62 **±**  0.03

0.55 **±** 0.3

0.96 **±** 0.05

**1.17 ±** 0.11

1.02 **±** 0.06

0.1 **±** 0.00

0.17 **±** 0.01

**0.19 ±** 0.01

0.15 **±** 0.01

0.26 **±** 0.01

0.33 **±** 0.01

**0.70 ±** 0.01

0.17 **±**  0.01

78.47 **±**  2.54

212.83**±** 5.88

**222.51±** 2.34

**194.27±**  8.51

and D are given in mg/100 g Where A, B, C and D represent: S. *lycopersicum*; S.

**Metal Vegetable Level mg/kg**  Calcium Cabbage 20160 Magnesium Cow peas 1621 Potassium Corn 3.8% Sodium Carrot 1920

Copper Cow peas 5.0 Chromium Sweet potato 1.1 Iron Red kidney beans 76.5 Manganese Cow peas 27 Zinc Daheen 76

concentration of manganese, 27 mg/kg. Dasheen is rich in zinc, 76 mg/kg.

Table 12. Minerals in selected vegetables in mg/kg

**9.1 Mineral and trace mineral content in tomatoes** 

6.40 **±** 0.52

12.93 **±** 0.44

14.37 **±**  0.25

**20.49 ±**  0.16

*pimpinellofilium*; S. *cheesmaniae* and S. *harbrochaites respectively*.

this section on vegetables.

A 23.57 **±** 0.86

B 37.69 **±** 2.25

C 45.78 **±** 0.46

D **46.88 ±** 2.73

(agar), 5.33 mg Fe/100 g. In contrast the lowest iron content was found in hairy cucumber being 0.15 mg Fe/100 g. Sodium and potassium content of a large number of foods and composite foods consumed in Canada was carried out with respect to a Total Diet Survey. Generally only some unprocessed vegetable data obtained by (Tanase et al.) will be given in this Section. Potassium samples were analysed by AAS, Perkin Elmer AAnalyst 400, but sodium analyses were performed employing atomic emission spectroscopy. The mean potassium and sodium levels in mg/kg of the various unprocessed vegetables will now be quoted in this order. Samples were mechanically homogenized, filtered with Whatman 541 filter paper then diluted with dilute nitric acid that contained CsCl2 (1000ug/ml) , a matrix modifier.


Table 11. Selected vegetables (mean values, mg/kg) generally fresh but with some canned or cooked.

It can be seen in Table 11 that all of the vegetables listed have high potassium content with baked jacket potatoes having the highest potassium level of 4921 mg/kg followed by Spinach at 4007 mg/kg. The lowest potassium content is this group is for onions at 822 mg/kg. In contrast, the highest sodium concentration was found to be in canned baked beans at 2892 mg/kg followed by string beans either fresh or canned at 1704 mg/kg. The lowest sodium level was found be in green peppers at 4 mg/kg. Mineral concentrations in a range of vegetables have been reported by (Howe et al. 2005). Calcium, copper, chromium, iron, magnesium, manganese, potassium, sodium and zinc values will be given for some vegetables for the highest observed values expressed on a fresh weight basis. See Table 12 on the next page.

(agar), 5.33 mg Fe/100 g. In contrast the lowest iron content was found in hairy cucumber being 0.15 mg Fe/100 g. Sodium and potassium content of a large number of foods and composite foods consumed in Canada was carried out with respect to a Total Diet Survey. Generally only some unprocessed vegetable data obtained by (Tanase et al.) will be given in this Section. Potassium samples were analysed by AAS, Perkin Elmer AAnalyst 400, but sodium analyses were performed employing atomic emission spectroscopy. The mean potassium and sodium levels in mg/kg of the various unprocessed vegetables will now be quoted in this order. Samples were mechanically homogenized, filtered with Whatman 541 filter paper then diluted with dilute nitric acid that contained CsCl2 (1000ug/ml) , a matrix

**Vegetable Potassium mg/kg Sodium mg/kg** 

Table 11. Selected vegetables (mean values, mg/kg) generally fresh but with some canned or

It can be seen in Table 11 that all of the vegetables listed have high potassium content with baked jacket potatoes having the highest potassium level of 4921 mg/kg followed by Spinach at 4007 mg/kg. The lowest potassium content is this group is for onions at 822 mg/kg. In contrast, the highest sodium concentration was found to be in canned baked beans at 2892 mg/kg followed by string beans either fresh or canned at 1704 mg/kg. The lowest sodium level was found be in green peppers at 4 mg/kg. Mineral concentrations in a range of vegetables have been reported by (Howe et al. 2005). Calcium, copper, chromium, iron, magnesium, manganese, potassium, sodium and zinc values will be given for some vegetables for the highest observed values expressed on a fresh weight basis. See Table 12

Asparagus (fresh) 2081 40 Baked beans (canned) 2542 **2892**  Beans string (fresh: canned) 1550 **1704**  Broccoli 1647 153 Brussels sprouts (fresh) 2946 64 Cabbage 1694 95 Carrots 2182 163 Cauliflower 1266 148 Celery 1627 626 Lettuce iceberg; romaine 3:1 1520 127 Mushrooms (button) 1844 38 Onions 825 33 Peas (frozen: canned) **822** 1083 Peppers, green 1698 **4**  Potatoes (peeled; boiled) 2032 20 Potatoes (baked: skin) **4921** 41 Spinach **4007** 619 Tomatoes (fresh) 2599 26

modifier.

cooked.

on the next page.


Table 12. Minerals in selected vegetables in mg/kg

In Table 12, interesting to note that cabbage has such a high level of calcium at 20160 mg/kg and carrots contain 1920 mg/kg of sodium. Red kidney beans are good source of iron having 76.5 mg/kg that is an excellent source of this metal for vegetarians. Cow peas, in addition to containing a very high level of magnesium, 1620 mg/kg also have a concentration of manganese, 27 mg/kg. Dasheen is rich in zinc, 76 mg/kg.

#### **9.1 Mineral and trace mineral content in tomatoes**

Essential and trace mineral content in a number of tomato fruit cultivars was determined by (Ruiz et al. 1995) Their work is reported here under the section on vegetables as in Australia and some other countries, tomatoes are regarded as a vegetable. Essential minerals studied were calcium, magnesium, potassium and sodium while the trace metals were copper, iron, manganese and zinc. Data on samples reported here are new cultivars that were being developed in order to increase their health benefits. The four cultivars under consideration are: S. *lycopersicum*; S. *pimpinellofilium*; S. *cheesmaniae* and S. *harbrochaites.* Samples were grown in a greenhouse during the spring-summer time in Valencia, Spain. Preparation of the sample was firstly by freeze-drying,, ashing at 450oC and finally making up in acids: 50% HCl and HNO3. A Perkin-Elmer 2280 spectrophotometer was employed using an air/acetylene flame for the analyses. Results from the study will now presented in the table below and cam be compared with other data for tomatoes reported by other researchers in this section on vegetables.


Table 13. The concentrations of the essential and trace metals for the four cultivars A, B, C and D are given in mg/100 g Where A, B, C and D represent: S. *lycopersicum*; S. *pimpinellofilium*; S. *cheesmaniae* and S. *harbrochaites respectively*.

Nutritional Metals in Foods by AAS 163

It can be seen in Table 13 that parsley is an excellent source of iron, 9.90 mg Fe/100 g, that is particularly important for those who eat little red meat or are vegetarians. Iron deficiency is a common problem particularly for women. Coriander leave being the next highest level of iron at 3.86 mg Fe/100 g. It is interesting to note that the iron in garlic bulbs is 0.48 mg Fe/100 g that is greater than in the plants at 0.31 mg Fe/100 g. Of this group nutmeg has the

In a related study that complements the above work on iron, (Siong, Khor Swan, and Siti Mizura 1989) analysed similar samples for the calcium concentrations. Again, some of these

It can be seen in Table 14 that cardamom has the greatest level of calcium at 1769.7 mg Ca/100 g followed by dried anise seed with a value of 950.6 mg Ca/100 g. While pepper, in

The chapter has taken examples of the literature on the mineral content, both Essential and Trace metals in meat, dairy products, fruit, vegetables and herbs and spices. The review is not exhaustive but a selection of examples of metals extracted from many authors with the data arranged in such a way as to highlight at a glance the concentrations of the metals in the above foods that are generally not processed. It is a collection of information in the one chapter assembled from published work, which allows a convenient comparison of the

**Spice or herb mg Fe/100 g** 

Table 13. Iron concentration in mg Fe/100 g of a selection of spices and herbs

Chilli, small 0.68 Nutmeg, fresh **0.22**  Persimmon, dried 0.99 Chives, Chinese 0.62 Coriander, leaves 3.86 Garlic, bulbs 0.48 Garlic, plants 0.31 Parsley **9.90** 

lowest iron level at 0.22 mg Fe/100 g.

**11. Conclusion** 

**10.3 Calcium levels in herbs and spices** 

food groups have already been discussed in this review.

Anise seed, dried 950.6 Cardamon **1769.7**  Cinnamon 600.9 Cumin seeds, black 816.8 Cumin seeds, white 1165.1 Curry powder 576.2 Fenugreek seeds 179.8 Pepper, powder, white **120.4** 

**Spice mg Ca/100gm** 

Table 14. Calcium content of selected spices in mgCa/100 g

contrast, has the lowest calcium content, namely, 120.4 mg Ca/100 g.

In Table13, it can be seen that cultivar C has the highest K level at 222.51 mg/100g; as well as highest Na, Fe, Mn and Zn levels: 84.4 mg/ 100g; 1.17 mg/100g , 0.19 mg.100g and 0.70 mg.100g, respectively. Cultivars B and D following closely behind C with Ca levels of 212.83 mg/100g and D 194.27 mg/100 g.. Cultivar D has the highest Ca and Mg concentrations at 46.88 mg/100g and 20.49 mg/100 g respectively.

#### **10. Mineral content in some herbs and spices**

Much of the literature on herbs and spices is related to contamination of heavy metals and analyses are undertaken to ensure that they are safe to consume and have not been grown in polluted areas, such as near motorways where there is the pollution from lead in old style cars. Possibly, they have been grown in soil near mining sites where there is pollution from heavy metals. Crops can be grown near polluted waterways where they are down stream from heavy industry factories so heavy metals seep into the soil and/or contaminate the ground water. In this section metals that are of health benefits will be emphasised with only a brief mention of those that are considered to be pollutants. Metals such as iron and calcium and others import in maintaining good health. Studies have also been reported on the metal content of Chinese herbs that have specific health benefits for certain disease states.

#### **10.1 Minerals related to kidney function**

Selected metals in Chinese medicinal herbs that are used in order to improve kidney function has been reported by (Kolasani, Xu, and Millikan 2011) Dried, unprocessed herbal samples were purchased from local importers of Chinese herbs in Melbourne. These are herbs that the Chinese medical practitioners would prescribe to their patients. Samples came from different parts of the plant: such as leaves, whole plant, stem, twig, bark or roots. Seven metals were tested by atomic absorption spectroscopy that included: calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, sodium, potassium and zinc. A Varian spectra-400 Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (Varian Inc. Mulgrave, Australia) an air/acetylene flame was employed for the metal analyses. Samples were ground then digested in concentrated nitric. The range of metals found in these samples were as follows: Ca (130 – 560940 μg/g); Fe (20 – 8020 μg/g); Mg (90-5520 μg/g); Mn ( 20-140 μg/g); K (270-90260 μg/g); Na (30-4500 μg/g) and Zn (10– 1010 μg/g); Na (30-4500 μg/g). Results indicated that calcium and potassium levels were the highest elements detected in all sample compared to the other metals. It was also found that the calcium concentration was greatest in fossils, then in plants whereas iron, potassium, manganese and zinc levels were highest in plants. Roots contained the highest magnesium concentration while flowers contained the highest sodium values.

#### **10.2 Iron levels in some commonly consumed culinary herbs and spices**

Herbs and spices are added to foods to enhance the flavour and add variety to an otherwise bland dish. In many cases, it is not a single herb but a combination that gives the dish that subtle taste and aroma. Different nationalities characteristically have their own traditional dishes that vary considerably in the choice and number of spices added to different dishes whether they be savoury main courses on spicy deserts. Siong and co-workers who analysed eight food groups, some of which have already been mentioned above, has reported the iron concentrations of a number of spices and herbs (Siong, Khor Swan, and Siti Mizura 1989). Some examples will now be presented in the Table 13 below.

In Table13, it can be seen that cultivar C has the highest K level at 222.51 mg/100g; as well as highest Na, Fe, Mn and Zn levels: 84.4 mg/ 100g; 1.17 mg/100g , 0.19 mg.100g and 0.70 mg.100g, respectively. Cultivars B and D following closely behind C with Ca levels of 212.83 mg/100g and D 194.27 mg/100 g.. Cultivar D has the highest Ca and Mg concentrations at

Much of the literature on herbs and spices is related to contamination of heavy metals and analyses are undertaken to ensure that they are safe to consume and have not been grown in polluted areas, such as near motorways where there is the pollution from lead in old style cars. Possibly, they have been grown in soil near mining sites where there is pollution from heavy metals. Crops can be grown near polluted waterways where they are down stream from heavy industry factories so heavy metals seep into the soil and/or contaminate the ground water. In this section metals that are of health benefits will be emphasised with only a brief mention of those that are considered to be pollutants. Metals such as iron and calcium and others import in maintaining good health. Studies have also been reported on the metal content of Chinese herbs that have specific health benefits for certain disease

Selected metals in Chinese medicinal herbs that are used in order to improve kidney function has been reported by (Kolasani, Xu, and Millikan 2011) Dried, unprocessed herbal samples were purchased from local importers of Chinese herbs in Melbourne. These are herbs that the Chinese medical practitioners would prescribe to their patients. Samples came from different parts of the plant: such as leaves, whole plant, stem, twig, bark or roots. Seven metals were tested by atomic absorption spectroscopy that included: calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, sodium, potassium and zinc. A Varian spectra-400 Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (Varian Inc. Mulgrave, Australia) an air/acetylene flame was employed for the metal analyses. Samples were ground then digested in concentrated nitric. The range of metals found in these samples were as follows: Ca (130 – 560940 μg/g); Fe (20 – 8020 μg/g); Mg (90-5520 μg/g); Mn ( 20-140 μg/g); K (270-90260 μg/g); Na (30-4500 μg/g) and Zn (10– 1010 μg/g); Na (30-4500 μg/g). Results indicated that calcium and potassium levels were the highest elements detected in all sample compared to the other metals. It was also found that the calcium concentration was greatest in fossils, then in plants whereas iron, potassium, manganese and zinc levels were highest in plants. Roots contained the highest magnesium

46.88 mg/100g and 20.49 mg/100 g respectively.

**10.1 Minerals related to kidney function** 

concentration while flowers contained the highest sodium values.

Some examples will now be presented in the Table 13 below.

**10.2 Iron levels in some commonly consumed culinary herbs and spices** 

Herbs and spices are added to foods to enhance the flavour and add variety to an otherwise bland dish. In many cases, it is not a single herb but a combination that gives the dish that subtle taste and aroma. Different nationalities characteristically have their own traditional dishes that vary considerably in the choice and number of spices added to different dishes whether they be savoury main courses on spicy deserts. Siong and co-workers who analysed eight food groups, some of which have already been mentioned above, has reported the iron concentrations of a number of spices and herbs (Siong, Khor Swan, and Siti Mizura 1989).

states.

**10. Mineral content in some herbs and spices** 


Table 13. Iron concentration in mg Fe/100 g of a selection of spices and herbs

It can be seen in Table 13 that parsley is an excellent source of iron, 9.90 mg Fe/100 g, that is particularly important for those who eat little red meat or are vegetarians. Iron deficiency is a common problem particularly for women. Coriander leave being the next highest level of iron at 3.86 mg Fe/100 g. It is interesting to note that the iron in garlic bulbs is 0.48 mg Fe/100 g that is greater than in the plants at 0.31 mg Fe/100 g. Of this group nutmeg has the lowest iron level at 0.22 mg Fe/100 g.

#### **10.3 Calcium levels in herbs and spices**

In a related study that complements the above work on iron, (Siong, Khor Swan, and Siti Mizura 1989) analysed similar samples for the calcium concentrations. Again, some of these food groups have already been discussed in this review.


Table 14. Calcium content of selected spices in mgCa/100 g

It can be seen in Table 14 that cardamom has the greatest level of calcium at 1769.7 mg Ca/100 g followed by dried anise seed with a value of 950.6 mg Ca/100 g. While pepper, in contrast, has the lowest calcium content, namely, 120.4 mg Ca/100 g.

#### **11. Conclusion**

The chapter has taken examples of the literature on the mineral content, both Essential and Trace metals in meat, dairy products, fruit, vegetables and herbs and spices. The review is not exhaustive but a selection of examples of metals extracted from many authors with the data arranged in such a way as to highlight at a glance the concentrations of the metals in the above foods that are generally not processed. It is a collection of information in the one chapter assembled from published work, which allows a convenient comparison of the

Nutritional Metals in Foods by AAS 165

Howe, A., L. Fung, G. Lalor, R. Rattray, and M. Vutchkov. 2005. Elemental composition of

Huang, W. I., H. M. Wen, and J. C. Chern. 1987. [Selenium content of soils, crops and foods in Taiwan area.]. *Journal of the Chinese Agricultural Chemical Society:* 25 (2):150-158. Hussein, L., and J. Bruggeman. 1999. Selenium analysis of selected Egyptian foods and estimated daily intakes among a population group. *Food Chemistry* 65 (4):527-532. Jorhem, L., B. Sundstroem, C. Astrand, and G. Haegglund. 1989. The levels of zinc, copper,

Kolasani, A, H Xu, and Millikan. 2011. Evaluation of mineral content of Chinese medicinal

Koops, J., and D. Westerbeek. 1993. Manganese in Dutch milk powder. Determination by

spectroscopy. *Netherlands Milk and Dairy Journal: 47 (1) 1-13* 47 (1):1-13. Larsen, E. H., and L. Rasmussen. 1991. Chromium, lead and cadmium in Danish milk

*Lebensmittel-Untersuchung und -Forschung: 192 (2) 136-141* 192 (2):136-141. Lopez, P., M. Castaneda, G. Lopez, E. Munoz, and J. L. Rosado. 1999. Iron, zinc and copper

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McMahon, M., F. Regan, and H. Hughes. 2006. The determination of total germanium in real

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#### **12. References**


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**9** 

**Comparative Assessment of the Mineral** 

Roberto González-Tenorio1, Ana Fernández-Diez2,

*1University Autónoma del Estado de Hidalgo Mexico* 

Irma Caro2 and Javier Mateo2

*2University of León* 

*1Mexico 2Spain* 

**Content of a Latin American Raw Sausage Made** 

Mineral content of food in general, and of meat and meat products in particular, has been widely studied mainly due to its essential role in human nutrition and implication on safeness issues, i.e., mineral toxicity and deficiencies. Furthermore, since a few decades ago, instrumental analytical techniques based on atomic absorption or emission spectrometry applied to the determination of the mineral content coupled to multivariate statistical analysis have been proved to produce suitable methods to characterise food products, discriminate between food quality categories and control food authenticity, i.e., determination of the geographical origin of food, discrimination between cultivation methods (e.g. organic vs convenience crops), varieties of fruits and vegetables, or food processing practices (Grembecka et al., 2007; Kelly & Bateman, 2010; Luykx & van Ruth,

Inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES) is a prevailing instrumental technique utilised for the simultaneous determination of a considerably high number of metals and some non-metals in biological samples at ppm or ppb levels. As well as in AES conventional techniques, in ICP-AES technique, analyte atoms in solution are aspirated into the excitation region where they are desolvated, vaporised, and atomised, and finally the optical emission measurement from excited atoms is used to determine analyte concentration. However, ICP-AES provides higher reproducibility and quantitative linear range compared to conventional AES, and reduces molecular interferences due to a higher temperature (7000–8000 K) in the excitation source (plasma). On the other hand, ICP-AES is more expensive than conventional AES, and in complex samples emission patters can be of

There is a wide variety of meat products all over the world and, among them, fresh sausages represent an important part. Two types of fresh sausages can be found in shops or markets: emulsion-type and minced comminuted meat products. Fresh sausages are sold without having suffered any heat treatment, and they are generally stored and commercialised

difficult interpretation (Ibáñez & Cifuentes, 2001; Luykx & van Ruth, 2008).

**1. Introduction** 

2008; Sun et al., 2011).

**by Traditional or Non-Traditional Processes** 

sampling and graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry. *Food Analytical Methods: 4 (1) 41-48* 4 (1):41-48.


### **Comparative Assessment of the Mineral Content of a Latin American Raw Sausage Made by Traditional or Non-Traditional Processes**

Roberto González-Tenorio1, Ana Fernández-Diez2, Irma Caro2 and Javier Mateo2 *1University Autónoma del Estado de Hidalgo Mexico 2University of León 1Mexico 2Spain* 

#### **1. Introduction**

166 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

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840.

Inc.

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determination of selenium in a wild fruit juice by electrothermal atomic absorption

and dry digestion procedures for trace metal analysis of meat and fish tissues.

Mineral content of food in general, and of meat and meat products in particular, has been widely studied mainly due to its essential role in human nutrition and implication on safeness issues, i.e., mineral toxicity and deficiencies. Furthermore, since a few decades ago, instrumental analytical techniques based on atomic absorption or emission spectrometry applied to the determination of the mineral content coupled to multivariate statistical analysis have been proved to produce suitable methods to characterise food products, discriminate between food quality categories and control food authenticity, i.e., determination of the geographical origin of food, discrimination between cultivation methods (e.g. organic vs convenience crops), varieties of fruits and vegetables, or food processing practices (Grembecka et al., 2007; Kelly & Bateman, 2010; Luykx & van Ruth, 2008; Sun et al., 2011).

Inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES) is a prevailing instrumental technique utilised for the simultaneous determination of a considerably high number of metals and some non-metals in biological samples at ppm or ppb levels. As well as in AES conventional techniques, in ICP-AES technique, analyte atoms in solution are aspirated into the excitation region where they are desolvated, vaporised, and atomised, and finally the optical emission measurement from excited atoms is used to determine analyte concentration. However, ICP-AES provides higher reproducibility and quantitative linear range compared to conventional AES, and reduces molecular interferences due to a higher temperature (7000–8000 K) in the excitation source (plasma). On the other hand, ICP-AES is more expensive than conventional AES, and in complex samples emission patters can be of difficult interpretation (Ibáñez & Cifuentes, 2001; Luykx & van Ruth, 2008).

There is a wide variety of meat products all over the world and, among them, fresh sausages represent an important part. Two types of fresh sausages can be found in shops or markets: emulsion-type and minced comminuted meat products. Fresh sausages are sold without having suffered any heat treatment, and they are generally stored and commercialised

Comparative Assessment of the Mineral Content of

provide Na, P and K to the raw sausages.

Source: USDA, 2010)

Pork Lean Pork

Backfat Salt

Sodium 59 11 38758 68 20 Potassium 364 65 8 2280 2384 Phosphorus 217 38 0 314 674 Calcium 13 2 24 229 241 Magnesium 24 2 1 178 290 Zinc 2.2 0.4 0.1 4.3 2.5 Iron 0.8 0.2 0.3 21.1 9.2 Copper 0.1 0.0 0.0 0.7 4.0 Manganese 0.0 0.0 0.1 1.6 3.0 Table 1. Mineral composition of main ingredients used in Mexican chorizo (mg/100 g;

Paprika, Dry *Capsicum annuum*

Defatted soy flour

the relatively low mineral content in fat or fatty tissues (Table 1).

a Latin American Raw Sausage Made by Traditional or Non-Traditional Processes 169

Lean meat is the main ingredient of a sausage and therefore the mineral composition of a raw sausage it is closely related to the meat content. Meat is considered as a significant dietary source of several minerals, specifically highly-available Fe and Zn (Hazell, 1982; McAfee et al., 2010). The mineral content of meat is rather stable under conditions of normal supply (average mineral composition of raw lean pork is shown in Table 1); however, this depends on pre-mortem factors such as animal genetic, physiological and environmental, e.g., age and feeding (Jiménez-Colmenero et al., 2006), and post-mortem factors such as meat cuts, meat processing and preparation (Jiménez-Colmenero et al., 2010; Lombardi-Boccia et al., 2005). Fat is the second ingredient in importance of sausages. Conversely, compared to meat, the contribution of fat to the mineral content of a sausage is poor due to

Regarding the non-meat ingredients, common salt is the major source of Na in sausages. Apart from Na, common salt contains other minerals but at trace levels (Table 1). Nevertheless, common salt can be a notorious source of Mg or Ca because these mineral salts are on occasion added to common salt as anti-caking agents at the food industry level. Dry *Capsicum* spp*.* fruits (in paste or powdered form) are extensively used in Latin American and also Iberian raw sausages. The amount usually added in chorizos is approximately 2-3% of the weight of the initial mixture of sausage. An addition of dry capsicum fruits at that amount represents an appreciable source of some mineral elements, i.e., Mg, Ca, Fe and Mn, in sausage mixtures (Aguirrezábal et al., 1998; Fonseca et al., 2011). Textured soy flour is used as filler or meat extender in a large variety of commercially prepared meat products. The use of soy-derived ingredients results in increased yields and lower cost of production (Hoogenkamp, 2008). The amount of soy flour added to those meat products range from 2 to 10% (Rocha McGuire, 2008). In Mexico, the use of textured soy flour in raw sausages is common, particularly in low-cost sausages commercialized in wholesale markets (Personal communication: technical personnel, Fabpsa Corporation, www.fabpsa.com.mx). In accordance with the mineral content of textured soy flour (Table 1) and the amount used, the contribution of this ingredient to the levels of some minerals, i.e., Ca, Mg, Cu and Mn, in raw sausages appears to be relevant. Finally, the additives commonly used for commercial fresh sausages (Feiner, 2006), such as antioxidants (erythorbate or ascorbate), preservatives (nitrite, sorbate) or others (phosphates, etc.)

chilled or frozen (Feiner, 2006). However, many times, in Latin America fresh sausages are slightly dried at room temperature during some hours as part of the making-process and afterwards the sausages are stored and commercialised for short periods (few days) at room temperature, without the use of the cool chain. During those periods additional drying and lactic acid fermentation can take place (Kuri et al., 1995). In this case, sausages can be considered to be raw-semidry sausages instead of fresh sausages.

Meat products are generally made from various meat and non-meat matters (from different origins and suppliers), which are combined at the formulation stage in obedience to criteria of composition, technological factors, sensory characteristics, legal regulations, functionality and also production cost (Jiménez-Colmenero et al., 2010). In view of that, fresh sausages (and eventually the raw-semidry sausages derived from them) are made from different types of meat such as beef, pork, mutton, chicken, turkey, etc. and usually pork fat or fatty tissues. Moreover, numerous non-meat ingredients (salt, herbs, spices, juices, vinegar, etc.) and additives (nitrites, phosphates, sorbates, etc.) can be added depending on each sausage type, geographical traditions or manufacturing practices (Feiner, 2006).

Current fresh sausage making process includes both traditional and non-traditional methods. On the one hand, there is an increasing attention in natural products, sometimes proceeding from a particular region, elaborated according to traditional methods. On the other hand, the demand for non-traditional commercial food products is steadily increasing due to different factors, namely, cheapness, extended-shelf life or convenience. Variations in meat and non-meat ingredients and the processing conditions, with respect to traditional methods, can result in changes in nutritional composition. In order to avoid drastic and negative impact on consumers, those changes are controlled or limited by regulations. As common examples, the fat (maximum) and lean meat (minimum) content is generally legally established in most countries. Furthermore, usually it is required a minimun protein content; however, proteins could originate from meat or cheaper sources such as wheat gluten or soy protein (Feiner, 2006). In this way, low cost sausages are largely sold in many countries.

Chorizos are sausages extremely popular in Latin American countries. These sausages can be considered as variations of those that were brought to America by colonizers, usually Iberians (Mateo et al., 2008). In fact, at present there are sausages in Spain (chorizo) or Portugal (Chouriço) that resemble those from Latin America and vice versa. Chorizos are usually made from pork meat and fat. Grounded meat and fat are normally added and mixed with salt, herbs and spices and, optionally, vinegar or lemon juice, sugar and suitable additives (curing agents, phosphates, etc.). Finally, the mixture is stuffed into casings, commonly natural casings. Chorizos are made with different herbs and spices in different Latin American regions, with garlic, clove, cumin and dry *Capsicum spp*. fruits (named as chile) being typically used in Mexican chorizo. Once stuffed, these sausages are dried for a short period of time (from fours to few days) at room temperature before selling or consuming.

The mineral content of fresh or raw-semidry chorizo is the result of the sum of the contributions from all the ingredients, i.e., lean meat, fatty tissues, common salt, dry *Capsicum* spp. fruits, textured soy flour, etc., and additives included in their formulations. In order to better ascertain the eventual contribution of ingredients to the mineral content of chorizo, the mineral composition of the main ingredients used in chorizo making process is shown in Table 1. Moreover, mineral content can be further increased due to the solute concentration by evaporation which takes place during an eventual drying.

chilled or frozen (Feiner, 2006). However, many times, in Latin America fresh sausages are slightly dried at room temperature during some hours as part of the making-process and afterwards the sausages are stored and commercialised for short periods (few days) at room temperature, without the use of the cool chain. During those periods additional drying and lactic acid fermentation can take place (Kuri et al., 1995). In this case, sausages can be

Meat products are generally made from various meat and non-meat matters (from different origins and suppliers), which are combined at the formulation stage in obedience to criteria of composition, technological factors, sensory characteristics, legal regulations, functionality and also production cost (Jiménez-Colmenero et al., 2010). In view of that, fresh sausages (and eventually the raw-semidry sausages derived from them) are made from different types of meat such as beef, pork, mutton, chicken, turkey, etc. and usually pork fat or fatty tissues. Moreover, numerous non-meat ingredients (salt, herbs, spices, juices, vinegar, etc.) and additives (nitrites, phosphates, sorbates, etc.) can be added depending on each sausage

Current fresh sausage making process includes both traditional and non-traditional methods. On the one hand, there is an increasing attention in natural products, sometimes proceeding from a particular region, elaborated according to traditional methods. On the other hand, the demand for non-traditional commercial food products is steadily increasing due to different factors, namely, cheapness, extended-shelf life or convenience. Variations in meat and non-meat ingredients and the processing conditions, with respect to traditional methods, can result in changes in nutritional composition. In order to avoid drastic and negative impact on consumers, those changes are controlled or limited by regulations. As common examples, the fat (maximum) and lean meat (minimum) content is generally legally established in most countries. Furthermore, usually it is required a minimun protein content; however, proteins could originate from meat or cheaper sources such as wheat gluten or soy protein (Feiner, 2006). In this way, low cost sausages are largely sold in many

Chorizos are sausages extremely popular in Latin American countries. These sausages can be considered as variations of those that were brought to America by colonizers, usually Iberians (Mateo et al., 2008). In fact, at present there are sausages in Spain (chorizo) or Portugal (Chouriço) that resemble those from Latin America and vice versa. Chorizos are usually made from pork meat and fat. Grounded meat and fat are normally added and mixed with salt, herbs and spices and, optionally, vinegar or lemon juice, sugar and suitable additives (curing agents, phosphates, etc.). Finally, the mixture is stuffed into casings, commonly natural casings. Chorizos are made with different herbs and spices in different Latin American regions, with garlic, clove, cumin and dry *Capsicum spp*. fruits (named as chile) being typically used in Mexican chorizo. Once stuffed, these sausages are dried for a short period of time (from fours to few days) at room temperature before selling or

The mineral content of fresh or raw-semidry chorizo is the result of the sum of the contributions from all the ingredients, i.e., lean meat, fatty tissues, common salt, dry *Capsicum* spp. fruits, textured soy flour, etc., and additives included in their formulations. In order to better ascertain the eventual contribution of ingredients to the mineral content of chorizo, the mineral composition of the main ingredients used in chorizo making process is shown in Table 1. Moreover, mineral content can be further increased due to the solute

concentration by evaporation which takes place during an eventual drying.

considered to be raw-semidry sausages instead of fresh sausages.

type, geographical traditions or manufacturing practices (Feiner, 2006).

countries.

consuming.

Lean meat is the main ingredient of a sausage and therefore the mineral composition of a raw sausage it is closely related to the meat content. Meat is considered as a significant dietary source of several minerals, specifically highly-available Fe and Zn (Hazell, 1982; McAfee et al., 2010). The mineral content of meat is rather stable under conditions of normal supply (average mineral composition of raw lean pork is shown in Table 1); however, this depends on pre-mortem factors such as animal genetic, physiological and environmental, e.g., age and feeding (Jiménez-Colmenero et al., 2006), and post-mortem factors such as meat cuts, meat processing and preparation (Jiménez-Colmenero et al., 2010; Lombardi-Boccia et al., 2005). Fat is the second ingredient in importance of sausages. Conversely, compared to meat, the contribution of fat to the mineral content of a sausage is poor due to the relatively low mineral content in fat or fatty tissues (Table 1).

Regarding the non-meat ingredients, common salt is the major source of Na in sausages. Apart from Na, common salt contains other minerals but at trace levels (Table 1). Nevertheless, common salt can be a notorious source of Mg or Ca because these mineral salts are on occasion added to common salt as anti-caking agents at the food industry level. Dry *Capsicum* spp*.* fruits (in paste or powdered form) are extensively used in Latin American and also Iberian raw sausages. The amount usually added in chorizos is approximately 2-3% of the weight of the initial mixture of sausage. An addition of dry capsicum fruits at that amount represents an appreciable source of some mineral elements, i.e., Mg, Ca, Fe and Mn, in sausage mixtures (Aguirrezábal et al., 1998; Fonseca et al., 2011).

Textured soy flour is used as filler or meat extender in a large variety of commercially prepared meat products. The use of soy-derived ingredients results in increased yields and lower cost of production (Hoogenkamp, 2008). The amount of soy flour added to those meat products range from 2 to 10% (Rocha McGuire, 2008). In Mexico, the use of textured soy flour in raw sausages is common, particularly in low-cost sausages commercialized in wholesale markets (Personal communication: technical personnel, Fabpsa Corporation, www.fabpsa.com.mx). In accordance with the mineral content of textured soy flour (Table 1) and the amount used, the contribution of this ingredient to the levels of some minerals, i.e., Ca, Mg, Cu and Mn, in raw sausages appears to be relevant. Finally, the additives commonly used for commercial fresh sausages (Feiner, 2006), such as antioxidants (erythorbate or ascorbate), preservatives (nitrite, sorbate) or others (phosphates, etc.) provide Na, P and K to the raw sausages.


Table 1. Mineral composition of main ingredients used in Mexican chorizo (mg/100 g; Source: USDA, 2010)

Comparative Assessment of the Mineral Content of

**2.3 Statistical analysis** 

the statistical treatment of data.

**3. Results and discussion 3.1 Proximate composition** 

are estimated to be between 10 and 20%.

a Latin American Raw Sausage Made by Traditional or Non-Traditional Processes 171

The instrumental analysis was performed with a Optima 2000 DV ICP optical emission spectrometer (PerkinElmer, Waltham, MA, USA). Instrument operating conditions were: radiofrequency power, 1400 W; plasma gas flow, 15.0 l/min; auxiliary gas flow, 0.2 l/min; nebulizer gas flow 0.75 l/min, crossed flow; standard axial torch with 2.0 mm i.d. injector of silica; peristaltic pump flow, 1 ml/min; no. of replicates, 2. The spectrometer was calibrated for Cu, Mn, Zn, Fe, Ca and Mg determinations (at 224.7, 257.61, 213.9, 238.2, 393.4 and 279.6 nm, respectively) with nitric acid/water (1:1, v/v) standard solutions of 2, 5 and 10 ppm of each element, and for Na, P and K (at 589.6, 213.6 and 766.5, respectively) with nitric

A one-way analysis of variance was performed; the values obtained for each variable (moisture, fat, protein, ash or mineral elements) on all fresh weight (FW), dry matter (DM) and nonfat dry matter (NFDM) basis were compared between groups (traditional and nontraditional) and types (as function of the place where the sausages were purchased from) of sausages. Moreover, linear correlation coefficients were calculated to describe the degree of correlation between each variable (only values expressed on DM basis were considered). A principal component (PC) analysis, unrotated method, was also performed to obtain a better perception of differences in mineral composition between the groups and types of sausages. In the PC-analysis model the contents of the mineral elements determined, except for Cu, were included. The software STATISTICA for Windows (StatSoft Inc., 2001) was used for

The proximate composition of the sausages studied on all FW, DM, and NFDM basis is shown in Table 2. Mean values are given for the traditional (Trad) and non-traditional (Non-Trad) sausages and for the individual types of sausages samples: Btch, traditional sausages from butcheries; RuSM, traditional sausages from rural street markets; Smkt, non-traditional sausages from supermarkets; WhCM, non-traditional sausages from wholesale city markets. The Table also shows the level of significance (*P*-level: NS, not significant; \*, *P*<0.05; \*\*, *P*<0.01 and \*\*\*, *P*<0.001) of the analysis of variance, and the standard error of the mean (SEM). Significant differences between types of sausages (Duncan-test, *P*<0.05) are marked

Most of the sausages can be assigned to the category of semidry sausages according to the scheme proposed by Adams (1986), because their humidity content was inside or near the range of 40 to 50%. According to that author, weight (drying) losses for this type of sausages

The variability observed within each group of sausage (as assessed by standard deviations) was high. This could be mainly attributed to large variations among samples in the amount of fat used in the sausage making process and the degree of sausage drying. In spite of the variability, statistical differences (*P*<0.05) in the proximate composition between sausage groups were observed. Traditional sausages had lower ash and carbohydrate (calculated by difference) contents than the non-traditional ones. Furthermore, protein content on DM and

with different superscripts. Carbohydrate content was calculated by difference.

NFDM basis were higher in traditional than in non-traditional sausages.

acid/water (1:9, v/v) standard solutions of 30, 50 and 100 ppm, respectively.

As far as the authors are aware, there is great interest about the usefulness of mineral content analysis in meat industry. Apart from nutritive and safety issues, to assessing the differences in minerals between sausages from different qualities could reflect fraudulent manufacturing practices. The aim of the present study is therefore to determine the mineral composition of a popular Latin American raw sausage (Mexican chorizo) using ICP-AES, and to compare the mineral contents between sausages made using traditional and those made using non-traditional making processes in order to explore differences between both groups regarding nutritive value and discrimination purposes.

#### **2. Material and methods**

#### **2.1 Samples and sampling procedure**

Forty sausages belonging to two different groups (twenty per group) were used in the present study. One group consisted of Mexican chorizos elaborated in a traditional manner by small-sized producers (traditional sausages) and the other was comprised of massproduced commercial Mexican chorizos (non-traditional sausages).

Ten samples of sausages from the first group were purchased from randomly-chosen butcheries in the Hidalgo State largest cities: Tulancingo and Pachuca (approximately 150 and 300 thousands inhabitants, respectively). The sausages from this type were locally produced by the butchers. The other ten traditional sausages sampled were purchased from rural street markets in ten randomly-chosen small villages (5 to 20 thousands inhabitants) in Hidalgo State (one sample per village). These were homemade sausages which were produced by local small-sized farmers.

On the other hand, ten out of the twenty samples of the non-traditional sausages were purchased from supermarkets at Tulancingo and Pachuca cities. These sausages were manufactured by nationwide companies and were characterised by their long shelf life. The other ten samples were purchased from wholesale large-city markets in Tulancingo, Pachuca and Mexico City. The sausages were manufactured by ten different medium-sized companies to be sold at low price. All sausage samples weighted about 1 kg each. Once taken, samples were immediately transported to the laboratory in Tulancingo, where they were first blended in a domestic food processor and then frozen and stored at -18 ºC until further analysis.

#### **2.2 Chemical analysis**

Determinations of moisture, fat, protein and ash contents in the sausage samples were performed in duplicate according to methods recommended by the AOAC International {AOAC} (AOAC, 1999) – Official Methods nos. 950.46, 991.36, 981.10 and 920.153, respectively.

The analysis of mineral composition of sausages was performed by ICP-AES on wet digested samples. Duplicate aliquots of approximately 1 g (±0.01) of the previously homogenised samples were digested with 10 ml of concentrated HNO3 in tightly closed screw cap glass tubes for 16 h at room temperature, and then for a further 4 h at 90 ◦C. For the analysis of sodium, potassium and phosphorus, 1 ml of the mineralised solution was added with 8 ml of deionised water and 1 ml of scandium solution as internal standard. In order to determine the levels of calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, and zinc, 3 ml of the digested solution was added with 6 ml of deionised water and 1 ml of Sc solution.

The instrumental analysis was performed with a Optima 2000 DV ICP optical emission spectrometer (PerkinElmer, Waltham, MA, USA). Instrument operating conditions were: radiofrequency power, 1400 W; plasma gas flow, 15.0 l/min; auxiliary gas flow, 0.2 l/min; nebulizer gas flow 0.75 l/min, crossed flow; standard axial torch with 2.0 mm i.d. injector of silica; peristaltic pump flow, 1 ml/min; no. of replicates, 2. The spectrometer was calibrated for Cu, Mn, Zn, Fe, Ca and Mg determinations (at 224.7, 257.61, 213.9, 238.2, 393.4 and 279.6 nm, respectively) with nitric acid/water (1:1, v/v) standard solutions of 2, 5 and 10 ppm of each element, and for Na, P and K (at 589.6, 213.6 and 766.5, respectively) with nitric acid/water (1:9, v/v) standard solutions of 30, 50 and 100 ppm, respectively.

#### **2.3 Statistical analysis**

170 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

As far as the authors are aware, there is great interest about the usefulness of mineral content analysis in meat industry. Apart from nutritive and safety issues, to assessing the differences in minerals between sausages from different qualities could reflect fraudulent manufacturing practices. The aim of the present study is therefore to determine the mineral composition of a popular Latin American raw sausage (Mexican chorizo) using ICP-AES, and to compare the mineral contents between sausages made using traditional and those made using non-traditional making processes in order to explore differences between both

Forty sausages belonging to two different groups (twenty per group) were used in the present study. One group consisted of Mexican chorizos elaborated in a traditional manner by small-sized producers (traditional sausages) and the other was comprised of mass-

Ten samples of sausages from the first group were purchased from randomly-chosen butcheries in the Hidalgo State largest cities: Tulancingo and Pachuca (approximately 150 and 300 thousands inhabitants, respectively). The sausages from this type were locally produced by the butchers. The other ten traditional sausages sampled were purchased from rural street markets in ten randomly-chosen small villages (5 to 20 thousands inhabitants) in Hidalgo State (one sample per village). These were homemade sausages which were

On the other hand, ten out of the twenty samples of the non-traditional sausages were purchased from supermarkets at Tulancingo and Pachuca cities. These sausages were manufactured by nationwide companies and were characterised by their long shelf life. The other ten samples were purchased from wholesale large-city markets in Tulancingo, Pachuca and Mexico City. The sausages were manufactured by ten different medium-sized companies to be sold at low price. All sausage samples weighted about 1 kg each. Once taken, samples were immediately transported to the laboratory in Tulancingo, where they were first blended in a domestic food processor and then frozen and stored at -18 ºC until

Determinations of moisture, fat, protein and ash contents in the sausage samples were performed in duplicate according to methods recommended by the AOAC International {AOAC} (AOAC, 1999) – Official Methods nos. 950.46, 991.36, 981.10 and 920.153,

The analysis of mineral composition of sausages was performed by ICP-AES on wet digested samples. Duplicate aliquots of approximately 1 g (±0.01) of the previously homogenised samples were digested with 10 ml of concentrated HNO3 in tightly closed screw cap glass tubes for 16 h at room temperature, and then for a further 4 h at 90 ◦C. For the analysis of sodium, potassium and phosphorus, 1 ml of the mineralised solution was added with 8 ml of deionised water and 1 ml of scandium solution as internal standard. In order to determine the levels of calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, and zinc, 3 ml of the

digested solution was added with 6 ml of deionised water and 1 ml of Sc solution.

groups regarding nutritive value and discrimination purposes.

produced commercial Mexican chorizos (non-traditional sausages).

**2. Material and methods** 

**2.1 Samples and sampling procedure** 

produced by local small-sized farmers.

further analysis.

respectively.

**2.2 Chemical analysis** 

A one-way analysis of variance was performed; the values obtained for each variable (moisture, fat, protein, ash or mineral elements) on all fresh weight (FW), dry matter (DM) and nonfat dry matter (NFDM) basis were compared between groups (traditional and nontraditional) and types (as function of the place where the sausages were purchased from) of sausages. Moreover, linear correlation coefficients were calculated to describe the degree of correlation between each variable (only values expressed on DM basis were considered). A principal component (PC) analysis, unrotated method, was also performed to obtain a better perception of differences in mineral composition between the groups and types of sausages. In the PC-analysis model the contents of the mineral elements determined, except for Cu, were included. The software STATISTICA for Windows (StatSoft Inc., 2001) was used for the statistical treatment of data.

#### **3. Results and discussion**

#### **3.1 Proximate composition**

The proximate composition of the sausages studied on all FW, DM, and NFDM basis is shown in Table 2. Mean values are given for the traditional (Trad) and non-traditional (Non-Trad) sausages and for the individual types of sausages samples: Btch, traditional sausages from butcheries; RuSM, traditional sausages from rural street markets; Smkt, non-traditional sausages from supermarkets; WhCM, non-traditional sausages from wholesale city markets. The Table also shows the level of significance (*P*-level: NS, not significant; \*, *P*<0.05; \*\*, *P*<0.01 and \*\*\*, *P*<0.001) of the analysis of variance, and the standard error of the mean (SEM). Significant differences between types of sausages (Duncan-test, *P*<0.05) are marked with different superscripts. Carbohydrate content was calculated by difference.

Most of the sausages can be assigned to the category of semidry sausages according to the scheme proposed by Adams (1986), because their humidity content was inside or near the range of 40 to 50%. According to that author, weight (drying) losses for this type of sausages are estimated to be between 10 and 20%.

The variability observed within each group of sausage (as assessed by standard deviations) was high. This could be mainly attributed to large variations among samples in the amount of fat used in the sausage making process and the degree of sausage drying. In spite of the variability, statistical differences (*P*<0.05) in the proximate composition between sausage groups were observed. Traditional sausages had lower ash and carbohydrate (calculated by difference) contents than the non-traditional ones. Furthermore, protein content on DM and NFDM basis were higher in traditional than in non-traditional sausages.

Comparative Assessment of the Mineral Content of

characterization and discrimination purposes.

n=20

from (-: value under the detection limit; 0.1 mg/100 g)

Non-Trad

Trad

Fresh weight

Dry matter

Nonfat dry matter

a Latin American Raw Sausage Made by Traditional or Non-Traditional Processes 173

There were statistically significant differences between both groups of sausages for practically all the minerals studied (all except for K). These differences could be attributed to variations in the ingredients and additives used, and in the dryness level of sausage samples. From the nutritional value point of view – minerals are essential nutrients –, FWbasis data provide useful information to what consumers are eating. On the other hand, DM- and NFDM-basis results could be related to type and amount of meat and non-meat ingredients and additives used in the making process and hence could be useful for sausage

n=20 *P-*level Btch

 Sodium 856±279 1287±453 \*\*\* 845b 867b 1528a 1047b 68 Potassium 395±117 440±119 NS 376b 414b 519a 361b 19 Phosphorus 188±64 268±110 \*\* 185b 191b 319a 217b 15 Calcium 36.8±22.2 60.5±34.8 \* 40.5ab 33.1b 62.5a 58.6ab 4.9 Magnesium 32.2±12.9 43.0±11.4 \*\* 28.0b 36.7ab 40.9a 45.1a 2.1 Zinc 3.32±0.81 2.64±0.71 \*\* 3.19ab 5.41a 2.95ab 2.33b 0.83 Iron 3.05±1.14 2.47±0.45 \* 2.55b 3.55a 2.34b 2.60b 0.14 Copper - - - - - - 0.10 -

 Sodium 1482±396 2063±669 \*\* 1448b 1476b 2399a 1727a 97.6 Potassium 720±291 710±181 NS 685 755 817 602 37.8 Phosphorus 344±148 432±175 NS 336b 352ab 501a 362ab 26.3 Calcium 63.2±34.3 100±66.6 \* 71.4 55.0 103.0 97.0 8.8 Magnesium 57.1±20.6 69.7±21.1 NS 49.4b 64.9ab 64.4ab 75.0a 3.4 Zinc 6.05±2.06 4.27±1.17 \*\* 5.83a 6.26a 4.65b 3.88b 0.30 Iron 5.50±2.29 4.01±0.91 \* 4.52a 6.47a 3.70b 4.32a 0.30 Copper - - - - - - 0.17 -

 Sodium 3632±1166 4997±1069 \*\*\* 3839b 3424b 5017a 4976a 206 Potassium 1666±460 1717±188 NS 1668 1663 1716 1718 55 Phosphorus 787±234 1026±312 \*\* 815ab 759b 1051a 1003ab 47 Calcium 159±101 243±131 \* 180ab 138b 208ab 278a 19 Magnesium 137±54 175±55 \* 126b 148b 136b 214a 9 Zinc 14.0±3.0 10.6±2.4 \*\*\* 14.3a 13.7a 10.1b 11.0b 0.5 Iron 12.7±3.6 10.1±2.8 \* 11.5a 13.9a 7.9b 12.4a 0.5 Copper - - - - - - 0.42 - Table 3. Mineral content (mg/100 g) of traditional (Trad) and non-traditional (Non-Trad) sausages, and of types of sausages as a function of the places where they were purchased

In the sausages studied, considering the results expressed on FW basis, traditional sausages contained higher amounts of Fe and Zn, which are the mineral micronutrients most

n=10

RuSM n=10 Smkt n=10 WhCM n=10

SEM n=40


Table 2. Proximate composition (g/100 g) of traditional and non-traditional sausages, and of types of sausages as a function of the places where they were purchased from

Differences in ash content, assuming that common salt is the principal source of ash in sausages, are indicative of higher amounts of common salt being used in non-traditional than in traditional sausages. The amount of carbohydrate (which include lactate formed by lactic acid fermentation) found in traditional sausages (around 2-3% on FW basis) was the expected for a conventional fermented sausage, i.e., Polish sausage or summer sausage (USDA, 2010). However, the amount found in non-traditional sausages (6% on FW basis) was higher. This increase must be the result of the inclusion of hydrocolloids (gums, starches, dextrins) or other fillers in the formulations of this group of sausages (Personal communication: technical personnel, Fabpsa Corporation). Finally, the higher proportion of protein found in traditional sausages on both DM and NFDM basis is related to a higher proportion of lean meat used in this group compared to the non-traditional sausages. Lean meat is the main ingredient in sausage formulations and has a protein content relatively high, of approximately 65% of DM (USDA, 2010).

#### **3.2 Mineral composition**

Mineral composition, expressed as mg per 100 g on all FW, DM and NFDM basis is reported in Table 3. This Table shows the results found for the two groups of sausages: Traditional (Trad) and non-traditional (Non-Trad); and for the four types of sausages: Btch, traditional sausages from butcheries; RuSM, traditional sausages from rural street markets; Smkt, nontraditional sausages from supermarkets; WhCM, non-traditional sausages from wholesale city markets. The Table also shows the level of significance (*P*-level: NS, not significant; \*, *P*<0.05; \*\*, *P*<0.01 and \*\*\*, *P*<0.001) of the analysis of variance, and the standard error of the mean (SEM). Significant differences between types of sausages (Duncan-test, *P*<0.05) are marked with different superscripts.

n=20 *P-*level Btch

 Moisture 42.8±11.4 37.6±7.6 NS 42.9 42.7 36.5 38.7 1.6 Fat 33.4±12.0 36.7±9.0 NS 34.9 31.9 33.3 40.2 1.7 Protein 18.2±3.8 16.3±4.1 NS 16.3b 20.2a 19.5a 13.1c 0.6 Ash 2.9±0.8 3.9±1.1 \*\* 2.8b 2.9b 4.6a 3.2b 0.2 Carbohydrate 2.7±1.8 5.4±2.6 \*\*\* 3.2bc 2.3b 6.1a 4.7c 0.4

 Fat 57.6±11.5 58.5±10.4 NS 60.1ab 53.2b 52.2b 64.8a 1.7 Protein 33.7±12.4 26.4±6.6 \* 29.6ab 37.8a 30.9ab 21.9b 1.7 Ash 5.1±1.4 6.3±1.7 \* 5.0b 5.2b 7.3a 5.3b 0.3 Carbohydrate 4.5±3.1 8.8±4.4 \*\* 5.3bc 3.7b 9.6a 7.9ab 0.7

 Protein 76.2±9.4 63.9±7.4 \*\*\* 73.0ab 79.5a 65.6bc 62.3c 1.7 Ash 12.1±2.6 15.3±1.9 \*\*\* 12.7b 11.5b 15.4a 15.3a 0.4 Carbohydrate 11.6±8.3 20.8±7.5 \*\*\* 14.3bc 9.0b 19.0ab 22.4a 1.4 Table 2. Proximate composition (g/100 g) of traditional and non-traditional sausages, and of

Differences in ash content, assuming that common salt is the principal source of ash in sausages, are indicative of higher amounts of common salt being used in non-traditional than in traditional sausages. The amount of carbohydrate (which include lactate formed by lactic acid fermentation) found in traditional sausages (around 2-3% on FW basis) was the expected for a conventional fermented sausage, i.e., Polish sausage or summer sausage (USDA, 2010). However, the amount found in non-traditional sausages (6% on FW basis) was higher. This increase must be the result of the inclusion of hydrocolloids (gums, starches, dextrins) or other fillers in the formulations of this group of sausages (Personal communication: technical personnel, Fabpsa Corporation). Finally, the higher proportion of protein found in traditional sausages on both DM and NFDM basis is related to a higher proportion of lean meat used in this group compared to the non-traditional sausages. Lean meat is the main ingredient in sausage formulations and has a protein content relatively

Mineral composition, expressed as mg per 100 g on all FW, DM and NFDM basis is reported in Table 3. This Table shows the results found for the two groups of sausages: Traditional (Trad) and non-traditional (Non-Trad); and for the four types of sausages: Btch, traditional sausages from butcheries; RuSM, traditional sausages from rural street markets; Smkt, nontraditional sausages from supermarkets; WhCM, non-traditional sausages from wholesale city markets. The Table also shows the level of significance (*P*-level: NS, not significant; \*, *P*<0.05; \*\*, *P*<0.01 and \*\*\*, *P*<0.001) of the analysis of variance, and the standard error of the mean (SEM). Significant differences between types of sausages (Duncan-test, *P*<0.05) are

types of sausages as a function of the places where they were purchased from

n=10

RuSM n=10 Smkt n=10 WhCM n=10

SEM n=40

Trad n=20

high, of approximately 65% of DM (USDA, 2010).

**3.2 Mineral composition** 

marked with different superscripts.

Fresh weight

Dry matter

Nonfat dry matter

Non-Trad

There were statistically significant differences between both groups of sausages for practically all the minerals studied (all except for K). These differences could be attributed to variations in the ingredients and additives used, and in the dryness level of sausage samples. From the nutritional value point of view – minerals are essential nutrients –, FWbasis data provide useful information to what consumers are eating. On the other hand, DM- and NFDM-basis results could be related to type and amount of meat and non-meat ingredients and additives used in the making process and hence could be useful for sausage characterization and discrimination purposes.


Table 3. Mineral content (mg/100 g) of traditional (Trad) and non-traditional (Non-Trad) sausages, and of types of sausages as a function of the places where they were purchased from (-: value under the detection limit; 0.1 mg/100 g)

In the sausages studied, considering the results expressed on FW basis, traditional sausages contained higher amounts of Fe and Zn, which are the mineral micronutrients most

Comparative Assessment of the Mineral Content of

calculated to be 0.015 (USDA, 2010).

is used in sausages for its high absorbency properties.

higher, than manually deboned meat (Newman, 1981).

a Latin American Raw Sausage Made by Traditional or Non-Traditional Processes 175

had higher amounts of Na, P, Ca and Mg and lower of Zn and Fe than traditional sausages –

Differences between the two groups of sausages regarding Na content can be explained considering that higher salt amounts are usually used in non-traditional making processes. A similar trend to that of Na was observed for P concentrations. Physiological P of animal tissues is a constituent of protein structures, and its concentration in meat products may be estimated from the concentration of protein. P to protein content ratio has been estimated as approximately 0.01 for pork (Tyszkiewicz et al., 2001). Consequently, the ratio found in traditional sausages was 0.010 (0.011 in sausages purchased from butcheries and 0.009 in those purchased from rural street markets; data not shown in Tables). However, the mean ratio in non-traditional sausages was 0.016 in the sausages from supermarkets and 0.017 in those from wholesale city markets. The addition of phosphates and textured soy flour (a non-meat proteinaceous ingredient with high P content), that are frequently used in commercial sausage making (Feiner, 2006; Personal communication: technical personnel, Fabpsa Corporation), could be responsible for the higher P concentrations in non-traditional sausages. The phosphate addition to meat products is regulated by national and international standards, for example, USDA-FSIS (2007), EC (1995), or the Codex Alimentarius (2009). As an illustration, the maximum level of addition of phosphates, as established by the European Union (EC, 1995), is 5 g/kg (expressed as P2O5). With respect to the textured soy flour, its P to protein ratio is higher than that of meat and has been

The concentrations of Ca and Mg were also higher in non-traditional sausages and among them those from wholesale city markets (sausages commercialized at the lowest cost) contained the higher amounts. Those increased concentrations could be related to the use of the following ingredients: mechanically recovered meat (residual meat recovered using mechanical equipment from animal bones), texture soy flour and/or mineral fillers. Mechanical recovered meat is cheaper than convectional meat and, thus, its use in sausages is aimed to decrease production costs. Mechanically recovered meat has higher Ca content than the conventional manually deboned meat, from 40 to 500 mg depending on the raw matter and equipment used (Newman, 1981; USDA, 2010). Texture soy flour (compared to meat) can be considered as a relatively Ca- and Mg-rich ingredient (Table 3). Finally, mineral fillers such as Hubersorb (Akrochem, Akron, OH, USA) are included in some of the formulations commercialised for sausages (Personal communication: technical personnel, Fabpsa Corporation). That filler (Hubersorb) contains Ca silicate at a large proportion and it

On the contrary, levels of Zn and Fe were higher in traditional sausages than in nontraditional ones. This could be the result of a higher proportion of lean used and additionally the use of meat from older animals (with higher Fe content) for the first group of sausages. Fe content was especially high in sausages from rural street markets. This finding can be related not only to the age of animals but also to the feasible migration of Fe ions to meat and sausage mixture from the surfaces of cast iron equipment, i.e., pans, mincers (Quintaes et al., 2004), which are frequently present at small homemade sausage producing facilities in small villages. In spite of the lower amounts of Fe found in nontraditional sausages, the Fe concentration in sausages from wholesale city markets was comparable to that of traditional sausages. This could be indicative of the use of mechanically recovered meat, which contains higher amounts of Fe, approximately twice

differences in Na and Zn being the more statistically significant (*P*<0.001; Table 3).

significantly related to the benefits to health of meat consumption (McAfee et al., 2010). On the contrary, non-traditional sausages presented higher Na, P, Ca and Mg levels than traditional ones. The increased levels of Na and P in the non-traditional sausages are not considered as advantageous. Excessive intake of Na derived from meat products consumption, and of P from the consumption of phosphate-added meat products have been linked to health risks: hypertension-derived pathologies and anomalous bone metabolism, respectively (Calvo & Park, 1996; Ruusunen and Poulanne, 2005).

Having into account the results expressed on DM basis, the concentrations of the mineral elements detected in the Mexican sausages (Mexican chorizos) were generally into de range of values reported for other chorizos from Latin America and Spain (Table 4): Traditional Peruvian fresh chorizo (Reyes-García et al., 2009), Spanish fresh and dry-ripened chorizo (Jiménez-Colmenero et al., 2010), and traditional Spanish dry-ripened chorizo (Fonseca et al., 2011) – all of them including dry capsicum fruits as characteristic ingredient. Furthermore, in general, chorizos had notable higher levels of Na, K, Mg and Fe than those reported for a mixture of ground pork, lean and fat (USDA, 2010; Table 4), at a similar percentages than that used in sausage making (72% to 28%, respectively). This could be explained by the presence, apart from lean and fat, of non-meat ingredients, i.e., salt and spices, and additives, in the sausage mixtures. Moreover, comparing the mineral content of ground pork, lean and fat (Table 4), with that of the traditional and non-traditional Mexican sausages (DM basis; Table 3), it can be noted that the composition of non-traditional sausages was more distant from ground pork than that of traditional sausages. This leads to the suggestion that the first type of chorizo would include larger proportions of non-meat ingredients and additives than the second group.


Table 4. Mineral composition (mg/100 g of dry matter) of several Latino American and Iberian sausages (chorizos) which include dry capsicum fruits as characteristic ingredient, and of ground pork (Nd: Not determined)

As shown in Table 3, non-traditional sausages had higher levels (on DM basis) of Na and Ca and lower of Zn and Fe than the traditional counterparts. When results were expressed on a NFDM basis, the differences between both groups were more pronounced than when results were expressed on DM. This is because there was considerable variation in the fat content of sausages, and mathematically removing the fat from the dry sausage eliminates the fat dilution effect on mineral contents – fat is the ingredient with lower mineral content. Thus, differences between traditional and non-traditional sausages when results being expressed as NFDM, were detected for all the mineral elements except for K. Non-traditional sausages

significantly related to the benefits to health of meat consumption (McAfee et al., 2010). On the contrary, non-traditional sausages presented higher Na, P, Ca and Mg levels than traditional ones. The increased levels of Na and P in the non-traditional sausages are not considered as advantageous. Excessive intake of Na derived from meat products consumption, and of P from the consumption of phosphate-added meat products have been linked to health risks: hypertension-derived pathologies and anomalous bone metabolism,

Having into account the results expressed on DM basis, the concentrations of the mineral elements detected in the Mexican sausages (Mexican chorizos) were generally into de range of values reported for other chorizos from Latin America and Spain (Table 4): Traditional Peruvian fresh chorizo (Reyes-García et al., 2009), Spanish fresh and dry-ripened chorizo (Jiménez-Colmenero et al., 2010), and traditional Spanish dry-ripened chorizo (Fonseca et al., 2011) – all of them including dry capsicum fruits as characteristic ingredient. Furthermore, in general, chorizos had notable higher levels of Na, K, Mg and Fe than those reported for a mixture of ground pork, lean and fat (USDA, 2010; Table 4), at a similar percentages than that used in sausage making (72% to 28%, respectively). This could be explained by the presence, apart from lean and fat, of non-meat ingredients, i.e., salt and spices, and additives, in the sausage mixtures. Moreover, comparing the mineral content of ground pork, lean and fat (Table 4), with that of the traditional and non-traditional Mexican sausages (DM basis; Table 3), it can be noted that the composition of non-traditional sausages was more distant from ground pork than that of traditional sausages. This leads to the suggestion that the first type of chorizo would include larger proportions of non-meat

respectively (Calvo & Park, 1996; Ruusunen and Poulanne, 2005).

ingredients and additives than the second group.

Peruvian fresh chorizo

and of ground pork (Nd: Not determined)

Spanish fresh chorizo

Sodium 1401 2364 1675 2504 157 Potassium Nd 842 593 1106 404 Phosphorus 311 Nd Nd 431 300 Calcium 117.4 19.7 22.7 27.4 36.4 Magnesium Nd 50.6 32.3 58.2 29.5 Zinc Nd 5.5 3.0 7.4 4.3 Iron 8.4 2.5 2.1 3.5 2.0 Table 4. Mineral composition (mg/100 g of dry matter) of several Latino American and Iberian sausages (chorizos) which include dry capsicum fruits as characteristic ingredient,

As shown in Table 3, non-traditional sausages had higher levels (on DM basis) of Na and Ca and lower of Zn and Fe than the traditional counterparts. When results were expressed on a NFDM basis, the differences between both groups were more pronounced than when results were expressed on DM. This is because there was considerable variation in the fat content of sausages, and mathematically removing the fat from the dry sausage eliminates the fat dilution effect on mineral contents – fat is the ingredient with lower mineral content. Thus, differences between traditional and non-traditional sausages when results being expressed as NFDM, were detected for all the mineral elements except for K. Non-traditional sausages

Spanish dryripened chorizo

Traditional Spanish dryripened chorizo

Ground pork, raw (72% lean/28% fat)

Traditional

Differences between the two groups of sausages regarding Na content can be explained considering that higher salt amounts are usually used in non-traditional making processes. A similar trend to that of Na was observed for P concentrations. Physiological P of animal tissues is a constituent of protein structures, and its concentration in meat products may be estimated from the concentration of protein. P to protein content ratio has been estimated as approximately 0.01 for pork (Tyszkiewicz et al., 2001). Consequently, the ratio found in traditional sausages was 0.010 (0.011 in sausages purchased from butcheries and 0.009 in those purchased from rural street markets; data not shown in Tables). However, the mean ratio in non-traditional sausages was 0.016 in the sausages from supermarkets and 0.017 in those from wholesale city markets. The addition of phosphates and textured soy flour (a non-meat proteinaceous ingredient with high P content), that are frequently used in commercial sausage making (Feiner, 2006; Personal communication: technical personnel, Fabpsa Corporation), could be responsible for the higher P concentrations in non-traditional sausages. The phosphate addition to meat products is regulated by national and international standards, for example, USDA-FSIS (2007), EC (1995), or the Codex Alimentarius (2009). As an illustration, the maximum level of addition of phosphates, as established by the European Union (EC, 1995), is 5 g/kg (expressed as P2O5). With respect to the textured soy flour, its P to protein ratio is higher than that of meat and has been calculated to be 0.015 (USDA, 2010).

The concentrations of Ca and Mg were also higher in non-traditional sausages and among them those from wholesale city markets (sausages commercialized at the lowest cost) contained the higher amounts. Those increased concentrations could be related to the use of the following ingredients: mechanically recovered meat (residual meat recovered using mechanical equipment from animal bones), texture soy flour and/or mineral fillers. Mechanical recovered meat is cheaper than convectional meat and, thus, its use in sausages is aimed to decrease production costs. Mechanically recovered meat has higher Ca content than the conventional manually deboned meat, from 40 to 500 mg depending on the raw matter and equipment used (Newman, 1981; USDA, 2010). Texture soy flour (compared to meat) can be considered as a relatively Ca- and Mg-rich ingredient (Table 3). Finally, mineral fillers such as Hubersorb (Akrochem, Akron, OH, USA) are included in some of the formulations commercialised for sausages (Personal communication: technical personnel, Fabpsa Corporation). That filler (Hubersorb) contains Ca silicate at a large proportion and it is used in sausages for its high absorbency properties.

On the contrary, levels of Zn and Fe were higher in traditional sausages than in nontraditional ones. This could be the result of a higher proportion of lean used and additionally the use of meat from older animals (with higher Fe content) for the first group of sausages. Fe content was especially high in sausages from rural street markets. This finding can be related not only to the age of animals but also to the feasible migration of Fe ions to meat and sausage mixture from the surfaces of cast iron equipment, i.e., pans, mincers (Quintaes et al., 2004), which are frequently present at small homemade sausage producing facilities in small villages. In spite of the lower amounts of Fe found in nontraditional sausages, the Fe concentration in sausages from wholesale city markets was comparable to that of traditional sausages. This could be indicative of the use of mechanically recovered meat, which contains higher amounts of Fe, approximately twice higher, than manually deboned meat (Newman, 1981).

Comparative Assessment of the Mineral Content of

P but also of Na (Fonseca et al., 2011).

components (PC1 and PC2)

a Latin American Raw Sausage Made by Traditional or Non-Traditional Processes 177

two groups of sausages were as follows: fat content was inversely correlated with protein and ash contents and with some of the mineral elements studied, namely K and P. As said before, fat has relatively low mineral content, therefore, the more the fat proportion is, the lower the mineral content will be. Conversely, protein was positively correlated with ash and with K, P and Zn; and ash was positively correlated with several minerals but mainly

The comparison of coefficients between each group of sausages can be useful for a better understanding of the group-related differences found as described above. The correlation coefficient between protein and fat in non-traditional sausages was lower than that in traditional sausages. This denotes that in some of non-traditional sausages carbohydrate sources or mineral fillers were used. Moreover, lower correlation coefficients were detected between protein and both Zn and Fe (which appeared to be mineral elements mainly provided by meat to sausages) and between K and all P, Ca, Mg, Zn and Fe in nontraditional sausages, with respect to the traditional sausages. This leads to the suggestion that proteinaceous non-meat ingredients were used in a number of non-traditional sausages. The really high coefficient (0.92) between Na and ash observed in non-traditional sausages indicates that Na exerted a heavy significant weight on ash content for sausages of this group, and that ash explained a great part of ash-content variance. Finally, the higher correlations found between Na and P in non-traditional sausages could be partially explained by the use of phosphates as additives, which contain it their molecules not only of

Results of PC analysis are shown in Table 6 and Figs. 1 to 3. PC analysis was carried out for all FW-, DM- and NFDM-basis data. Table 6 shows the factor loadings and cumulative variance explained by PC1 and PC2. The first PC accounted for a variance from 36 to 43% and the sum of both PCs from 61 to 66%. In absolute values, the elements with higher loading scores (>0.7) for PC1 were Na, K, P and Mg using data on FW basis; K, P, Mg using data on DM basis; and Ca and Mg using data on NFDM. For PC2, Zn and Fe were the

Sodium 0.792 -0.187 -0.480 0.654 -0.601 0.472 Potassium 0.845 0.263 -0.867 -0.221 -0.681 -0.382 Phosphorus 0.805 -0.031 -0.791 0.246 -0.551 0.442 Calcium 0.679 -0.257 -0.598 0.419 -0.818 -0.092 Magnesium 0.750 -0.036 -0.721 0.098 -0.827 -0.294 Zinc 0.050 0.834 -0.435 -0.727 0.128 -0.723 Iron 0.051 0.835 -0.445 -0.722 -0.052 -0.780 Cumulative variance 43.37 64.88 41.04 66.38 35.75 61.30

Figs. 1, 2 and 3, obtained from FW, DM and NFDM results, respectively, show that samples from each group of sausage are located in two defined sets of results. Among them, the neatest separation between traditional and non-traditional samples can be observed in the plot of NFDM results (Fig. 3), where moisture and fat effect in mineral concentrations were avoided by mathematically removing those components. Thus, following the NFDM results, PC1 seemed to relate to the use of ingredients comparatively rich (with respect to meat) in

Fresh weight Dry matter Nonfat dry matter PC1 PC2 PC1 PC2 PC1 PC2

elements showing higher loading scores using all FW, DM and NFDM basis data.

Table 6. Loading scores and cumulative variance explained for the two principal

with Na. Furthermore, K was positively correlated with P, and Ca with Mg.

#### **3.3 Correlations and principal component analysis**

Table 5 shows the correlation coefficients between the composition variables studied considering the values expressed on DM basis, for traditional and non-traditional sausages separately. Regardless the sausage group, significant correlations (*P*<0.05) detected for the


Table 5. Simple linear correlation coefficients between the composition variables studied considering the values expressed in dry matter basis for the two groups sausages (n=20 for each group; \*: *P*<0.05)

Table 5 shows the correlation coefficients between the composition variables studied considering the values expressed on DM basis, for traditional and non-traditional sausages separately. Regardless the sausage group, significant correlations (*P*<0.05) detected for the

Traditional 1.00 0,42 -0.19 0.73\* 0.64\* -0.13 0.46\* 0.68\* 0.59\*

Traditional 1.00 0.61\* 0.22 0.52\* -0.09 -0.04 0.52\* 0.17

Traditional 1.00 -0.13 0.20 0.03 -0.11 0.17 -0.07

Traditional 1.00 0.69\* 0.48\* 0.74\* 0.70\* 0.48\*

Traditional 1.00 0.17 0.54\* 0.43 0.41

Traditional 1.00 0.48\* 0.25 -0.14

Traditional 1.00 0.25 0.42

Traditional 1.00 0.49\*

Table 5. Simple linear correlation coefficients between the composition variables studied considering the values expressed in dry matter basis for the two groups sausages (n=20 for

Traditional -0.96\* -0.57\* 0.01 -0.70\* -0.70\* 0.14 -0.43 -

Protein Ash Na K P Ca Mg Zn Fe


1.00 0.75\* 0.58\* 0.83\* 0.56\* 0.13 0.19 0.47\* 0.12

1.00 0.92\* 0.87\* 0.74\* 0.45\* 0.29 0.19 0.22

1.00 0.76\* 0.75\* 0.29 0.20 0.05 0.12

1.00 0.64\* 0.39 0.42 0.28 0.26

1.00 0.40 0.16 0.41 0.20

1.00 0.48\* 0.23 0.51

1.00 0.11 0.87\*

1.00 0.30

0.68\*


**3.3 Correlations and principal component analysis** 

Fat

 Nontraditional

Protein

 Nontraditional

 Nontraditional

 Nontraditional

 Nontraditional

 Nontraditional

 Nontraditional

 Nontraditional

 Nontraditional

each group; \*: *P*<0.05)

Ash

Na

K

P

Ca

Mg

Zn

two groups of sausages were as follows: fat content was inversely correlated with protein and ash contents and with some of the mineral elements studied, namely K and P. As said before, fat has relatively low mineral content, therefore, the more the fat proportion is, the lower the mineral content will be. Conversely, protein was positively correlated with ash and with K, P and Zn; and ash was positively correlated with several minerals but mainly with Na. Furthermore, K was positively correlated with P, and Ca with Mg.

The comparison of coefficients between each group of sausages can be useful for a better understanding of the group-related differences found as described above. The correlation coefficient between protein and fat in non-traditional sausages was lower than that in traditional sausages. This denotes that in some of non-traditional sausages carbohydrate sources or mineral fillers were used. Moreover, lower correlation coefficients were detected between protein and both Zn and Fe (which appeared to be mineral elements mainly provided by meat to sausages) and between K and all P, Ca, Mg, Zn and Fe in nontraditional sausages, with respect to the traditional sausages. This leads to the suggestion that proteinaceous non-meat ingredients were used in a number of non-traditional sausages. The really high coefficient (0.92) between Na and ash observed in non-traditional sausages indicates that Na exerted a heavy significant weight on ash content for sausages of this group, and that ash explained a great part of ash-content variance. Finally, the higher correlations found between Na and P in non-traditional sausages could be partially explained by the use of phosphates as additives, which contain it their molecules not only of P but also of Na (Fonseca et al., 2011).

Results of PC analysis are shown in Table 6 and Figs. 1 to 3. PC analysis was carried out for all FW-, DM- and NFDM-basis data. Table 6 shows the factor loadings and cumulative variance explained by PC1 and PC2. The first PC accounted for a variance from 36 to 43% and the sum of both PCs from 61 to 66%. In absolute values, the elements with higher loading scores (>0.7) for PC1 were Na, K, P and Mg using data on FW basis; K, P, Mg using data on DM basis; and Ca and Mg using data on NFDM. For PC2, Zn and Fe were the elements showing higher loading scores using all FW, DM and NFDM basis data.


Table 6. Loading scores and cumulative variance explained for the two principal components (PC1 and PC2)

Figs. 1, 2 and 3, obtained from FW, DM and NFDM results, respectively, show that samples from each group of sausage are located in two defined sets of results. Among them, the neatest separation between traditional and non-traditional samples can be observed in the plot of NFDM results (Fig. 3), where moisture and fat effect in mineral concentrations were avoided by mathematically removing those components. Thus, following the NFDM results, PC1 seemed to relate to the use of ingredients comparatively rich (with respect to meat) in

Comparative Assessment of the Mineral Content of

markets

**4. Conclusion** 

a Latin American Raw Sausage Made by Traditional or Non-Traditional Processes 179

Fig. 3. Principal component score plot (PC 1 and PC 2, horizontal and vertical axis) considering mineral composition on nonfat dry matter basis, and showing samples

sausages, and, conversely, higher proportion of lean meat in traditional sausages.

multivariate analysis with the data expressed on nonfat dry matter.

Determination of mineral content of raw-semidry or fresh sausages could be useful for sausage characterization purposes. Moreover, mineral content analysis performed by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy together with multivariate statistical analysis (chemometrics) seems to be a useful tool for discrimination purposes regarding the control of sausage authenticity (traditional vs non-traditional sausages) – with the term traditional being used for sausages made with lean and fat, salt and spices and eventually sodium nitrite, if appropriate. It seems more appreciate to conduct the

In order to complete this study, further research would be needed to a) determine the mineral composition of raw-semidry or fresh sausages from other regions and countries and

according to sausage types: (○) Traditional, from butcheries; (□) traditional, from rural street markets; (♦) non-traditional, from supermarkets; (▲) non-traditional, from wholesale city

The nutritional composition (the proximate composition and mineral content, in the case of this study) of mass-produced commercial raw sausages (non-traditional) undertakes changes by reason of variations in meat and non-meat ingredients and additives used with respect to the traditional production manners. Differences in ash content and in the concentrations of most of the mineral elements studied were found between traditional and non-traditional sausages. Among those, Na and Zn had the highest statistical significance. Those changes in mineral composition can represent a disadvantage regarding nutritive value of sausages associated with lower Zn and Fe contents and higher Na and P higher in non-traditional than in mass-produced commercial sausages. Differences between traditional and non-traditional sausages are presumably due to the use of textured soy flour, mechanically recovered meat, and higher amounts of common salt in non-traditional

Ca and Mg such as textured soy, mechanically recovered meat and PC2 with the proportion of lean meat, which is relatively rich in Zn and Fe.

Fig. 1. Principal component (PC) score plot (PC 1 and PC 2, horizontal and vertical axis, respectively), considering mineral composition on fresh weight basis, and showing samples according to sausage types: (○) Traditional, from butcheries; (□) traditional, from rural street markets; (♦) non-traditional, from supermarkets; (▲) non-traditional, from wholesale city markets

Fig. 2. Principal component score plot (PC 1 and PC 2, horizontal and vertical axis, respectively) considering mineral composition on dry matter basis, and showing samples according to sausage types: (○) Traditional, from butcheries; (□) traditional, from rural street markets; (♦) nontraditional, from supermarkets; (▲) non-traditional, from wholesale city markets

Fig. 3. Principal component score plot (PC 1 and PC 2, horizontal and vertical axis) considering mineral composition on nonfat dry matter basis, and showing samples according to sausage types: (○) Traditional, from butcheries; (□) traditional, from rural street markets; (♦) non-traditional, from supermarkets; (▲) non-traditional, from wholesale city markets

#### **4. Conclusion**

178 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

Ca and Mg such as textured soy, mechanically recovered meat and PC2 with the proportion

Fig. 1. Principal component (PC) score plot (PC 1 and PC 2, horizontal and vertical axis, respectively), considering mineral composition on fresh weight basis, and showing samples according to sausage types: (○) Traditional, from butcheries; (□) traditional, from rural street markets; (♦) non-traditional, from supermarkets; (▲) non-traditional, from wholesale city

Fig. 2. Principal component score plot (PC 1 and PC 2, horizontal and vertical axis, respectively) considering mineral composition on dry matter basis, and showing samples according to sausage

types: (○) Traditional, from butcheries; (□) traditional, from rural street markets; (♦) nontraditional, from supermarkets; (▲) non-traditional, from wholesale city markets

of lean meat, which is relatively rich in Zn and Fe.

markets

The nutritional composition (the proximate composition and mineral content, in the case of this study) of mass-produced commercial raw sausages (non-traditional) undertakes changes by reason of variations in meat and non-meat ingredients and additives used with respect to the traditional production manners. Differences in ash content and in the concentrations of most of the mineral elements studied were found between traditional and non-traditional sausages. Among those, Na and Zn had the highest statistical significance. Those changes in mineral composition can represent a disadvantage regarding nutritive value of sausages associated with lower Zn and Fe contents and higher Na and P higher in non-traditional than in mass-produced commercial sausages. Differences between traditional and non-traditional sausages are presumably due to the use of textured soy flour, mechanically recovered meat, and higher amounts of common salt in non-traditional sausages, and, conversely, higher proportion of lean meat in traditional sausages.

Determination of mineral content of raw-semidry or fresh sausages could be useful for sausage characterization purposes. Moreover, mineral content analysis performed by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy together with multivariate statistical analysis (chemometrics) seems to be a useful tool for discrimination purposes regarding the control of sausage authenticity (traditional vs non-traditional sausages) – with the term traditional being used for sausages made with lean and fat, salt and spices and eventually sodium nitrite, if appropriate. It seems more appreciate to conduct the multivariate analysis with the data expressed on nonfat dry matter.

In order to complete this study, further research would be needed to a) determine the mineral composition of raw-semidry or fresh sausages from other regions and countries and

Comparative Assessment of the Mineral Content of

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#### **5. Acknowledgment**

This study was supported by a pre-doctoral grant (Programa de Mejoramiento del Profesorado, PROMEP) from the Subsecretaría de Educación Superior, Secretaría de Educación Pública (SEP). México, 2008, Folio No. UAEH-112. Moreover, the authors would like to thanks the University of Leon (Spain) and the University Autónoma del Estado de Hidalgo (Mexico) for funding the analysis on which this study is based. We also thank Mrs. Tania Trinidad Enrique for her technical laboratory support and the Instrumental Techniques Laboratory of the University of León where the mineral analysis was carried out.

#### **6. References**


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**10** 

*Venezuela* 

**Analysis of High Solid Content in** 

*Dpto. Química y Suelos, Núcleo Tarabana, Cabudare, Edo. Lara* 

**Absorption Spectrometry** 

Lué-Merú Marcó Parra

**Biological Samples by Flame Atomic** 

*Universidad Centro-Occidental Lisandro Alvarado, Decanato de Agronomía,* 

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The analysis of slurry samples gives the advantage of a liquid while allowing the introduction of a solid. The slurry method is reported for the analysis of prior dried samples (Januzzi *et al*, 1997; Da Silva *et al*, 2006; Mokgalaka *et al*, 2008), precalcined (Andrade *et al*, 2008). The analysis by FAAS of solid samples or high solid content samples, as could be crude clinical samples is not frequently found in the literature. It is reported the use of slurries from crude tissues combining the FAAS technique with nebulization with a Babington type nebulizer for the introduction of high solids content samples (Mohamed and

Brandao *et al*, 2011 reported a simple and fast procedure for the sequential multi-element determination of Ca and Mg in dairy products employing slurry sampling and high resolution-continuum source flame atomic absorption spectrometry (HR-CS FAAS). The main experimental conditions optimized were 2.0 mol L−1 hydrochloric acid, sonication time of 20 min and sample mass of 1.0 g for a slurry volume of 25 mL. The elements were determined using aqueous standards for the external calibration with limits of quantification of 0.038 and 0.016 mg g−1, respectively. The precision expressed as relative standard deviation varied from 2.7 to 2.9% for a yogurt sample containing Ca and Mg

**1. Introduction** 

Ivanova, 2008).

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concentrations of 1.40 and 0.13 mg g−1, respectively.


### **Analysis of High Solid Content in Biological Samples by Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry**

Lué-Merú Marcó Parra

*Universidad Centro-Occidental Lisandro Alvarado, Decanato de Agronomía, Dpto. Química y Suelos, Núcleo Tarabana, Cabudare, Edo. Lara Venezuela* 

#### **1. Introduction**

182 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

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United States of America

StatSoft Inc. (2001). *STATISTICA* (data analysis software system), version 6.

The analysis of organic samples by flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS) involves the difficulties of the digestion step. This fact was partially overcome by the use of the microwave assisted digestion technique (Skip, 1998). The digestion of the samples has the analytical advantage of an appropriated presentation for the analysis by different techniques. Nevertheless it has some disadvantages as could be analyte losses, risk of contamination, higher cost, longer analysis time and obligatory dilution of analyte, in some cases to undetectable levels (Bugallo *et al*, 2007; Marcó and Hernández, 2004). It is desirable the development of methods those avoid the sample digestion step. The technique of flow injection atomic absorption spectrometry is well suited for this purpose (Trojanowicz, 2000), in the determination of elemental levels in slurry samples and high solid content samples. It allows to the analysis of solid samples in a simple manner. (Arroyo *et al*, 2002; Koleva and Ivanova, 2008).

The analysis of slurry samples gives the advantage of a liquid while allowing the introduction of a solid. The slurry method is reported for the analysis of prior dried samples (Januzzi *et al*, 1997; Da Silva *et al*, 2006; Mokgalaka *et al*, 2008), precalcined (Andrade *et al*, 2008). The analysis by FAAS of solid samples or high solid content samples, as could be crude clinical samples is not frequently found in the literature. It is reported the use of slurries from crude tissues combining the FAAS technique with nebulization with a Babington type nebulizer for the introduction of high solids content samples (Mohamed and Fry, 1981; Fry and Denton, 1977).

Brandao *et al*, 2011 reported a simple and fast procedure for the sequential multi-element determination of Ca and Mg in dairy products employing slurry sampling and high resolution-continuum source flame atomic absorption spectrometry (HR-CS FAAS). The main experimental conditions optimized were 2.0 mol L−1 hydrochloric acid, sonication time of 20 min and sample mass of 1.0 g for a slurry volume of 25 mL. The elements were determined using aqueous standards for the external calibration with limits of quantification of 0.038 and 0.016 mg g−1, respectively. The precision expressed as relative standard deviation varied from 2.7 to 2.9% for a yogurt sample containing Ca and Mg concentrations of 1.40 and 0.13 mg g−1, respectively.

Analysis of High Solid Content in Biological Samples by Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry 185

**1.1 Determination of Zn and Cu in crude human brain slurry samples by flow injection** 

The determination of metals in brain samples is required for the study of brain physiology, biochemistry and neurochemistry, or clinical purposes to find correlations between metal levels and some pathologies (Schizophrenia, Wilson disease, Alzheimer, etc.) (Andrási *et al*, 1995; Religa *et al*, 2006). In connection to neurochemistry, it is necessary to determine the elements Zn and Cu for the evaluation of neurotransmission

The brain matrix is mainly formed by high molecular weight carboxilic acids or greases of long chains, a complex organic matrix. The digestion of such a matrix prior to the analysis is reported in the literature, for different techniques (Andrade *et al*, 2008; Taylor *et al*, 2002; Taylor *et al*, 2006; Lech and Lachowicz, 2009). The main objective of this work was the determination of Cu and Zn in crude brain slurry samples by the method of flow injection atomic absorption spectrometry and the development of precise, accurate, efficient and cheap method of determination of metals in human brain samples. The results were compared to those obtained after microwave aided digestion of the samples. The independent technique of total reflection X-ray fluorescence (TXRF) was used for accuracy

Crude brain dissected samples were homogeneized with a high speed homogenator to obtain slurries. These slurry samples were properly diluted in 5% V/V HNO3 to aid the analyte extraction to the aqueous phase, to carry out the determination of copper and zinc by flame atomic absorption spectrometry, following a procedure reported by Marco *et al*,

**1.2 Determination of calcium, potassium, manganese, iron, copper and zinc levels in** 

The onion is one of the most important cultivars in the world. The determination of major, minor and trace element levels is an important tool for the enhancement of production efficiency in the field of agriculture, provenance, and contamination risk evaluation (Ariyama *et al*, 2007; Abdullahi *et al*, 2008; Abdullahi *et al*, 2009). There is a necessity for new analysis methods and simple sample preparation procedures. The chemical characterization of the cultivar samples, becomes important due to the fact that chemical composition is closed related to the quality of the products. (Akan *et al*, 2010; Hashmi *et al*, 2007). Alvarez *et al*, 2003, reported a preparation procedure for the elemental characterization, involving the acid extraction of the analytes from crude samples by means of an ultrasonic bath, avoiding the required digestion of samples in vegetable tissue analysis. The technique of total reflection Xray fluorescence (TXRF) was successfully applied for the simultaneous determination of the elements Ca, K, Mn, Fe, Cu and Zn. The procedure was compared with the wet ash and dry ash procedures for all the elements using multivariate analysis and the Scheffe test. The technique of flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS) was employed for comparison purposes and accuracy evaluation of the proposed analysis method. A good agreement between the two techniques was found when using the dry ash and ultrasound leaching procedures. The levels of each element found for representative samples of two onion cultivars

**representative samples of two onion cultivars by flame atomic absorption** 

(Yellow Granex PRR 502 and 438 Granex) were also compared by the same method.

In this work a sample preparation procedure for onion bulb elemental characterization by FAAS is proposed, involving the acid extraction of the analytes by means of an ultrasonic

**spectrometry using ultrasonic assisted leaching** 

**flame atomic absorption spectrometry** 

processes. (Horning *et al*, 2000).

evaluation.

2003.

Erik G.P. da Silva *et al*, 2008 evaluated the slurry sampling flame atomic absorption spectrometric method for the determination of copper, manganese and iron in oysters (*Crassostrea rhizophora*), clams (*Anomalocardia brasiliana*) and mussels (*Mytella guiyanensis*; *Perna perna*). They optimized the variables nature and concentration of the acid solution for slurry preparation, sonication time and sample mass. The optimized conditions were 80 mg of sample grounded in a cryogenic mill, dilution using 1.0 mol L-1 nitric /hydrochloric acid solution, sonication time of 30 min and a slurry volume of 10 mL. The calibration curves were prepared matching the acid concentration. This method allowed the determination of copper, manganese and iron by FAAS, with detection limits of 0.17, 0.09 and 0.46 g g-1, respectively. The precision, expressed as relative standard deviation (RSD), was 3.0%, 2.9% and 3.8% (n= 10), for concentrations of copper, manganese and iron of 17, 22 and 719 gg-1, respectively. The accuracy of the method was confirmed by analysis of the certified oyster tissue (NIST 1566b). The results showed no significant differences using the proposed method respect to those obtained after complete digestion and determination by inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES).

The ultrasonic extraction is an interesting aid to the slurry sampling but its use is not widely spread as the digestion procedures (Taylor *et al*, 2002; Taylor *et al*, 2006). An ultrasound-assisted solid–liquid extraction procedure by using diluted mixed acid solution was developed by Manutsewee, *et al*, 2007 for determination of cadmium, copper and zinc in fish and mussel samples. They evaluated the effects of several parameters such as nitric acid concentration, hydrochloric acid concentration, hydrogen peroxide concentration, leaching solution volume, temperature and sonication time. After the optimization of these parameters the elements cadmium and copper were determined by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry, and zinc was determined by flame atomic absorption spectrometry. The results were compared to those obtained by microwave-assisted digestion. The recoveries (%) of metal amount obtained by leaching technique to the amount obtained by digestion technique for cadmium, copper and zinc ranged from 92% to 114% for fish and from 88% to 103% for mussel samples. The accuracy of the developed method was verified with the dogfish muscle certified reference material (DORM-2). The Recoveries were in the order of 80.9 ± 0.3 and 87.2 ± 0.6%.

Bugallo *et al*, 2007 compared the method of slurry sampling to the microwave assisted digestion for the determination of calcium, copper, iron, magnesium and zinc in fish tissue samples by flame atomic absorption spectrometry. They found that in comparison to microwave-assisted digestion, the analysis of slurries is simple, requires short time and overcome the difficulty of the total sample dissolution before analysis. It is necessary the addition of acid for some analites as iron, to enhance the recovery. For Ca and Cu the quantification must be performed using standard addition. Both methods were accurate and the standard deviations obtained using slurry sampling method and microwave-assisted digestion were not significantly different and the mean relative standard deviation of the slurry sampling method for different concentration levels was below 12%.

In this chapter will be discussed the analysis by FAAS of two kinds of biological samples: brain and onion bulb tissues. The preparation procedures were simplified in order to perform the analysis of the crude samples with the aid of ultrasonic acid extraction for brain slurries and crude onion leachates. The introduction using a Flow Injection System avoids transport effects. The results by FAAS and flow injection atomic absorption spectrometry (FIAAS) were evaluated using the independent technique of TXRF.

Erik G.P. da Silva *et al*, 2008 evaluated the slurry sampling flame atomic absorption spectrometric method for the determination of copper, manganese and iron in oysters (*Crassostrea rhizophora*), clams (*Anomalocardia brasiliana*) and mussels (*Mytella guiyanensis*; *Perna perna*). They optimized the variables nature and concentration of the acid solution for slurry preparation, sonication time and sample mass. The optimized conditions were 80 mg of sample grounded in a cryogenic mill, dilution using 1.0 mol L-1 nitric /hydrochloric acid solution, sonication time of 30 min and a slurry volume of 10 mL. The calibration curves were prepared matching the acid concentration. This method allowed the determination of copper, manganese and iron by FAAS, with detection limits of 0.17, 0.09 and 0.46 g g-1, respectively. The precision, expressed as relative standard deviation (RSD), was 3.0%, 2.9% and 3.8% (n= 10), for concentrations of copper, manganese and iron of 17, 22 and 719 gg-1, respectively. The accuracy of the method was confirmed by analysis of the certified oyster tissue (NIST 1566b). The results showed no significant differences using the proposed method respect to those obtained after complete digestion and determination by inductively

The ultrasonic extraction is an interesting aid to the slurry sampling but its use is not widely spread as the digestion procedures (Taylor *et al*, 2002; Taylor *et al*, 2006). An ultrasound-assisted solid–liquid extraction procedure by using diluted mixed acid solution was developed by Manutsewee, *et al*, 2007 for determination of cadmium, copper and zinc in fish and mussel samples. They evaluated the effects of several parameters such as nitric acid concentration, hydrochloric acid concentration, hydrogen peroxide concentration, leaching solution volume, temperature and sonication time. After the optimization of these parameters the elements cadmium and copper were determined by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry, and zinc was determined by flame atomic absorption spectrometry. The results were compared to those obtained by microwave-assisted digestion. The recoveries (%) of metal amount obtained by leaching technique to the amount obtained by digestion technique for cadmium, copper and zinc ranged from 92% to 114% for fish and from 88% to 103% for mussel samples. The accuracy of the developed method was verified with the dogfish muscle certified reference material (DORM-2). The Recoveries

Bugallo *et al*, 2007 compared the method of slurry sampling to the microwave assisted digestion for the determination of calcium, copper, iron, magnesium and zinc in fish tissue samples by flame atomic absorption spectrometry. They found that in comparison to microwave-assisted digestion, the analysis of slurries is simple, requires short time and overcome the difficulty of the total sample dissolution before analysis. It is necessary the addition of acid for some analites as iron, to enhance the recovery. For Ca and Cu the quantification must be performed using standard addition. Both methods were accurate and the standard deviations obtained using slurry sampling method and microwave-assisted digestion were not significantly different and the mean relative standard deviation of the

In this chapter will be discussed the analysis by FAAS of two kinds of biological samples: brain and onion bulb tissues. The preparation procedures were simplified in order to perform the analysis of the crude samples with the aid of ultrasonic acid extraction for brain slurries and crude onion leachates. The introduction using a Flow Injection System avoids transport effects. The results by FAAS and flow injection atomic absorption spectrometry

slurry sampling method for different concentration levels was below 12%.

(FIAAS) were evaluated using the independent technique of TXRF.

coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES).

were in the order of 80.9 ± 0.3 and 87.2 ± 0.6%.

#### **1.1 Determination of Zn and Cu in crude human brain slurry samples by flow injection flame atomic absorption spectrometry**

The determination of metals in brain samples is required for the study of brain physiology, biochemistry and neurochemistry, or clinical purposes to find correlations between metal levels and some pathologies (Schizophrenia, Wilson disease, Alzheimer, etc.) (Andrási *et al*, 1995; Religa *et al*, 2006). In connection to neurochemistry, it is necessary to determine the elements Zn and Cu for the evaluation of neurotransmission processes. (Horning *et al*, 2000).

The brain matrix is mainly formed by high molecular weight carboxilic acids or greases of long chains, a complex organic matrix. The digestion of such a matrix prior to the analysis is reported in the literature, for different techniques (Andrade *et al*, 2008; Taylor *et al*, 2002; Taylor *et al*, 2006; Lech and Lachowicz, 2009). The main objective of this work was the determination of Cu and Zn in crude brain slurry samples by the method of flow injection atomic absorption spectrometry and the development of precise, accurate, efficient and cheap method of determination of metals in human brain samples. The results were compared to those obtained after microwave aided digestion of the samples. The independent technique of total reflection X-ray fluorescence (TXRF) was used for accuracy evaluation.

Crude brain dissected samples were homogeneized with a high speed homogenator to obtain slurries. These slurry samples were properly diluted in 5% V/V HNO3 to aid the analyte extraction to the aqueous phase, to carry out the determination of copper and zinc by flame atomic absorption spectrometry, following a procedure reported by Marco *et al*, 2003.

#### **1.2 Determination of calcium, potassium, manganese, iron, copper and zinc levels in representative samples of two onion cultivars by flame atomic absorption spectrometry using ultrasonic assisted leaching**

The onion is one of the most important cultivars in the world. The determination of major, minor and trace element levels is an important tool for the enhancement of production efficiency in the field of agriculture, provenance, and contamination risk evaluation (Ariyama *et al*, 2007; Abdullahi *et al*, 2008; Abdullahi *et al*, 2009). There is a necessity for new analysis methods and simple sample preparation procedures. The chemical characterization of the cultivar samples, becomes important due to the fact that chemical composition is closed related to the quality of the products. (Akan *et al*, 2010; Hashmi *et al*, 2007). Alvarez *et al*, 2003, reported a preparation procedure for the elemental characterization, involving the acid extraction of the analytes from crude samples by means of an ultrasonic bath, avoiding the required digestion of samples in vegetable tissue analysis. The technique of total reflection Xray fluorescence (TXRF) was successfully applied for the simultaneous determination of the elements Ca, K, Mn, Fe, Cu and Zn. The procedure was compared with the wet ash and dry ash procedures for all the elements using multivariate analysis and the Scheffe test. The technique of flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS) was employed for comparison purposes and accuracy evaluation of the proposed analysis method. A good agreement between the two techniques was found when using the dry ash and ultrasound leaching procedures. The levels of each element found for representative samples of two onion cultivars (Yellow Granex PRR 502 and 438 Granex) were also compared by the same method.

In this work a sample preparation procedure for onion bulb elemental characterization by FAAS is proposed, involving the acid extraction of the analytes by means of an ultrasonic

Analysis of High Solid Content in Biological Samples by Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry 187

2. The homogenate portion is then transferred with the pipette to the volumetric flask. In this step, the pipette is rinsed with deionised water helping the remaining homogenate

3. Deionized water is added to the sample into the flask to fill approximately half of its volumetric capacity and flask was slightly agitated for few seconds to form an

4. In the case of acid addition, the appropriate amount of the nitric acid is added to the

5. The calibrated flask with the slurry is finally filled to the labelled volume, with

Additional reagents for assurance of the slurry stability, such as Viscalex, Triton among

In a similar way as described in steps 1 and 2 of the slurry preparation procedure, a sample aliquot of 5 ml of homogenate was transferred to the teflon vessels, instead of the volumetric flasks. Then 5 ml of ultrapure concentrated nitric acid and drops of hydrogen peroxide were

About 0.35 g of Lyophilised brain samples were weighed and digested in closed teflon vessels with 5 ml. of concentrated nitric acid and drops of hydrogen peroxide using the

Aqueous calibration standards of Zinc and Copper were prepared by serial dilution of the stock solution (1000 g mL-1), Titrisol, Merk. Zinc determination was carried out using always aqueous calibration curves. Copper determination was carried out using the aqueous calibration curve and also the standard addition method. Suprapur, 65% v/v HNO3 (MERCK, Germany) and 30% v/v H2O2 (Riedel de Haen, Germany) were employed for leaching and digestion purposes. Nitric acid (Riedel de Haen, Germany) was used for cleaning quartz reflectors for the TXRF analysis. Distilled, deionized water (16 MVcm ) was

Measurements were performed in a 2100 Perkin Elmer flame atomic absorption spectrometer. FIAAS set up without peristaltic pump, using the nebulizer aspiration flow for sample and carrier propulsion as shown in figure 1 was used to avoid the clogging of the system. This system was made of Teflon pieces from a chromatographic column kit. In one position of the valves the loop is charged while the carrier is passing direct to the nebulizer. In the other position of the valves, the sample in the loop is aspirated and the carrier immediately passes through the loop to the nebulizer. As the system has the possibility of two loops, when one of the loops is being charged the carrier is passing through the other

added to the teflon vessels. Vessels were closed for digestion in the microwave oven.

same microwave assisted digestion followed with the brain homogenates.

employed for rinsing and dilution purposes and also as FIAAS carrier.

6. The sample slurries in the flask are treated for 10 minutes in ultrasonic bath at 25 oC. It is important to remark that this procedure must be followed in all the cases, in order to get stable, and homogeneous slurry. When the step order is not followed, it is frequently to observe the instantaneous denaturalization of the homogenate and the formation of particles

in the inner wall of the pipette falling to the volumetric flask.

flask, depending of the desired acid concentration.

others were not necessary. Problems with foaming were not found.

homogeneous slurry.

deionised water.

of non desirable size.

**2.1.4 Digested samples** 

**2.1.5 Standards and reagents** 

**2.1.6 FAAS analysis** 

bath. The procedure was compared with the wet ash and dry ash procedures for all the elements using multivariate analysis and the Scheffé Test. The accuracy was also verified with the TXRF technique. The onion samples were grounded and homogenized with deionized water (1:1) in a domestic homogenator. In a second step, nitric acid was added at different concentrations for the optimization of acid levels. The samples were placed for 30 minutes in the ultrasonic bath. It was found an optimal concentration of 5% V/V of nitric acid and 10% of wet sample mass. Then samples were filtrated. The filtrates were also analyzed by flow injection flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FI-AAS) for all the elements, using deionized water as carrier, an optimized injection volume of 150 L and an optimized flow of 3.5 ml/min. The results obtained were compared to those obtained using the methods of wet ash and dry ash sample digestion and flame atomic absorption analysis after the humidity correction (dry base). For two kind of cultivars (Yellow Granex PRR 502 and 438 Granex). it was found that the dry ash method was statistical equal to the method of ultrasonic extraction-FIAAS. No significant differences were found between the results obtained by FAAS and TXRF. The precision was always below 5% of relative standard deviation in all the cases. It was concluded that the proposed method is the most reliable in the basis of its simplicity, shorter analysis time and minor use of reagents and glassware.

#### **2. Experimental**

#### **2.1 Analysis of brain samples**

#### **2.1.1 Samples**

Brain samples from healthy, male individuals, who suffered accidental and/or instantaneous death were taken at Morgue of the Central Hospital of Barquisimeto, Edo. Lara, Venezuela. Brains were dissected, not more than 24 hours after death, and kept at -50 oC until sample preparation.

#### **2.1.2 Sample treatment**

The brain sections, such as cerebellum, hypothalamus, frontal cortex and encephalic trunque, were weighed and homogenised with deionized water with a high speed homogeneiser at 23000 rpm (Ultra-Turrax P25 Janke and Kumkel, IKA registered mark-LABORTECHNIK). Homogenates with a 50-60% w/V (wet weight) of brain tissue were obtained and kept at -20 oC until analysis. Some samples were lyophilized after homogenization at –50 oC in a digital LABCONCO lyophiliser, LYPH-LOCK.

The digestion of the homogenates and lyophilized samples for comparison purposes was carried out in a Domestic microwave oven using closed teflon vessels, in two steps: 15 minutes at medium power and 10 minutes at maximum power. An ultrasonic bath Cole Palmer was employed for slurry treatment and for homogenization. The whole sample treatment is detailed by Marcó and Hernández, 2004.

#### **2.1.3 Slurries**

Slurries were prepared taking aliquots of the 50-60% w/V crude brain homogenates with volumetric pipettes and transferring to calibrated flasks, following strictly the next procedure:

1. An appropriate aliquot of homogenate is taken with the glass volumetric pipette, depending on the desired concentration of the slurry .


It is important to remark that this procedure must be followed in all the cases, in order to get stable, and homogeneous slurry. When the step order is not followed, it is frequently to observe the instantaneous denaturalization of the homogenate and the formation of particles of non desirable size.

Additional reagents for assurance of the slurry stability, such as Viscalex, Triton among others were not necessary. Problems with foaming were not found.

#### **2.1.4 Digested samples**

186 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

bath. The procedure was compared with the wet ash and dry ash procedures for all the elements using multivariate analysis and the Scheffé Test. The accuracy was also verified with the TXRF technique. The onion samples were grounded and homogenized with deionized water (1:1) in a domestic homogenator. In a second step, nitric acid was added at different concentrations for the optimization of acid levels. The samples were placed for 30 minutes in the ultrasonic bath. It was found an optimal concentration of 5% V/V of nitric acid and 10% of wet sample mass. Then samples were filtrated. The filtrates were also analyzed by flow injection flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FI-AAS) for all the elements, using deionized water as carrier, an optimized injection volume of 150 L and an optimized flow of 3.5 ml/min. The results obtained were compared to those obtained using the methods of wet ash and dry ash sample digestion and flame atomic absorption analysis after the humidity correction (dry base). For two kind of cultivars (Yellow Granex PRR 502 and 438 Granex). it was found that the dry ash method was statistical equal to the method of ultrasonic extraction-FIAAS. No significant differences were found between the results obtained by FAAS and TXRF. The precision was always below 5% of relative standard deviation in all the cases. It was concluded that the proposed method is the most reliable in the basis of its simplicity, shorter analysis time and minor use of reagents and glassware.

Brain samples from healthy, male individuals, who suffered accidental and/or instantaneous death were taken at Morgue of the Central Hospital of Barquisimeto, Edo. Lara, Venezuela. Brains were dissected, not more than 24 hours after death, and kept at -50

The brain sections, such as cerebellum, hypothalamus, frontal cortex and encephalic trunque, were weighed and homogenised with deionized water with a high speed homogeneiser at 23000 rpm (Ultra-Turrax P25 Janke and Kumkel, IKA registered mark-LABORTECHNIK). Homogenates with a 50-60% w/V (wet weight) of brain tissue were obtained and kept at -20 oC until analysis. Some samples were lyophilized after

The digestion of the homogenates and lyophilized samples for comparison purposes was carried out in a Domestic microwave oven using closed teflon vessels, in two steps: 15 minutes at medium power and 10 minutes at maximum power. An ultrasonic bath Cole Palmer was employed for slurry treatment and for homogenization. The whole sample

Slurries were prepared taking aliquots of the 50-60% w/V crude brain homogenates with volumetric pipettes and transferring to calibrated flasks, following strictly the next

1. An appropriate aliquot of homogenate is taken with the glass volumetric pipette,

homogenization at –50 oC in a digital LABCONCO lyophiliser, LYPH-LOCK.

treatment is detailed by Marcó and Hernández, 2004.

depending on the desired concentration of the slurry .

**2. Experimental** 

**2.1.1 Samples** 

**2.1.3 Slurries** 

procedure:

**2.1 Analysis of brain samples** 

oC until sample preparation.

**2.1.2 Sample treatment** 

In a similar way as described in steps 1 and 2 of the slurry preparation procedure, a sample aliquot of 5 ml of homogenate was transferred to the teflon vessels, instead of the volumetric flasks. Then 5 ml of ultrapure concentrated nitric acid and drops of hydrogen peroxide were added to the teflon vessels. Vessels were closed for digestion in the microwave oven.

About 0.35 g of Lyophilised brain samples were weighed and digested in closed teflon vessels with 5 ml. of concentrated nitric acid and drops of hydrogen peroxide using the same microwave assisted digestion followed with the brain homogenates.

#### **2.1.5 Standards and reagents**

Aqueous calibration standards of Zinc and Copper were prepared by serial dilution of the stock solution (1000 g mL-1), Titrisol, Merk. Zinc determination was carried out using always aqueous calibration curves. Copper determination was carried out using the aqueous calibration curve and also the standard addition method. Suprapur, 65% v/v HNO3 (MERCK, Germany) and 30% v/v H2O2 (Riedel de Haen, Germany) were employed for leaching and digestion purposes. Nitric acid (Riedel de Haen, Germany) was used for cleaning quartz reflectors for the TXRF analysis. Distilled, deionized water (16 MVcm ) was employed for rinsing and dilution purposes and also as FIAAS carrier.

#### **2.1.6 FAAS analysis**

Measurements were performed in a 2100 Perkin Elmer flame atomic absorption spectrometer. FIAAS set up without peristaltic pump, using the nebulizer aspiration flow for sample and carrier propulsion as shown in figure 1 was used to avoid the clogging of the system. This system was made of Teflon pieces from a chromatographic column kit. In one position of the valves the loop is charged while the carrier is passing direct to the nebulizer. In the other position of the valves, the sample in the loop is aspirated and the carrier immediately passes through the loop to the nebulizer. As the system has the possibility of two loops, when one of the loops is being charged the carrier is passing through the other

Analysis of High Solid Content in Biological Samples by Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry 189

ionized water to yield final concentrations of 5, 10 and 20 mgL-1. The element Co was used as internal standard and added to standards and samples. The further quantification is well

Two kinds of onion cultivars were collected, Yellow Granex PRR of Sumblex and Texas Grano 438, Asgrow, at the main market of Barquisimeto following the next procedure: ten bags of 60 Kg from each cultivar were random selected. Then from each bag were taken 10

The onion samples were grounded and homogenized with deionized water (1:1) in a domestic homogenizator in a previous step (30 random selected onions for each preparation procedure from each cultivar) . An amount of 5 g of wet weight or 10 g of the homogenate was digested by a wet ash procedure and prepared by ultrasonic leaching, as explained bellow. In similar way an amount of dry onion corresponding to 5 g of wet weight (calculated on the basis of the dry matter content) was used for the dry ash procedure. The humidity correction and the determination of dry masses were performed separately by drying in oven at a fixed temperature of 60 oC. The values of dry matter percentage were 8% for Yellow Granex and 9% for 438 Granex cultivar. The results are expressed in dry basis. In

An ultrasonic bath, Cole Palmer (USA) with temperature control was used. Temperature was fixed to 70 oC. Time of sonication was 30 min. Ten grams of the homogenate (5 g of wet sample) were placed in flasks and mixed with different nitric acid concentrations (0, 5, 10 and 15% v/v) for the optimization of acid levels. The samples were placed for 30 min in the ultrasonic bath with a fixed temperature of 70 oC. Then samples were filtrated with Whatman filters by gravity and the supernatants were quantitatively transferred to 50 mL

The wet digestion was performed weighing 5 g of the wet sample and adding 15mL of concentrated HNO3 and drops of H2O2. The digestion was performed in a hot plate. After

The dry digestion was performed weighing 0.4 g of dry sample (approx. 5 g of wet sample) and calcining at 700 oC for 2 h. Then, the ashes were dissolved with nitric acid and samples

The samples were analyzed in a Perkin Elmer (USA) 3110 Atomic Absorption Spectrometer

The FIAAS manifold was designed for low dispersion and two channels ( carrier and sample), using a An ISMATEC peristaltic pump IPC model for sample and carrier

the digestion procedure the sample were aphorized to a final volume of 50 mL.

were quantitatively transferred to 50 mL volumetric flasks.

under conditions suggested by the manufacturer.

onions. A total amount of 100 onions for each cultivar were collected.

all the cases four independent replicas were prepared.

explained by Alvarez *et al*, 2003.

**2.2.2 Sampling procedure** 

**2.2.3 Ultrasonic extraction** 

volumetric flasks.

**2.2.4 Wet ash** 

**2.2.5 Dry ash** 

**2.2.6 FAAS analysis** 

Sample preparation

loop and viceversa. The carrier container is an extraction funnel fixed 30 cm above the entry of nebulizer. The volume of the sample loop was approximately 100 microliters. The length of the tube from injection port to nebuliser was 35 cm and the internal diameter 0.8 mm.

Fig. 1. Sample introduction system

#### *TXRF measurements*

A CANBERRA Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectrometer, with Si-Li detector and set up for TXRF, Excitation with Mo tube, 17.4 Kev line was used for X-Ray analysis. TXRF set up with TLAP crystal as monochromator. Details of the TXRF measurements are given in the works of Marcó *et al*, 1999 and Marcó and Hernández, 2004.

#### **2.2 Analysis of onion samples. (According to Álvarez** *et al***, 2003). 2.2.1 Reagents and standards**

Titrisol, 1000 standard solutions (MERCK, Germany) were employed for preparation of calibration curves. Suprapur, 65% v/v HNO3 (MERCK, Germany) and 30% v/v H2O2 (Riedel de Haen, Germany) were employed for leaching and digestion purposes. Nitric acid (Riedel de Haen, Germany) was used for cleaning quartz reflectors for the TXRF analysis. Distilled, deionized water (16 MVcm ) was employed for rinsing and dilution purposes and also as FIAAS carrier.

The standards for FAAS and FIAAS analysis were prepared by serial dilution of titrisol standards, according to the linear range of each of the analyzed elements, as reported by the manufacturer.

For the TXRF analysis aqueous, multielement (K, Ca, V, Mn, Cu, Se and Sr) standards were prepared by mixing and dilution of the corresponding stock solutions with distilled, deionized water to yield final concentrations of 5, 10 and 20 mgL-1. The element Co was used as internal standard and added to standards and samples. The further quantification is well explained by Alvarez *et al*, 2003.

#### **2.2.2 Sampling procedure**

Two kinds of onion cultivars were collected, Yellow Granex PRR of Sumblex and Texas Grano 438, Asgrow, at the main market of Barquisimeto following the next procedure: ten bags of 60 Kg from each cultivar were random selected. Then from each bag were taken 10 onions. A total amount of 100 onions for each cultivar were collected.

#### Sample preparation

188 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

loop and viceversa. The carrier container is an extraction funnel fixed 30 cm above the entry of nebulizer. The volume of the sample loop was approximately 100 microliters. The length of the tube from injection port to nebuliser was 35 cm and the internal diameter 0.8 mm.

A CANBERRA Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectrometer, with Si-Li detector and set up for TXRF, Excitation with Mo tube, 17.4 Kev line was used for X-Ray analysis. TXRF set up with TLAP crystal as monochromator. Details of the TXRF measurements are given in the works

Titrisol, 1000 standard solutions (MERCK, Germany) were employed for preparation of calibration curves. Suprapur, 65% v/v HNO3 (MERCK, Germany) and 30% v/v H2O2 (Riedel de Haen, Germany) were employed for leaching and digestion purposes. Nitric acid (Riedel de Haen, Germany) was used for cleaning quartz reflectors for the TXRF analysis. Distilled, deionized water (16 MVcm ) was employed for rinsing and dilution purposes and

The standards for FAAS and FIAAS analysis were prepared by serial dilution of titrisol standards, according to the linear range of each of the analyzed elements, as reported by the

For the TXRF analysis aqueous, multielement (K, Ca, V, Mn, Cu, Se and Sr) standards were prepared by mixing and dilution of the corresponding stock solutions with distilled, de-

Fig. 1. Sample introduction system

**2.2.1 Reagents and standards** 

also as FIAAS carrier.

manufacturer.

of Marcó *et al*, 1999 and Marcó and Hernández, 2004.

**2.2 Analysis of onion samples. (According to Álvarez** *et al***, 2003).** 

*TXRF measurements* 

The onion samples were grounded and homogenized with deionized water (1:1) in a domestic homogenizator in a previous step (30 random selected onions for each preparation procedure from each cultivar) . An amount of 5 g of wet weight or 10 g of the homogenate was digested by a wet ash procedure and prepared by ultrasonic leaching, as explained bellow. In similar way an amount of dry onion corresponding to 5 g of wet weight (calculated on the basis of the dry matter content) was used for the dry ash procedure. The humidity correction and the determination of dry masses were performed separately by drying in oven at a fixed temperature of 60 oC. The values of dry matter percentage were 8% for Yellow Granex and 9% for 438 Granex cultivar. The results are expressed in dry basis. In all the cases four independent replicas were prepared.

#### **2.2.3 Ultrasonic extraction**

An ultrasonic bath, Cole Palmer (USA) with temperature control was used. Temperature was fixed to 70 oC. Time of sonication was 30 min. Ten grams of the homogenate (5 g of wet sample) were placed in flasks and mixed with different nitric acid concentrations (0, 5, 10 and 15% v/v) for the optimization of acid levels. The samples were placed for 30 min in the ultrasonic bath with a fixed temperature of 70 oC. Then samples were filtrated with Whatman filters by gravity and the supernatants were quantitatively transferred to 50 mL volumetric flasks.

#### **2.2.4 Wet ash**

The wet digestion was performed weighing 5 g of the wet sample and adding 15mL of concentrated HNO3 and drops of H2O2. The digestion was performed in a hot plate. After the digestion procedure the sample were aphorized to a final volume of 50 mL.

#### **2.2.5 Dry ash**

The dry digestion was performed weighing 0.4 g of dry sample (approx. 5 g of wet sample) and calcining at 700 oC for 2 h. Then, the ashes were dissolved with nitric acid and samples were quantitatively transferred to 50 mL volumetric flasks.

#### **2.2.6 FAAS analysis**

The samples were analyzed in a Perkin Elmer (USA) 3110 Atomic Absorption Spectrometer under conditions suggested by the manufacturer.

The FIAAS manifold was designed for low dispersion and two channels ( carrier and sample), using a An ISMATEC peristaltic pump IPC model for sample and carrier

Analysis of High Solid Content in Biological Samples by Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry 191

automatically selected. For the FIAAS method, variations of the gas flow were performed. Gas flow was changed from 5 L/min to 8 L/min. A slight increment in sensitivity was observed when using 5L/min of gas flow, nevertheless the obstruction of the capillary tube was frequently observed under this condition due to the high solid content of the brain slurry

*Sample volume:* three sample loop sizes were tested: 100, 150 and 200 microliters. The 100 microliters loop was selected as optimal volume, since no significant changes are observed in peak height respect to higher volumes, dispersion is low and risk of memory effect are

*slurry concentration and stability:* Slurries with concentration w/V of 2.3%, 12.5% and 23 % were tested. Simultaneously, the effect of nitric acid 5% w/V was evaluated. The slurry 2.3% corresponded to the minimal concentration that allowed to the measurement of Zinc signal in the lower value of the working calibration range. The 12.5% is a concentration in the range recommended by Mohamed and Fry, 1981 for homogeneized tissues and 23.5% corresponds to the critical matrix due to the high solid content. The stability of the absorbance signal does not depend on the acid at concentration levels lower than 12.5%, evidencing that the analyte is mostly in the aqueous phase. It was deduced that for Zn a slurry concentration less than 12.5 % w/V and 5% HNO3 V/V is adequate for the analysis. Concentrations higher than 13% are over the linear calibration range (0.1-1 gml-1). In the case of copper, slurry concentration must be higher than 12.5% for an appropriate detection since linear range lies at higher concentration values, between 1-10 gml-1. The critical

samples. High gas flow was necessary to avoid the capillary tube obstruction.

minimized. The dispersion was 1.3 for Cu and Zn in the optimized set up.

higher concentration was 24%, due to matrix effects. See figure 3.

Fig. 3. Effect of the Slurry Concentration on Zn (■) and Cu(○) Signals.

introduction controlled by a Temporizer GrabLab model 900 and a control valve Cole-Palmer, model 625E Bunker CT. See Figure 2.

Fig. 2. FIAAS manifold

#### **2.2.7 TXRF analysis**

The TXRF analysis was carried out in a Canberra XRF Spectrometer with a modified TXRF module designed at the Atominstitut der Osterreichschen Universitaeten, Vienna. The excitation was performed with the Ka (17.4 keV) line of a molybdenum anode X-ray tube, operated at 40 kV and 20 mA, as detailed by Alvarez *et al*, 2003. A carbon -molybdenum multilayer crystal was used for monochromation of the incident beam and a Si(Li) detector (Resolution 180 eV at Mn line, 5.8 keV) was used for the detection of the fluorescence signal. The spectra were collected in a PC based multichannel analyzer (Canberra S100), with live collection time of 200 s. The spectral data analysis was conducted with the AXIL fitting program and QXAS package supplied by the International Atomic Energy Agency.

#### **3. Results**

#### **3.1 Analysis of brain samples**

The feasibility of the crude brain slurry direct introduction was tested at a first stage using different concentration (w/V) of brain tissue in water with and without acid. The introduction of the samples was performed by the use of a simple flow injection system described in the figure 1 due to frequent obstruction of the valve of the FIAAS manifold with peristaltic pump. Optimal slurry concentration was in the range of 2.3% w/V to 12.5% w/V for zinc determination while for copper the slurry concentration must be higher than 20% w/V for an appropriate detection and less than 24% w/V to avoid matrix interferences. The results obtained by the slurry method were compared to those obtained after sample digestion and also to the independent technique total reflection X-ray fluorescence. A good agreement between results confirmed the accuracy of the proposed sample preparation procedure. The mean precision for the zinc and copper determination was less than 5% for most of the samples.

#### **3.1.1 Optimization of experimental conditions**

Experimental conditions for the FAAS method were fixed following the routine recommended by the spectrometer manual. The parameters as slit, lamp current and gas flow were

introduction controlled by a Temporizer GrabLab model 900 and a control valve Cole-

The TXRF analysis was carried out in a Canberra XRF Spectrometer with a modified TXRF module designed at the Atominstitut der Osterreichschen Universitaeten, Vienna. The excitation was performed with the Ka (17.4 keV) line of a molybdenum anode X-ray tube, operated at 40 kV and 20 mA, as detailed by Alvarez *et al*, 2003. A carbon -molybdenum multilayer crystal was used for monochromation of the incident beam and a Si(Li) detector (Resolution 180 eV at Mn line, 5.8 keV) was used for the detection of the fluorescence signal. The spectra were collected in a PC based multichannel analyzer (Canberra S100), with live collection time of 200 s. The spectral data analysis was conducted with the AXIL fitting

The feasibility of the crude brain slurry direct introduction was tested at a first stage using different concentration (w/V) of brain tissue in water with and without acid. The introduction of the samples was performed by the use of a simple flow injection system described in the figure 1 due to frequent obstruction of the valve of the FIAAS manifold with peristaltic pump. Optimal slurry concentration was in the range of 2.3% w/V to 12.5% w/V for zinc determination while for copper the slurry concentration must be higher than 20% w/V for an appropriate detection and less than 24% w/V to avoid matrix interferences. The results obtained by the slurry method were compared to those obtained after sample digestion and also to the independent technique total reflection X-ray fluorescence. A good agreement between results confirmed the accuracy of the proposed sample preparation procedure. The mean precision for the zinc and copper determination was less than 5% for

Experimental conditions for the FAAS method were fixed following the routine recommended by the spectrometer manual. The parameters as slit, lamp current and gas flow were

program and QXAS package supplied by the International Atomic Energy Agency.

Palmer, model 625E Bunker CT. See Figure 2.

Fig. 2. FIAAS manifold

**2.2.7 TXRF analysis** 

**3. Results** 

most of the samples.

**3.1.1 Optimization of experimental conditions** 

**3.1 Analysis of brain samples** 

automatically selected. For the FIAAS method, variations of the gas flow were performed. Gas flow was changed from 5 L/min to 8 L/min. A slight increment in sensitivity was observed when using 5L/min of gas flow, nevertheless the obstruction of the capillary tube was frequently observed under this condition due to the high solid content of the brain slurry samples. High gas flow was necessary to avoid the capillary tube obstruction.

*Sample volume:* three sample loop sizes were tested: 100, 150 and 200 microliters. The 100 microliters loop was selected as optimal volume, since no significant changes are observed in peak height respect to higher volumes, dispersion is low and risk of memory effect are minimized. The dispersion was 1.3 for Cu and Zn in the optimized set up.

*slurry concentration and stability:* Slurries with concentration w/V of 2.3%, 12.5% and 23 % were tested. Simultaneously, the effect of nitric acid 5% w/V was evaluated. The slurry 2.3% corresponded to the minimal concentration that allowed to the measurement of Zinc signal in the lower value of the working calibration range. The 12.5% is a concentration in the range recommended by Mohamed and Fry, 1981 for homogeneized tissues and 23.5% corresponds to the critical matrix due to the high solid content. The stability of the absorbance signal does not depend on the acid at concentration levels lower than 12.5%, evidencing that the analyte is mostly in the aqueous phase. It was deduced that for Zn a slurry concentration less than 12.5 % w/V and 5% HNO3 V/V is adequate for the analysis. Concentrations higher than 13% are over the linear calibration range (0.1-1 gml-1). In the case of copper, slurry concentration must be higher than 12.5% for an appropriate detection since linear range lies at higher concentration values, between 1-10 gml-1. The critical higher concentration was 24%, due to matrix effects. See figure 3.

Fig. 3. Effect of the Slurry Concentration on Zn (■) and Cu(○) Signals.

Analysis of High Solid Content in Biological Samples by Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry 193

The accuracy was evaluated by comparison to the technique of TXRF for the slurry and digested samples (see table 3). The t-Student at 95% of confidence level was applied (t= 0

Sample Crude Digested Lyophilised and Digested

Et-1 5.6 (3%) 5.1 (4%) 5x5.4 27 (3%) CE-1 11.0 (2%) 10.5 ( 5%) 5x13.2 66 ( 2%)

Table 2. Comparative Results of Zn Concentration (gg-1) in Crude Brain Slurries and Digested Brain Samples. The values in parenthesis correspond to relative standard

Sample TXRF FIAAS

 \*\*2.1 +/-0.2 2.3 \*(3%) Ce1 2.3 +/-0.2 2.6 (2%) \*\*2.4 +/-0.2 \*\*2.5 (5%) Cf2 2.2 +/-0.3 2.1 (1%) \*\*2.2 (2%) Ce2 2.2+/-0.3 2,0 (2%) Table 3. Comparative Results of Zn Concentration (gg-1) Obtained by TXRF of Slurries, TXRF of Digested Samples , FIAAS of Slurries and FAAS of Digested Samples. The values in parenthesis indicate the relative standard deviation. \*\* The value corresponds to digested

The slurries for Copper determination should have a concentration higher than 20% w/V, due to the low concentration of the analyte in the samples. Slurries with concentration less than 20% (w/V) have an analyte concentration bellow the lowest point of the working calibration range (1 g mL-1). Values of slurry concentration higher than 24% (w/V) have the lack of matrix effects, transport effects and capillary tube obstruction among others. The nitric acid should be added to the slurries in order to extract efficiently the analyte to the aqueous phase and to enhance the nebulisation and atomization processes in the spray

The copper determination was performed by direct FIAAS analysis and by the standard addition method (see reference 78), due to the high concentration (w/V) of the slurries. As shown in table 4 no significant differences were found between results using standard addition method and the direct method. The correlation coefficient between results was 0.994 the slope 0.99 and intercept 0.017. The t-Student test at 95% confidence level was t=

CE-2 8.8 (3%) 9.0 ( 2%)

Hp-1 10.9 ( 3%) 9.9 ( 2%) Et-3 14.2 (9%) 12.9 ( 3%)

Cf1 2.3 +/-0.2

sample. Cf: Frontal Cortex; Ce: Cerebellum

chamber and into the flame. See table 4.

**3.1.3 Determination of Copper** 

and p=1).

deviation.

*Effect of nitric acid:* the effect of nitric acid was evaluated at concentrations of 5% w/V, 10% w/V and 20% w/V. An increment of the absorbance signal is observed when the acid is added. The quality of the slurries in terms of particle size is improved. The clogging of the capillary was observed for samples without acid. Acid concentrations above 5% v/V do not affect significantly the absorbance signal. The acid blank was tested and its influence discarded on the measurement.

#### **3.1.2 Determination of Zn**

The determination of Zn can be carry out by slurry sampling at slurry concentration levels (%w/V) between 2.3 and 13% if nitric acid is added. Nevertheless, for concentration levels near the lower limit (2.3%) a high relative standard deviation is obtained. See table 1.


Table 1. Concentration (g g-1) of Zn in Crude Brain Slurry Samples. The values in parenthesis indicate the slurry concentration. RDS: Relative Standard Deviation. Ce: Cerebellum; Te: Encephalic trunque; Hp: Hypotalamus; Cf: Frontal Cortex.

A good concordance between results obtained by slurry sampling and those obtained after microwave digestion of crude brain samples was observed, as shown in table 2. If the results for crude samples are compared to the corresponding liophylized and digested samples, the analyte concentration is in concordance to the dry weight correction (about 20% in brain samples ( Andrási *et al,* 1995 ). The test of the correlation factor F at the 0.05 level of confidence was applied ( F = 120.7 p= 0.002 and critical F 10.1) demonstrating the agreement between results. See table 2.

The precision ranges between 2% of relative standard deviation (RSD) and 10%. This parameter is independent of the sample preparation procedure (slurry or digested) or the brain section. The precision depends on the analyte concentration. For slurry concentration above 4.8% w/V the value is under 5% of RSD. The precision when comparing independent replicates was similar.

The accuracy was evaluated by comparison to the technique of TXRF for the slurry and digested samples (see table 3). The t-Student at 95% of confidence level was applied (t= 0 and p=1).


Table 2. Comparative Results of Zn Concentration (gg-1) in Crude Brain Slurries and Digested Brain Samples. The values in parenthesis correspond to relative standard deviation.


Table 3. Comparative Results of Zn Concentration (gg-1) Obtained by TXRF of Slurries, TXRF of Digested Samples , FIAAS of Slurries and FAAS of Digested Samples. The values in parenthesis indicate the relative standard deviation. \*\* The value corresponds to digested sample. Cf: Frontal Cortex; Ce: Cerebellum

#### **3.1.3 Determination of Copper**

192 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

*Effect of nitric acid:* the effect of nitric acid was evaluated at concentrations of 5% w/V, 10% w/V and 20% w/V. An increment of the absorbance signal is observed when the acid is added. The quality of the slurries in terms of particle size is improved. The clogging of the capillary was observed for samples without acid. Acid concentrations above 5% v/V do not affect significantly the absorbance signal. The acid blank was tested and its influence

The determination of Zn can be carry out by slurry sampling at slurry concentration levels (%w/V) between 2.3 and 13% if nitric acid is added. Nevertheless, for concentration levels

SAMPLE CONCENTRATION RSD (n=5)

Ce-2 8.8 (12%) 3% 8.5 (4.8%) 4% Te-2 7.7 (12%) 2% Te-1 5.6 (4.8%) 3% Cf-1 9.6 (4.8%) 2% Ce-1 11.0 (4.8 %) 2% Hp-1 10.9 (4.8%) 3% Te-3 14.2 (2.3%) 9% Hp-3 10.0 (2.7%) 10% Cf-3 5.6 (4.7%) 5%

Table 1. Concentration (g g-1) of Zn in Crude Brain Slurry Samples. The values in parenthesis indicate the slurry concentration. RDS: Relative Standard Deviation. Ce:

A good concordance between results obtained by slurry sampling and those obtained after microwave digestion of crude brain samples was observed, as shown in table 2. If the results for crude samples are compared to the corresponding liophylized and digested samples, the analyte concentration is in concordance to the dry weight correction (about 20% in brain samples ( Andrási *et al,* 1995 ). The test of the correlation factor F at the 0.05 level of confidence was applied ( F = 120.7 p= 0.002 and critical F 10.1) demonstrating the agreement

The precision ranges between 2% of relative standard deviation (RSD) and 10%. This parameter is independent of the sample preparation procedure (slurry or digested) or the brain section. The precision depends on the analyte concentration. For slurry concentration above 4.8% w/V the value is under 5% of RSD. The precision when comparing independent

Cerebellum; Te: Encephalic trunque; Hp: Hypotalamus; Cf: Frontal Cortex.

near the lower limit (2.3%) a high relative standard deviation is obtained. See table 1.

discarded on the measurement.

**3.1.2 Determination of Zn** 

between results. See table 2.

replicates was similar.

The slurries for Copper determination should have a concentration higher than 20% w/V, due to the low concentration of the analyte in the samples. Slurries with concentration less than 20% (w/V) have an analyte concentration bellow the lowest point of the working calibration range (1 g mL-1). Values of slurry concentration higher than 24% (w/V) have the lack of matrix effects, transport effects and capillary tube obstruction among others. The nitric acid should be added to the slurries in order to extract efficiently the analyte to the aqueous phase and to enhance the nebulisation and atomization processes in the spray chamber and into the flame. See table 4.

The copper determination was performed by direct FIAAS analysis and by the standard addition method (see reference 78), due to the high concentration (w/V) of the slurries. As shown in table 4 no significant differences were found between results using standard addition method and the direct method. The correlation coefficient between results was 0.994 the slope 0.99 and intercept 0.017. The t-Student test at 95% confidence level was t=

Analysis of High Solid Content in Biological Samples by Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry 195

*Recovery efficiency in acid medium:* It is expected that the partial extraction of the analite to the supernatant occurs when acid is added to a slurry. The atomization efficiency is enhanced,

Taking this fact into account, diluted nitric acid was employed at concentration levels of 0, 5, 10 y 15% v/v, in water. The signal increases due to the HNO3 effect, being the optimal value 5%, with 100% of recovery for the determined elements. A slight suppression of the signal was observed for HNO3 (10 y 15%) and in consequence lower % recovery for Mn, Zn and Fe. The addition of HNO3, induces a predigestion of the solid phase, decrement of particle size and almost the total extraction of the analites into the aqueous phase. (See table 6). The

0 % V/V HNO3 5 % V/V HNO3 10 % V/V HNO3 15 % V/V HNO3

2 mL/min 2.5 mL/min 3 mL/min 3.5 mL/min

in addition due to the fact that the acid helps to decrease the particle size.

elements Ca and K are extracted to the aqueous phase with deionized water.

Fe 30 101 103 104 Mn 34 100 98 96 Zn 33 102 80 85 Cu 25 98 94 93

the signal was similar to that of the classical FAAS analysis. See Figures 4 and 5.

Table 6. Percent of recovery in onion bulb samples after ultrasonic extraction procedure as

*Optimization of FIAAS parameters:* the optimized FIAAS parameters were pump flow rate (3.5 mL/min), suction flow rate set 0.2 units bellow pump flow rate (3.3 mL/min). As it is deduced from table 7 there are not significant differences in the recovery, but the highest rate tested ensures a minor residence time of the sample in the nebuliser and chamber, and in consequence a lesser memory effect. The optimal sample volume was fixed at 300 l. It was found that sample volumes higher than 350 l did not allow to a significant enhancement. In this case there is not compensation of the matrix effect by dispersion and

Fe 86 89 88 89 Mn 92 93 93 93 Cu 97 98 97 99 Zn 100 101 101 103

Table 7. Percent of recovery for Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn, Ca and K as function of the pump flow rate in the analysis of onion bulb leachates by FIAAS. Nitric acid (5% v/V) and sample loop

**3.2 Analysis of onion samples** 

Element % of recovery

**3.2.1 Optimization of experimental conditions** 

K 100 Ca 100

Ca 100 K 100

function of the nitric acid concentration (% V/V).

Element % of recovery

volume 350 L.

0.11, p= 0.92. These results demonstrate that even for slurries at 24% w/V no matrix effects are observed. This fact is a consequence of the addition of the nitric acid and the analyte extraction to the aqueous phase.

The precision of the results for the FIAAS-Slurry method was between 3% of RSD and 11% of RSD. Nevertheless precision values higher than 5% RSD were not observed for digested samples. Then the parameter is affected by the matrix.

The accuracy was evaluated by comparison to the technique of TXRF, as shown in table 5. When FIAAS method is compared to TXRF using the t-Student test at 95% of confidence level (t=0; p=1), demonstrating the good agreement between the results obtained by both techniques.


Table 4. Concentration of Cu (gg-1) in Crude Brain Slurry Samples Determined Using Standard Calibration Curve vs. Standard Addition Method of Determination. The values in parenthesis indicate relative standard deviation.


Table 5. Copper Levels in Crude Brain Slurries by Standard Addition-FIAAS Method vs. TXRF. The values in parenthesis indicate relative standard deviation.

#### **3.2 Analysis of onion samples**

194 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

0.11, p= 0.92. These results demonstrate that even for slurries at 24% w/V no matrix effects are observed. This fact is a consequence of the addition of the nitric acid and the analyte

The precision of the results for the FIAAS-Slurry method was between 3% of RSD and 11% of RSD. Nevertheless precision values higher than 5% RSD were not observed for digested

The accuracy was evaluated by comparison to the technique of TXRF, as shown in table 5. When FIAAS method is compared to TXRF using the t-Student test at 95% of confidence level (t=0; p=1), demonstrating the good agreement between the results obtained by both

 Standard Addition Calibration Curve Ce1 0.93\*(10%) 0.92(4%) Ce3 0.68(6%) 0.71(4%) Te5 0.52(6%) 0.52(7%) Cf1 0.78(3%) 0.80(11%) Ce4 0.98(5%) 0.94(10%) Ce2 0.94(3%) 0.92(4%) Cf4 0.72(2%) 0.71(3%) Cf3 0.72(5%) 0.62(3%) P1 1.55(3%) 1.50(3%) P2 1.58(2%) 1.59(1%) Table 4. Concentration of Cu (gg-1) in Crude Brain Slurry Samples Determined Using Standard Calibration Curve vs. Standard Addition Method of Determination. The values in

Concentration of Cu (gg-1)

Table 5. Copper Levels in Crude Brain Slurries by Standard Addition-FIAAS Method vs.

TXRF. The values in parenthesis indicate relative standard deviation.

Sample TXRF FIAAS Cf1 0.8 +/-0,1 0.77\*(3%) Cf4 0.8 +/-0,1 0.72 (2%) Ce3 0.9 +/-0,1 0.68 (6%) Cf2 0.6 +/-0,1 0.69 (9%) Ce1 1.1 +/-0,1 0.93\*(10%) Te3 0.5 +/-0,1 0.52 (6%) Ce2 1.0 +/-0,1 0.93 (3%) Te2 0,6 +/-0,1 0.56 (6%)

Sample Cu Concentration gg-1 (%RSD)

extraction to the aqueous phase.

techniques.

samples. Then the parameter is affected by the matrix.

parenthesis indicate relative standard deviation.

#### **3.2.1 Optimization of experimental conditions**

*Recovery efficiency in acid medium:* It is expected that the partial extraction of the analite to the supernatant occurs when acid is added to a slurry. The atomization efficiency is enhanced, in addition due to the fact that the acid helps to decrease the particle size.

Taking this fact into account, diluted nitric acid was employed at concentration levels of 0, 5, 10 y 15% v/v, in water. The signal increases due to the HNO3 effect, being the optimal value 5%, with 100% of recovery for the determined elements. A slight suppression of the signal was observed for HNO3 (10 y 15%) and in consequence lower % recovery for Mn, Zn and Fe. The addition of HNO3, induces a predigestion of the solid phase, decrement of particle size and almost the total extraction of the analites into the aqueous phase. (See table 6). The elements Ca and K are extracted to the aqueous phase with deionized water.


Table 6. Percent of recovery in onion bulb samples after ultrasonic extraction procedure as function of the nitric acid concentration (% V/V).

*Optimization of FIAAS parameters:* the optimized FIAAS parameters were pump flow rate (3.5 mL/min), suction flow rate set 0.2 units bellow pump flow rate (3.3 mL/min). As it is deduced from table 7 there are not significant differences in the recovery, but the highest rate tested ensures a minor residence time of the sample in the nebuliser and chamber, and in consequence a lesser memory effect. The optimal sample volume was fixed at 300 l. It was found that sample volumes higher than 350 l did not allow to a significant enhancement. In this case there is not compensation of the matrix effect by dispersion and the signal was similar to that of the classical FAAS analysis. See Figures 4 and 5.


Table 7. Percent of recovery for Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn, Ca and K as function of the pump flow rate in the analysis of onion bulb leachates by FIAAS. Nitric acid (5% v/V) and sample loop volume 350 L.

Analysis of High Solid Content in Biological Samples by Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry 197

**3.2.2 Comparison of the results obtained by the preparation procedures using FAAS** 

It was found that in general, the dry ash procedure and the FIAAS method had not significant differences when the Sheffe test was applied in the comparison of the results for all the elements (See table 8). The results are higher than those of the wet ash procedure and the direct aspiration of the leachates by FAAS, with the exception of Potassium. This trend is the consequence of the stronger matrix effect in these procedures. In the wet ash treatment the simple mineralization could not be total as occurs with the wet ash. In the case of the direct aspiration of the leachates by FAAS, the particle size is higher and the matrix was not totally eliminated. The nebulisation and atomization processes were affected in a different way as the aqueous standards used for calibration. The FIAAS procedure and the subsequent dispersion reduced the matrix effects. The addition of nitric acid allowed to the extraction of the analites to the aqueous phase with the increment in the nebulisation and atomization efficiency as compared to the procedure when the leachate is directly aspirated

**Preparation Procedure** 

**Element** YG G YG G YG G YG G **Ca %** 0.400\*(0.6) 0.310 (1) 0.38(0.6) 0.30 (3) 0.37 (0.9) 0.30 (1) 0.400 (1) 0.34 (2)

**K %** 1.03 (1) 1.38(0.5) 1.06(0.6) 1.80(0.7) 1.07 (0.2) 1.53 (0.5) 1.00 (2) 1.40 (2)

**Fe g/g** 27 (3) 45 (3) 28.2 (4) 41 (5) 21 (3) 39 (3) 20.0 (3) 40 (3)

**Zn g/g** 16.7 (3) 19.3 (3) 15.2 (2) 17.7 (3) 11.7 (3) 15.4 (3) 17.3 (4) 19.5 (3)

**g/g** 17.1 (2) 40 (4) 12.9 (5) 34 (3) 14.1 (5) 36(4) 15.2 (4) 39 (4)

A good agreement was found between the results obtained by FIAAS and TXRF (See Figure 6). The results obtained by FAAS when the leachates are directly aspired, were significantly lower (p=0.05) with the exception of the element potassium, in the same way as in the wet ash and dry ash procedures, as explained before. It is important to point that the TXRF technique has not the matrix effects as the FAAS technique. The agreement between FIAAS and TXRF demonstrates the effectiveness of the proposed procedure of ultrasonic leaching and FIAAS analysis for the reduction of the matrix effects and its reliability in the analysis

Table 8. Comparison of elemental concentrations in onion bulb samples using different methods by Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry. N=4. In parenthesis Relative Standard

Ultrasonic Leaching-FAAS

Ultrasonic Leaching-FIAAS

Dry Ash Wet Ash

Deviation. YG: Yellow granex cultivar and G: Texas Grano 438.

**3.2.3 Comparison to the TXRF technique** 

**and the FIAAS method** 

by FAAS.

**Mn** 

of onion bulb samples.

Fig. 4. Relative Absorbance signal as function of the injected sample volume and nitric acid concentration. 5% V/V (♦), 10 % V/V (■) and 15% v/v (▲).

Fig. 5. Relative absorbance as function of the injected volume for leachates of the onion varieties Yellow Granex (YG) and Texas Grano 438 (GR). Fresh sample mass 5 g in a volume of 50 mL. Pump flow rate 3.5 mL/min.

#### **3.2.2 Comparison of the results obtained by the preparation procedures using FAAS and the FIAAS method**

It was found that in general, the dry ash procedure and the FIAAS method had not significant differences when the Sheffe test was applied in the comparison of the results for all the elements (See table 8). The results are higher than those of the wet ash procedure and the direct aspiration of the leachates by FAAS, with the exception of Potassium. This trend is the consequence of the stronger matrix effect in these procedures. In the wet ash treatment the simple mineralization could not be total as occurs with the wet ash. In the case of the direct aspiration of the leachates by FAAS, the particle size is higher and the matrix was not totally eliminated. The nebulisation and atomization processes were affected in a different way as the aqueous standards used for calibration. The FIAAS procedure and the subsequent dispersion reduced the matrix effects. The addition of nitric acid allowed to the extraction of the analites to the aqueous phase with the increment in the nebulisation and atomization efficiency as compared to the procedure when the leachate is directly aspirated by FAAS.


Table 8. Comparison of elemental concentrations in onion bulb samples using different methods by Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry. N=4. In parenthesis Relative Standard Deviation. YG: Yellow granex cultivar and G: Texas Grano 438.

#### **3.2.3 Comparison to the TXRF technique**

196 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

Fig. 4. Relative Absorbance signal as function of the injected sample volume and nitric acid

Fig. 5. Relative absorbance as function of the injected volume for leachates of the onion varieties Yellow Granex (YG) and Texas Grano 438 (GR). Fresh sample mass 5 g in a volume

concentration. 5% V/V (♦), 10 % V/V (■) and 15% v/v (▲).

of 50 mL. Pump flow rate 3.5 mL/min.

A good agreement was found between the results obtained by FIAAS and TXRF (See Figure 6). The results obtained by FAAS when the leachates are directly aspired, were significantly lower (p=0.05) with the exception of the element potassium, in the same way as in the wet ash and dry ash procedures, as explained before. It is important to point that the TXRF technique has not the matrix effects as the FAAS technique. The agreement between FIAAS and TXRF demonstrates the effectiveness of the proposed procedure of ultrasonic leaching and FIAAS analysis for the reduction of the matrix effects and its reliability in the analysis of onion bulb samples.

Analysis of High Solid Content in Biological Samples by Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry 199

Abdullahi, M. S., Uzairu, A. and Okunola, O. J. Quantitative determination of heavy metal

Abdullahi, M. S.\*, Uzairu, A. and Okunola, O. J. Determination of some trace metal levels in

*African Journal of Biotechnology*, 7 (10), 2008, pp. 1526-1529. ISSN 1684–5315. Akan J. C., Abdulrahman F.I., Sodipo O.A., Lange A. G.. Physicochemical parameters in soil

Nigeria. Journal of American Science, 6(12). 2010, 78-87. ISSN 1545-1003. Alvarez J. , Marcó L. M., Greaves E.D., Rivas R.. Determination of calcium, potassium,

Andrade Korn Maria das Gracas, Elane Santos da Boa Morte, Daniele Cristina Muniz Batista

Andrási E., Orosz, L., Scheibler H., Bezur L., and Ernyei L., Concentrations of elements in brain tumours. *Mikrochim. Acta*, 118, 1995, pp 113-121,. ISSN 0026-3672. Ariyama, K., Aoyama, Y., Mochizuki, A., Homura Yuji, Kadokura M., and Yasui, A..

Arroyo, J. , Marcó, L. , Malavé, R., Anzola E., Gómez L., Domínguez J.RF. and Alvarado, J..

Bugallo R., Alonso, Río Segade, S., Fernández Gómez, E.. Comparison of slurry sampling

Da Silva Erik G.P., do N. Santos A., Costa A. C.S., da N. Fortunato D. M., José N., Korn M.

Da Silva Erik G.P., Hatje, V., dos Santos W. N.L., Costa L. M., Nogueira A R.A., Ferreira S.

concentrations in onion leaves. *Int. J. Environ. Res.*, 3(2), pp 2009271-274,. ISSN:

onion leaves from irrigated farmlands on the bank of River Challawa, Nigeria.

and vegetable samples from Gongulon agricultural Site, Maiduguri, Borno State,

manganese, iron Koper and zinc levels in representative samples of two onion cultivars using TXRF and three preparation procedures. *Spectrochimica Acta B*, 58.

dos Santos, Jacira Teixeira Castro, Jose´ Tiago Pereira Barbosa, Alete Paixao Teixeira, Andrea Pires Fernandes, Bernhard Welz, Wagna Piler Carvalho dos Santos, Eduardo Batista Guimaraes Nunes dos Santos, and Mauro Korn. Sample preparation for the determination of metals in food samples using Spectroanalytical Methods—A Review. *Applied Spectroscopy Reviews*, 43, 2008, pp67–92,. ISSN 0570-

Determination of the Geographic Origin of Onions between Three Main Production Areas in Japan and Other Countries by Mineral Composition. *J. Agric. Food Chem.*,

Determination of Manganesum and Potassium in cement and gypsum samples by Slurry-FIAAS and alkaline fussion as analytical alternatives to the conventional procedure of leaching. *Rev. Téc. Ing. Univ. Zulia*, 25,(1), 2002, pp.42-48. ISSN 0254-0770. Brandao G. C., Matos G., Ferreira S.L.C. Slurry sampling and high-resolution continuum

source flame atomic absorption spectrometry using secondary lines for the determination of Ca and Mg in dairy products. *Microchemical Journal*, 98, 2011, pp

and microwave-assisted digestion for calcium, magnesium, iron, copper and zinc determination in fish tissue samples by flame atomic absorption spectrometry.

G.A., dos Santos W. N.L., Ferreira S. L.C.. Determination of manganese and zinc in powdered chocolate samples by slurry sampling using sequential multi-element flame atomic absorption spectrometry. *Microchemical Journal*, 82(2), 2006, pp 159-

L.C.. Fast method for the determination of copper, manganese and iron in seafood samples. *Journal of Food Composition and Analysis* 21, 2008, pp 259–263. ISSN: 0889-1575.

**6. References** 

1735-6865.

2003, pp 2183-2189. ISSN: 0584-8547.

4928 print/1520-569X online.

231–233. ISSN: 0026-265X.

162. ISSN: 0026-265X.

55 (2), 2007,pp 347–354. ISSN: 0021-8561.

*Talanta*, 72( 1), 2007, pp 60-65. ISSN: 0039-9140.

Fig. 6. Comparison of the results by FAAS and FIAAS to the TXRF technique for the leachates of onion bulb samples using ultrasonic aided extraction.

#### **4. Conclusions**

A simplified sample preparation procedure was evaluated for the analysis of human brain samples. The feasibility of the preparation of crude brain slurry samples for Atomic absorption spectrometry analysis, in terms of precision and accuracy was demonstrated. These slurry samples must be properly diluted in 5% V/V HNO3 to aid the analyte extraction to the aqueous phase, to carry out the determination of copper and zinc by flame atomic absorption spectrometry. Optimal slurry concentration was in the range of 2.3% w/V to 12.5% w/V for zinc determination while for copper the slurry concentration must be higher than 20% w/V for an appropriate detection and less than 24% w/V to avoid matrix interferences. A good agreement between results by TXRF and FIAAS confirmed the accuracy of the proposed sample preparation procedure. The mean precision for the zinc and copper determination was less than 5% for most of the samples.

The determination of K, Ca, Mn, Fe, and Zn in fresh onion bulb samples using ultrasonic extraction is a reliable procedure when a FIAAS set up is used. The process must be aided with nitric acid at a concentration level of 5% v/V with five g of homogenized fresh sample in 50 mL. It was demonstrated the substantial reduction of matrix effects if a FIAAS method is applied. The procedure is fast, simple and has lower cost compared to the wet ash and dry ash procedures. The accuracy was verified by comparison to the independent technique TXRF and demonstrated by the good agreement found. The precision for the ultrasonic extraction and FIAAS set up is less than 5% of relative standard deviation for all analyzed elements.

#### **5. Acknowledgments**

The author thanks to the CDCHT-UCLA for the financial support of this research with the project AG-040-2000.

#### **6. References**

198 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

Fig. 6. Comparison of the results by FAAS and FIAAS to the TXRF technique for the

A simplified sample preparation procedure was evaluated for the analysis of human brain samples. The feasibility of the preparation of crude brain slurry samples for Atomic absorption spectrometry analysis, in terms of precision and accuracy was demonstrated. These slurry samples must be properly diluted in 5% V/V HNO3 to aid the analyte extraction to the aqueous phase, to carry out the determination of copper and zinc by flame atomic absorption spectrometry. Optimal slurry concentration was in the range of 2.3% w/V to 12.5% w/V for zinc determination while for copper the slurry concentration must be higher than 20% w/V for an appropriate detection and less than 24% w/V to avoid matrix interferences. A good agreement between results by TXRF and FIAAS confirmed the accuracy of the proposed sample preparation procedure. The mean precision for the zinc

The determination of K, Ca, Mn, Fe, and Zn in fresh onion bulb samples using ultrasonic extraction is a reliable procedure when a FIAAS set up is used. The process must be aided with nitric acid at a concentration level of 5% v/V with five g of homogenized fresh sample in 50 mL. It was demonstrated the substantial reduction of matrix effects if a FIAAS method is applied. The procedure is fast, simple and has lower cost compared to the wet ash and dry ash procedures. The accuracy was verified by comparison to the independent technique TXRF and demonstrated by the good agreement found. The precision for the ultrasonic extraction and

The author thanks to the CDCHT-UCLA for the financial support of this research with the

FIAAS set up is less than 5% of relative standard deviation for all analyzed elements.

leachates of onion bulb samples using ultrasonic aided extraction.

and copper determination was less than 5% for most of the samples.

**4. Conclusions** 

**5. Acknowledgments**

project AG-040-2000.


**11** 

 *México* 

**Mineral Content and Physicochemical** 

*Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Campus Juriquilla, Querétaro, Qro.* 

The atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS) is a technique extensively used for trace and ultra trace analysis of organic and inorganic materials. AAS is a novel method that determines in liquid samples the presence of metals such as: Ca, Fe, Cu, Al, Pb, Zn, and Cd from different sources. The determination of minerals is important in environmental and biological studies as well as in the clinical practice. The determination of mineral content is a key to understand changes in some metabolism that conduct to diseases as result of the increase or decrease of mineral components in diet and consequently, to develop new

In the case of biological samples including plant leaves, fruits, vegetables, organic vegetables i.e. nopal (*Opuntia ficus indica*), Rodriguez-Garcia et al., (2007) reported that the major mineral components in this cactus was as follows: Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Manganese, Iron, Zinc, Potassium, and minor mineral components were: Lithium, Vanadium, Cobalt, Arsenic, Selenium, Cadmium, Thallium (Hernández-Urbiola et al., 2010, 2011). AAS has been used also to analyze muscle tissue, blood, urine, hair, bones, among others (Martinez-Flores et al., 2002; Christian, 1972). In most cases complex nature of biological materials requires dry ashing followed by wet digestion with oxidizing acids, i.e.

 Astrid L. Giraldo-Betancur3, Daniel Jimenez-Mendoza4, Esther Pérez-Torrero2,4, Isela Rojas–Molina5, María de los Angeles Aguilera-Barreiro5, Carolina Muñoz-Torres6 and Mario E. Rodríguez-García7,\* *3Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del IPN, Sede Querétaro, Querétaro, Qro, México 4Division de Estudios de Posgrado, Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Querétaro,* 

*5Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Licenciatura en Nutrición, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Avenida de las* 

*6Centro de Geociencias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Campus Juriquilla, Querétaro, Qro, México 7Departamento de Nanotecnología, Centro de Física Aplicada y Tecnología Avanzada, Universidad Nacional* 

**1. Introduction** 

HNO3 and HCl4.

*Ciencias, s/n, Juriquilla, Querétaro, México* 

*Autónoma de México, Campus Juriquilla, Querétaro, Qro., México* 

*Qro, México* 

 \*

models in the field of animal and human nutrition.

**Properties in Female Rats Bone** 

*1Posgrado en Ciencias Biomédicas, Instituto de Neurobiología,* 

*2División de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad del Valle de México,* 

**During Growing Stage** 

*Campus Querétaro, Querétaro, Qro.* 

Margarita Hernández-Urbiola1,2 et al.\*


### **Mineral Content and Physicochemical Properties in Female Rats Bone During Growing Stage**

Margarita Hernández-Urbiola1,2 et al.\*

*1Posgrado en Ciencias Biomédicas, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Campus Juriquilla, Querétaro, Qro. 2División de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad del Valle de México, Campus Querétaro, Querétaro, Qro. México* 

#### **1. Introduction**

200 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

Fry, R.C., and Denton, M.B.; Anal. Chem., 49, No.9, 1413-1417, (1977). "High Solids Sample Introduction for Flame Atomic Absorption Analysis." , ISSN 0003-2700. Hashmi D. R., Ismail S. and Shaikh G.H.. Assessment of the level of trace metals in

Horning M. S., Blakemore L. and Trombley, P.. Endogenous mechanisms of

Januzzi, G., Krug, F.,J., and Arruda, M.;. Application of the slurry technique to the

Spectrometry. *J. Anal. At. Spectrom.*, 12., 1997, pp375-378, ISSN: 0267-9477. Koleva B. D. and Ivanova, E. H. Flow Injection Analysis with Atomic Spectrometric Detection. *Eurasian Journal of Analytical Chemistry*, 3(2), 2008,pp 183-211. ISSN: 1306-3057 Lech T., Lachowicz T. Application of ICP-OES to multielement analysis of biological

Manutsewee Niwat, Aeungmaitrepirom, W., Varanusupakul, P., Imyim, A. Determination

Marco, L. M., Hernández-Caraballo, E.A.. Direct analysis of biological samples by total

Mohamed, N., and Fry, R., Slurry Atomization Direct Spectrochemical Analysis of Animal

Mokgalaka N. S., Wondimu T. and McCrindle, R.. Slurry nebulization icp-oes for the

Religa D.; Strozyk, D.; Cherny R.A., ; Volitakis I., Haroutunian V., ; Winblad, B., Naslund, J. ;

Skip Kingston H.M.. Standardization of Sample Preparation for Trace Element

Taylor A., Branch, S., Halls, D., Patriarca, M. and White, M.. Atomic spectrometry update.

Taylor A., Branch, S., Day, M.P., Patriarca, M., and White, M., Atomic spectrometry update.

Trojanowics Marek. Flow Injection Analysis. Instrumentation and Applications. Word

Scientific Publishing. 2000. 481 pp ISBN 981-02-2710-8.

spectrometry. *Talanta*, 59( 5), 2003, 897-904. ISSN: 0039-9140.

Tissue. *Anal. Chem.*, 53, 1981, pp 450-455. ISSN 0003-2700.

22(3), 2008, 313-321. ISSN 1011-3924.

(2), 1998, pp 27-30.ISSN 0195-5373.

2002, pp 414–455. ISSN 0267-9477.

2006, pp 439-491. ISSN 0267-9477.

pp69–75. ISSN: 1526-632X.

*Bot.*, 39(3), 2007, pp 747-751. ISSN (printed): 0556-3321.

Pages 56-61 ISSN:0006-8993.

64–78. ISSN 1230-7483.

ISSN: 0584-8547.

commonly edible vegetables locally available in the markets of Karachi city. *Pak. J.* 

neuroprotection: role of zinc, copper, and carnosine. *Brain Research*, 852( 1, 3), 2000,

determination of selenium in fish samples by Electrothermal Atomic Absorption

material in forensic inorganic toxicology. *Problems of Forensic. Sciences*, 77, 2009, pp

of Cd, Cu, and Zn in fish and mussel by AAS after ultrasound-assisted acid leaching extraction. *Food Chemistry*, 101( 2), 2007, pp 817-824. ISSN 0308-8146. Marcó, L., Graves, E., Alvarado, J., Analysis of human blood serum and human brain samples

by total reflection X-ray fluorescence spectrometry applying Compton peak standardization. *Spectrochimica Acta B*, 54, 1999, pp 1469-1480. ISSN: 0584-8547. Marcó P. Lué Merú, Hernández, E.A.., Pascusso, C and Alvarado, J.. Determination of

manganese in brain samples by slurry sampling graphite furnace atomic absorption

reflection X-ray fluorescence, *Spectrochimica Acta Part B*, 59, 2004, pp 1077– 1090.

determination of Cu, Fe, Mg, Mn and Zn in bovine liver. *Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop*.,

and Bush A.I., Elevated cortical zinc in Alzheimer disease. *Neurology,* 67, 2006,

Determination Through Microwave-Enhanced Chemistry. *Atomic Spectroscopy*, 19

Clinical and biological materials, foods and beverages. *J. Anal. At. Spectrom.*, 17,

Clinical and biological materials, foods and beverages. *J. Anal. At. Spectrom.*, 21,

The atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS) is a technique extensively used for trace and ultra trace analysis of organic and inorganic materials. AAS is a novel method that determines in liquid samples the presence of metals such as: Ca, Fe, Cu, Al, Pb, Zn, and Cd from different sources. The determination of minerals is important in environmental and biological studies as well as in the clinical practice. The determination of mineral content is a key to understand changes in some metabolism that conduct to diseases as result of the increase or decrease of mineral components in diet and consequently, to develop new models in the field of animal and human nutrition.

In the case of biological samples including plant leaves, fruits, vegetables, organic vegetables i.e. nopal (*Opuntia ficus indica*), Rodriguez-Garcia et al., (2007) reported that the major mineral components in this cactus was as follows: Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Manganese, Iron, Zinc, Potassium, and minor mineral components were: Lithium, Vanadium, Cobalt, Arsenic, Selenium, Cadmium, Thallium (Hernández-Urbiola et al., 2010, 2011). AAS has been used also to analyze muscle tissue, blood, urine, hair, bones, among others (Martinez-Flores et al., 2002; Christian, 1972). In most cases complex nature of biological materials requires dry ashing followed by wet digestion with oxidizing acids, i.e. HNO3 and HCl4.

<sup>\*</sup> Astrid L. Giraldo-Betancur3, Daniel Jimenez-Mendoza4, Esther Pérez-Torrero2,4, Isela Rojas–Molina5, María de los Angeles Aguilera-Barreiro5, Carolina Muñoz-Torres6 and Mario E. Rodríguez-García7,\*

*<sup>3</sup>Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del IPN, Sede Querétaro, Querétaro, Qro, México 4Division de Estudios de Posgrado, Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Querétaro,* 

*Qro, México* 

*<sup>5</sup>Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Licenciatura en Nutrición, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Avenida de las Ciencias, s/n, Juriquilla, Querétaro, México* 

*<sup>6</sup>Centro de Geociencias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Campus Juriquilla, Querétaro, Qro, México 7Departamento de Nanotecnología, Centro de Física Aplicada y Tecnología Avanzada, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Campus Juriquilla, Querétaro, Qro., México* 

Mineral Content and Physicochemical Properties in Female Rats Bone During Growing Stage 203

human bone from the iliac crest, using AAS. The concentration of Al, Cu, Fe, and Ca was reported for normal individuals. They found that microwave method for digestion procedure was appropriate technique for dissolution of bone biopsy samples and will be an excellent method for evaluated trace elements in bone samples from dialysis patients. Martinez–Flores et al., (2002) found that the femurs of rats fed with diets based on corn (tortilla), and with a Ca/P ratio at 1.1, were higher in length, and they were heavier, thicker that bones of rats fed with a Ca/P less than 1. Mexican diets are high in P with Ca/P ratio higher than recommend for an optimal bone development. Bean and tortillas are the primary source of energy and minerals in the typical Mexican diet. Wyatt et al., (2000), studied the effect of different Ca/P ratios in Mexican diets on the growth and composition of rat femurs; they found that levels of dietary Ca affect bone mass and Ca bone deposition

Environmental applications of AAS are also important because these are close related to the health in individual and community. The determination of contaminants in water, air, and soil are fundamental in order to improve treatments or to resolve problems that affect the human and animal health. On the other hand, in the case of cultivars the soil mineral content is the most important condition to ensure a well grown and development of plants.

The amount of minerals in a human bone is an important parameter which is of interest for many reasons. The measurement of this parameter could be used, for example, to diagnose and follow the treatment of various demineralizing diseases, such as osteoporosis and osteomalacia. The skeleton of the human body is a complex matrix that suffers changes along life; these changes are related to the incorporation of several minerals into the matrix and this is a kinetic process that is affected by factors such as hormones, lifestyle, nutrition amount others. Peak bone mass in humans is achieved after sexual maturity and is then maintained for two decades. Thereafter, the mass of virtually all bones declines until death. Thus, it has been established that Ca deposition in bone in the growing stage contributes to the prevention of generated bone diseases (Takahara et al., 2000). The bone mineral composition consists of Ca and P in amorphous and crystalline fractions as a major components, as well as Ma, Na, Zn, K, as minor elements. According to Blokhuis et al., (2000), mineral components are composed of approximately 30% amorphous calcium

The bone is a matrix constituted by minerals immerse in a collagen matrix, both determine its physical and functional properties. There are several methods to evaluate the mineral content in a bone sample. Direct evaluation through AAS and inductively couple plasma (ICP), and an indirect manner by using single or dual X-ray diffraction and computer tomography, to obtain the bone mineral density and the bone mineral content that involves in both cases the use a calibration sample or a matrix. In the second case, it is possible to obtain an average information about the density and mineral content by in a semi quantitatively manner (Bonnick, 2010). By using direct methods, it is possible to obtain quantitative information regarding to each one of the bone minerals components, while using indirect methods the information is close related the optical absorption of the bone tissues. The measurement of BMD has been performed during the last decade, and different technologies have been used for this purpose. These technologies include: computer

phosphates and around 70% fine crystalline HAp [Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2].

to a much greater extent than dietary P levels.

**2. Bone mineral content** 

The use of AAS spectroscopy to the study of nutrimental components in food specially Ca has been reported by Rojas-Molina et al., (2009), Palacios-Fonseca et al., (2009). Cornejo-Villegas et al., (2010), analyzed calcium content in instant corn flours obtained during traditional thermo-alkaline-treatment of corn kernels (nixtamalization), as well as, commercial corn flours and corn flours supplemented with a vegetable i.e. Nopal. AAS technique is an excellent tool to determine anti-nutrimental compounds that compromise the bioavailability of some important minerals such Ca in diet. Contreras-Padilla et al., (2011) use the AAS to study anti-nutrimental components in fresh nopal and nopal powders as a function of the maturity stage. They found that calcium oxalates decreases as the maturity stage increases, while the total Ca increases. This fact could be an indicative of a better bio-availability or bio-accessibility of Ca in diet. The determination of minerals as nutrimental factors in food have also been an important issue in the development of new products and to establish physicochemical criteria for food processing, i.e, Rojas-Molina et al., (2007) and Gutiérrez-Cortez et al., (2010) reported that Ca content in nixtamalized corn kernels is associated with gelatinization of the starch granules. Additionally, Galvan-Ruiz et al. (2007) used AAS to study the incorporation of Ca as a food additive in food.

In Biological studies AAS has been used to determine changes in minerals content, Brem et al., (2004) studied mineral changes in blood and ash bone, as well as the bone mineral density in three different regions of the body, and the minerals related to the osseous tissue activity. This study was carried out in order to evaluate the osteoporosis type I, that is associated with vertebral compression and hip fracture on ovaricectomized rats in contrast with normal rats. They analyzed different ways to ameliorate the health alterations. Findings showed that the bones of ovaricectomized rats had significant decreases in Ca, P, and Mn respect to the control group, but no differences were found in the case of Cu and Mg between these groups. They also reported significant differences in bone mineral density in ovariectomized rats compared to the control group, after 6 and 9 months of treatment.

On the other hand, for inorganic materials as is the case of bones; the AAS has been used to determine their mineral contents. This technique have been used in order to analyze the most important bone minerals as Ca, Mg and Zn in human studies, and Ca and Mg contents in animals (Ma et al., 2000). In the field of nutrition it is well known the importance of the Ca/P ratio for the bone formation. Ca is determined using AAS, where P has been determined colorimetrically (Nowicka et al., 2006). The human skeleton develops through infancy, childhood and adolescence and the peak bone mass is achieved during maturity. High bone mass density (BMD) at skeletal maturity is the best protection against age-related bone loss and fractures, the loss of BMD conduce to develop osteoporosis (Heaney, 1993). This degenerative disease is associated with a decrease of minerals in bone. Fractures occur when skeleton is exposed to minimal or moderate trauma (Matkovic, 1991).

Several researches have demonstrated that Ca and P play an important role in skeletal mineralization and also on peak bone mass (Masuyama et al., 2003; Matkovic & Ilich, 1993). Both minerals are present in hydroxyapatite (HAp), this component [Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2] constitutes seventy percent of bone. Collagen and the inorganic mineral HAp, combine, providing hardness and mechanical strength to the bone (Smith et al., 1983). From a nutrimental point of view, an adequate intake of Ca in the human diet during growth is a critical factor for acquiring and maintaining an adequate bone mass, the regulation of body weight; protect organism against high blood pressure and certain types of cancer (Rodríguez-Rodríguez et al., 2010). Ščančar et al., (2000), studied the mineral content in

human bone from the iliac crest, using AAS. The concentration of Al, Cu, Fe, and Ca was reported for normal individuals. They found that microwave method for digestion procedure was appropriate technique for dissolution of bone biopsy samples and will be an excellent method for evaluated trace elements in bone samples from dialysis patients.

Martinez–Flores et al., (2002) found that the femurs of rats fed with diets based on corn (tortilla), and with a Ca/P ratio at 1.1, were higher in length, and they were heavier, thicker that bones of rats fed with a Ca/P less than 1. Mexican diets are high in P with Ca/P ratio higher than recommend for an optimal bone development. Bean and tortillas are the primary source of energy and minerals in the typical Mexican diet. Wyatt et al., (2000), studied the effect of different Ca/P ratios in Mexican diets on the growth and composition of rat femurs; they found that levels of dietary Ca affect bone mass and Ca bone deposition to a much greater extent than dietary P levels.

Environmental applications of AAS are also important because these are close related to the health in individual and community. The determination of contaminants in water, air, and soil are fundamental in order to improve treatments or to resolve problems that affect the human and animal health. On the other hand, in the case of cultivars the soil mineral content is the most important condition to ensure a well grown and development of plants.

#### **2. Bone mineral content**

202 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

The use of AAS spectroscopy to the study of nutrimental components in food specially Ca has been reported by Rojas-Molina et al., (2009), Palacios-Fonseca et al., (2009). Cornejo-Villegas et al., (2010), analyzed calcium content in instant corn flours obtained during traditional thermo-alkaline-treatment of corn kernels (nixtamalization), as well as, commercial corn flours and corn flours supplemented with a vegetable i.e. Nopal. AAS technique is an excellent tool to determine anti-nutrimental compounds that compromise the bioavailability of some important minerals such Ca in diet. Contreras-Padilla et al., (2011) use the AAS to study anti-nutrimental components in fresh nopal and nopal powders as a function of the maturity stage. They found that calcium oxalates decreases as the maturity stage increases, while the total Ca increases. This fact could be an indicative of a better bio-availability or bio-accessibility of Ca in diet. The determination of minerals as nutrimental factors in food have also been an important issue in the development of new products and to establish physicochemical criteria for food processing, i.e, Rojas-Molina et al., (2007) and Gutiérrez-Cortez et al., (2010) reported that Ca content in nixtamalized corn kernels is associated with gelatinization of the starch granules. Additionally, Galvan-Ruiz et

al. (2007) used AAS to study the incorporation of Ca as a food additive in food.

when skeleton is exposed to minimal or moderate trauma (Matkovic, 1991).

Several researches have demonstrated that Ca and P play an important role in skeletal mineralization and also on peak bone mass (Masuyama et al., 2003; Matkovic & Ilich, 1993). Both minerals are present in hydroxyapatite (HAp), this component [Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2] constitutes seventy percent of bone. Collagen and the inorganic mineral HAp, combine, providing hardness and mechanical strength to the bone (Smith et al., 1983). From a nutrimental point of view, an adequate intake of Ca in the human diet during growth is a critical factor for acquiring and maintaining an adequate bone mass, the regulation of body weight; protect organism against high blood pressure and certain types of cancer (Rodríguez-Rodríguez et al., 2010). Ščančar et al., (2000), studied the mineral content in

In Biological studies AAS has been used to determine changes in minerals content, Brem et al., (2004) studied mineral changes in blood and ash bone, as well as the bone mineral density in three different regions of the body, and the minerals related to the osseous tissue activity. This study was carried out in order to evaluate the osteoporosis type I, that is associated with vertebral compression and hip fracture on ovaricectomized rats in contrast with normal rats. They analyzed different ways to ameliorate the health alterations. Findings showed that the bones of ovaricectomized rats had significant decreases in Ca, P, and Mn respect to the control group, but no differences were found in the case of Cu and Mg between these groups. They also reported significant differences in bone mineral density in ovariectomized rats compared to the control group, after 6 and 9 months of treatment. On the other hand, for inorganic materials as is the case of bones; the AAS has been used to determine their mineral contents. This technique have been used in order to analyze the most important bone minerals as Ca, Mg and Zn in human studies, and Ca and Mg contents in animals (Ma et al., 2000). In the field of nutrition it is well known the importance of the Ca/P ratio for the bone formation. Ca is determined using AAS, where P has been determined colorimetrically (Nowicka et al., 2006). The human skeleton develops through infancy, childhood and adolescence and the peak bone mass is achieved during maturity. High bone mass density (BMD) at skeletal maturity is the best protection against age-related bone loss and fractures, the loss of BMD conduce to develop osteoporosis (Heaney, 1993). This degenerative disease is associated with a decrease of minerals in bone. Fractures occur

The amount of minerals in a human bone is an important parameter which is of interest for many reasons. The measurement of this parameter could be used, for example, to diagnose and follow the treatment of various demineralizing diseases, such as osteoporosis and osteomalacia. The skeleton of the human body is a complex matrix that suffers changes along life; these changes are related to the incorporation of several minerals into the matrix and this is a kinetic process that is affected by factors such as hormones, lifestyle, nutrition amount others. Peak bone mass in humans is achieved after sexual maturity and is then maintained for two decades. Thereafter, the mass of virtually all bones declines until death. Thus, it has been established that Ca deposition in bone in the growing stage contributes to the prevention of generated bone diseases (Takahara et al., 2000). The bone mineral composition consists of Ca and P in amorphous and crystalline fractions as a major components, as well as Ma, Na, Zn, K, as minor elements. According to Blokhuis et al., (2000), mineral components are composed of approximately 30% amorphous calcium phosphates and around 70% fine crystalline HAp [Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2].

The bone is a matrix constituted by minerals immerse in a collagen matrix, both determine its physical and functional properties. There are several methods to evaluate the mineral content in a bone sample. Direct evaluation through AAS and inductively couple plasma (ICP), and an indirect manner by using single or dual X-ray diffraction and computer tomography, to obtain the bone mineral density and the bone mineral content that involves in both cases the use a calibration sample or a matrix. In the second case, it is possible to obtain an average information about the density and mineral content by in a semi quantitatively manner (Bonnick, 2010). By using direct methods, it is possible to obtain quantitative information regarding to each one of the bone minerals components, while using indirect methods the information is close related the optical absorption of the bone tissues. The measurement of BMD has been performed during the last decade, and different technologies have been used for this purpose. These technologies include: computer

Mineral Content and Physicochemical Properties in Female Rats Bone During Growing Stage 205

technique combined with other techniques such as ICP and UV-VIS are adequate methods to determine mineral contents in bones. Ca is the most important mineral in HAp because > 90% of the this element in the human body is deposited as calcium-phosphate within the skeleton and teeth; the apatite crystals are one of the major constituents in bone and other mineralized vertebrate tissues; their presence, which accounts for about 65 % of weight bone, provides most of the stiffness and strength of bone. With the normal increase of apatite deposition during tissue aging and maturation, bone mechanical properties increase greatly. The physical character of bone, including the morphology, dimensions, and distribution of its composite apatite crystals, affect its mechanical properties (Su et al., 2003).

The rat constitutes a well established model for study the bone health research and the preclinical evaluation of agents used in the prevention or treatment of osteoporosis (Frost & Jee, 1992; Ke et al., 2001). Consequently, Ca and P content as majority minerals in rat bones constitutes and adequate tool to evaluate bone formation and development during growing

Fifty four female Wistar rats, 21 days old, and 50 4.3 g of weight, from the bioterium of the Neurobiology Institute, UNAM, Queretaro, Qro., Mexico were fed with a control diet (AIN 93G, Reeves et al., 1993 ) and water, and fed *ad libitum* during 8 weeks. The rats were individually placed in stainless steel cages under controlled temperature (25°C 1) and light conditions (12:12 h light-dark cycle), and the body weigh was weekly verified. The rats were cared for in compliance with the "principles of Laboratory Animal Care"formulated by the National Institutes of Health (National Institutes of Health publication no. 96-23, revised 2003) and the protocol was approved by the Ethics committee of the Universidad Nacional

Six female rats were sacrificed each week by carbon dioxide aspiration. The left and right femoral bones were dissected and introducing in paraformaldehyde solution (4%) in order to eliminate the adhering bone tissue; after that, they were introducing in a buffer solution to eliminate paraformaldehyde excess and finally in distilled water in order to eliminate the residual buffer and soft tissues were removed. Following, bones were dried at 90ºC for 12 hours (Farris & Griffith, 1949). The length and weight of the dry femurs were measured according to Gómez-Aldapa et al., (1999) methodology. Subsequent bones were charred in order to obtain a sample without organic component eliminated at 550ºC for 4 h, immediately powders were passed for a sieve US 60 (250 µm) to carry out ray diffraction

The rats in this study were maintained under controlled environmental conditions: temperature, light cycles, water consumption. The physical development of rats is related to the changes in the skeletal and muscle, which depends drastically on four factors: genetic, feeding conditions, mechanical (living conditions as physical activity), and hormonal.

stage and to correlate mineral content with peak bone mass.

**3. Biological studies** 

**3.1 Animal model** 

Autónoma of México.

**3.2 Experimental protocol** 

experiments and also to AAS measure.

**3.3 Physical development of rats** 

tomography (CT) scans (Langton et al., (2009), ultrasound (Higuti & Adamowski (2002), and dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (Norcross & Van Loan, 2004).

Bone loss could induce osteopenia or osteoporosis; this loss may be due to increased bone resorption and decreased bone formation. Osteoporosis with a decrease in bone mass is widely recognized as a major public health problem. Pharmacological and nutritional factors may have the potential to prevent bone loss with increasing age. Nutritional factors may be especially important in the prevention of osteoporosis, although this is poorly understood (Ma et al., 2000). Several studies have been done to establish the role of minerals in bone. Bone stores 99% of the body's Ca, and calcium salts are responsible for the hardness of bones. Mg is not only a critical ion in mammals as a cofactor for many enzymes of the energy extraction system and protein synthesis pathways, but it is also necessary for bone formation. Thus, Mg might also play an important role in bone structure or the hardness of bone (Takahara et al., 2000). Zn, an essential trace element, has been demonstrated to have a potent stimulatory effect on bone formation and an inhibitory effect on bone resorption. Zn can stimulate protein synthesis in osteoblastic cells in vitro by activating aminoacylt RNA synthetase. The oral administration of a Zn compound can prevent bone loss in ovariectomized rats, an animal model of osteoporosis. (Ma et al., 2000).

HAp is a crystalline compound constituted of three molecules of calcium phosphate and one molecule of calcium hydroxide. HAp concentrate is the matrix of Ca from bone protein found in the unprocessed bone. This natural substance contains about 14% collagen protein and 4% other proteins and small amino acids (especially hydroxyproline, glycine and glutamic acid). Ca comprises between 24-30% of the hydroxyapatite matrix and together with several minerals (Zn, K, silicon manganese, and Fe) is a group active bio-available Ca (Gómez et al., 2004). The HAp and dibasic calcium phosphate are the only calcium phosphate phases that are chemically stable to temperature and pH of the human body (37 °C and about 7, respectively), The mineral part of bone that support nearly all the organic and the mechanical load (collagen) acts as a bonding material, which also absorbs shock, providing flexibility to the bones; Additionally to mechanical functions, bones have an essential role in metabolic activity as mineral reservoirs that is able to absorb and release ions.

Skeletal allow mobility of the body and protect internal organs. While the properties of bone tissue and the proportions of the constituent minerals vary with the different parts of the skeleton. Bone is specialized tissue that changes along the life. The bones, teeth, cells, fat, and natural polymers such as: polysaccharides, collagen, and polyphosphates are composed by minerals. It can be considered that bones contain about two thirds of inorganic material and a third of portion of organic matter. Bone tissue is composed of a mineral phase of 69% of its total weight, 9% water and 22% of an organic matrix, which in turn is composed mainly of collagen (90-96%). In terms of structure, bones can be considered as a dispersion of mineral particles (bio-minerals) embedded in an organic matrix, which forms the contiguous phase. Bioapatite [Ca10(PO4)6(OH)] is considered the major component in the mineralized part of mammalian bone, is a calcium-phosphate biomineral with a structure that closely resembles HAp (Meneghini, 2003).

Bone mineral composition depends of several factors such as: age, nutritional condition, diseases and habits. These factors make difficult to establish the composition and structure of HAp (Meneghini, 2003). HAp is able to store and release minerals as calcium, phosphorous and several other ions such Na. K, Mg, F, CO3 and OH. For this reason HAp is an important mineral reservoir for the metabolic activity of the organism. Atomic absorption technique combined with other techniques such as ICP and UV-VIS are adequate methods to determine mineral contents in bones. Ca is the most important mineral in HAp because > 90% of the this element in the human body is deposited as calcium-phosphate within the skeleton and teeth; the apatite crystals are one of the major constituents in bone and other mineralized vertebrate tissues; their presence, which accounts for about 65 % of weight bone, provides most of the stiffness and strength of bone. With the normal increase of apatite deposition during tissue aging and maturation, bone mechanical properties increase greatly. The physical character of bone, including the morphology, dimensions, and distribution of its composite apatite crystals, affect its mechanical properties (Su et al., 2003).

#### **3. Biological studies**

204 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

tomography (CT) scans (Langton et al., (2009), ultrasound (Higuti & Adamowski (2002), and

Bone loss could induce osteopenia or osteoporosis; this loss may be due to increased bone resorption and decreased bone formation. Osteoporosis with a decrease in bone mass is widely recognized as a major public health problem. Pharmacological and nutritional factors may have the potential to prevent bone loss with increasing age. Nutritional factors may be especially important in the prevention of osteoporosis, although this is poorly understood (Ma et al., 2000). Several studies have been done to establish the role of minerals in bone. Bone stores 99% of the body's Ca, and calcium salts are responsible for the hardness of bones. Mg is not only a critical ion in mammals as a cofactor for many enzymes of the energy extraction system and protein synthesis pathways, but it is also necessary for bone formation. Thus, Mg might also play an important role in bone structure or the hardness of bone (Takahara et al., 2000). Zn, an essential trace element, has been demonstrated to have a potent stimulatory effect on bone formation and an inhibitory effect on bone resorption. Zn can stimulate protein synthesis in osteoblastic cells in vitro by activating aminoacylt RNA synthetase. The oral administration of a Zn compound can prevent bone loss in

HAp is a crystalline compound constituted of three molecules of calcium phosphate and one molecule of calcium hydroxide. HAp concentrate is the matrix of Ca from bone protein found in the unprocessed bone. This natural substance contains about 14% collagen protein and 4% other proteins and small amino acids (especially hydroxyproline, glycine and glutamic acid). Ca comprises between 24-30% of the hydroxyapatite matrix and together with several minerals (Zn, K, silicon manganese, and Fe) is a group active bio-available Ca (Gómez et al., 2004). The HAp and dibasic calcium phosphate are the only calcium phosphate phases that are chemically stable to temperature and pH of the human body (37 °C and about 7, respectively), The mineral part of bone that support nearly all the organic and the mechanical load (collagen) acts as a bonding material, which also absorbs shock, providing flexibility to the bones; Additionally to mechanical functions, bones have an essential role in metabolic activity as mineral reservoirs that is able to absorb and release

Skeletal allow mobility of the body and protect internal organs. While the properties of bone tissue and the proportions of the constituent minerals vary with the different parts of the skeleton. Bone is specialized tissue that changes along the life. The bones, teeth, cells, fat, and natural polymers such as: polysaccharides, collagen, and polyphosphates are composed by minerals. It can be considered that bones contain about two thirds of inorganic material and a third of portion of organic matter. Bone tissue is composed of a mineral phase of 69% of its total weight, 9% water and 22% of an organic matrix, which in turn is composed mainly of collagen (90-96%). In terms of structure, bones can be considered as a dispersion of mineral particles (bio-minerals) embedded in an organic matrix, which forms the contiguous phase. Bioapatite [Ca10(PO4)6(OH)] is considered the major component in the mineralized part of mammalian bone, is a calcium-phosphate biomineral with a structure

Bone mineral composition depends of several factors such as: age, nutritional condition, diseases and habits. These factors make difficult to establish the composition and structure of HAp (Meneghini, 2003). HAp is able to store and release minerals as calcium, phosphorous and several other ions such Na. K, Mg, F, CO3 and OH. For this reason HAp is an important mineral reservoir for the metabolic activity of the organism. Atomic absorption

dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (Norcross & Van Loan, 2004).

ovariectomized rats, an animal model of osteoporosis. (Ma et al., 2000).

that closely resembles HAp (Meneghini, 2003).

ions.

The rat constitutes a well established model for study the bone health research and the preclinical evaluation of agents used in the prevention or treatment of osteoporosis (Frost & Jee, 1992; Ke et al., 2001). Consequently, Ca and P content as majority minerals in rat bones constitutes and adequate tool to evaluate bone formation and development during growing stage and to correlate mineral content with peak bone mass.

#### **3.1 Animal model**

Fifty four female Wistar rats, 21 days old, and 50 4.3 g of weight, from the bioterium of the Neurobiology Institute, UNAM, Queretaro, Qro., Mexico were fed with a control diet (AIN 93G, Reeves et al., 1993 ) and water, and fed *ad libitum* during 8 weeks. The rats were individually placed in stainless steel cages under controlled temperature (25°C 1) and light conditions (12:12 h light-dark cycle), and the body weigh was weekly verified. The rats were cared for in compliance with the "principles of Laboratory Animal Care"formulated by the National Institutes of Health (National Institutes of Health publication no. 96-23, revised 2003) and the protocol was approved by the Ethics committee of the Universidad Nacional Autónoma of México.

#### **3.2 Experimental protocol**

Six female rats were sacrificed each week by carbon dioxide aspiration. The left and right femoral bones were dissected and introducing in paraformaldehyde solution (4%) in order to eliminate the adhering bone tissue; after that, they were introducing in a buffer solution to eliminate paraformaldehyde excess and finally in distilled water in order to eliminate the residual buffer and soft tissues were removed. Following, bones were dried at 90ºC for 12 hours (Farris & Griffith, 1949). The length and weight of the dry femurs were measured according to Gómez-Aldapa et al., (1999) methodology. Subsequent bones were charred in order to obtain a sample without organic component eliminated at 550ºC for 4 h, immediately powders were passed for a sieve US 60 (250 µm) to carry out ray diffraction experiments and also to AAS measure.

#### **3.3 Physical development of rats**

The rats in this study were maintained under controlled environmental conditions: temperature, light cycles, water consumption. The physical development of rats is related to the changes in the skeletal and muscle, which depends drastically on four factors: genetic, feeding conditions, mechanical (living conditions as physical activity), and hormonal.

Mineral Content and Physicochemical Properties in Female Rats Bone During Growing Stage 207

Figure 2.a and b shows the femur weight and length of female rats during the growth stage. As can be seen, these physical characteristics have the same trend found in the case of total weight. It is important to remark, that a change in the slope of this curve occurs between the 7th and 8th week. The environmental conditions, as well as feeding and exercise or physical activity, and hormonal changes are fundamental to explain this behavior. At the begging of the growing, the rats exhibit a mayor physical activity due to the dimension of the cage (Martin, 2000). On the other hand, the hormonal activity in the case of male and female rats plays an important role in their physicochemical development that includes muscle and bones. In female rats, estrogen is one of the major regulating factors responsible for bone formation and maintenance and the lost of this hormone after menopause often leads to

Ca, Na, K, and Mg content in the femurs rats were determined according to the dry-ashing procedure A.O.A.C. 968.08 (1998), using lanthanum chloride. The concentration was measured with a double beam atomic absorption spectrometer (Analyst 300 Perkin Elmer, USA) equipped with a deuterium lamp, background corrector and a hollow cathode lamp. The equipment was operated with 12 psi of dry air, 70 psi of acetylene, a 422.7 nm flame, a

In order to have a precise determination of minerals content in the rats bones as a function of the age, a certified minerals bone ash was used as calibration standard. The standard of bone ash used in this experiment was certified by the National Institute of Standards & Technology (NIST), with Standard reference Material 1400. This standard reference material (SRM) is intended for use in evaluating analytical methods for the determination of selected

The certified concentrations of the constituent elements are shown in table 1. These concentrations are based on the results of a definitive analytical method or the agreement of results by at least two dependent analytical methods. In this table, it was included the mineral content obtained for the same sample using AAS in our laboratory. Our results are

> **AAS CONCENTRATION (wt. Percent)**

**(wt. Percent)** 

Table 1. Certified concentrations of constituent elements for NIST bone ash sample, and experimental values obtained using AAS. \*Phosphorous value was obtained by UV-VIS. These concentrations are based on the results of a definitive analytical method or the

in femurs was determined according to the A.O.A.C official methods 985.35 (2000).

agreement of results by at least two dependent analytical methods. Additionally Phosphorous

Calcium 38.18 ± 0.13 37.70± 0.11 Phosphorous 17.91 ± 0.19 18.02 ± 1.29\* Magnesium 0.684 ± 0.013 0.638 ±0.021 Iron 0.066 ± 0.003 N/A

Potassium 0.0186 ± 0.001 0.0195 ±0.002

Strontium 0.0249 ± 0.001 N/A

major, minor, and trace elements in bone and in material of a similar matrix.

bone loss in the case of human (McMillan, 2007).

**3.4 Evaluation of mineral content in femurs** 

10 mA. lamp current, and a 0.7 nm slit width.

in good agreement with those reported by NIST.

**ELEMENT CONCENTRATION** 

(Fernández-Tresguerres et al., 2010). However, changes in one of these parameters have important effects in the development and maintenance of the bone.

Figure 1 shows the increases of the weight for female rats from 3 to 11 weeks that corresponds to the called self- accelerating phase. According to the data showed in this figure the changes in body weight of the rats in this period is around 600%. This curve exhibits two different behaviors: for the first 4 weeks, the growth rate is bigger than for the final 4 weeks. After the week 11 according to Tamaki et al., (1995) the rats are in the adult phase in which their organs and functions reach the state call adult phase. This curve represents only the self-accelerating phase and is important because this can be considered as a normal reference curve for future clinical or biological studies. This accelerating phase is the period where individuals are more sensitive to the adverse effects that influence their future development for long-time. Although, the individual survives, some physiological adaptations have to appear in the adult phase, and one of them could be directly related to the bone formation and mineralization.

Fig. 1. Body weight for female rats as a function of the age.

A very important aspect related to the rats development, are the hormonal changes where thyroid hormone and parathormone, calcitonin, growth hormone, estrogen, progesterone, and calcitriol are indispensable for the bone development and osseous remodeling (Bogden et al 2008). In order to study the changes in the inorganic-organic bone matrix, the weight and the length of the femur (right-left) were obtained. As was mentioned, bone is a matrix composed by fat, protein, and minerals. It means that changes in these constituents affect the final physicochemical composition of the bones.

Figure 2.a and b shows the femur weight and length of female rats during the growth stage. As can be seen, these physical characteristics have the same trend found in the case of total weight. It is important to remark, that a change in the slope of this curve occurs between the 7th and 8th week. The environmental conditions, as well as feeding and exercise or physical activity, and hormonal changes are fundamental to explain this behavior. At the begging of the growing, the rats exhibit a mayor physical activity due to the dimension of the cage (Martin, 2000). On the other hand, the hormonal activity in the case of male and female rats plays an important role in their physicochemical development that includes muscle and bones. In female rats, estrogen is one of the major regulating factors responsible for bone formation and maintenance and the lost of this hormone after menopause often leads to bone loss in the case of human (McMillan, 2007).

#### **3.4 Evaluation of mineral content in femurs**

206 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

(Fernández-Tresguerres et al., 2010). However, changes in one of these parameters have

Figure 1 shows the increases of the weight for female rats from 3 to 11 weeks that corresponds to the called self- accelerating phase. According to the data showed in this figure the changes in body weight of the rats in this period is around 600%. This curve exhibits two different behaviors: for the first 4 weeks, the growth rate is bigger than for the final 4 weeks. After the week 11 according to Tamaki et al., (1995) the rats are in the adult phase in which their organs and functions reach the state call adult phase. This curve represents only the self-accelerating phase and is important because this can be considered as a normal reference curve for future clinical or biological studies. This accelerating phase is the period where individuals are more sensitive to the adverse effects that influence their future development for long-time. Although, the individual survives, some physiological adaptations have to appear in the adult phase, and one of them could be directly related to

3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

Age (weeks)

A very important aspect related to the rats development, are the hormonal changes where thyroid hormone and parathormone, calcitonin, growth hormone, estrogen, progesterone, and calcitriol are indispensable for the bone development and osseous remodeling (Bogden et al 2008). In order to study the changes in the inorganic-organic bone matrix, the weight and the length of the femur (right-left) were obtained. As was mentioned, bone is a matrix composed by fat, protein, and minerals. It means that changes in these constituents affect

important effects in the development and maintenance of the bone.

the bone formation and mineralization.

50

Fig. 1. Body weight for female rats as a function of the age.

the final physicochemical composition of the bones.

100

150

200

Rats weight (g)

250

300

350

Ca, Na, K, and Mg content in the femurs rats were determined according to the dry-ashing procedure A.O.A.C. 968.08 (1998), using lanthanum chloride. The concentration was measured with a double beam atomic absorption spectrometer (Analyst 300 Perkin Elmer, USA) equipped with a deuterium lamp, background corrector and a hollow cathode lamp. The equipment was operated with 12 psi of dry air, 70 psi of acetylene, a 422.7 nm flame, a 10 mA. lamp current, and a 0.7 nm slit width.

In order to have a precise determination of minerals content in the rats bones as a function of the age, a certified minerals bone ash was used as calibration standard. The standard of bone ash used in this experiment was certified by the National Institute of Standards & Technology (NIST), with Standard reference Material 1400. This standard reference material (SRM) is intended for use in evaluating analytical methods for the determination of selected major, minor, and trace elements in bone and in material of a similar matrix.

The certified concentrations of the constituent elements are shown in table 1. These concentrations are based on the results of a definitive analytical method or the agreement of results by at least two dependent analytical methods. In this table, it was included the mineral content obtained for the same sample using AAS in our laboratory. Our results are in good agreement with those reported by NIST.


Table 1. Certified concentrations of constituent elements for NIST bone ash sample, and experimental values obtained using AAS. \*Phosphorous value was obtained by UV-VIS. These concentrations are based on the results of a definitive analytical method or the agreement of results by at least two dependent analytical methods. Additionally Phosphorous in femurs was determined according to the A.O.A.C official methods 985.35 (2000).

Mineral Content and Physicochemical Properties in Female Rats Bone During Growing Stage 209

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

Age (weeks)

The mineral content of femurs was obtained for rats between 3 and 11 weeks, but is important to know that the first data, for 3 weeks, corresponds to 21 day of life (red square in Figure 3) and at this time, rats were at weaning. Figure 4.a shows the Ca content in ash as a function of the age. During the period from 4th to 7th week, an increment in the Ca content

Figure 4.b shows the P content as a function of the age during the acceleration phase. After weaning a reduction of P is evident, due to changes in the diet, and increases during the 7th and 10th weeks is present. This result is related to the formation of amorphous and crystalline compound of the bone as will be explained in the X-ray section as well as hormonal fluctuations. The bone mineral phase is composed mainly of microscopic crystals of calcium phosphates, in which the HAp [Ca10 (PO4)6 (OH)2], is the main component. Other mineral phases that are present in bone are dicalcium phosphate (Ca2P2O7), dibasic calcium phosphate (CaHPO4), and some amorphous phases of calcium phosphate. There are also ions such as: citrate (C6H5O74-), carbonate (CO32-), fluoride (F-) and hydroxyl ions (OH-), which can lead to subtle differences in bone microstructure. There are also some impurities

Several researches employing biological models describe that, even if the corporal Ca concentration is adequate and the daily Ca intake covers recommendations, bones

Fig. 3. Ash content in femurs of female rats as a function of the age.

is evident, while for the 7th to 11th week it has small changes.

such as Mg and Na with Cl and Fe traces.

Ash content (%)

Fig. 2. a. Femur and b. Femur length for female rats as a function of the age.

Bone is a composite formed by inorganic and organic compounds. The organic material can be eliminated during the calcination process and the ash is composed only by minerals such as Ca, P, Mg, Na, P, among others. Figure 3 shows the ash content in the femurs as a function of the age. The increase in the ash content along the growth period is due to the decreases of the organic content (proteins) and the incorporation of new minerals into the bone matrix. Tamaki & Uchiyama (1995) found that the total weight of the rats has an abrupt increase until the 10th week of age. It is important to mention, that the growth of the living body depends on the development of the skeletal system, tissues, and organs.

2 4 6 8 10 12

2 4 6 8 10 12

Age (weeks)

Bone is a composite formed by inorganic and organic compounds. The organic material can be eliminated during the calcination process and the ash is composed only by minerals such as Ca, P, Mg, Na, P, among others. Figure 3 shows the ash content in the femurs as a function of the age. The increase in the ash content along the growth period is due to the decreases of the organic content (proteins) and the incorporation of new minerals into the bone matrix. Tamaki & Uchiyama (1995) found that the total weight of the rats has an abrupt increase until the 10th week of age. It is important to mention, that the growth of the

living body depends on the development of the skeletal system, tissues, and organs.

Fig. 2. a. Femur and b. Femur length for female rats as a function of the age.

0,0

1,5

2,0

Femur Lenght (cm)

2,5

3,0

3,5

0,1

0,2

Femur Weight (g)

0,3

a)

b)

0,4

0,5

Fig. 3. Ash content in femurs of female rats as a function of the age.

The mineral content of femurs was obtained for rats between 3 and 11 weeks, but is important to know that the first data, for 3 weeks, corresponds to 21 day of life (red square in Figure 3) and at this time, rats were at weaning. Figure 4.a shows the Ca content in ash as a function of the age. During the period from 4th to 7th week, an increment in the Ca content is evident, while for the 7th to 11th week it has small changes.

Figure 4.b shows the P content as a function of the age during the acceleration phase. After weaning a reduction of P is evident, due to changes in the diet, and increases during the 7th and 10th weeks is present. This result is related to the formation of amorphous and crystalline compound of the bone as will be explained in the X-ray section as well as hormonal fluctuations. The bone mineral phase is composed mainly of microscopic crystals of calcium phosphates, in which the HAp [Ca10 (PO4)6 (OH)2], is the main component. Other mineral phases that are present in bone are dicalcium phosphate (Ca2P2O7), dibasic calcium phosphate (CaHPO4), and some amorphous phases of calcium phosphate. There are also ions such as: citrate (C6H5O74-), carbonate (CO3 2-), fluoride (F-) and hydroxyl ions (OH-), which can lead to subtle differences in bone microstructure. There are also some impurities such as Mg and Na with Cl and Fe traces.

Several researches employing biological models describe that, even if the corporal Ca concentration is adequate and the daily Ca intake covers recommendations, bones

Mineral Content and Physicochemical Properties in Female Rats Bone During Growing Stage 211

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

Age (weeks)

Figure 6 shows the changes in the ash mineral content as a function of the age decreases in the mineral content from the 3 to 4 weeks corresponds to the change in the diet. It is important to remark that the 10th week shows strong changes in K, Na and Mg. This increase is close related to those observed in the ash content, but as can be seen, when these minerals increase, a reduction in Ca and P is observed. At this point Boskey (2005) reported that there

1,7

are minerals substitutions in HAp structure.

Fig. 5. Ca/P ratio for femur ash of female rats as a function of the age.

1,8

1,9

2,0

Ca/P (%)

2,1

2,2

2,3

demineralization takes place if the Ca2+/P ratio in diet is not adequate (Anderson & Draper, 1972). Nnakwe & Kies (1985) reported that rats fed with rich P diets showed high risk of bone fracture. Similarly, Spencer et al., (1988) showed that high P content in diet has a negative effect in Ca deposition in bones. Calvo & Park (1996) observed that P modifies significantly the Ca metabolism. These authors detected that the Ca2+/P ratio has a greater effect on bone mass formation and Ca deposition than the Ca content itself. According to Figure 5, the Ca/P ratio increases from 1.75 to 2.2; it is important to remember that there are amorphous compounds and ectopic Ca in the bone. The optimal Ca/P ratio for HAp formation, about 1.664, was reported by Benhayoune et al., (2001).

Fig. 4.a. Calcium and b. Phosphorous content in ash as a function of the age.

demineralization takes place if the Ca2+/P ratio in diet is not adequate (Anderson & Draper, 1972). Nnakwe & Kies (1985) reported that rats fed with rich P diets showed high risk of bone fracture. Similarly, Spencer et al., (1988) showed that high P content in diet has a negative effect in Ca deposition in bones. Calvo & Park (1996) observed that P modifies significantly the Ca metabolism. These authors detected that the Ca2+/P ratio has a greater effect on bone mass formation and Ca deposition than the Ca content itself. According to Figure 5, the Ca/P ratio increases from 1.75 to 2.2; it is important to remember that there are amorphous compounds and ectopic Ca in the bone. The optimal Ca/P ratio for HAp

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

Age (weeks)

Fig. 4.a. Calcium and b. Phosphorous content in ash as a function of the age.

formation, about 1.664, was reported by Benhayoune et al., (2001).

30

20

b)

16

18

P ash content (%)

32

34

Ca ash content (%)

36

38

a)

weaning

Fig. 5. Ca/P ratio for femur ash of female rats as a function of the age.

Figure 6 shows the changes in the ash mineral content as a function of the age decreases in the mineral content from the 3 to 4 weeks corresponds to the change in the diet. It is important to remark that the 10th week shows strong changes in K, Na and Mg. This increase is close related to those observed in the ash content, but as can be seen, when these minerals increase, a reduction in Ca and P is observed. At this point Boskey (2005) reported that there are minerals substitutions in HAp structure.

Mineral Content and Physicochemical Properties in Female Rats Bone During Growing Stage 213

rats are deficient in Ca, while in the case of P no significant changes were found. This means that for the structural formation of crystalline phase the amount of minerals available plays

Figure 7 shows the X-ray diffraction patterns of the bone at the beginning and at the end of the growing stage, in this figure it was included bone ash that was used in this experiments as reference values for minerals, According to Figure 7, there are structural and compositional changes in the inorganic matrix as a function of the age, that are evident in bone ash from rats to 3th and 11th weeks. The bone ash used as standard reveals the existence of one phase identified as Hydroxyapatite. On the other hand, the X-ray diffraction patterns obtained from femurs at several ages, exhibit two different crystalline structures: Calcium phosphate hydrated at the earlier growing stage and Hydroxyapatite at the end of the growth stage. These crystalline phases were identified using Powder Diffraction Files PDF# 09-0432 and PDF# 41-0483. It means that the formation of bio-hydroxyapatite as the main

10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80

Bone Ash NIST

Week 3

Week 11

2 (degree)

Fig. 7. X-ray diffraction patterns of bone ash for 3 and 11 weeks for female rats, as well as the

inorganic component of bone in rats is formed after the 7th week.

0

0

bone ash used as standard (NIST).

2000

2000

4000

4000

Intensity (arb.un)

Intensity (arb.un)

6000

6000

the most important role.

Fig. 6. Mineral content in femur of female rats as a function of the age.

#### **3.5 Evaluation of the structural composition in bones**

The study of the crystalline structures present in ash bones was obtained using the method described by Rodríguez et al., (1995), using X-ray diffraction. The ash bone was ground to a fine powder passing through a 150-μm mesh screen. The powder samples were densely packed into an aluminum frame. X-ray diffraction patters of the samples were carried out by using a diffractometer (Siemens D5000) operating at 35 Kv, and 15 mA, Cu Kα radiation. Data was collected from 4 to 30º on 2Θ scale with a step size of 0.05º.

Changes in the amorphous and crystalline structures of the bone tissues are attributed to the bone forming process and mineral changes during the growth stage. At this point Bandyopadhyay-Ghosh (2008) reported that the osteoblast release Ca, Mg and Phosphate ions, which chemical combine and harden within the matrix (collagen) into several compounds mainly HAp and phosphates.

The configurational crystalline order, gives important information regarding the synthesis of bone formation which is closely related to the diet and especially to the Ca/P ratio. Many of the biological and mechanical functions of the bone are determined by the composition and crystal structure of the bone. It is widely known that the bone mineral crystals (compositionally and structurally similar to the synthetic mineral calcium hydroxyapatite) are nano-crystalline, highly disordered, compositionally non stoichiometry and labile, and exists as a composite mineral embedded in the collagen organic matrix. Using the data obtained in Figures 4 and 5, it is clear that at the beginning of the development the femur

 Mg Na Zn

1,3 K

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

Age (weeks)

The study of the crystalline structures present in ash bones was obtained using the method described by Rodríguez et al., (1995), using X-ray diffraction. The ash bone was ground to a fine powder passing through a 150-μm mesh screen. The powder samples were densely packed into an aluminum frame. X-ray diffraction patters of the samples were carried out by using a diffractometer (Siemens D5000) operating at 35 Kv, and 15 mA, Cu Kα radiation.

Changes in the amorphous and crystalline structures of the bone tissues are attributed to the bone forming process and mineral changes during the growth stage. At this point Bandyopadhyay-Ghosh (2008) reported that the osteoblast release Ca, Mg and Phosphate ions, which chemical combine and harden within the matrix (collagen) into several

The configurational crystalline order, gives important information regarding the synthesis of bone formation which is closely related to the diet and especially to the Ca/P ratio. Many of the biological and mechanical functions of the bone are determined by the composition and crystal structure of the bone. It is widely known that the bone mineral crystals (compositionally and structurally similar to the synthetic mineral calcium hydroxyapatite) are nano-crystalline, highly disordered, compositionally non stoichiometry and labile, and exists as a composite mineral embedded in the collagen organic matrix. Using the data obtained in Figures 4 and 5, it is clear that at the beginning of the development the femur

0,0 0,1 0,2 0,3 0,4 0,5 0,6 0,7 0,8 0,9 1,0 1,1 1,2

compounds mainly HAp and phosphates.

**3.5 Evaluation of the structural composition in bones** 

Fig. 6. Mineral content in femur of female rats as a function of the age.

Data was collected from 4 to 30º on 2Θ scale with a step size of 0.05º.

Ash mineral content (%)

rats are deficient in Ca, while in the case of P no significant changes were found. This means that for the structural formation of crystalline phase the amount of minerals available plays the most important role.

Figure 7 shows the X-ray diffraction patterns of the bone at the beginning and at the end of the growing stage, in this figure it was included bone ash that was used in this experiments as reference values for minerals, According to Figure 7, there are structural and compositional changes in the inorganic matrix as a function of the age, that are evident in bone ash from rats to 3th and 11th weeks. The bone ash used as standard reveals the existence of one phase identified as Hydroxyapatite. On the other hand, the X-ray diffraction patterns obtained from femurs at several ages, exhibit two different crystalline structures: Calcium phosphate hydrated at the earlier growing stage and Hydroxyapatite at the end of the growth stage. These crystalline phases were identified using Powder Diffraction Files PDF# 09-0432 and PDF# 41-0483. It means that the formation of bio-hydroxyapatite as the main inorganic component of bone in rats is formed after the 7th week.

Fig. 7. X-ray diffraction patterns of bone ash for 3 and 11 weeks for female rats, as well as the bone ash used as standard (NIST).

Mineral Content and Physicochemical Properties in Female Rats Bone During Growing Stage 215

incorporated into the HAp structure and also into de amorphous materials. Additionally, by inspection of the figure 7, the quality of the bio-hydroxyapatite from rats ash bones is smaller than bone ash from NIST, likely due to the minerals present in the organic part that were not eliminated in the calcined process. Possible, the NIST sample is calcinated after removing the fat and protein matrix that contain minerals. The structural conformation of the bone has strong implication on the mechanical and functional properties of it. The structural conformation of the bone is an amazing kinetic process that takes place at body temperature. It is well known that for the crystallinization of HAp is required a temperature close to 700°C and the formation of the bone is still an unresolved and open problem for

Figure 9, shows the X-ray diffraction patterns of bone ash corresponding to different ages of the rats. In this case, the continuous lines correspond to the identification of HAp (PDF 09- 0432). X-ray patterns confirm that if the rat age increases, the minerals content into the bone begin to form HAp. This fact is important; because the new bone formation influences the mechanical properties of the bone that can be reflected in more breaking force, which is an

Hydroxylapatite

(P04 ) 3 OH

**PDF# 09-0432**

Week 11 Week 10 Week 9

Week 8 Week 7 Week 6 Week 5 Week 4

Week 3

Ca5

10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80

2 (degree)

future researches.

excellent indicative to prevent bone fractures.

0

0

Fig. 9. X-ray diffraction patterns of bone ash for female rats.

1000

1000

2000

2000

Intensity (arb.un)

Intensity (arb.un)

3000

3000

4000

4000

In figure 8 the continuous lines correspond to the complete identification of Calcium phosphate hydrated (PDF# 41-0483), as can be seen, the transformation of this structure to bio HAp can be detected by studying the decrease of its peak intensity as the rat age increase, an important point is that until the end of the growing process this crystalline structure does not disappear. It means that this is a phase present during the growing stage. A careful examination of Figure 8 shows that Hydroxyapatite phase increases as age increases. The structural development is close related to the hormonal changes. An abrupt change in the crystalline structures between these two phases is evident at the 5th week, in which thin peaks are observed in comparison to the other X-ray diffraction patterns. By direct inspection of Figure 5 for the Ca/P ratio, is clear that at this age the amount of Ca and P are forming mainly crystalline structures as was mentioned before, but after the 6th weeks increase in the Ca is evident. The remaining elements and the excess of Ca and P allow the formation of amorphous structures.

Fig. 8. X-ray diffraction patterns of bone ash from 3th to 11th weeks.

Taking into account the results of Figure 6 and the HAp showed in Figure 7, we could conclude that the main structure of the bone corresponds to bio-Hydroxyapatite, where some ions substitutions are present. It means that Na, K; Mg and other minerals were

In figure 8 the continuous lines correspond to the complete identification of Calcium phosphate hydrated (PDF# 41-0483), as can be seen, the transformation of this structure to bio HAp can be detected by studying the decrease of its peak intensity as the rat age increase, an important point is that until the end of the growing process this crystalline structure does not disappear. It means that this is a phase present during the growing stage. A careful examination of Figure 8 shows that Hydroxyapatite phase increases as age increases. The structural development is close related to the hormonal changes. An abrupt change in the crystalline structures between these two phases is evident at the 5th week, in which thin peaks are observed in comparison to the other X-ray diffraction patterns. By direct inspection of Figure 5 for the Ca/P ratio, is clear that at this age the amount of Ca and P are forming mainly crystalline structures as was mentioned before, but after the 6th weeks increase in the Ca is evident. The remaining elements and the excess of Ca and P allow the

> Calcium phosphated hydrated Ca2

(P4 012) 4 H2 O

**PDF# 41-0483**

10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80

2 (degree)

Taking into account the results of Figure 6 and the HAp showed in Figure 7, we could conclude that the main structure of the bone corresponds to bio-Hydroxyapatite, where some ions substitutions are present. It means that Na, K; Mg and other minerals were

Week 11 Week 10

Week 9

Week 8

Week 7

Week 6

Week 5

Week 4

Week 3

formation of amorphous structures.

0

Fig. 8. X-ray diffraction patterns of bone ash from 3th to 11th weeks.

1000

10000

2000

Intensity (arb.un)

Intensity (arb.un)

3000

30002000

4000

4000

incorporated into the HAp structure and also into de amorphous materials. Additionally, by inspection of the figure 7, the quality of the bio-hydroxyapatite from rats ash bones is smaller than bone ash from NIST, likely due to the minerals present in the organic part that were not eliminated in the calcined process. Possible, the NIST sample is calcinated after removing the fat and protein matrix that contain minerals. The structural conformation of the bone has strong implication on the mechanical and functional properties of it. The structural conformation of the bone is an amazing kinetic process that takes place at body temperature. It is well known that for the crystallinization of HAp is required a temperature close to 700°C and the formation of the bone is still an unresolved and open problem for future researches.

Figure 9, shows the X-ray diffraction patterns of bone ash corresponding to different ages of the rats. In this case, the continuous lines correspond to the identification of HAp (PDF 09- 0432). X-ray patterns confirm that if the rat age increases, the minerals content into the bone begin to form HAp. This fact is important; because the new bone formation influences the mechanical properties of the bone that can be reflected in more breaking force, which is an excellent indicative to prevent bone fractures.

Fig. 9. X-ray diffraction patterns of bone ash for female rats.

Mineral Content and Physicochemical Properties in Female Rats Bone During Growing Stage 217

Blokhuis, T.J.; Termaat, M.F.; den Boer, F.C.; Patka, P.; Bakker F.C. & Haarman, H.J. (2000).

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#### **4. Conclusion**

In the case of biological studies, AAS is an excellent tool that allows a quantitative determination of mineral content in bones and other materials. The physical development depends on four factors: genetic, feeding conditions, mechanical, and hormonal. These factors are responsible and determine the performance of all structures of the rat in adult phase. During acceleration phase the alteration of any of the aforementioned factors have strong effects on the rat develop. Nevertheless, during this phase these factors can be modified according to the experimental model proposed for any study.

The ash content shows an increase as a function of the age, during the acceleration phase, being this behavior the normal develop of the rats. This current data indicate that the organic material into the bone matrix decreases in the same manner, and it is confirmed by the determination of Ca, P, Mg, and K. The Ca/P ratio in bone is bigger than 1.67 in all cases, but this increases with the age, indicating that part of these minerals are conforming the bio-Hydroxyapatite and the excess of minerals are amorphous compound based in these minerals. The analysis of X-ray diffraction patterns of bone ashes showed that during this period, two crystalline phases are present: Calcium phosphate hydrated at the earlier growing stage and bio-Hydroxyapatite during the whole stage.

These results are very important for the biological models, because these constitute the normal curves for growing, weight, femur length in female rats. Additionally, for the first time the normal curves for ashes, Calcium, Phosphorus, Sodium, Zinc, Potassium, and Magnesium for female rats bones during growing were obtained.

#### **5. Acknowledgment**

This work was supported by project Conacyt-Fondos Mixtos-Gobierno del Estado de Querétaro, Project: QRO-2009-C01-118072, México, Esther Pérez-Torrero wants to thanks Conacyt-México for the grant # No. 21211. The authors want to thank Dra. Beatriz Millan and M. en C. Rosa Maria Lima for their technical support of this work.

#### **6. References**


In the case of biological studies, AAS is an excellent tool that allows a quantitative determination of mineral content in bones and other materials. The physical development depends on four factors: genetic, feeding conditions, mechanical, and hormonal. These factors are responsible and determine the performance of all structures of the rat in adult phase. During acceleration phase the alteration of any of the aforementioned factors have strong effects on the rat develop. Nevertheless, during this phase these factors can be

The ash content shows an increase as a function of the age, during the acceleration phase, being this behavior the normal develop of the rats. This current data indicate that the organic material into the bone matrix decreases in the same manner, and it is confirmed by the determination of Ca, P, Mg, and K. The Ca/P ratio in bone is bigger than 1.67 in all cases, but this increases with the age, indicating that part of these minerals are conforming the bio-Hydroxyapatite and the excess of minerals are amorphous compound based in these minerals. The analysis of X-ray diffraction patterns of bone ashes showed that during this period, two crystalline phases are present: Calcium phosphate hydrated at the earlier

These results are very important for the biological models, because these constitute the normal curves for growing, weight, femur length in female rats. Additionally, for the first time the normal curves for ashes, Calcium, Phosphorus, Sodium, Zinc, Potassium, and

This work was supported by project Conacyt-Fondos Mixtos-Gobierno del Estado de Querétaro, Project: QRO-2009-C01-118072, México, Esther Pérez-Torrero wants to thanks Conacyt-México for the grant # No. 21211. The authors want to thank Dra. Beatriz Millan

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**12** 

*Czech Republic* 

**Activation of Bentonite and Talc** 

**for Mineral Storage of CO2** 

*Brno University of Technology, Faculty of Chemistry, Centre for Materials Research, Brno CZ-61200* 

Jaromír Havlica and Jiří Brandštetr

**by Acetic Acid as a Carbonation Feedstock** 

Petr Ptáček, Magdaléna Nosková, František Šoukal, Tomáš Opravil,

The average global temperature has been slightly increasing by 0.76 °C over last 150 years. If the current state will continue, average Earth temperature will increase at the end of this century for about 1.1 – 6.3 °C according to applied emission scenario. Main reason of the observed global warming is the increasing contents of greenhouse gases (GHG), such as carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4) a nitrous oxide (NO2), in the Earth atmosphere. The most important greenhouse gas is CO2. Carbon dioxide is considering as responsible for about two-third of the enhanced "greenhouse effect". Its atmospheric concentration has risen from the pre-industrial levels of 280 ppm to 380 ppm in 2005. Human emissions of greenhouse gases are very likely responsible for global warming of the planet surface (IPCC, 2007). The increasing carbon dioxide content in the atmosphere and its long-term effect on the climate has led to increasing interest and research of the possibilities of capture,

utilization and long-term storage of carbon dioxide (Yang at al., 2008; Jiang, 2011)

Fossil fuels have been used as the world's primary source of energy upon over the 20th century and this trend is expected to continue throughout the 21st century (Yang at al., 2008; Maroto-Valer at al., 2005). There is a direct link between emissions of carbon dioxide (Ce), human population (P), economic development that is indicated by gross domestic product (GPD), production of energy (E), amount of carbon-based fuels used for production of

*CO*<sup>2</sup> *<sup>e</sup> S*

The emissions of anthropogenic carbon dioxide are increasing with population (P), standard of living (GPD/P); the energy intensity of economy (E/GPD) and the carbon intensity of the energy system (C/E). On the contrary Ce is decreasing with SCO2. Examination of the Eq.1.1, in principle, proposes that there are five ways to reduce atmospheric emissions of anthropogenic CO2, of which the first two, i.e. reduction in population and/or decline in economic output are naturally unacceptable. Reducing the carbon intensity of the energy system can be achieved by using hydrogen-rich fuels and renewable energy sources. The

*P*

*E C GDP E*

*GDP PC* (1.1)

**1. Introduction** 

energy (C) and CO2 sinks (SCO2):

the maturation. *Plant Foods for Human Nutrition,* Vol.62, No.3, (August 2007), pp.107-112, ISSN 0921-9668


### **Activation of Bentonite and Talc by Acetic Acid as a Carbonation Feedstock for Mineral Storage of CO2**

Petr Ptáček, Magdaléna Nosková, František Šoukal, Tomáš Opravil, Jaromír Havlica and Jiří Brandštetr

> *Brno University of Technology, Faculty of Chemistry, Centre for Materials Research, Brno CZ-61200 Czech Republic*

#### **1. Introduction**

220 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

Rodríguez, M.E.; Yañez, J.M.; Cruz-Orea, A.; Alvarado-Gil, J.J.; Zelaya-Angel, O.; Sánchez-

Rodríguez-Rodríguez, E.; Navia-Lombán, B.; López-Sobaler, A.M. & Ortega-Anta, R.M.

Rojas-Molina, I.; Gutiérrez, E.; Rojas, A.; Cortés-Álvarez, M.; Campos Solís, L.; Hernández-

Ščančar, J. Milačič, R.; Benedik, M. & Bukovecc, P. (2000). Determination of trace elements

Spencer, H.; Kramer, L. & Osis, D. (1988). Do protein and phosphorus cause calcium loss? *The Journal of Nutrition,* Vol.118, No. 6, (June 1988), pp. 657-660, ISSN 1541-6100 Su, X.; Sun, K.; Cui, F.Z. & Landis, W.J. (2003). Organization of apatite crystals in human woven bone. *Bone*, Vol.32, No.2, (February 2003), pp. 150-162, ISSN 8756-3282 Takahara, S.; Morohashi, T.; Sano, T.; Ohta, A.; Yamada, S. & Sasa, R. (2000).

*communication*, Vol.130, No. 7 (July 2000), pp. 1792-1795, ISSN 1541-6100 Tamaki, T. & Uchiyama, S. (1995). Absolute and relative growth of rat skeletal muscle. *Physiology & behavior*, Vol.57, No. 5, (May 1995), pp. 913-919, ISSN 003-9384 Wyatt, C.J.; Hernández-Lozano, M.E.; Méndez, R.O. & Valencia, E. (2000). Effect of different

*Hospitalaria,* Vol.25, No.3, (May-June 2010), pp.366-374, ISSN 0212-1611 Rojas-Molina, I.; Gutiérrez-Cortez, E.; Palacios-Fonseca, A.; Baños, L., Pons-Hernández, J.L.;

pp.107-112, ISSN 0921-9668

240, ISSN 1431-4630

304-312, ISSN 0009-0352

0352

Book Co.

5317

the maturation. *Plant Foods for Human Nutrition,* Vol.62, No.3, (August 2007),

Sinencio, F.; Vargas, H.; Figueroa, J.D.; Martínez-Bustos, F. & Martínez-Montes, J.L. (1995). The influence of slaked lime content on the processing conditions of cooked maize tortillas: changes of thermal, structural and rheological properties. *Zeitschrift für Lebensmitteluntersuchung und -Forschung A*, Vol.201, No.3, (May 1995), pp. 233–

Review and future perspectives on recommended calcium intake. *Nutrición* 

Guzmán, S.H.; Pineda-Gómez, P. & Rodríguez, M.E. (2007). Study of structural and thermal changes in endosperm of quality protein maize during traditional nixtamalization process. *Cereal Chemistry*, Vol.84, No. 4, (July/August 2007), pp.

Urbiola, M.; Arjona, J.L.; Cornejo, A. & Rodríguez-García. M.E. (2009). Effect of Temperature and Steeping Time on Calcium and Phosphorus Content in Nixtamalized Corn Flours Obtained by the Traditional Nixtamalization Process. *Cereal Chemistry,* Vol.86, No.5, (September/October 2009), pp.516-521, ISSN 0009-

and calcium in bone of the human iliac crest by atomic absorption spectrometry. *Clinica Chimica Acta,* Vol.293, No.1-2, (March 2000), pp. 187-197, ISSN 0009-8981 Smith, E.L., Hill, R.L., Lehman, I.R., Lefkowitz, R.J., Handler, P., White, A. (1983). Principles

of Biochemistry. Mammalian Biochemistry. Seventh edition. N.Y. McGraw-Hill

Fructooligosaccharide Consumption Enhances Femoral Bone Volume and Mineral Concentrations in Rats. *The Journal of Nutrition*, *Nutrient Metabolism-Research* 

calcium and phosphorus content in Mexican diets on rat femur bone growth and composition. *Nutrition Research*, Vol.20, No.3, (March 2000), pp. 427-437, ISSN 0271The average global temperature has been slightly increasing by 0.76 °C over last 150 years. If the current state will continue, average Earth temperature will increase at the end of this century for about 1.1 – 6.3 °C according to applied emission scenario. Main reason of the observed global warming is the increasing contents of greenhouse gases (GHG), such as carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4) a nitrous oxide (NO2), in the Earth atmosphere. The most important greenhouse gas is CO2. Carbon dioxide is considering as responsible for about two-third of the enhanced "greenhouse effect". Its atmospheric concentration has risen from the pre-industrial levels of 280 ppm to 380 ppm in 2005. Human emissions of greenhouse gases are very likely responsible for global warming of the planet surface (IPCC, 2007). The increasing carbon dioxide content in the atmosphere and its long-term effect on the climate has led to increasing interest and research of the possibilities of capture, utilization and long-term storage of carbon dioxide (Yang at al., 2008; Jiang, 2011)

Fossil fuels have been used as the world's primary source of energy upon over the 20th century and this trend is expected to continue throughout the 21st century (Yang at al., 2008; Maroto-Valer at al., 2005). There is a direct link between emissions of carbon dioxide (Ce), human population (P), economic development that is indicated by gross domestic product (GPD), production of energy (E), amount of carbon-based fuels used for production of energy (C) and CO2 sinks (SCO2):

$$C\_{\varepsilon} = P \frac{GDP}{P} \frac{E}{GDP} \frac{C}{E} - S\_{CO\_1} \tag{1.1}$$

The emissions of anthropogenic carbon dioxide are increasing with population (P), standard of living (GPD/P); the energy intensity of economy (E/GPD) and the carbon intensity of the energy system (C/E). On the contrary Ce is decreasing with SCO2. Examination of the Eq.1.1, in principle, proposes that there are five ways to reduce atmospheric emissions of anthropogenic CO2, of which the first two, i.e. reduction in population and/or decline in economic output are naturally unacceptable. Reducing the carbon intensity of the energy system can be achieved by using hydrogen-rich fuels and renewable energy sources. The

Activation of Bentonite and Talc by Acetic Acid

3

Matear, 1998; Bachu & Adams, 2003).

al., 2007).

as a Carbonation Feedstock for Mineral Storage of CO2 223

"solubility trapping". The chemical reactions inducted by CO2 injection are described by Eq.1.1 and 1.2 (Xu at al., 2004). The weathering of alkaline rocks, such as alkaline or alkaline earth silicates is thought to have played a great role in the historical reduction of the

Total estimated storage capacity of geological reservoirs is about 920 Gt CO2 in depleted oil and gas fields, 400 – 10 000 Gt in deep saline reservoirs and 20 Gt in coal mine coal deposits. The cost for carbon dioxide capture and following storage in geologic formations is estimated about 4 – 48 EUR/t CO2 (Friedmann at al., 2006; Gale, 2004). The research works concerning in risk assessment of CO2 geological storage is mentioned in work (Gale, 2004). Deep-sea storage of anthropogenic CO2 is an attractive concept that offers large storage capacity comparing to other options. However, storing CO2 in oceans is limited by its high cost, technology development, potentially high environmental impact, because the storage capacity of the ocean has not been defined. The oceanic processes are controlled long-term processes and large scale storage has been discussed only in general terms. Addition of anthropogenic CO2 would change the CO2 chemistry in the ocean by reducing pH at the site. The effects of long-term influence of low pH on planktonic ecosystem and oceanic biological processes are virtually unknown. Addition and CO2 storage would probably dissolve carbonate deposits on the seafloor and suppress oxidation of organic matter (Wong &

Mineral storage based on carbonation is a promising CCS method for long-term storage of CO2 in continental inland utilization. The carbon dioxide is stored through mineral trapping mechanism that requires the participation of cations, including Ca2+, Fe2+, and Mg2+, that can form stable solid carbonate phases (Giammar at al., 2005). This processing accelerates the natural weathering of silicate minerals, where these minerals react with CO2 and form carbonate minerals and silica. Although the calcium silicate has been successfully carbonated at temperatures and pressures relevant for industrial processes, its natural resources are too small and expensive to be of practical interest. Therefore, current research activities focus mostly on carbonation of magnesium silicates (Teir at al., 2007). Overall course of carbonation process of wollastonite (CaSiO3), olivine (Mg2SiO4) and serpentine (Mg3Si2O5(OH)4) may be described by Eq.1.4 – 1.6, respectively (Alexander, 2007; Wouter at

 <sup>2</sup> <sup>2</sup> <sup>32</sup> *HCOHCOHOH)g(CO* <sup>3</sup> (1.2)

)( ( ...),, <sup>2</sup> <sup>222</sup>

<sup>3</sup> <sup>2</sup> <sup>3</sup> *SiO)(CaCO)g(CO)s(CaSiO* <sup>2</sup> (1.4)

<sup>42</sup> *COSiOMg* <sup>2</sup> 22 <sup>3</sup> *SiO)(MgCO* <sup>2</sup> (1.5)

<sup>4523</sup> *CO)OH(OSiMg* <sup>2</sup> 33 <sup>3</sup> 22 <sup>22</sup> *OHSiO)(MgCO* (1.6)

The magnesium bearing minerals typically contain about 40 % of magnesium, whereas the content of calcium is approximately 10 – 15 %. Reactivity of olivine is higher than serpentine, but serpentine reactivity is strongly increasing by physical and chemical activation. Physical activation such as heat pre-treatment (calcination) at approximately

*MHCO MCO FeMgCaMH* (1.3)

atmospheric CO2 content in atmosphere of Earth (Kojima at al., 1997).

2

3

last term indicates that emissions of carbon dioxide can be partially or totally covered by the artificial increase in the capacity and uptake rate of CO2 sinks (SCO2). Carbon sequestration includes terrestrial or marine photosynthetic fixation of CO2 by plants and soils, and subsequent long-term storage of CO2 as carbon-rich biomass or capture and long-term storage of CO2 emissions at source prior to potential release. These techniques are collectively known as carbon capture and storage (CCS) (Bachu, 2008; Zhang at al., 2007; Piromon at al., 2007; Huesemann, 2006; Hoffert at al., 1998; Kaya, 1995).

The Carbon Capture and Storage technologies have been considered as suitable method for reduction of CO2 emission, they are relatively abundant, cheap, available and globally distributed, thus enhancing the security and stability of energy systems (Bachu, 2008). CCS can be effectively integrated into various energy systems (Jiang, 2011). The CO2 capture can be performed following three different technological concepts: post-combustion capture systems, pre-combustion capture systems and oxy-fuel capture systems (Damen at al., 2006; Pires at al., 2011).

The main options for CO2 storage are:


On the other hand there are fears that CCS technologies that offer the extension of the fossilfuel era by perhaps a few 100 years are a double-edged sword. CCS technology is designed to limit emissions of CO2 to the atmosphere, but it extends the period during which CO2 is emitted (Spreng at al., 2007).

Carbon Capture and Geological Storage methods are using the geological media for storage of carbon dioxide at depths of more than one kilometer. Geological media suitable for CO2 storage requires sufficient capacity, possibilities for CO2 transport and preventing the CO2 migration or escaping. Sedimentary basins may possess these requirements, because generally only sandstone and carbonate rock have needed to provide the porosity and then storage capacity and permeability. Confining low-permeability shales and evaporites such as salt beds and anhydrites provide primary physical barrier for CO2 leakage (Gibbins & Chalmers, 2008; Bachu, 2008; Zhang at al., 2007; Pauwels at al., 2007; Friedmann at al., 2006; Gale, 2004; Soong at al., 2004; Bouchard & Delaytermoz, 2004; Torp & Gale, 2004; Xu at al., 2004).

Carbon dioxide may be stored in geological media by various means with various physical (Physical trapping) and chemical mechanisms (Chemical trapping) as a result of its properties at the pressure and temperature conditions found in Earth's subsurface. Physical trapping of CO2 occurs when CO2 is immobilized as a free gas or supercritical fluid. There are two types of physical trapping. Static trapping of mobile CO2 in stratigraphic and structural traps or in man-made caverns is applied. The second possibility is represented by residual-gas trapping in the pore space at irreducible gas saturation. Chemical trapping occurs when CO2 is absorbed into organic materials contained in coals and shales (adsorption trapping). Carbon dioxide may react directly or indirectly with mineral resulting to the geologic formation characterized by the precipitation of secondary carbonate minerals - mineral trapping. In direct carbonation process, gaseous CO2 is in first stage dissolved during indirect (aqueous) process and reacts with solid mineral in following operation (Bachu, 2008; Alexander at al., 2007; Xu at al., 2004).

The dissolution of alkaline aluminosilicate minerals by CO2 contributes to increasing of concentration of soluble carbonates and bicarbonates in solution, thereby enhancing

last term indicates that emissions of carbon dioxide can be partially or totally covered by the artificial increase in the capacity and uptake rate of CO2 sinks (SCO2). Carbon sequestration includes terrestrial or marine photosynthetic fixation of CO2 by plants and soils, and subsequent long-term storage of CO2 as carbon-rich biomass or capture and long-term storage of CO2 emissions at source prior to potential release. These techniques are collectively known as carbon capture and storage (CCS) (Bachu, 2008; Zhang at al., 2007;

The Carbon Capture and Storage technologies have been considered as suitable method for reduction of CO2 emission, they are relatively abundant, cheap, available and globally distributed, thus enhancing the security and stability of energy systems (Bachu, 2008). CCS can be effectively integrated into various energy systems (Jiang, 2011). The CO2 capture can be performed following three different technological concepts: post-combustion capture systems, pre-combustion capture systems and oxy-fuel capture systems (Damen at al., 2006;

On the other hand there are fears that CCS technologies that offer the extension of the fossilfuel era by perhaps a few 100 years are a double-edged sword. CCS technology is designed to limit emissions of CO2 to the atmosphere, but it extends the period during which CO2 is

Carbon Capture and Geological Storage methods are using the geological media for storage of carbon dioxide at depths of more than one kilometer. Geological media suitable for CO2 storage requires sufficient capacity, possibilities for CO2 transport and preventing the CO2 migration or escaping. Sedimentary basins may possess these requirements, because generally only sandstone and carbonate rock have needed to provide the porosity and then storage capacity and permeability. Confining low-permeability shales and evaporites such as salt beds and anhydrites provide primary physical barrier for CO2 leakage (Gibbins & Chalmers, 2008; Bachu, 2008; Zhang at al., 2007; Pauwels at al., 2007; Friedmann at al., 2006; Gale, 2004; Soong

Carbon dioxide may be stored in geological media by various means with various physical (Physical trapping) and chemical mechanisms (Chemical trapping) as a result of its properties at the pressure and temperature conditions found in Earth's subsurface. Physical trapping of CO2 occurs when CO2 is immobilized as a free gas or supercritical fluid. There are two types of physical trapping. Static trapping of mobile CO2 in stratigraphic and structural traps or in man-made caverns is applied. The second possibility is represented by residual-gas trapping in the pore space at irreducible gas saturation. Chemical trapping occurs when CO2 is absorbed into organic materials contained in coals and shales (adsorption trapping). Carbon dioxide may react directly or indirectly with mineral resulting to the geologic formation characterized by the precipitation of secondary carbonate minerals - mineral trapping. In direct carbonation process, gaseous CO2 is in first stage dissolved during indirect (aqueous) process and reacts with solid mineral in following

The dissolution of alkaline aluminosilicate minerals by CO2 contributes to increasing of concentration of soluble carbonates and bicarbonates in solution, thereby enhancing

Piromon at al., 2007; Huesemann, 2006; Hoffert at al., 1998; Kaya, 1995).

1. Geological storage – CCGS (Carbon Capture and Geological Storage);

at al., 2004; Bouchard & Delaytermoz, 2004; Torp & Gale, 2004; Xu at al., 2004).

operation (Bachu, 2008; Alexander at al., 2007; Xu at al., 2004).

2. Ocean storage – CCOS (Carbon Capture and Ocean Storage); 3. Mineral storage – CCMS (Carbon Capture and Mineral Storage).

Pires at al., 2011).

The main options for CO2 storage are:

emitted (Spreng at al., 2007).

"solubility trapping". The chemical reactions inducted by CO2 injection are described by Eq.1.1 and 1.2 (Xu at al., 2004). The weathering of alkaline rocks, such as alkaline or alkaline earth silicates is thought to have played a great role in the historical reduction of the atmospheric CO2 content in atmosphere of Earth (Kojima at al., 1997).

$$2CO\_2(g) + H\_2O \to H\_2CO\_3 \to H^+ + HCO\_3^- \tag{1.2}$$

$$HCO\_3^- + M \stackrel{2+}{\rightarrow} MCO\_3(\stackrel{\downarrow}{\mbox{\tiny\scriptsize\$}}) + H^+ \qquad \left(M^{2+} = Ca^{2+}, Mg^{2+}, Fe^{2+}...\right) \tag{1.3}$$

Total estimated storage capacity of geological reservoirs is about 920 Gt CO2 in depleted oil and gas fields, 400 – 10 000 Gt in deep saline reservoirs and 20 Gt in coal mine coal deposits. The cost for carbon dioxide capture and following storage in geologic formations is estimated about 4 – 48 EUR/t CO2 (Friedmann at al., 2006; Gale, 2004). The research works concerning in risk assessment of CO2 geological storage is mentioned in work (Gale, 2004).

Deep-sea storage of anthropogenic CO2 is an attractive concept that offers large storage capacity comparing to other options. However, storing CO2 in oceans is limited by its high cost, technology development, potentially high environmental impact, because the storage capacity of the ocean has not been defined. The oceanic processes are controlled long-term processes and large scale storage has been discussed only in general terms. Addition of anthropogenic CO2 would change the CO2 chemistry in the ocean by reducing pH at the site. The effects of long-term influence of low pH on planktonic ecosystem and oceanic biological processes are virtually unknown. Addition and CO2 storage would probably dissolve carbonate deposits on the seafloor and suppress oxidation of organic matter (Wong & Matear, 1998; Bachu & Adams, 2003).

Mineral storage based on carbonation is a promising CCS method for long-term storage of CO2 in continental inland utilization. The carbon dioxide is stored through mineral trapping mechanism that requires the participation of cations, including Ca2+, Fe2+, and Mg2+, that can form stable solid carbonate phases (Giammar at al., 2005). This processing accelerates the natural weathering of silicate minerals, where these minerals react with CO2 and form carbonate minerals and silica. Although the calcium silicate has been successfully carbonated at temperatures and pressures relevant for industrial processes, its natural resources are too small and expensive to be of practical interest. Therefore, current research activities focus mostly on carbonation of magnesium silicates (Teir at al., 2007). Overall course of carbonation process of wollastonite (CaSiO3), olivine (Mg2SiO4) and serpentine (Mg3Si2O5(OH)4) may be described by Eq.1.4 – 1.6, respectively (Alexander, 2007; Wouter at al., 2007).

$$\rm CaSiO\_3(s) + CO\_2(g) \rightarrow CaCO\_3(\overset{\downarrow}{\star}) + SiO\_2 \tag{1.4}$$

$$\text{Mg}\_2\text{SiO}\_4 + 2\text{ CO}\_2 \rightarrow 2\text{ MgCO}\_3(\overset{\big}{\text{(\cdot)}}) + \text{SiO}\_2\tag{1.5}$$

$$2\text{ Mg}\_3\text{Si}\_2\text{O}\_5(\text{OH})\_4 + 3\text{ CO}\_2 \rightarrow 3\text{ MgCO}\_3(\text{\textdegree}) + 2\text{ SiO}\_2 + 2\text{ H}\_2\text{O} \tag{1.6}$$

The magnesium bearing minerals typically contain about 40 % of magnesium, whereas the content of calcium is approximately 10 – 15 %. Reactivity of olivine is higher than serpentine, but serpentine reactivity is strongly increasing by physical and chemical activation. Physical activation such as heat pre-treatment (calcination) at approximately

Activation of Bentonite and Talc by Acetic Acid

ions are extracted from natural calcium silicate mineral:

Similar reaction proceeds with magnesium silicates:

composites (Yehia at al., 2012).

(Table 1.2).

occurs;

as a Carbonation Feedstock for Mineral Storage of CO2 225

Industrial by-products, such as iron and steel slags and cement based material, may contain very height percentage of calcium and magnesium oxides and therefore they may be carbonated and exploited for CO2 mineral storage. Calcium and magnesium can be leached out by acetic acid. Such a process consists of two main steps. The first one, where calcium

*CaSiO COOHCH Ca* <sup>3</sup>*COOCH* <sup>22</sup> *OHSiO* <sup>2</sup>

And the second one, where carbon dioxide was introduced into the solution after removing of SiO2 and calcite has been precipitated from the solution according to Eq.1.11. Acetic acid

*MgSiO COOHCH Mg* <sup>3</sup>*COOCH* <sup>22</sup> *OHSiO* <sup>2</sup>

However, there are also small contents of many other compounds from iron and steel slags

The main reasons for investigation of dissolution and precipitation reactions of silicate minerals and raw materials is in importance to understand the extent and environmental significance of the chemical weathering in nature (Cama at al., 1999; ), study of its potential to utilization as the source of the divalent cations that is necessary for the sequestering of carbon dioxide into carbonates (Saldi at al., 2007), in order to improve their catalytic activity (Komadel & Madejová, 2006; Pushpaletha at al., 2005), study the puzzolanic activity in mortars and cements (Massazza, 1993) drug delivery (Viseras at al., 2010), synthesis of geopolymers (Buchwald at al., 2009), zeolites (Baccouche at al., 1998) and organic-clay

The kinetics of mineral dissolution is an area in geochemistry that has received considerable attention over the past several years (Knauss at al., 2003). Hence, numerous works dedicated to investigation of clay mineral dissolution kinetics can be found in the current literature

A basic concept in chemical kinetics is that reactions consist of a series of different physical and chemical processes that can be broken down into different ''steps''. For dissolution, these steps generally include at a minimum (Morse & Arvidson, 2002; Dorozhkin, 2002):

4. The chemical reaction between the adsorbed reactant and solid which may involve several intermediate steps where bonds are broken and formed, and hydration of ions

3. Migration of the reactants on the surface to an ''active'' site (e.g., a dislocation);

1. Diffusion of reactants through solution to the solid surface;

2. Adsorption of the reactants on the solid surface;

(such as heavy metals) which would be released by acetic acid (Teir at al., 2007).

**1.1 Kinetics of silicate minerals, rocks, glass and raw materials dissolution** 

is recovered in this step and recycled for using of extraction in the first step (Eq.1.10).

*CO)OH(Mg* <sup>22</sup> <sup>3</sup> 2 <sup>2</sup>*OH)(MgCO* (1.9)

<sup>3</sup> <sup>3</sup> 2 2 (1.10)

<sup>3</sup> 2 <sup>3</sup> 2 (1.12)

*Mg* <sup>3</sup> <sup>22</sup> <sup>3</sup> <sup>3</sup>*COOHCH)(MgCOOHCOCOOCH* <sup>2</sup> 2 2 (1.13)

*Ca* <sup>3</sup> <sup>22</sup> <sup>3</sup> <sup>3</sup>*COOHCH)(CaCOOHCOCOOCH* <sup>2</sup> 2 2 (1.11)


630 °C may remove water (dehydroxylation) from serpentine structure. The conversion to magnesite (MgCO3) is higher (59.4 %) than the value (7.2 %) found for untreated samples (Alexander at al., 2007). Carbon dioxide sequestration capacity some of major rock forming minerals is listed in Table.1.1.

Table 1.1. Carbon dioxide sequestration potential of some major rock according to work (Xu at al., 2004).

If the rate-limiting step in the aqueous carbonation scheme is leaching of calcium or magnesium, then the production of carbonates may by accelerate via acceleration of dissolution stage. Inorganic (HCl, H2SO4, H3PO4) as well as organic acids (CH3COOH), complexing agents and hydroxides (NaOH) were used for chemical activation of minerals. Hydrochloric acid enhances the magnesium ions liberation, however energy intensity production of Mg(OH)2 has been increasing. Complexing agents were used to polarize and weaken the magnesium bonds within the serpentine structure. The most effective is treatment by H2SO4 which increases the surface area from 8 to 330 m2·g-1. Sulphuric acid pre-treatment enables aqueous carbonation of Mg(OH)2 under milder condition. Temperature and pressure were reduced from 185 on 20 °C and 12.7 to 4.6 MPa. Process may by write as follows (Alexander at al., 2007; M.-Valer at al., 2005):

$$\text{Mg}\_3\text{Si}\_2\text{O}\_5(\text{OH})\_4 + \text{3 }H\_2\text{SO}\_4 \rightarrow \text{3 }Mg^{2+} + \text{3 }SO\_4^{2-} + \text{2 }SiO\_2 + \text{5 }H\_2O \tag{1.7}$$

$$\text{Mg}^{2+} + \text{SO}\_4^{2-} + 2\text{ }NaOH \rightarrow \text{Mg}(OH)\_2 + Na\_2\text{SO}\_4 \tag{1.8}$$

630 °C may remove water (dehydroxylation) from serpentine structure. The conversion to magnesite (MgCO3) is higher (59.4 %) than the value (7.2 %) found for untreated samples (Alexander at al., 2007). Carbon dioxide sequestration capacity some of major rock forming

**Mineral Composition Storage capacity** 

Mg2SiO4 – Fe2SiO4 2014,7 – 1896,3

(Mg,Fe2+)7Si8O22(OH)2 1169,5 – 1041,8

(Mg,Fe2+)Si2O6 1404,2

Ca2Mg5Si8O22(OH)2 1119,3

Kx(Fe3+,Al,Mg,Fe2+)2(Si,Al)4O10(OH)2; x < 1 61,97

(Ca0,5,Na)0,7(Al,Mg,Fe)4(Si,Al)8O20(OH)4 ·

Table 1.1. Carbon dioxide sequestration potential of some major rock according to work (Xu

If the rate-limiting step in the aqueous carbonation scheme is leaching of calcium or magnesium, then the production of carbonates may by accelerate via acceleration of dissolution stage. Inorganic (HCl, H2SO4, H3PO4) as well as organic acids (CH3COOH), complexing agents and hydroxides (NaOH) were used for chemical activation of minerals. Hydrochloric acid enhances the magnesium ions liberation, however energy intensity production of Mg(OH)2 has been increasing. Complexing agents were used to polarize and weaken the magnesium bonds within the serpentine structure. The most effective is treatment by H2SO4 which increases the surface area from 8 to 330 m2·g-1. Sulphuric acid pre-treatment enables aqueous carbonation of Mg(OH)2 under milder condition. Temperature and pressure were reduced from 185 on 20 °C and 12.7 to 4.6 MPa. Process

*SOH)OH(OSiMg Mg SO* <sup>22</sup> *OHSiO* <sup>2</sup>

4 <sup>2</sup> 3 <sup>424523</sup> 5233 (1.7)

<sup>2</sup> *SOMg* 2 *NaOH SONa)OH(Mg* (1.8)

422

Plagioclase (anorthite) CaAl2Si2O8 436,4

Augite (Ca,Na)(Mg,Fe2+,Fe3+,Al,Ti)(Si,Al)2O6 1306,3

Common hornblende Ca2(Mg,Fe2+,Al)5(Si,Al)8O22(OH)2 1000,4

Mica group-phlogopite KMg2+3(Si3Al)O10(OH,F)2 881,8 Mica group-biotite K(Mg,Fe2+)3(Si3Al)O10(OH,F)2 671,0 Serpentine Mg3Si2O5(OH)4 1232,7 Chlorite group (Mg,Al,Fe2+)12(Si,Al)8O20(OH)16 923,4 Clay minerals - illite (K,H3O+)Al2(Si,Al)4O10(OH)2 78,42

nH2O

may by write as follows (Alexander at al., 2007; M.-Valer at al., 2005):

2 4

**[kgCO2· m-3]** 

161,2

minerals is listed in Table.1.1.

Olivine (forsterite-

Pyroxene group -

Amphibole group – anthophy-llite cummingtonite

Calcinum amphiboles -

fayalite)

enstatite

tremolite

Mica group galuconite

Clay minerals smectite

at al., 2004).

$$\rm Mg(OH)\_2 + CO\_2 \rightarrow MgCO\_3(\stackrel{\downarrow}{\star}) + 2H\_2O \tag{1.9}$$

Industrial by-products, such as iron and steel slags and cement based material, may contain very height percentage of calcium and magnesium oxides and therefore they may be carbonated and exploited for CO2 mineral storage. Calcium and magnesium can be leached out by acetic acid. Such a process consists of two main steps. The first one, where calcium ions are extracted from natural calcium silicate mineral:

$$2\text{ CaSiO}\_3 + 2\text{ CH}\_3\text{COOH} \rightarrow \text{Ca}^{2+} + 2\text{ CH}\_3\text{COO}^- + \text{SiO}\_2 + \text{H}\_2\text{O} \tag{1.10}$$

$$\text{Ca}^{2+} + 2\text{ }CH\_3COO^- + CO\_2 + H\_2O \rightarrow \text{CaCO}\_3(\overset{\big}{\downarrow}) + 2\text{ }CH\_3COOH \tag{1.11}$$

And the second one, where carbon dioxide was introduced into the solution after removing of SiO2 and calcite has been precipitated from the solution according to Eq.1.11. Acetic acid is recovered in this step and recycled for using of extraction in the first step (Eq.1.10). Similar reaction proceeds with magnesium silicates:

$$\text{MgSiO}\_3 + 2\text{CH}\_3\text{COOH} \rightarrow \text{Mg}^{2+} + 2\text{CH}\_3\text{COO}^- + \text{SiO}\_2 + \text{H}\_2\text{O} \tag{1.12}$$

$$\text{Mg}^{2+} + 2\text{ }CH\_3COO^- + CO\_2 + H\_2O \rightarrow \text{MgCO}\_3(\overset{\text{\textdegree}}{\text{\textdegree}}) + 2\text{ }CH\_3COOH \tag{1.13}$$

However, there are also small contents of many other compounds from iron and steel slags (such as heavy metals) which would be released by acetic acid (Teir at al., 2007).

#### **1.1 Kinetics of silicate minerals, rocks, glass and raw materials dissolution**

The main reasons for investigation of dissolution and precipitation reactions of silicate minerals and raw materials is in importance to understand the extent and environmental significance of the chemical weathering in nature (Cama at al., 1999; ), study of its potential to utilization as the source of the divalent cations that is necessary for the sequestering of carbon dioxide into carbonates (Saldi at al., 2007), in order to improve their catalytic activity (Komadel & Madejová, 2006; Pushpaletha at al., 2005), study the puzzolanic activity in mortars and cements (Massazza, 1993) drug delivery (Viseras at al., 2010), synthesis of geopolymers (Buchwald at al., 2009), zeolites (Baccouche at al., 1998) and organic-clay composites (Yehia at al., 2012).

The kinetics of mineral dissolution is an area in geochemistry that has received considerable attention over the past several years (Knauss at al., 2003). Hence, numerous works dedicated to investigation of clay mineral dissolution kinetics can be found in the current literature (Table 1.2).

A basic concept in chemical kinetics is that reactions consist of a series of different physical and chemical processes that can be broken down into different ''steps''. For dissolution, these steps generally include at a minimum (Morse & Arvidson, 2002; Dorozhkin, 2002):


Activation of Bentonite and Talc by Acetic Acid

according to Oelkers, 2001.

Monosilic acid may be liberated from silicates which contain SiO4

the surface limits the rate of dissolution if pH is higher than 6 (Iler, 1979).

as a Carbonation Feedstock for Mineral Storage of CO2 227

cations – nesosilicates. Besides the temperature the solubility of an amorphous silica layer depends on pH and shows the minimum at pH 7. The accurate data are still missing because there is an extreme variation in the forms in which the amorphous silica can occur. The rate of dissolution is proportional to the concentration of H3O+ and OH− ions in the range from 0 to 2 and from 3 to 6, respectively. The rate of diffusion or desorption of the silicic acid from

The dissolution mechanism of each multioxide silicate can be deduced from its structure. Note that in some cases, not all metal–oxygen bonds present in the structure need to be broken to completely destroy a mineral. Dissolution proceeds via the sequential equilibration of metal–proton exchange reactions until no further viable structure remains. The last of these sequential exchange reactions destroys the structure and it is irreversible in most cases. Assuming that at acidic conditions, the sequence of metal–proton exchange reactions during the dissolution of a multioxide silicate follow the order prescribed by the relative reactions rates of the single oxide dissolution as illustrated in Fig.1.1 (Oelkers, 2001).

Fig. 1.1. Mechanism of dissolution of some minerals and basaltic glass at acidic condition

Mg, Fe, Mn..., M(2) = Al, Fe3+, Cr3+, V3+, Ti4+ ..., M(3) = Si, Fe3+, Al...) structural groups:

The dissolution rate of the clay minerals seems to be continuously decreasing with elapsed time due to the preferred dissolution of reactive edge surfaces. As edge surfaces are selectively dissolved, the percentage of these reactivity reactive sites decrease with time leading to a decrease in the average reactivity of the overall clay surface (Köhler at al., 2005). The derivation of rate law for congruent dissolution of silicate multioxides at close to equilibrium conditions will be derived using a general formula M(1)z1n1 M(2)z2n2 M(3)z3n3 OΣ(n(i)z(i))/2, which is representative for oxide composition of nesosilicates related to phenakite (M(1)M(3)O4, where M(1) = Li, Be, Zn... and M(3) = Si), olivine (M(1)M(3)O4, where M(1) = Ca, Mg, Fe2+, Mn... and T = Si) and garnet (M(1)2+3 M(2)3+(2)(M(3)O4)3, where M(1) = Ca,

*OHSiOSiOHSi* 2 <sup>2</sup> (1.14)

4- ions separated by metal



(a) Under low pH values. (b) Forming of rate-controlling precursor complex. (c) Under pH = 2.6.

Table 1.2. Dissolution kinetics of silicates. Table is extracted from the work (Ptáček at al., 2011).

A central concept in dissolution kinetics supposes that one of these steps is the slowest than other. The reaction cannot proceed faster than the rate limiting step. Above mentioned steps 1 and 7 involve the diffusive transport of reactants and products through the solution to and from the surface. When this process is rate-limiting, the reaction is said to be diffusion controlled. Steps 2– 6 occur on the surface of the solid and when one of them is rate controlling the reaction is said to be surface controlled (Morse & Arvidson, 2002; Dorozhkin, 2002).

The dissolution of solids in liquids (or melts) consists of a surface chemical reaction and transport of the reaction components to the reaction boundary (Šesták, 1984). Many multicomponent silicate minerals under acidic condition are dissolved incongruently. The Ca2+ ions were replaced by H3O+ ions and leached layer of silica was formed. This layer wasn't homogeneous and its structure was changing with time as a consequence of polymerization of silanol groups (Weissbart & Rimstidt, 2000):

**[kJ·mol-1]** 

Wollastonite pH 3 – 8 79.2 Diffusion (a) Rimstidt & Dove,

Enstatite pH 1 – 11; 28 – 168 °C 48.5 Reaction (b) Oelkers & Schott,

Forsterite pH 2; 25 – 65 °C 63.8 Reaction (b) Oelkers, 2001 Olivine pH 2 – 5; 65 °C 125.6 Reaction Chen & Brantley,

Serpentine 2 M H2SO4; 30 – 70 °C 68 Diffusion Teir at al., 2007

Talc pH 1 – 10.6; 25 – 150 °C 45.0 Saldi at al., 1995 Anorthite pH 2.4 – 3.2; 45 – 95 °C 18.4 (c) Oelkers & Schott,

Diopside pH 2 – 12; 25 – 70 °C 40.6 Surface reaction Knauss at al., 1993 Basaltic glass pH 7.8 – 8.3; 90 °C 9.8 Diffusion Daux at al., 1997

A central concept in dissolution kinetics supposes that one of these steps is the slowest than other. The reaction cannot proceed faster than the rate limiting step. Above mentioned steps 1 and 7 involve the diffusive transport of reactants and products through the solution to and from the surface. When this process is rate-limiting, the reaction is said to be diffusion controlled. Steps 2– 6 occur on the surface of the solid and when one of them is rate controlling the reaction is said to be surface controlled (Morse & Arvidson, 2002; Dorozhkin,

The dissolution of solids in liquids (or melts) consists of a surface chemical reaction and transport of the reaction components to the reaction boundary (Šesták, 1984). Many multicomponent silicate minerals under acidic condition are dissolved incongruently. The Ca2+ ions were replaced by H3O+ ions and leached layer of silica was formed. This layer wasn't homogeneous and its structure was changing with time as a consequence of

(a) Under low pH values. (b) Forming of rate-controlling precursor complex. (c) Under pH = 2.6. Table 1.2. Dissolution kinetics of silicates. Table is extracted from the work (Ptáček at al.,

**Rate limiting step of process** 

47.1 Two-dimension

3 M H2SO4; 60 – 90 °C 66.5 Reaction Jonckbloedt, 1998

diffusion

**Reference** 

Ptáček at al., 2011

1986

2001

2000

1995

5. Migration of products away from the reaction site;

7. Diffusion of products away from the surface to the ''bulk'' solution.

6. Desorption of the products to the solution;

**Mineral Solution properties EA** 

pH 2 – 3.5

2011).

2002).

Diluted acetic acid,

2 M HCl; 30 – 70 °C 70 2 M HNO3; 30 – 70 °C 74

polymerization of silanol groups (Weissbart & Rimstidt, 2000):

$$\text{C} \equiv \text{Si} - OH \rightarrow \equiv \text{Si} - O - \text{Si} \equiv + H\_2O \tag{1.14}$$

Monosilic acid may be liberated from silicates which contain SiO4 4- ions separated by metal cations – nesosilicates. Besides the temperature the solubility of an amorphous silica layer depends on pH and shows the minimum at pH 7. The accurate data are still missing because there is an extreme variation in the forms in which the amorphous silica can occur. The rate of dissolution is proportional to the concentration of H3O+ and OH− ions in the range from 0 to 2 and from 3 to 6, respectively. The rate of diffusion or desorption of the silicic acid from the surface limits the rate of dissolution if pH is higher than 6 (Iler, 1979).

The dissolution mechanism of each multioxide silicate can be deduced from its structure. Note that in some cases, not all metal–oxygen bonds present in the structure need to be broken to completely destroy a mineral. Dissolution proceeds via the sequential equilibration of metal–proton exchange reactions until no further viable structure remains. The last of these sequential exchange reactions destroys the structure and it is irreversible in most cases. Assuming that at acidic conditions, the sequence of metal–proton exchange reactions during the dissolution of a multioxide silicate follow the order prescribed by the relative reactions rates of the single oxide dissolution as illustrated in Fig.1.1 (Oelkers, 2001).

Fig. 1.1. Mechanism of dissolution of some minerals and basaltic glass at acidic condition according to Oelkers, 2001.

The dissolution rate of the clay minerals seems to be continuously decreasing with elapsed time due to the preferred dissolution of reactive edge surfaces. As edge surfaces are selectively dissolved, the percentage of these reactivity reactive sites decrease with time leading to a decrease in the average reactivity of the overall clay surface (Köhler at al., 2005). The derivation of rate law for congruent dissolution of silicate multioxides at close to equilibrium conditions will be derived using a general formula M(1)z1n1 M(2)z2n2 M(3)z3n3 OΣ(n(i)z(i))/2, which is representative for oxide composition of nesosilicates related to phenakite (M(1)M(3)O4, where M(1) = Li, Be, Zn... and M(3) = Si), olivine (M(1)M(3)O4, where M(1) = Ca, Mg, Fe2+, Mn... and T = Si) and garnet (M(1)2+3 M(2)3+(2)(M(3)O4)3, where M(1) = Ca, Mg, Fe, Mn..., M(2) = Al, Fe3+, Cr3+, V3+, Ti4+ ..., M(3) = Si, Fe3+, Al...) structural groups:

Activation of Bentonite and Talc by Acetic Acid

(Oelkers, 2001):

or

et al.,1988):

as a Carbonation Feedstock for Mineral Storage of CO2 229

The R is the universal gas constant (J·mol-1·K-1) and rG = –Ar denotes Gibbs energy (J·mol-1) and chemical affinity (J·mol-1) of reaction. The dissolution rate at near to equilibrium

> *RT G exp <sup>r</sup>*

The overall dissolution rate should through combination of Eq.1.22 with Eq. 1.23 expressed as:

 

The temperature dependence of dissolution rate constant is given by Arrhenius law

 *RT*

> 

*exp RT*

1

 

> 

*E expAar <sup>a</sup> <sup>r</sup> <sup>m</sup>*

where A is pre-exponential (frequency) factor and Ea is apparent activation energy. Under conditions that are not far from equilibrium conditions (please refer to Eq.1.23) where exp

 

*<sup>E</sup> Alnalnrln <sup>a</sup> <sup>m</sup>*

The kinetic parameter of dissolution process can be then estimated from Arrhenius plot as the slope (-Ea/R) of the dependence of ln r on reciprocal temperature. Assuming information about ionic product of released cations (∏aM(i)n(i)), the value of A can be

A general scheme for the dissolution of a mineral or glass can be written as follow (Wieland

The precursor complex has the same chemical formula as the activated complex, but the activated complex has more energy. Within the context of transition-state theory (TST), the activated complex is in equilibrium with other species that precede it in the reaction sequence. It follows that a mineral dissolution rate can be considered to be proportional to

*Reactants Aqueous Species Precursor Complex Activated complex Products* (1.29)

*n M i i z i*

*expAar <sup>a</sup> <sup>m</sup>*

*n M i i z* 1 *<sup>i</sup>*

*i*

1 

*i*

*n M i i z i*

*<sup>G</sup> akr exp <sup>r</sup> <sup>m</sup>*

*n M i iz i* 1

*i*

The combination of Eq.1.24 and Eq.1.25 leads to equation:

(rG/RT) ≈ 1 can be dissolution rate expressed as:

calculated from the intercept with y-axis.

1

*i*

1

*K Q*

 

*<sup>E</sup> expA)T(k <sup>a</sup>* (1.25)

 

*RT G*

*RT*

 

 

*TR*

1

*RT E*

(1.23)

(1.24)

(1.26)

(1.27)

(1.28)

conditions when r+ + r– ≈ 0 requires that Q ≈ K and the ratio k+/k- ≈ K:

 *OH) zn OM (MnH)zn( m i ii <sup>m</sup> i z ii m <sup>i</sup> ii zn m i z n,i <sup>i</sup> m i ii i <sup>i</sup>* <sup>2</sup> <sup>1</sup> <sup>1</sup> <sup>1</sup> <sup>2</sup> <sup>1</sup> <sup>2</sup> <sup>1</sup> (1.15)

For example, the members of olivine subgroup such as calcio-olivine, forsterite, fayalite, tephroite... for that M(1) = Ca, Mg, Fe2+, Mn..., trivalent cations does not present and M(3) = Si, are then dissolved according to following reaction scheme:

$$2\,M\_2^{2+}\text{SiO}\_4 + 8\,H^+ \leftrightarrow 2\,M^{2+} + \text{Si}^{4+} + 4\,H\_2O\tag{1.16}$$

The kinetics of this reversible chemical reaction involving competition between two elementary – forward (+) and reverse (–) reactions, can be easily expressed by applying the Van't Hoff law such that:

$$r = r\_+ - r\_- = r\_+ \left( 1 - \frac{r\_-}{r\_+} \right) \tag{1.17}$$

The equilibrium constant K of forward and reverse Q reaction 1.15 can be then expressed as follows:

$$K = \frac{\prod\_{i=1}^{m} a\_{M\_i^{\*, \dagger}}^{n\_i}}{\prod\_{i=1 \atop H^{+}}^{\Xi \text{(}n\_i \text{-} \text{' } }} = \prod\_{i=1}^{m} \left( \frac{a\_{M\_i^{\*, \dagger}}}{a\_{H^{+}}^{z\_i^{\*}}} \right)^{n\_i} \tag{1.18}$$

$$Q = \bigvee\_{K} \tag{1.19}$$

The saturation state of a fluid is often expressed in terms of the ratio (Q/K); if by common convention the dissolving mineral appears on the left side of the reaction, values of (Q/K) < 1 indicate undersaturation of the fluid with respect to the mineral, and conversely, (Q/K) > 1 is representative of supersaturation (Hellmann at al., 2009).

The dissolution rate can be described via combination of Eq.1.17 with law 1.18 and 1.19 by following kinetic equation:

$$r = r\_+ - r\_- = k\_+ \prod\_{i=1}^m a\_{M\_i^{z\_i}}^{n\_i} - k\_- \ a\_{H^+}^{\sum\_{i=1}^m i} = k\_+ \prod\_{i=1}^m a\_{M\_i^{z\_i}}^{n\_i} \left( 1 - \frac{\mathcal{Q}}{K} \right) \tag{1.20}$$

where the k represents the reaction rate constant. The chemical affinity of described reaction is defined as follow (Hellmann at al., 2009; Gérard at al., 1998):

$$A\_r = -RT\ln\left(\frac{\mathcal{Q}}{K}\right) \implies \Delta\_r G = RT\ln\left(\frac{\mathcal{Q}}{K}\right) \tag{1.21}$$

so that can be derived that:

$$\frac{Q}{K} = \exp\left(-\frac{A\_r}{RT}\right) = \exp\left(\frac{\Delta\_r G}{RT}\right) \tag{1.22}$$

The R is the universal gas constant (J·mol-1·K-1) and rG = –Ar denotes Gibbs energy (J·mol-1) and chemical affinity (J·mol-1) of reaction. The dissolution rate at near to equilibrium conditions when r+ + r– ≈ 0 requires that Q ≈ K and the ratio k+/k- ≈ K:

$$\exp\left(\frac{\Lambda\_r G}{RT}\right) = \frac{\mathcal{Q}}{K} \tag{1.23}$$

The overall dissolution rate should through combination of Eq.1.22 with Eq. 1.23 expressed as:

$$r = k\_+ \prod\_{i=1}^{m} a\_{M\_i^{z\_i^\*}}^{n\_i} \left( 1 - \exp \frac{\Delta\_r G}{RT} \right) \tag{1.24}$$

The temperature dependence of dissolution rate constant is given by Arrhenius law (Oelkers, 2001):

$$k\_+(T) = A \exp\left(-\frac{E\_a}{RT}\right) \tag{1.25}$$

The combination of Eq.1.24 and Eq.1.25 leads to equation:

$$r = \prod\_{i=1}^{m} a^{n\_i}\_{M\_i^{z\_i}} A \exp\left(-\frac{E\_a}{RT}\right) \left(1 - \exp\frac{\Delta\_r G}{RT}\right) \tag{1.26}$$

where A is pre-exponential (frequency) factor and Ea is apparent activation energy. Under conditions that are not far from equilibrium conditions (please refer to Eq.1.23) where exp (rG/RT) ≈ 1 can be dissolution rate expressed as:

$$r \approx \prod\_{i=1}^{m} a\_{M\_i^{z\_i^\*}}^{n\_i} A \exp\left(-\frac{E\_a}{RT}\right) \tag{1.27}$$

or

228 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

*OH) zn OM (MnH)zn(*

*<sup>i</sup>* <sup>2</sup> <sup>1</sup> <sup>1</sup> <sup>1</sup> <sup>2</sup> <sup>1</sup> <sup>2</sup> <sup>1</sup>

For example, the members of olivine subgroup such as calcio-olivine, forsterite, fayalite, tephroite... for that M(1) = Ca, Mg, Fe2+, Mn..., trivalent cations does not present and M(3) = Si,

<sup>2</sup>*OHSiMHSiOM* <sup>42</sup>

The kinetics of this reversible chemical reaction involving competition between two elementary – forward (+) and reverse (–) reactions, can be easily expressed by applying the

*r*

The equilibrium constant K of forward and reverse Q reaction 1.15 can be then expressed as

 *m i*

The saturation state of a fluid is often expressed in terms of the ratio (Q/K); if by common convention the dissolving mineral appears on the left side of the reaction, values of (Q/K) < 1 indicate undersaturation of the fluid with respect to the mineral, and conversely, (Q/K) >

The dissolution rate can be described via combination of Eq.1.17 with law 1.18 and 1.19 by

*<sup>Q</sup> akakakrrr*

 

> 

*K Q*

 

*exp <sup>K</sup>*

 

*zn H*

1 1 1

where the k represents the reaction rate constant. The chemical affinity of described reaction

*<sup>K</sup>*

*RT*

*exp RT A*

*m <sup>i</sup> ii <sup>i</sup>*

*<sup>Q</sup> lnRTG*

*m i*

*n M*

*i i z i*

 

*<sup>r</sup> lnRTA <sup>r</sup>* (1.21)

 

*<sup>Q</sup> <sup>r</sup> <sup>r</sup>* (1.22)

*G*

 

*m i n M*

1 1

*K*

1 is representative of supersaturation (Hellmann at al., 2009).

is defined as follow (Hellmann at al., 2009; Gérard at al., 1998):

*m i*

*n M*

*iz i*

*a*

 

*m <sup>i</sup> ii*

*a*

1

*zn H*

*i iz i*

 

 

*a*

 

*m <sup>i</sup> ii zn*

4

*n,i <sup>i</sup>*

*m i*

Van't Hoff law such that:

following kinetic equation:

so that can be derived that:

follows:

*z*

*i*

*m i ii*

 

 

 

are then dissolved according to following reaction scheme:

2

*i*

*m i ii <sup>m</sup>*

(1.15)

*z ii*

<sup>2</sup> 28 4 (1.16)

*<sup>r</sup> rrrr* <sup>1</sup> (1.17)

*<sup>K</sup> <sup>Q</sup>* <sup>1</sup> (1.19)

 

(1.20)

*K*

1

(1.18)

 

 

 

*i i z i*

*z H M*

*a*

*n*

*i*

 

$$\ln r \approx \ln \prod\_{i=1}^{m} a\_{M\_i^{\tau\_i^\*}}^{n\_i} + \ln A - \frac{E\_a}{R} \frac{1}{T} \tag{1.28}$$

The kinetic parameter of dissolution process can be then estimated from Arrhenius plot as the slope (-Ea/R) of the dependence of ln r on reciprocal temperature. Assuming information about ionic product of released cations (∏aM(i)n(i)), the value of A can be calculated from the intercept with y-axis.

A general scheme for the dissolution of a mineral or glass can be written as follow (Wieland et al.,1988):

#### *Reactants Aqueous Species Precursor Complex Activated complex Products* (1.29)

The precursor complex has the same chemical formula as the activated complex, but the activated complex has more energy. Within the context of transition-state theory (TST), the activated complex is in equilibrium with other species that precede it in the reaction sequence. It follows that a mineral dissolution rate can be considered to be proportional to

Activation of Bentonite and Talc by Acetic Acid

Eq.1.24 is valid only at equilibrium.

**1.2 Clay minerals** 

**Paper industry** 

**Plastics and rubber** 

**Dyes and paints** 

**Ceramics** Kaolinite, illite, talc,

**Catalysts** Bentonite,

vermikulite...

palygorskyte...

pyrophyllite....

Kaolinite, pyrophyllite....

Kaolinite, micas,

as a Carbonation Feedstock for Mineral Storage of CO2 231

theoretically compatible with the kinetic law 1.24, assuming an equilibrium existing between the activated complex and reactants in the forward and reverse directions. However, this notion is not required to obtain Eq.1.24 and indeed leads to a paradox that lies in the fact that equilibrium was assumed between the activated complex and reactants in the forward direction, but that a second equilibrium was also assumed between the activated complex and the product in the reverse direction. This implies equilibrium between the products and the reactants, so the net rate should be zero. This paradox, of course, does not call into question the expression of the kinetic constants: the forward rate simply offsets the reverse rate. Postulating equilibrium between the reactants forming the activated complex in both directions and the activated complex therefore implies that

Human life and the existence of many organisms on this planet are connected with clays. Clay minerals are the basic constituents of clay raw materials and clay raw material has always played the substantial role in human life (Table 1.3) due to their wide-ranging properties, high resistance to atmospheric conditions, geochemical purity, easy access to their deposits near the earth's surface and low price. A majority of clays is known for its plasticity. However, many clay raw materials are not plastic, or they are semi-plastic such as clay stones, clay shales, talc, pyrophyllite, vermiculite and coarser mica. The properties of clay minerals also reflect the state and distribution of the electrostatic charge of the structural layers. The negative charge is a result of the ionic substitutions in the octahedral

> chlorites, palygorskite...

**Adhesives** Kaolinite, **Water** 

Kaolinite, bentonite, pyrophyllite....

Vermiculite, micas...

Palygorskite, sepiolite...

**Bonding material** 

**purificati on** 

**Agricultur al and forestry** 

**Polishing materials** 

**Waste treatment**  Kaolin, bentonite, bentonite...

Micas, bentonite...

Vermiculite

Palygorskyte, vermi-kulite, bentonite...

Bentonite

and tetrahedral sheets of clay minerals (Konta 1995; Murray; 2000).

Kaolinite, **Adsorbents** Bentonite,

**Pharmaceut ic and cosmetics** 

**Insulating material** 

**Molecular sieves** 

Table 1.3. Traditional application area of clay minerals (Konta 1995; Murray; 2000).

A significant role for clay minerals in the origin of life was postulated by Bernal, 1967. Clay surface could adsorb and concentrate organic substances and some hypothesis supposed that clay crystals could function as the earliest genetic information storing material (C.- Smith, 1966 and 1982) and iron-rich clay have significant importance in the origin of the

the concentration of this "rate-controlling" precursor complex at the surface in accord with (Oelkers, 2001):

$$r\_+ = k\_+ X\_{\;p} \tag{1.30}$$

where k+ refers to a rate constant consistent with the P precursor complex and XP stands for the mole fraction of the precursor complex at the surface.

The dissolution mechanism of this mineral or glass is often initiated by the formation of the precursor complex through one or more exchange reactions. The process leads to formation of the leached surface through the metal-proton exchange. The next part of the dissolution reaction is destruction of the leached surface (Oelkers, 2001), i.e. incongruent dissolution takes place. The overall mechanism then may consist of a series of "i" elementary steps:

$$r = r\_+^i - r\_-^i = \sigma\_i r \tag{1.31}$$

The exponent is generally known as Temkin's average stoichiometric number, which is equal to the ratio of the rate of destruction of the activated or precursor complex relative to the overall dissolution rate. The value is related to the stoichiometric number of precursor complexes that can be formed from one mole of the commonly adopted chemical formula of a mineral or glass and it can have a value other than one (Aagaard & Hegelson, 1982). The average stoichiometric coefficient for the overall dissolution process that consists from isteps can be defined as follows (Gin at al., 2008):

$$\sigma = \frac{\sum\_{i=1}^{\sum} \left( \sigma\_i \,\,\Delta\_r \, G\_i \right)}{\sum\_{i=1} \Delta\_r \, G\_i} = \frac{\Delta\_r G}{\sum\_{i=1} \Delta\_r \, G\_i} \tag{1.32}$$

For reaction near to equilibrium we obtain:

$$\frac{r\_+}{r\_-} = \prod\_{i=1} \frac{r\_+^i}{r\_i^-} = \exp\left(-\frac{\Delta\_r G}{RT}\right) \tag{1.33}$$

and

$$r = r\_+ \left( \mathbf{l} - \exp\left(\frac{\Delta\_r G}{\sigma \, RT}\right) \right) \tag{1.34}$$

From the general law of mineral dissolution proposed by Aagaard and Helgeson, 1982 it can be derived by the same way as before:

$$r = k\_+ \prod\_{i=1}^{m} a\_{M\_i^{z\_i^+}}^{n\_i} \left( 1 - \exp \frac{\Delta\_r G}{\sigma RT} \right) \tag{1.35}$$

As it was pointed by Gin at al., 2008, the Eq.1.24 is often presented as direct application of transition state theory. In fact, this law may be derived using simple kinetic concepts (notably the Van't Hoff law) irrespective of any hypotheses concerning the reaction mechanisms. The notion of an activated complex associated with an elementary step is theoretically compatible with the kinetic law 1.24, assuming an equilibrium existing between the activated complex and reactants in the forward and reverse directions. However, this notion is not required to obtain Eq.1.24 and indeed leads to a paradox that lies in the fact that equilibrium was assumed between the activated complex and reactants in the forward direction, but that a second equilibrium was also assumed between the activated complex and the product in the reverse direction. This implies equilibrium between the products and the reactants, so the net rate should be zero. This paradox, of course, does not call into question the expression of the kinetic constants: the forward rate simply offsets the reverse rate. Postulating equilibrium between the reactants forming the activated complex in both directions and the activated complex therefore implies that Eq.1.24 is valid only at equilibrium.

#### **1.2 Clay minerals**

230 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

the concentration of this "rate-controlling" precursor complex at the surface in accord with

where k+ refers to a rate constant consistent with the P precursor complex and XP stands for

The dissolution mechanism of this mineral or glass is often initiated by the formation of the precursor complex through one or more exchange reactions. The process leads to formation of the leached surface through the metal-proton exchange. The next part of the dissolution reaction is destruction of the leached surface (Oelkers, 2001), i.e. incongruent dissolution takes place. The overall mechanism then may consist of a series of "i" elementary steps:

> *rrrr <sup>i</sup> ii*

The exponent is generally known as Temkin's average stoichiometric number, which is equal to the ratio of the rate of destruction of the activated or precursor complex relative to the overall dissolution rate. The value is related to the stoichiometric number of precursor complexes that can be formed from one mole of the commonly adopted chemical formula of a mineral or glass and it can have a value other than one (Aagaard & Hegelson, 1982). The average stoichiometric coefficient for the overall dissolution process that consists from i-

*G*

*<sup>i</sup> ir*

 

> 

*i*

1

*<sup>i</sup> <sup>i</sup>*

1

*<sup>i</sup> iri*

1

 

*r*

*G*

*r <sup>r</sup>*

*i*

*exp <sup>r</sup> r*

*RT*

From the general law of mineral dissolution proposed by Aagaard and Helgeson, 1982 it can

 

As it was pointed by Gin at al., 2008, the Eq.1.24 is often presented as direct application of transition state theory. In fact, this law may be derived using simple kinetic concepts (notably the Van't Hoff law) irrespective of any hypotheses concerning the reaction mechanisms. The notion of an activated complex associated with an elementary step is

 

*n M i iz i* 1

*<sup>G</sup> akr exp <sup>r</sup> <sup>m</sup>*

1 1

*<sup>i</sup> ir r*

> *RT G*

> >

> > >

*exprr <sup>r</sup>* 1 (1.34)

 

*G*

*RT*

 

*G G*

 

the mole fraction of the precursor complex at the surface.

steps can be defined as follows (Gin at al., 2008):

For reaction near to equilibrium we obtain:

be derived by the same way as before:

and

*Xkr <sup>p</sup>* (1.30)

(1.31)

(1.32)

(1.33)

(1.35)

(Oelkers, 2001):

Human life and the existence of many organisms on this planet are connected with clays. Clay minerals are the basic constituents of clay raw materials and clay raw material has always played the substantial role in human life (Table 1.3) due to their wide-ranging properties, high resistance to atmospheric conditions, geochemical purity, easy access to their deposits near the earth's surface and low price. A majority of clays is known for its plasticity. However, many clay raw materials are not plastic, or they are semi-plastic such as clay stones, clay shales, talc, pyrophyllite, vermiculite and coarser mica. The properties of clay minerals also reflect the state and distribution of the electrostatic charge of the structural layers. The negative charge is a result of the ionic substitutions in the octahedral and tetrahedral sheets of clay minerals (Konta 1995; Murray; 2000).


Table 1.3. Traditional application area of clay minerals (Konta 1995; Murray; 2000).

A significant role for clay minerals in the origin of life was postulated by Bernal, 1967. Clay surface could adsorb and concentrate organic substances and some hypothesis supposed that clay crystals could function as the earliest genetic information storing material (C.- Smith, 1966 and 1982) and iron-rich clay have significant importance in the origin of the

Activation of Bentonite and Talc by Acetic Acid

Konta 1995).

(Hellmann at al., 2009):

Augusto at al., 2000).

(Caglar at al., 2008).

montmorillonite is shown in Fig.1.2.

as a Carbonation Feedstock for Mineral Storage of CO2 233

"T" or by [AlO(OH)]6- octahedrons which are signed as "O". The interior of tetrahedrons and octahedrons contains smaller metal cations, their apices are occupied by oxygen's from which some are connected to protons (as OH). All these fundamental structural elements are arranged to form a hexagonal network in each sheet (Caglar at al., 2008;

Numerous rock-forming silicates (feldspars, granites, syenites, gneisses, arkoses, phonolites, rhyolites...) alter into clay minerals such as kaolinite (Eq.1.36), illite (Eq.1.37) and montmorillonite

Dissolution and precipitation of any feldspar can be described by the general formula

8 (1 )[ ( ) ] (3 ) *Na K Ca Al Si O H O x Na y K xy z z z z Ca z Al OH z H SiO*

where x + y + z = 1. The main factors affecting the rates and mechanisms of dissolution include the pH, temperature, composition of the liquid phase and feldspar, feldspar granulometry, the influence of atmospheric condition and vegetation (Chardon at al., 2006;

**1.3 Properties and mineralogy raw materials main minerals – montmorillonite and talc**  Bentonite occurs in the form of lenses in other sediments mostly as a weathering product after igneous material settled in water. It also commonly occurs as a product of supergene or hydrothermal alteration of some volcanic rocks, e.g. rhyolites, porphyres, phonolites, dacites, andesites and basalts. Smectites are especially formed through the decomposition of volcanic glass. The chemical composition of smectite, the dominant mineral of bentonites, is variable. It varies between montmorillonite (Al1.67(Mg,Fe2+)0.33Si4O10(OH)20.5Ca0.33 · nH2O) and beidellite (Na0.5Al2(Si3.5Al0.5)O10(OH)2 · nH2O). In the interlayer space of both smectites

Smectites are an important class of clay minerals; they are utilized in many industrial processes due to their high CEC, swelling ability, and high surface area (Madejová at al., 2006). Montmorillonite was the name given to a clay mineral found near Montmorillon in France as long ago as 1874 (Grimshaw, 1971). Montmorillonite is classified as a dioctahedral clay mineral with the 2:1 type of layer linkage that is related to the group of smectites

Dioctahedral layered structure of 2:1 type represents T-O-T sheet layered mineral with two tetrahedral and one octahedral layer where the centre of octahedron are predominantly occupied by trivalent cations such as Al3+, Fe3+, Cr3+, V3+, etc. The structure of

1 38 2

different cations are adsorbed, especially alkalis and alkaline earths (Konta 1995).

 

2

2 <sup>83</sup> <sup>2</sup> 112 <sup>2</sup> <sup>4222</sup> 2 *KHCO*<sup>3</sup> 4 *SiOH* <sup>44</sup> *)OH(OSiAlOHCOOKAlSi* (1.36)

83 2 2083 4 44 <sup>2</sup> *Mg* 3 4 2 *SiOHNa)OH(OMgSiNaAlOHONaAlSi* (1.38)

4 4 4

(1.39)

<sup>83</sup> <sup>2</sup> <sup>2</sup> <sup>74</sup> <sup>20</sup> <sup>4</sup> <sup>443</sup> 5 204 *)OH(O)AlSi(KAlOHCOOKAlSi* 4 *KHCO* 8 *SiOH* (1.37)

(Eq.1.38) through an intense hydrolysis, supported by natural acids (Konta, 1995):

photosynthetic organisms (Hartman, 1975). Clay minerals, the essential constituents of argillaceous rocks, can be classified in seven groups according to their crystal structure and crystal chemistry. These groups are listed together with their properties and the most important members in the Table 1.4.


Table 1.4. Classification of phyllosilicates (Martin et al., 1991; Konta, 1995).

Clay minerals represent a large family of alumino-silicate structures with a range of chemical composition, structure and surface properties. Their crystal structure with a few exceptions consists of sheets firmly arranged in structural layers. Hence are these minerals termed as sheet silicates or phyllosilicates. The individual layers consist of two, three or four sheets. The sheets are formed either by tetrahedrons [SiO4]4- which are abbreviated as

photosynthetic organisms (Hartman, 1975). Clay minerals, the essential constituents of argillaceous rocks, can be classified in seven groups according to their crystal structure and crystal chemistry. These groups are listed together with their properties and the most

> **Interlayer contains (1)**

**Na+**, **Ca2+**, K+, Li+, H3O+ and H2O

Ca2+, □ (3)...

Di- or trioctahedral layer

(4) Chanel containing water and exchangeable hydrated cations. Water can be withdrawn without structural lattice changes similar to zeolites.

**Octahedral layer type:** 

Dioctahedral Kaolinite,

Trioctahedal Serpetine

Trioctahedal Pyrophyllite

Dioctahedral Dioctahedral

Trioctahedal Trioctahedal

Dioctahedral Muscovite,

Dioctahedral Donbassite Trioctahedal Klinochlore

Trioctahe-dal Biotite,

vermikulite

vermikulite

flogopite...

palygorskite

illite...

Trioctahedal Saponite

Dioctahedral Montmorillonite

Dioctahedral Talc

**Example** 

dickite, nacrite...

important members in the Table 1.4.

**Length d001 [Å]**

9.6 –

**Interlaye r charge** 

t-o zero ---

t-o-t zero ---

21.0 (2) 0.2 – 0.6

t-o-t ~14.3 0.6 – 0.9 **Mg2**<sup>+</sup>

~14.3 different

Table 1.4. Classification of phyllosilicates (Martin et al., 1991; Konta, 1995).

~10.0 0.9 – 1.0 **K+, Na+, H3O**+,

and sepiolite other (4) --- different other (4) other (4) Sepiolite,

Clay minerals represent a large family of alumino-silicate structures with a range of chemical composition, structure and surface properties. Their crystal structure with a few exceptions consists of sheets firmly arranged in structural layers. Hence are these minerals termed as sheet silicates or phyllosilicates. The individual layers consist of two, three or four sheets. The sheets are formed either by tetrahedrons [SiO4]4- which are abbreviated as

**type** 

1 : 1

2 : 1

t-o-t

2 : 1

2 : 1 t-o-t

t-o-t + o

(1) Interlayer ions that are present predominantly are marked by bold. (2) For untreated smectites is typical d001 ≈

**Group Layer** 

Smectites 2 : 1

Chlorites 2 : 1 + 1

Palygorskite

15 Å. (3) Vacation.

Vermiculites

Micas

Kaolinite and serpentine

Talc and pyrophyllite "T" or by [AlO(OH)]6- octahedrons which are signed as "O". The interior of tetrahedrons and octahedrons contains smaller metal cations, their apices are occupied by oxygen's from which some are connected to protons (as OH). All these fundamental structural elements are arranged to form a hexagonal network in each sheet (Caglar at al., 2008; Konta 1995).

Numerous rock-forming silicates (feldspars, granites, syenites, gneisses, arkoses, phonolites, rhyolites...) alter into clay minerals such as kaolinite (Eq.1.36), illite (Eq.1.37) and montmorillonite (Eq.1.38) through an intense hydrolysis, supported by natural acids (Konta, 1995):

$$2\text{ KAlSi}\_3O\_8 + 2\text{ CO}\_2 + 11\text{ H}\_2\text{O} \rightarrow \text{Al}\_2\text{Si}\_2O\_2(OH)\_4 + 2\text{ KHCO}\_3 + 4\text{ H}\_4\text{SiO}\_4\tag{1.36}$$

$$2\text{ K}\text{ AlSi}\_3\text{O}\_8 + 4\text{ CO}\_2 + 20\text{ H}\_2\text{O} \rightarrow \text{KAl}\_4(\text{Si}\_7\text{Al})\text{O}\_{20}(\text{OH})\_4 + 4\text{ KHCO}\_3 + 8\text{ H}\_4\text{SiO}\_4 \quad \text{(1.37)}$$

$$\text{Mg}^{2+} + 3\text{ NaAlSi}\_3\text{O}\_8 + 4\text{ }H\_2\text{O} \rightarrow \text{NaAl}\_3\text{MgSi}\_8\text{O}\_{20}(\text{OH})\_4 + 2\text{ Na} + H\_4\text{SiO}\_4\tag{1.38}$$

Dissolution and precipitation of any feldspar can be described by the general formula (Hellmann at al., 2009):

$$\begin{aligned} \text{Na}\_{x}\text{K}\_{y}\text{Ca}\_{z}\text{Al}\_{1+z}\text{Si}\_{3-z}\text{O}\_{8} + 8\text{ H}\_{2}\text{O} &\rightarrow \text{x Na}^{+} + \text{y K}^{+} \\ \text{1} + \text{z Ca}^{2+} + \text{(1+z)}\{\text{Al}(\text{OH})\_{4}\text{I}^{-} + \text{(3-z)} + \text{H}\_{4}\text{SiO}\_{4} \end{aligned} \tag{1.39}$$

where x + y + z = 1. The main factors affecting the rates and mechanisms of dissolution include the pH, temperature, composition of the liquid phase and feldspar, feldspar granulometry, the influence of atmospheric condition and vegetation (Chardon at al., 2006; Augusto at al., 2000).

#### **1.3 Properties and mineralogy raw materials main minerals – montmorillonite and talc**

Bentonite occurs in the form of lenses in other sediments mostly as a weathering product after igneous material settled in water. It also commonly occurs as a product of supergene or hydrothermal alteration of some volcanic rocks, e.g. rhyolites, porphyres, phonolites, dacites, andesites and basalts. Smectites are especially formed through the decomposition of volcanic glass. The chemical composition of smectite, the dominant mineral of bentonites, is variable. It varies between montmorillonite (Al1.67(Mg,Fe2+)0.33Si4O10(OH)20.5Ca0.33 · nH2O) and beidellite (Na0.5Al2(Si3.5Al0.5)O10(OH)2 · nH2O). In the interlayer space of both smectites different cations are adsorbed, especially alkalis and alkaline earths (Konta 1995).

Smectites are an important class of clay minerals; they are utilized in many industrial processes due to their high CEC, swelling ability, and high surface area (Madejová at al., 2006). Montmorillonite was the name given to a clay mineral found near Montmorillon in France as long ago as 1874 (Grimshaw, 1971). Montmorillonite is classified as a dioctahedral clay mineral with the 2:1 type of layer linkage that is related to the group of smectites (Caglar at al., 2008).

Dioctahedral layered structure of 2:1 type represents T-O-T sheet layered mineral with two tetrahedral and one octahedral layer where the centre of octahedron are predominantly occupied by trivalent cations such as Al3+, Fe3+, Cr3+, V3+, etc. The structure of montmorillonite is shown in Fig.1.2.

Activation of Bentonite and Talc by Acetic Acid

pH meter connected to PC (Fig.2.1).

**2.1 Evaluation of leaching test** 

Eq.2.1 depend on the temperature.

as a Carbonation Feedstock for Mineral Storage of CO2 235

Leaching procedure was performed using the well stirred suspension of clay mineral in diluted solution of acetic acid (Lachema, p.a.) of concentration 3 dm3·mol-1. Temperature of leaching bath ranged from 22 to 50 ◦C. The temperature of double wall glass reactor was adjusted using external water flow of temperature controlled water bath (thermostat). Sample was poured on by solution of acetic acid that was preheated to the applied leaching temperature in water bath of thermostat. Hence, the stirring of system by magnetic stirrer was used. Suspension contained 12.5 g of wollastonite per dm3 of leaching solution. The pH value of dispersing medium for 24 h leaching experiment was continuously measured by

Solid part of suspension was separated by filtration through dense filter paper (red strip) after leaching. Filter cake was washed three times by slightly acidified (acetic acid) distilled water. The quantities of ions in original sample and leachate were determined by the Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES; ICP IRIS Iterdip II XSP duo). Filter cake was dried at 110 ◦C; its properties and composition were subsequently

Thermal analysis – simultaneous termogravimetry, differential thermal analysis and effluent gas analysis (TG–DTA and EGA) were performed with TG–DTA analyzer (Q600, Thermal Instruments) connected with FT-IR spectrometer (iS10, Thermo Scientific) through TGA/FT-IR interface (Thermo Scientific) heated to temperature 200 °C. That enables to study the composition of gas phase that was formed during processes which take place in heated sample. All experiments were performed with heating rate 20 ◦C·min−1 using argon with

Infrared spectra were collected upon mid-IR region via KBr pellets technique using FT-IR spectrometer iS10. Specimens were ground with dry spectroscopic grade KBr powder using the sample to KBr mass ratio of 1 : 100. The spectrum was obtained from 128 scans collected with resolution of 8 cm-1. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was performed with a model BS 340 (Tesla). The X-ray diffractometer Siemens D500 with CuK radiation at 40 kV and 40 mA was utilized for identification the phase composition of raw material and leached samples. Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) analysis (Chembet 3000, Quantachrome

The method applied for monitoring of the leaching process is the same as for study of leaching of calcium from wollastonite (Ptáček at al., 2010). The buffer system of weak acid (CH3CO2H) and its salt (Ca(CH3CO2)2 or Mg(CH3CO2)2) with a strong base, i.e. Ca(OH)2 or Mg(OH)2, was formed during dissolution of raw material. With respect to reaction stoichiometry, the amount of formed acetate ions was double to concentration of Ca2+ ions released from wollastonite. Hence following subform of well known Henderson buffer

[ ]

where pKa denotes dissociation constant of acetic acid at given temperature. All variables in

][2 23

2 *HCOCH Ca*

(2.1)

investigated by simultaneous TG–DTA–EGA, FT-IR, BET and SEM.

flowing rate 100 cm3·min−1 as the carrier gas, i.e. in the inert atmosphere.

Instruments) was used to determine of leached samples specific surface.

equation may be used for estimation of the course of leaching process:

*<sup>a</sup> logTpKTpH*

Fig. 1.2. The structure of montmorillonite (M) and talc (T).

Talc (Mg6Si8O20(OH)4) is a common 2:1 layer lattice silicate, the structure of which consists of two tetrahedral silicate sheets separated by an octahedral Mg-O(OH) sheet, i.e. it is the trioctahedral magnesian analogue of pyrophyllite (Al2Si4O10(OH)2). Among its many uses, talc is an important raw material for magnesium ceramics (steatites, cordierite, enstatite and forsterite products). As the ceramic raw material, its thermal decomposition behaviour is of considerable interest (MacKenzie & Meinhold, 1994). Talc and pyrophyllite crystallize during metamorphic or hydrothermal processes (Konta, 1995). The structure of talc is shown in Fig.1.2.

#### **2. Leaching experiment**

All experiments reported in this work were performed on bentonite from locality Obrnice (Czech Republic) produced by the company Keramost a.s., that was used as the source of Na, Ca - montmorillonite, and talc produced by Združena v.d. Spišká nová Ves, plant Gelnica from locality Gemerská poloma (Slovak Republic). The composition of montmorillonite and talc can be expressed by the empiric formula Na0,2Ca0,1Al2Si4O10(OH)2(H2O)10 and Mg3Si4O10(OH)2, respectively.

Fig. 2.1. Schematic illustration of the bentonite (B) and Talc (T) leaching experiment.

Talc (Mg6Si8O20(OH)4) is a common 2:1 layer lattice silicate, the structure of which consists of two tetrahedral silicate sheets separated by an octahedral Mg-O(OH) sheet, i.e. it is the trioctahedral magnesian analogue of pyrophyllite (Al2Si4O10(OH)2). Among its many uses, talc is an important raw material for magnesium ceramics (steatites, cordierite, enstatite and forsterite products). As the ceramic raw material, its thermal decomposition behaviour is of considerable interest (MacKenzie & Meinhold, 1994). Talc and pyrophyllite crystallize during metamorphic or hydrothermal processes (Konta, 1995). The structure of talc is shown

All experiments reported in this work were performed on bentonite from locality Obrnice (Czech Republic) produced by the company Keramost a.s., that was used as the source of Na, Ca - montmorillonite, and talc produced by Združena v.d. Spišká nová Ves, plant Gelnica from locality Gemerská poloma (Slovak Republic). The composition of montmorillonite and talc can be expressed by the empiric formula

Fig. 2.1. Schematic illustration of the bentonite (B) and Talc (T) leaching experiment.

Fig. 1.2. The structure of montmorillonite (M) and talc (T).

Na0,2Ca0,1Al2Si4O10(OH)2(H2O)10 and Mg3Si4O10(OH)2, respectively.

in Fig.1.2.

**2. Leaching experiment** 

Leaching procedure was performed using the well stirred suspension of clay mineral in diluted solution of acetic acid (Lachema, p.a.) of concentration 3 dm3·mol-1. Temperature of leaching bath ranged from 22 to 50 ◦C. The temperature of double wall glass reactor was adjusted using external water flow of temperature controlled water bath (thermostat). Sample was poured on by solution of acetic acid that was preheated to the applied leaching temperature in water bath of thermostat. Hence, the stirring of system by magnetic stirrer was used. Suspension contained 12.5 g of wollastonite per dm3 of leaching solution. The pH value of dispersing medium for 24 h leaching experiment was continuously measured by pH meter connected to PC (Fig.2.1).

Solid part of suspension was separated by filtration through dense filter paper (red strip) after leaching. Filter cake was washed three times by slightly acidified (acetic acid) distilled water. The quantities of ions in original sample and leachate were determined by the Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES; ICP IRIS Iterdip II XSP duo). Filter cake was dried at 110 ◦C; its properties and composition were subsequently investigated by simultaneous TG–DTA–EGA, FT-IR, BET and SEM.

Thermal analysis – simultaneous termogravimetry, differential thermal analysis and effluent gas analysis (TG–DTA and EGA) were performed with TG–DTA analyzer (Q600, Thermal Instruments) connected with FT-IR spectrometer (iS10, Thermo Scientific) through TGA/FT-IR interface (Thermo Scientific) heated to temperature 200 °C. That enables to study the composition of gas phase that was formed during processes which take place in heated sample. All experiments were performed with heating rate 20 ◦C·min−1 using argon with flowing rate 100 cm3·min−1 as the carrier gas, i.e. in the inert atmosphere.

Infrared spectra were collected upon mid-IR region via KBr pellets technique using FT-IR spectrometer iS10. Specimens were ground with dry spectroscopic grade KBr powder using the sample to KBr mass ratio of 1 : 100. The spectrum was obtained from 128 scans collected with resolution of 8 cm-1. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was performed with a model BS 340 (Tesla). The X-ray diffractometer Siemens D500 with CuK radiation at 40 kV and 40 mA was utilized for identification the phase composition of raw material and leached samples. Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) analysis (Chembet 3000, Quantachrome Instruments) was used to determine of leached samples specific surface.

#### **2.1 Evaluation of leaching test**

The method applied for monitoring of the leaching process is the same as for study of leaching of calcium from wollastonite (Ptáček at al., 2010). The buffer system of weak acid (CH3CO2H) and its salt (Ca(CH3CO2)2 or Mg(CH3CO2)2) with a strong base, i.e. Ca(OH)2 or Mg(OH)2, was formed during dissolution of raw material. With respect to reaction stoichiometry, the amount of formed acetate ions was double to concentration of Ca2+ ions released from wollastonite. Hence following subform of well known Henderson buffer equation may be used for estimation of the course of leaching process:

$$pH(T) = pK\_a(T) + \log \frac{2\left[Ca^{2+}\right]}{\left[CH\_3CO\_2H\right]}\tag{2.1}$$

where pKa denotes dissociation constant of acetic acid at given temperature. All variables in Eq.2.1 depend on the temperature.

Activation of Bentonite and Talc by Acetic Acid

enables to estimate the dissolution rate constant as:

**3. Results and discussion** 

**Empirical formula** 

**Composition**

**Classification (Strunz)** 

**Na2O** 

**[%]** 

**X50 / X90 [m] (4)** 9.12/

**ZŽ (8) [%] / Colour** 19.54 /

as a Carbonation Feedstock for Mineral Storage of CO2 237

using values of r+ determined for several temperatures. The plot of ln k vs. T−1 (Arrhenius plot) should be straight line, where the slope (−Ea/R) yields to the apparent activation energy of the process and y-axis intercept is then equal to the ln A. For the early stage of dissolution process, the concentration of M2+ ions in leaching solution is increasing with time almost linearly. It stands to the reason that the initial part of dissolution process

][ <sup>1</sup> *<sup>s</sup> dt*

There are many factors affecting the course of experiment such as pH of leaching solution, kind and solvent composition, temperature, pressure, particle size distribution and particle shape, concentration of solid in the suspension and stirring intensity. Hence, the initial state of raw material serving as the source of clay mineral should be characterized. The surrey of

Na0,2Ca0,1Al2Si4O10(OH)2(H2O)10 Mg3Si4O10(OH)2

1.13 (1) 1.76 (2) 1.38 (3) --- (1) --- (2) 1.93 (3)

(14)

**K2O** --- 0.84 1.23 --- --- 3.16 **CaO** 1.02 0.45 11.88 --- --- 3.35 **MgO** --- 2.74 3.75 31.88 35.12 16.94 **Al2O3** 18.57 32.85 25.79 --- --- 21.64 **Fe2O3** --- 13.72 11.29 --- --- 1.68 **SiO2** 43.77 41.50 36.63 63.37 58.43 51.29 **TiO2** --- --- 1.65 --- --- --- **H2O** 36.09 6.14 6.39 4.75 6.45 6.65

**Colour** Light yellow Light grey (14)

used raw materials composition and properties are listed in the Table 3.1.

VIII/H.19-20

37.67

red

**SH (5) [g·cm-3]** 0.76 0.71 **SHS (6) [g·cm-3]** 0.81 0.73 **Moisture (7) [%]** 7.68 0.51

**OH (9) [g·cm-3]** 2.23 2.80 **SS (10) [m2·g-1]** 95.55 2.10 **(11) [mV]** -13.5 -13.9

**Mineral Montmorillonite Talc** 

*TR*

*<sup>E</sup> Aln)T(rln <sup>a</sup>* <sup>1</sup> (2.5)

*dy <sup>k</sup>* (2.6)

VIII/H.09-40

29.33/ 71.65

12.71 / beige

#### **2.2 Evaluation of leaching process kinetics**

The monitoring of the progress of leaching experiment reflects the following facts and presumptions:


The steady-state dissolution rate for applied temperature r+(T) (mol·m-2·s-1) can be calculated using following equation (Oelkers, 2001):

$$r\_+(T) = \frac{\left(\left[\boldsymbol{M}^{\circ 2+}\right]\_i - \left[\boldsymbol{M}^{\circ 2+}\right]\_t\right)V}{\mathbf{v}\_{M(\boldsymbol{A}\boldsymbol{e})\_2}\ S\left(t - t\_i\right)} = \frac{\boldsymbol{\Delta}\left\{\boldsymbol{M}^{\circ 2+}\right\}V}{S\ \boldsymbol{\Delta t}}\tag{2.2}$$

where [M2+]i and [M2+]t are an initial ti and general time t concentrations of M2+ = Ca2+ and Mg2+ ions, respectively. The initial time of the process means the beginning of an induction period, so that the amount of Ca and Mg released during dissolution of calcite and dolomite can be excluded. The quantities V, νM(Ac)2 and S are a volume of the system, stoichiometric number of M(Ac)2 (νM(Ac) 2 ≈ 0,3 for the Ca-montmorillonite and νM(Ac) 2 ≈ 0,3 for talc) and total surface area of sample introduced into the reactor, respectively. The term Δ[M2+]/Δt of Eq.2.2 can be determined as the slope of the linear part of the plot of concentration vs. time (Cama, 1999). This method of r+(T) value estimation is in particular favourable for the systems with very complicated stoichiometry of ongoing reactions such as in studied montmorillonite clay.

The reached stage of the system during the leaching process can be characterized by fractional conversion (degree of conversion) as follows:

$$\mathbf{y} = \frac{[\boldsymbol{M}^{\text{2+}}]\_{i} - [\boldsymbol{M}^{\text{2+}}]\_{i}}{[\boldsymbol{M}^{\text{2+}}]\_{i} - [\boldsymbol{M}^{\text{2+}}]\_{i}} \tag{2.3}$$

where bottom index i, t and ∞ denotes the initial (beginning of the induction period), currently measured and final value of M2+ ions concentration. The degree of conversion can hold values from 0 to 1 and its time dependence enables to estimate mechanism and kinetics of leaching process by linearization procedure. The method is based on the formula:

$$\mathbf{g}(\mathbf{y}) = k \,\mathrm{t} \quad \left[ T = k \mathrm{const.} \right] \tag{2.4}$$

where k is the rate constant of the process. If the kinetic function g(y) corresponding to the proper mechanism was chose, the dependence of g(y) on t should be straight line with the slope k on wide interval of y. The mathematic expression of the kinetic function can be found in published literature (Vlaev at al., 2008; Duan at al., 2008; Saikia at al., 2002; Šesták, 1984). The variation of mineral dissolution rates with temperature is commonly described using the empirical Arrhenius law - Eq.1.25 (Oelkers, 2001; Cama at al., 1999). The estimation of the apparent activation energy and the pre-exponential (frequency) factor (A) is based on the logarithmic form of the Arrhenius law:

$$\ln r\_+(T) = \ln A - \frac{E\_a}{R} \frac{1}{T} \tag{2.5}$$

using values of r+ determined for several temperatures. The plot of ln k vs. T−1 (Arrhenius plot) should be straight line, where the slope (−Ea/R) yields to the apparent activation energy of the process and y-axis intercept is then equal to the ln A. For the early stage of dissolution process, the concentration of M2+ ions in leaching solution is increasing with time almost linearly. It stands to the reason that the initial part of dissolution process enables to estimate the dissolution rate constant as:

$$k = \frac{d\mathbf{y}}{dt} \qquad \text{ [s}^{-1}\text{]}\tag{2.6}$$

#### **3. Results and discussion**

236 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

The monitoring of the progress of leaching experiment reflects the following facts and

1. The amount of calcium and magnesium released into the solution is much higher than other elements extracted from raw material during leaching experiments, i.e. the

3. Henderson–Hasselbach buffer equation (Eq.2.1) can be applied for the reaction mixture; 4. Leached calcium was instantaneously transported out of surface by intensive stirring of

The steady-state dissolution rate for applied temperature r+(T) (mol·m-2·s-1) can be

*)tt(S*

where [M2+]i and [M2+]t are an initial ti and general time t concentrations of M2+ = Ca2+ and Mg2+ ions, respectively. The initial time of the process means the beginning of an induction period, so that the amount of Ca and Mg released during dissolution of calcite and dolomite can be excluded. The quantities V, νM(Ac)2 and S are a volume of the system, stoichiometric number of M(Ac)2 (νM(Ac) 2 ≈ 0,3 for the Ca-montmorillonite and νM(Ac) 2 ≈ 0,3 for talc) and total surface area of sample introduced into the reactor, respectively. The term Δ[M2+]/Δt of Eq.2.2 can be determined as the slope of the linear part of the plot of concentration vs. time (Cama, 1999). This method of r+(T) value estimation is in particular favourable for the systems with very complicated stoichiometry of ongoing reactions such as in studied

The reached stage of the system during the leaching process can be characterized by

 ][][ ][][ 2 2 2 2

*MM MM*

*i*

where bottom index i, t and ∞ denotes the initial (beginning of the induction period), currently measured and final value of M2+ ions concentration. The degree of conversion can hold values from 0 to 1 and its time dependence enables to estimate mechanism and kinetics

where k is the rate constant of the process. If the kinetic function g(y) corresponding to the proper mechanism was chose, the dependence of g(y) on t should be straight line with the slope k on wide interval of y. The mathematic expression of the kinetic function can be found in published literature (Vlaev at al., 2008; Duan at al., 2008; Saikia at al., 2002; Šesták, 1984). The variation of mineral dissolution rates with temperature is commonly described using the empirical Arrhenius law - Eq.1.25 (Oelkers, 2001; Cama at al., 1999). The estimation of the apparent activation energy and the pre-exponential (frequency) factor (A)

of leaching process by linearization procedure. The method is based on the formula:

*y*

*<sup>i</sup> <sup>t</sup>* (2.3)

*konstTtkyg* .][)( (2.4)

*AcM i i t*

2

2 2

*tS V]M[*

)( (2.2)

2

2. Large excess of acetic acid in the system ensures its stable concentration level;

*V)]M[]M([ Tr*

)(

**2.2 Evaluation of leaching process kinetics** 

amount of other metals in the solution is negligible;

calculated using following equation (Oelkers, 2001):

fractional conversion (degree of conversion) as follows:

is based on the logarithmic form of the Arrhenius law:

presumptions:

the system.

montmorillonite clay.

There are many factors affecting the course of experiment such as pH of leaching solution, kind and solvent composition, temperature, pressure, particle size distribution and particle shape, concentration of solid in the suspension and stirring intensity. Hence, the initial state of raw material serving as the source of clay mineral should be characterized. The surrey of used raw materials composition and properties are listed in the Table 3.1.


Activation of Bentonite and Talc by Acetic Acid

or higher facilitates the residual carbon removing process.

EGA.

as a Carbonation Feedstock for Mineral Storage of CO2 239

The dehydroxylation of clay minerals, decomposition of carbonates and burning of organic admixtures are the main overlapping processes whose take place within temperature interval from 380 to 600 °C. The DTA shows broad endothermic peak having a composed structure at temperature 533.9 °C. The bands of carbon dioxide and water are well visible on EGA plot. These processes are affected together via partial pressure formed gas species. For example the water formed by dehydroxylation of montmorillonite slows down the diffusion of oxygen into burning organic material and shifts the organic matter process to the higher temperatures, while water vapour formed by combustion of organic admixtures leads to increasing of partial pressure of water vapours. That results into decreasing rate of dehydroxylation of clay minerals (Ptáček at al., 2010). Oxygen deficiency leading to reduction condition during TA is indicated by bands of carbon monoxide on the results of

The effects of carbonates on the above mentioned processes should be explained using the Richardson's diagrams (Richardson, 1974) as follows. The Bell-Boudoir's reaction (Eq.3.1) shows thermodynamic equilibrium at temperature 720 °C, so that the carbon monoxide is the more stable at higher temperature than carbon dioxide. That means that CO2 formed by the thermal decomposition of carbonates at temperatures near to temperature of equilibrium

> *)s(C)g(CO )g(CO .eq CT* 2 <sup>720</sup> <sup>2</sup>

The two carbonates are identified in the analysis sample – siderite (FeCO3) and dolomite (CaMg(CO3)2). Thermal decomposition of siderite that takes place at temperatures up to 410 °C are participate on the broad DTA endothermic effect at 533.9 °C. Annealing dolomite is decomposed within two steps that are represented by reactions 3.2 and 3.3. The first step takes place at 602.7 °C and second at 718.3 °C. The both processes are well visible on EGA.

The formation of SO2 was detected on EGA upon temperature interval from 800 to 870 °C due to presence of traces of pyrite. The endothermic peak at temperature 848.2 °C is related to the formation of cordierite that is connected with destruction of the phylosilicate structure

During thermal analysis of talc raw material performed up to temperature 1250 °C (Fig.3.2) is mass of the sample decreasing for about 13.12 %. The adsorbed water is removed up to 143 °C. The mass of sample was reduced for about 0.21 % during this process. The dehydroxylation of talc which takes place in temperature range from 720 to 970 °C and two steps of thermal decomposition of dolomite at 450 and 720 °C are the main occurring processes. The SO2 bands in EGA plot indicate the presence of small amount of pyrite.

The infrared spectrum of montmorillonite and talc clay is shown on Fig.3.3. The data published in literature (Eren & Afsin, 2008; Molina-Montes at al., 2008; Madejová at al., 2006; Tyagi at al., 2006; Kloprogge at al., 2005) were used for interpretation of raw material

of clay minerals. The eutectic melt was detected at temperature 1141.4 °C.

**3.2 Infrared spectroscopy** 

<sup>23</sup> <sup>3</sup> <sup>2</sup> *)g(CO)s(MgO)s(CaCO)s()CO(CaMg* (3.2)

<sup>3</sup> <sup>2</sup> *)g(CO)s(CaO)s(CaCO* (3.3)

(3.1)


Table 3.1. The composition and properties of clay raw materials.

#### **3.1 Thermal analysis**

Results of thermal analysis allow identification of main mineral phases and estimate their content in the clay raw material. The typical TG-DTA and EGA patterns of clay raw materials that were used as the source of montmorillonite and talc are shown in Fig.3.1. The DTG curve is plotted in order to reach higher sensitivity to distinguish between individual steps of thermogravimetric analysis.

Fig. 3.1. TG-DTA and EGA pattern of montmorillonite clay.

TA of bentonite performed up to 1250 °C shows that mass of sample is decreasing for about 15.42 % within to the series of six endothermic steps. Evaporation of adsorbed water leads to the first endothermic peak of the maximum at temperature about 99.4 °C. The mass of sample was up to 165.2 °C (ousted point of DTG peak) reduced at about 3.71 %. The water vapour released from the sample is also well visible on EGA. The water can be also detected in the spectrum of gas phase upon the temperature interval ranged from 225 to 260 °C, where water molecules has been ousted from the interlayer space of montmorillonite and admixture of illite. The process shows maximum rate at temperature 245.0 °C.

0103).

993-17).

0.1 gdm-3).

Results of thermal analysis allow identification of main mineral phases and estimate their content in the clay raw material. The typical TG-DTA and EGA patterns of clay raw materials that were used as the source of montmorillonite and talc are shown in Fig.3.1. The DTG curve is plotted in order to reach higher sensitivity to distinguish between individual

TA of bentonite performed up to 1250 °C shows that mass of sample is decreasing for about 15.42 % within to the series of six endothermic steps. Evaporation of adsorbed water leads to the first endothermic peak of the maximum at temperature about 99.4 °C. The mass of sample was up to 165.2 °C (ousted point of DTG peak) reduced at about 3.71 %. The water vapour released from the sample is also well visible on EGA. The water can be also detected in the spectrum of gas phase upon the temperature interval ranged from 225 to 260 °C, where water molecules has been ousted from the interlayer space of montmorillonite and

admixture of illite. The process shows maximum rate at temperature 245.0 °C.

quantitative mode.

Dolomite (1), calcite (2), albit (3),

pyrite (4) and quartz (5)

 (8) Loos on ignition (annealing at 1000°C to constant weight; according to standard ČSN 72

(10) Specific surface (BET, Chembet 3000,

Quantachrome Instruments).

(9) Bulk density (according to standard ČSN EN

(11) Electrokinetic "zeta" potential (suspension of

(12) Main admixture mineral found by following method: XRD, FT-IR, SEM and TA. The content of crystalline phases was estimated by XRD in semi-

(13) Siderite (1), Ankerite (4) and Dolomite (7). (14) Monoclinic - prismatic class symmetry.

clinochlore (2), fluorapatite (6),

barite (7) and rutile (5).

Table 3.1. The composition and properties of clay raw materials.

Fig. 3.1. TG-DTA and EGA pattern of montmorillonite clay.

**Admixtures (12)** Carbonates (13), illite (3),

(1) Stoichiometric composition of mineral according to pertinent empirical formula. (2) Determined composition of clay mineral

(3) Analyzed composition of raw material (dry

(6) Bulk density in the shaken state (according

(7) Determined by humidity analyzer Kern MLS 50-3 (sample was dried at 110 °C to

steps of thermogravimetric analysis.

(4) Particle size analysis (Helos, Sympatec). (5) Pour density (according to standard ČSN

(dry state of sample).

to standard ČSN EN 725-8).

state sample).

EN 725-8).

constant weight.

**3.1 Thermal analysis** 

The dehydroxylation of clay minerals, decomposition of carbonates and burning of organic admixtures are the main overlapping processes whose take place within temperature interval from 380 to 600 °C. The DTA shows broad endothermic peak having a composed structure at temperature 533.9 °C. The bands of carbon dioxide and water are well visible on EGA plot. These processes are affected together via partial pressure formed gas species. For example the water formed by dehydroxylation of montmorillonite slows down the diffusion of oxygen into burning organic material and shifts the organic matter process to the higher temperatures, while water vapour formed by combustion of organic admixtures leads to increasing of partial pressure of water vapours. That results into decreasing rate of dehydroxylation of clay minerals (Ptáček at al., 2010). Oxygen deficiency leading to reduction condition during TA is indicated by bands of carbon monoxide on the results of EGA.

The effects of carbonates on the above mentioned processes should be explained using the Richardson's diagrams (Richardson, 1974) as follows. The Bell-Boudoir's reaction (Eq.3.1) shows thermodynamic equilibrium at temperature 720 °C, so that the carbon monoxide is the more stable at higher temperature than carbon dioxide. That means that CO2 formed by the thermal decomposition of carbonates at temperatures near to temperature of equilibrium or higher facilitates the residual carbon removing process.

$$2CO\_2(g) + C(s) \xleftarrow{T\_{aq} \approx 720 \, ^\circ C} 2 \, CO(g) \tag{3.1}$$

The two carbonates are identified in the analysis sample – siderite (FeCO3) and dolomite (CaMg(CO3)2). Thermal decomposition of siderite that takes place at temperatures up to 410 °C are participate on the broad DTA endothermic effect at 533.9 °C. Annealing dolomite is decomposed within two steps that are represented by reactions 3.2 and 3.3. The first step takes place at 602.7 °C and second at 718.3 °C. The both processes are well visible on EGA.

$$\text{CaMg}(\text{CO}\_3)\_2(\text{s}) \rightarrow \text{CaCO}\_3(\text{s}) + \text{MgO}(\text{s}) + \text{CO}\_2(\text{g}) \tag{3.2}$$

$$+CaCO\_3(s)\rightarrow +CaO(s) + CO\_2(g)\tag{3.3}$$

The formation of SO2 was detected on EGA upon temperature interval from 800 to 870 °C due to presence of traces of pyrite. The endothermic peak at temperature 848.2 °C is related to the formation of cordierite that is connected with destruction of the phylosilicate structure of clay minerals. The eutectic melt was detected at temperature 1141.4 °C.

During thermal analysis of talc raw material performed up to temperature 1250 °C (Fig.3.2) is mass of the sample decreasing for about 13.12 %. The adsorbed water is removed up to 143 °C. The mass of sample was reduced for about 0.21 % during this process. The dehydroxylation of talc which takes place in temperature range from 720 to 970 °C and two steps of thermal decomposition of dolomite at 450 and 720 °C are the main occurring processes. The SO2 bands in EGA plot indicate the presence of small amount of pyrite.

#### **3.2 Infrared spectroscopy**

The infrared spectrum of montmorillonite and talc clay is shown on Fig.3.3. The data published in literature (Eren & Afsin, 2008; Molina-Montes at al., 2008; Madejová at al., 2006; Tyagi at al., 2006; Kloprogge at al., 2005) were used for interpretation of raw material

Activation of Bentonite and Talc by Acetic Acid

median 29.33 m (Table 3.1).

as a Carbonation Feedstock for Mineral Storage of CO2 241

and clinochlore ((Mg,Fe)5Al(Si,Al)4O10(OH)8). Further fluorapatite (Ca5(PO4)3F), barite (BaSO4) and rutile (TiO2) are indentified in the clay. It's obvious that the carbonates serve as the source of Ca, Fe, Mg, Zn, Mn, etc. elements at the early stages of dissolution experiment. The particle size analysis of raw materials, i.e. bentonite clay and talc, used for leaching experiments are shown at Fig.3.4. The shape of particle size distribution curve of bentonite raw material reflects the complicate phase composition of sample that contains a significant amount of carbonates and other admixture minerals of different hardness compared to clay, i.e. minerals with different grindability. These admixtures are responsible for the right shoulders of the particle size distribution curve. The talc raw material with high content of clay phase shows almost ideal Gaussian profile of particle size distribution curve with

Fig. 3.4. SEM and particle size distribution analysis of clay raw material.

admixture mineral of talc raw material.

The layered structure of talc aggregates is shown at Fig. 3.6. The average size of (001) planes was via several measurements estimated on 200 m. The calcite was identified as the main

Fig. 3.2. TG-DTA plot and EGA pattern of talc raw material.

Fig. 3.3. Infrared spectrum of bentonite and talc raw material.

spectral features. The OH stretching bands are located at 3695 and 3626 cm-1. The bending of AlAlO-H, AlFeO-H a AlMgO-H groups show bands at 916, 877 and 837 cm-1. The stretching and bending band of physical adsorbed water are located at 3427 and 1639 cm-1. The most intensive band at 1035 cm-1 is related to antisymmetric stretching of the ≡Si-O-Si≡ bridge. The deformation mode is placed at 524 cm-1. The dolomite and quartz are identified by infrared spectroscopy as the main admixtures of clay raw material that was used as the source of montmorillonite.

The infrared spectrum of talc (Fig.3.3) shows stretching of MgO-H groups at wavenumber 3626 cm-1. The deformation modes are located at 670 and 646 cm-1. The band of antisymmetric stretching and bending mode of ≡Si-O bond shows maximum absorption intensity at 1017 and 453 cm-1, respectively. The other bands belong to admixture minerals clinochlore and dolomite.

#### **3.3 Clay material particle size distribution and morphology**

The SEM and particle size distribution analysis of clays is shown in Fig.3.4. Bentonite consists of massive aggregates. The most important admixture minerals of montmorillonite clay (Fig.3.5) are siderite (FeCO3) and carbonates from dolomite group such as dolomite (CaMg(CO3)2) and ankerite (CaFe(CO3)2), phylosilicates illite ((K,H3O+)Al2(Si,Al)4O10(OH)2)

Fig. 3.2. TG-DTA plot and EGA pattern of talc raw material.

Fig. 3.3. Infrared spectrum of bentonite and talc raw material.

**3.3 Clay material particle size distribution and morphology** 

source of montmorillonite.

clinochlore and dolomite.

spectral features. The OH stretching bands are located at 3695 and 3626 cm-1. The bending of AlAlO-H, AlFeO-H a AlMgO-H groups show bands at 916, 877 and 837 cm-1. The stretching and bending band of physical adsorbed water are located at 3427 and 1639 cm-1. The most intensive band at 1035 cm-1 is related to antisymmetric stretching of the ≡Si-O-Si≡ bridge. The deformation mode is placed at 524 cm-1. The dolomite and quartz are identified by infrared spectroscopy as the main admixtures of clay raw material that was used as the

The infrared spectrum of talc (Fig.3.3) shows stretching of MgO-H groups at wavenumber 3626 cm-1. The deformation modes are located at 670 and 646 cm-1. The band of antisymmetric stretching and bending mode of ≡Si-O bond shows maximum absorption intensity at 1017 and 453 cm-1, respectively. The other bands belong to admixture minerals -

The SEM and particle size distribution analysis of clays is shown in Fig.3.4. Bentonite consists of massive aggregates. The most important admixture minerals of montmorillonite clay (Fig.3.5) are siderite (FeCO3) and carbonates from dolomite group such as dolomite (CaMg(CO3)2) and ankerite (CaFe(CO3)2), phylosilicates illite ((K,H3O+)Al2(Si,Al)4O10(OH)2) and clinochlore ((Mg,Fe)5Al(Si,Al)4O10(OH)8). Further fluorapatite (Ca5(PO4)3F), barite (BaSO4) and rutile (TiO2) are indentified in the clay. It's obvious that the carbonates serve as the source of Ca, Fe, Mg, Zn, Mn, etc. elements at the early stages of dissolution experiment. The particle size analysis of raw materials, i.e. bentonite clay and talc, used for leaching experiments are shown at Fig.3.4. The shape of particle size distribution curve of bentonite raw material reflects the complicate phase composition of sample that contains a significant amount of carbonates and other admixture minerals of different hardness compared to clay, i.e. minerals with different grindability. These admixtures are responsible for the right shoulders of the particle size distribution curve. The talc raw material with high content of clay phase shows almost ideal Gaussian profile of particle size distribution curve with median 29.33 m (Table 3.1).

Fig. 3.4. SEM and particle size distribution analysis of clay raw material.

The layered structure of talc aggregates is shown at Fig. 3.6. The average size of (001) planes was via several measurements estimated on 200 m. The calcite was identified as the main admixture mineral of talc raw material.

Activation of Bentonite and Talc by Acetic Acid

acid should be expressed as following:

time dependence of fractional conversion.

**3.4 Bentonite dissolution** 

according to Eq.3-2.

properties.

as a Carbonation Feedstock for Mineral Storage of CO2 243

The dissolution of main bentonite mineral, i.e. montmorillonite, in diluted solution of acetic

where y = 2z – x + 0,6, p = 5,4 – 2z + x and q = 6z + n – 6. On the other hand, with regard to the montmorillonite structure that is described in chapter 1.3, the release of cations from interlayer space is participating on the process. These ions are being exchanged by H3O+

> 0.3 2 4 10 2 2 3 2 3 3 0.6 2 4 10 2 2 3 2 3 22

*Na Ca Al Mg Si O OH nH O x CH CO H x H O H O Al Mg Si O OH nH O x Na CH CO x Ca CH CO*

( ) (0.3 ) ( )

It was found by (Adams, 1987; Jovanovič and Janačkovič, 1991) that acid-activated (HCl or H2SO4 of different molar concentrations) bentonite leads to a dissolution or removal of the octahedral sheets and interlayer cations. Its resulting in an increase of the pore volume and pore diameter, an enrichment of residual amorphous SiO2 and an increase of sorption

The pH change of solvent during leaching process performed upon temperatures within range from 22 to 50 °C is shown in the Fig.3.7. The dependence of fractional conversion on the time was calculated according to formula 2.1 and 2.3 from measured pH on time dependence.

Fig. 3.7. The pH of leaching bath for experiment performed under different temperature and

The results of leaching experiment on montmorillonite clay show that mechanism of process is significantly affected by temperature. Linearization procedure leads to conclusion that the leaching process is handled by the stationary three-dimensional diffusion (D4) at temperatures up to 25 °C, i.e. the course of leaching process can be characterized by Valensi-Ginstling-Brounstein (VGB) equation (Valensi, 1936; Ginstling and Brounstein, 1950):

*y CH CO H p H O x CH CO Na x Ca CH CO z Mg CH CO z Al H O SiO q H O*

32 3 3 2 3 22 3 3 22 2 6 2 2

0.3 ( )

(3.4)

(3.5)

0.3 2 4 10 2 2

*Na Ca Al Mg Si O OH nH O*

( )2 ( ) 4

( , )( , ) ( ) (0.6 ) (0.6 ) ( ) (, ) ( )

*x*

 

( , )( , ) ( )

Fig. 3.5. The admixture mineral of montmorillonite clay (1): siderite (2), ankerite (3), illite (4), barite (5), clinochlore (6) and fluoroapatite (7).

Fig. 3.6. Layered structure of talc (1) aggregate and grain of calcite (2).

#### **3.4 Bentonite dissolution**

242 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

Fig. 3.5. The admixture mineral of montmorillonite clay (1): siderite (2), ankerite (3), illite (4),

barite (5), clinochlore (6) and fluoroapatite (7).

Fig. 3.6. Layered structure of talc (1) aggregate and grain of calcite (2).

The dissolution of main bentonite mineral, i.e. montmorillonite, in diluted solution of acetic acid should be expressed as following:

$$\begin{aligned} &\text{(Na,Ca)}\_{0.3}\text{(Al,Mg)}\_{2}\text{Si}\_{4}\text{O}\_{10}\text{(OH)}\_{2}\cdot nH\_{2}\text{O}+\\ &y\text{ CH}\_{3}\text{CO}\_{2}\text{H}+p\text{ H}\_{3}\text{O}^{+}\rightarrow\text{xCH}\_{3}\text{CO}\_{2}\text{Na}+0.3-\text{xCa(CH}\_{3}\text{CO}\_{2})\_{2} \\ &+z\text{ Mg(CH}\_{3}\text{CO}\_{2})\_{2}+2-z\left[\text{Al(H}\_{2}\text{O})\_{6}\right]^{3+}+4\text{SiO}\_{2}+q\text{ H}\_{2}\text{O} \end{aligned} \tag{3.4}$$

where y = 2z – x + 0,6, p = 5,4 – 2z + x and q = 6z + n – 6. On the other hand, with regard to the montmorillonite structure that is described in chapter 1.3, the release of cations from interlayer space is participating on the process. These ions are being exchanged by H3O+ according to Eq.3-2.

$$\begin{aligned} &\text{(Na}\_{2}\text{Ca)}\_{0.3}\text{(Al},\text{Mg)}\_{2}\text{Si}\_{4}\text{O}\_{10}\text{(OH)}\_{2}\cdot nH\_{2}\text{O}+\\ &\text{(0.6-x)}\text{CH}\_{3}\text{CO}\_{2}\text{H}+\text{(0.6-x)}\text{H}\_{3}\text{O}^{+}\rightarrow\\ &\text{(H}\_{3}\text{O}^{+}\text{)}\_{0.6-x}\text{(Al},\text{Mg)}\_{2}\text{Si}\_{4}\text{O}\_{10}\text{(OH)}\_{2}\cdot nH\_{2}\text{O}+\\ &\text{x Na}(\text{CH}\_{3}\text{CO}\_{2})+\text{(0.3-x)}\text{Ca(CH}\_{3}\text{CO}\_{2})\_{2} \end{aligned} \tag{3.5}$$

It was found by (Adams, 1987; Jovanovič and Janačkovič, 1991) that acid-activated (HCl or H2SO4 of different molar concentrations) bentonite leads to a dissolution or removal of the octahedral sheets and interlayer cations. Its resulting in an increase of the pore volume and pore diameter, an enrichment of residual amorphous SiO2 and an increase of sorption properties.

The pH change of solvent during leaching process performed upon temperatures within range from 22 to 50 °C is shown in the Fig.3.7. The dependence of fractional conversion on the time was calculated according to formula 2.1 and 2.3 from measured pH on time dependence.

Fig. 3.7. The pH of leaching bath for experiment performed under different temperature and time dependence of fractional conversion.

The results of leaching experiment on montmorillonite clay show that mechanism of process is significantly affected by temperature. Linearization procedure leads to conclusion that the leaching process is handled by the stationary three-dimensional diffusion (D4) at temperatures up to 25 °C, i.e. the course of leaching process can be characterized by Valensi-Ginstling-Brounstein (VGB) equation (Valensi, 1936; Ginstling and Brounstein, 1950):

Activation of Bentonite and Talc by Acetic Acid

Fig. 3.9. Analysis of leaching bath composition.

the structure of mineral of smectite groups (Fig.3.2).

Table 3.3. Influence of temperature on the extraction process.

coordinated octahedrally in the "O" layer.

**T [°C]** 

extracted per gram of clay raw material is listed in the Table 3.3.

as a Carbonation Feedstock for Mineral Storage of CO2 245

The results of ICP-OES analysis (Fig.3.9) of solvent after the leaching experiment show that predominantly extracted elements are Ca, Mg, Mg, Fe and Al. The amount of elements

With except of calcium where extracted amount is not correlated with temperature (Table 3.3), the amount of extracted elements is generally increasing with temperature. The higher temperature then enables to reach better activation of bentonite by acetic acid using higher temperatures due to increasing content of leached Fe and Mg. That behaviour results from

**Element leached from the montmorillonite clay [µg·g-1 of raw material] Al V Cr Co Ni Cu Zn Ba Pb Na Mg K Ca Fe**  751.84 20.112 10.758 7.558 10.19 24.33 21.082 57.054 0.778 4.838 8238 1320 25220 4410 743.18 19.642 10.484 7.522 9.526 23.194 14.552 58.856 0.76 4.628 7850 1844 23780 4576 722.36 20.326 11.992 8.546 11.608 25.148 18.97 65.142 0.778 4.496 7946 1892 23250 6560 775.7 22.356 13.164 10.596 14.396 28.098 22.522 77.964 0.828 4.596 8820 2232 24160 10088 807.03 23.064 13.37 11.738 16.662 30.824 31.928 88.106 1.042 4.624 9148 2786 24670 12260 824.9 25.888 14.446 14.152 19.832 33.072 31.434 96.29 1.06 4.662 9932 2570 25560 16336 845.88 28.826 15.622 15.776 22.384 33.866 37.566 109.69 1.588 4.542 10160 5550 25350 19284

While calcium is placed in place interlayer space and should be then easily replaced by sodium by cation exchange process, magnesium is bonded in brucite sheet of T-O-T complex and it can be released only after its dissolution. That is also the reason for observed correlation of Mg on the amount of extracted Al and other cation (Fe3+, Cr3+, V3+...)

$$\log(\mathbf{y}) = k \text{ } t = \mathbf{l} - \frac{2}{3}\mathbf{y} - (\mathbf{l} - \mathbf{y})^{2/3} \tag{3.6}$$

$$\mathbf{g}(\mathbf{y}) = k \ t = -\ln\left(\mathbf{l} - \mathbf{y}\right) \tag{3.7}$$

The Kolmogorov-Johnson-Mehl-Avrami (KJMA) equation shows the best results for experiments performed upon temperature interval from 30 to 40 °C. The kinetic function corresponding to the mechanism of random nucleation and subsequent growth of nuclei (F1 or A1) can be described by Eq.3.7.

At temperatures higher than 40 °C the leaching process is forced by chemical reaction of ¾th order (F¾), i.e. by mechanism non-invoking equation:

$$\log(\text{y}) = k \text{ } t = \text{l} - (\text{l} - \text{y})^{\text{l}/\text{4}} \tag{3.8}$$

The Arrhenius plot is shown on Fig.3.8. The value of apparent activation energy that was determined upon the above mentioned temperature interval is listed in the Table 3.2.

Fig. 3.8. The Arrhenius plot for the montmorillonite dissolved in diluted acetic acid.


Table 3.2. Ea of dissolution of montmorillonite clay. D=R2 is the correlation coefficient of linear fit.

3

The Kolmogorov-Johnson-Mehl-Avrami (KJMA) equation shows the best results for experiments performed upon temperature interval from 30 to 40 °C. The kinetic function corresponding to the mechanism of random nucleation and subsequent growth of nuclei (F1

At temperatures higher than 40 °C the leaching process is forced by chemical reaction of ¾th

The Arrhenius plot is shown on Fig.3.8. The value of apparent activation energy that was

determined upon the above mentioned temperature interval is listed in the Table 3.2.

Fig. 3.8. The Arrhenius plot for the montmorillonite dissolved in diluted acetic acid.

T [°C] Mechanism k [s-1] D = R2 Ea [kJmol-1] 22 D4: 1 - 2y/3 - (1 - y)2/3 1.47 · 10-2 0.999 388.9 25 1.02 · 10-1 0.999

35 4.41 0.998 21.4

45 F¾: 1 – (1-y)1/4 4.10 · 10-1 0.997 135.1 50 9.23 · 10-1 0.999

Table 3.2. Ea of dissolution of montmorillonite clay. D=R2 is the correlation coefficient of

40 5.08 0.998

3.82 0.999

or A1) can be described by Eq.3.7.

30

linear fit.

order (F¾), i.e. by mechanism non-invoking equation:

F1: -ln (1-y)

<sup>32</sup> 1

<sup>2</sup> <sup>1</sup> */ )y(ytk)y(g* (3.6)

1 *)y(lntk)y(g* (3.7)

<sup>41</sup> 11 */ )y(tk)y(g* (3.8)

The results of ICP-OES analysis (Fig.3.9) of solvent after the leaching experiment show that predominantly extracted elements are Ca, Mg, Mg, Fe and Al. The amount of elements extracted per gram of clay raw material is listed in the Table 3.3.

Fig. 3.9. Analysis of leaching bath composition.

With except of calcium where extracted amount is not correlated with temperature (Table 3.3), the amount of extracted elements is generally increasing with temperature. The higher temperature then enables to reach better activation of bentonite by acetic acid using higher temperatures due to increasing content of leached Fe and Mg. That behaviour results from the structure of mineral of smectite groups (Fig.3.2).


Table 3.3. Influence of temperature on the extraction process.

While calcium is placed in place interlayer space and should be then easily replaced by sodium by cation exchange process, magnesium is bonded in brucite sheet of T-O-T complex and it can be released only after its dissolution. That is also the reason for observed correlation of Mg on the amount of extracted Al and other cation (Fe3+, Cr3+, V3+...) coordinated octahedrally in the "O" layer.

Activation of Bentonite and Talc by Acetic Acid

only the first step of incongruent dissolution process takes place.

Fig. 3.10. Infrared spectrum of bentonite leached by acetic acid.

process that leads to formation of the calcium and magnesium carbonates:

from 700 to 900 °C is well visible on DTA as well as EGA pattern.

Fig. 3.11. Thermal analysis of solid rest after leaching process.

as a Carbonation Feedstock for Mineral Storage of CO2 247

The results of infrared spectroscopy are shown in Fig.3.10. The results indicate that the raw material activation process is based mainly on the reaction 3.5. The increasing shift of the Si-O-Si stretching mode with temperature of leaching process indicate that the minerals are affected only by the formation of thin leached silica layer on the surface of aggregate, i.e.

The results of thermal analysis (Fig.3.11) indicate introducing the salt of acetic acid into interlayer space of bentonite. The evaporation of acetic acid and burning of acetic salt are well visible on EGA. Thermal decomposition of acetates that is according to EGA connected with formation of acetone and carbon dioxide. Presence of carbon monoxide and dioxide bands upon the same temperature interval indicates the partially reduction condition of

Thermal decomposition of formed carbonates that takes place upon temperature interval

*M*( ) 52 *CH COO O MCO H O CO M Ca Mg* 32 2 32 33 ( *and* ) (3.9)


Table 3.4. Correlation table showing mutual relationships between temperature and amount of leached elements. The significant correlation is marked by bold.

The increasing efficiency of extraction process is shown in Table.3.5 as the calculated amount of carbon dioxide that may be captured by the extracted element in formed carbonate. The results indicate that extraction efficiency should be significantly improved by activation process performed at higher temperatures.


Table 3.5. Bentonite clay activation efficiency.

The solid rest that is resulting from the leaching process was analysed by TA, IR and SEM to determine its properties for the usage in cements due to estimated puzzolanic activity or as absorption agents. Table 3.6 show that higher specific surface of leaching rest should be obtained for the sample prepared at temperature 35 °C.


Table 3.6. Influence the temperature of leaching bath on the specific surface of solid rest.

The increasing efficiency of extraction process is shown in Table.3.5 as the calculated amount of carbon dioxide that may be captured by the extracted element in formed carbonate. The results indicate that extraction efficiency should be significantly improved by

**T [°C] 22 25 30 35 40 45 50** 

**Mg** 14.9 14.2 14.4 16.0 16.6 18.0 18.4 **Fe** 3.5 3.6 5.2 8.0 9.7 12.9 15.2 46.1 43.9 45.9 50.5 53.3 58.9 61.4

**MgCO3** 28.6 27.2 27.6 30.6 31.7 34.5 35.3 **FeCO3** 9.1 9.5 13.6 20.9 25.4 33.9 40 101.3 96.7 99.8 112.5 119.4 132.8 139.2

The solid rest that is resulting from the leaching process was analysed by TA, IR and SEM to determine its properties for the usage in cements due to estimated puzzolanic activity or as absorption agents. Table 3.6 show that higher specific surface of leaching rest should be

**T [°C]** 22 25 30 35 40 45 50

**[m2/g]** 91.4 96.8 96.0 106.6 102.5 97.1 97.8

Table 3.6. Influence the temperature of leaching bath on the specific surface of solid rest.

27.7 26.1 25.5 26.5 27.1 28.1 27.9

63.6 60.0 58.6 60.9 62.2 64.5 63.9

of leached elements. The significant correlation is marked by bold.

activation process performed at higher temperatures.

**T** 1.00 **Al 0.89** 1.00 **V 0.94 0.94** 1.00 **Cr 0.98 0.89 0.96** 1.00 **Co 0.98 0.95 0.99 0.98** 1.00 **Ni 0.97 0.95 0.98 0.98 1.00** 1.00 **Cu 0.97 0.95 0.95 0.97 0.98 0.99** 1.00 **Zn 0.89 0.95 0.93 0.92 0.94 0.95 0.96** 1.00 **Ba 0.99 0.95 0.97 0.98 0.99 1.00 0.98 0.95** 1.00 **Pb 0.85 0.87 0.94 0.86 0.90 0.90 0.84 0.90 0.91** 1.00 **Na** -0.49 -0.08 -0.29 -0.42 -0.33 -0.32 -0.26 -0.15 -0.37 -0.31 1.00 **Mg 0.93 0.98 0.97 0.95 0.98 0.98 0.98 0.95 0.97 0.86** -0.14 1.00 **K 0.83 0.80 0.90 0.84 0.85 0.85 0.78 0.81 0.87 0.98** -0.46 **0.79** 1.00 **Ca** 0.48 **0.78** 0.67 0.54 0.64 0.65 0.67 0.73 0.60 0.60 0.51 0.77 0.43 1.00 **Fe 0.98 0.95 0.98 0.98 1.00 1.00 0.98 0.94 1.00 0.90** -0.35 **0.98 0.85** 0.62 1.00 Table 3.4. Correlation table showing mutual relationships between temperature and amount

**Ca kgCO2/ 1000 kg raw clay** 

**kg** 

Table 3.5. Bentonite clay activation efficiency.

obtained for the sample prepared at temperature 35 °C.

**CaCO3** 

**SS** 

**T Al V Cr Co Ni Cu Zn Ba Pb Na Mg K Ca Fe** 

The results of infrared spectroscopy are shown in Fig.3.10. The results indicate that the raw material activation process is based mainly on the reaction 3.5. The increasing shift of the Si-O-Si stretching mode with temperature of leaching process indicate that the minerals are affected only by the formation of thin leached silica layer on the surface of aggregate, i.e. only the first step of incongruent dissolution process takes place.

Fig. 3.10. Infrared spectrum of bentonite leached by acetic acid.

The results of thermal analysis (Fig.3.11) indicate introducing the salt of acetic acid into interlayer space of bentonite. The evaporation of acetic acid and burning of acetic salt are well visible on EGA. Thermal decomposition of acetates that is according to EGA connected with formation of acetone and carbon dioxide. Presence of carbon monoxide and dioxide bands upon the same temperature interval indicates the partially reduction condition of process that leads to formation of the calcium and magnesium carbonates:

$$\text{M(CH}\_3\text{COO)}\_2 + 5[2\text{O}\_2 \rightarrow \text{MCO}\_3 + 3\text{H}\_2\text{O} + 3\text{ CO}\qquad\text{(M = Ca and Mg)}\tag{3.9}$$

Thermal decomposition of formed carbonates that takes place upon temperature interval from 700 to 900 °C is well visible on DTA as well as EGA pattern.

Fig. 3.11. Thermal analysis of solid rest after leaching process.

Activation of Bentonite and Talc by Acetic Acid

where kinetic exponent (Avrami's factors) has value of 1.2.

Fig. 3.14. The Arrhenius plot for the talc dissolved in diluted acetic acid.

temperature interval from 22 to 50 °C are plotted in Fig.3.15.

Fig. 3.15. The composition of leaching bath after leachig process.

activation energy of the leaching test from the dependence of 160 ± 3 J·mol-1.

The Arrhenius plot that is shown in Fig.3.14 was used for determination the apparent

The results of ICP-OES analysis of solvent after leaching tests performed within the

as a Carbonation Feedstock for Mineral Storage of CO2 249

 

 <sup>6</sup>

 

*y* exp1 *tK* (3.11)

7

The SEM analysis of the clay after dissolution experiment is shown in Figure 3.12. The admixture of carbonate minerals (please see Fig.3.5) are dissolved at early stages of leaching process. The leached silica layer was formed on the surface of bentonite aggregates.

Fig. 3.12. The SEM of leached bentonite clay.

#### **3.5 Dissolution of talc**

The process of the dissolution of Talc in diluted solution of acetic acid should be described by following equation:

$$\begin{aligned} \text{Mg}\_3\text{Si}\_4\text{O}\_{10}\text{(OH)}\_2\text{(s)} + 6\text{CH}\_3\text{COOH}\text{(aq)} &\rightarrow \\ \text{3 (CH}\_3\text{COOH})\_2\text{Mg}\text{(aq)} + 4\text{SiO}\_2\text{(s)} + 4\text{H}\_2\text{O(l)} \end{aligned} \tag{3.10}$$

The measured dependence of pH on the time of dissolution and fractional conversion time dependence calculated according to Eq.2.1 and 2.3 is shown on Fig.3.13. To compare with bentonite clay, the course of talc activation process seems to be less affected by the temperature of leaching bath. Hence only the limit temperatures are plotted in the Fig.3.13.

Fig. 3.13. The change of pH of leaching solution during activation of talc (a) and fractional conversion on time dependence (b).

The kinetic of leaching process should be described by the kinetic law:

The SEM analysis of the clay after dissolution experiment is shown in Figure 3.12. The admixture of carbonate minerals (please see Fig.3.5) are dissolved at early stages of leaching

The process of the dissolution of Talc in diluted solution of acetic acid should be described

32 2 2 ( )() 6 ( ) 3( ) ( ) 4 ( ) 4 ( )

The measured dependence of pH on the time of dissolution and fractional conversion time dependence calculated according to Eq.2.1 and 2.3 is shown on Fig.3.13. To compare with bentonite clay, the course of talc activation process seems to be less affected by the temperature of leaching bath. Hence only the limit temperatures are plotted in the

Fig. 3.13. The change of pH of leaching solution during activation of talc (a) and fractional

The kinetic of leaching process should be described by the kinetic law:

*CH COOH Mg aq SiO s H O l*

(3.10)

3 4 10 2 3

*Mg Si O OH s CH COOH aq*

process. The leached silica layer was formed on the surface of bentonite aggregates.

Fig. 3.12. The SEM of leached bentonite clay.

**3.5 Dissolution of talc** 

by following equation:

conversion on time dependence (b).

Fig.3.13.

$$\mathbf{y} = \mathbf{l} - \exp\left(-K\,\mathbf{r}^{\frac{\gamma}{6}}\right) \tag{3.11}$$

where kinetic exponent (Avrami's factors) has value of 1.2.

The Arrhenius plot that is shown in Fig.3.14 was used for determination the apparent activation energy of the leaching test from the dependence of 160 ± 3 J·mol-1.

The results of ICP-OES analysis of solvent after leaching tests performed within the temperature interval from 22 to 50 °C are plotted in Fig.3.15.

Fig. 3.15. The composition of leaching bath after leachig process.

Activation of Bentonite and Talc by Acetic Acid

Table 3.9. Bentonite clay activation efficiency.

**Ca kgCO2/ 1000 kg raw clay** 

case of bentonite.

**kg** 

**CaCO3** 

as a Carbonation Feedstock for Mineral Storage of CO2 251

**T [°C] 22 25 30 35 40 45 50** 

**Mg** 19.6 20.5 22.4 26.4 30.6 37.8 44.1 **Fe** 2.3 2.3 2.4 2.6 2.7 3.0 3.19 35.7 36.4 38.4 42.7 46.6 54.1 60.3

**MgCO3** 37.4 39.3 42.8 50.7 58.5 72.4 84.3 **FeCO3** 6.1 6.2 6.4 6.9 7.2 7.9 8.4 75.3 76.5 80.5 88.9 96.4 110.8 122.8

Table 3.10 show that higher specific surface of leaching rest after dissolution experiment.

**T [°C]** 22 25 30 35 40 45 50 **SS [m2/g]** 3.2 3.3 2.9 3.1 3.1 3.1 3.6 Table 3.10. Influence the temperature of leaching bath on the specific surface of solid rest.

The infrared spectra of solid rest after leaching process are shown in Fig.3.16. The spectrum features indicate that the changes caused by leaching process are much lesser than in the

Fig. 3.16. Infrared spectroscopy of solid rest after activation of talc by acetic acid.

Fig. 3.17. Thermal analysis of solid rest after leaching process.

13.8 13.5 13.6 13.7 13.4 13.3 13.1

31.7 31.0 31.3 31.4 30.7 30.5 30.1

There it is obvious that the amount of extracted magnesium and iron is strongly affected by the temperature while the calcium content is slightly decreasing with increasing temperature of solvent. It should be thus supposed that Ca come to solution in very short time after pouring the solvent during dissolution of the admixture of carbonates in the raw material. The negative temperature dependence is probably caused by absorption of calcium on leached layer that is formed on the surface of talc aggregates.


Table. 3.7. Influence of temperature on the extraction process.

The increasing content of calcium in the leaching bath (please refer to Table 3.7) as well as the correlation between extracted amount of Al (Table 3.8) should be explained analogically with leaching test of montmorillonite clay.


Table 3.8 Correlation table showing mutual relationships between temperature and amount of leached elements. The significant correlation is marked by bold.

The increasing efficiency of extraction process is shown in Table.3.9. The results indicate that extraction efficiency should be significantly improved by increasing of extracted Mg amount at higher temperatures.

There it is obvious that the amount of extracted magnesium and iron is strongly affected by the temperature while the calcium content is slightly decreasing with increasing temperature of solvent. It should be thus supposed that Ca come to solution in very short time after pouring the solvent during dissolution of the admixture of carbonates in the raw material. The negative temperature dependence is probably caused by absorption of calcium

**Al V Cr Co Ni Cu Zn Ba Pb Na Mg K Ca Fe**  612.55 13.53 6.44 1.6 3.17 4.51 8.48 11.29 1.96 0.4 10790 170 12580 2950 631.85 13.15 6.55 1.61 3.62 4.76 11.28 11.49 2.53 0.43 11330 620 12300 2970 661.65 13.93 6.67 1.62 3.38 4.79 10.38 12.63 2.53 0.44 12340 1190 12400 3100 696.86 14.39 7.16 1.71 3.4 4.94 9.6 12.21 2.49 0.44 14600 590 12450 3310 775.73 13.72 6.57 1.74 4.76 5.44 10.39 15.86 2.62 0.44 16870 540 12150 3460 804.73 14.82 7.28 1.85 3.75 5.63 10.79 12.2 2.48 0.46 20870 620 12100 3810 868.34 13.43 6.54 1.86 3.77 6.24 18.92 12.51 2.66 0.42 24300 570 11920 4050

The increasing content of calcium in the leaching bath (please refer to Table 3.7) as well as the correlation between extracted amount of Al (Table 3.8) should be explained analogically

The increasing efficiency of extraction process is shown in Table.3.9. The results indicate that extraction efficiency should be significantly improved by increasing of extracted Mg amount

**T Al V Cr Co Ni Cu Zn Ba Pb Na Mg K Ca Fe** 

**T [°C] Element leached from the montmorillonite clay [µg·g-1 of raw material]** 

on leached layer that is formed on the surface of talc aggregates.

Table. 3.7. Influence of temperature on the extraction process.

of leached elements. The significant correlation is marked by bold.

with leaching test of montmorillonite clay.

**T** 1,00 **Al 0,98** 1,00

**V** 0,37 0,27 1,00 **Cr** 0,38 0,26 **0,93** 1,00 **Co 0,96 0,97** 0,43 0,44 1,00 **Ni** 0,51 0,54 -0,05 -0,10 0,41 1,00 **Cu 0,96 0,99** 0,14 0,16 **0,94** 0,50 1,00 **Zn** 0,68 0,72 -0,31 -0,21 0,63 0,17 **0,82** 1,00 **Ba** 0,42 0,43 0,04 -0,10 0,28 **0,91** 0,36 0,03 1,00 **Pb** 0,69 0,61 0,05 0,19 0,51 0,57 0,62 0,55 0,50 1,00 **Na** 0,43 0,30 0,70 0,71 0,34 0,41 0,21 -0,20 0,43 0,59 1,00 **Mg 0,97 0,98** 0,28 0,29 **0,98** 0,40 **0,98** 0,76 0,27 0,54 0,23 1,00 **K** 0,14 0,02 0,19 0,17 -0,06 -0,03 0,01 0,08 0,13 0,57 0,57 -0,02 1,00 **Ca -0,89 -0,91** -0,01 -0,06 **-0,85** -0,59 **-0,95** -0,80 -0,38 -0,72 -0,27 **-0,90** -0,11 1,00 **Fe 0,97 0,98** 0,33 0,33 **0,99** 0,39 **0,98** 0,73 0,28 0,53 0,26 **1,00** -0,01 **-0,88** 1,00 Table 3.8 Correlation table showing mutual relationships between temperature and amount

at higher temperatures.


Table 3.9. Bentonite clay activation efficiency.

Table 3.10 show that higher specific surface of leaching rest after dissolution experiment.


Table 3.10. Influence the temperature of leaching bath on the specific surface of solid rest.

The infrared spectra of solid rest after leaching process are shown in Fig.3.16. The spectrum features indicate that the changes caused by leaching process are much lesser than in the case of bentonite.

Fig. 3.16. Infrared spectroscopy of solid rest after activation of talc by acetic acid.

Fig. 3.17. Thermal analysis of solid rest after leaching process.

Activation of Bentonite and Talc by Acetic Acid

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The typical results of thermal analysis shown on Fig.3.14. lead to the same conclusion. Thermal decomposition of acetates that is according to EGA connected with formation of carbon dioxide and acetone and dehydroxylation of talc are the main observed processes. With except of carbonate admixtures that were naturally dissolved, the results of SEM (Fig.3.18) do not show any significant changes in the activated talc material.

Fig. 3.18. Leached talc raw material.

#### **4. Conclusion**

The initial stage of bentonite leaching process is on exchange of Ca and K from the interlayer space of montmorillonite and illite. The dissolution of T-O-T complex that is promoted by higher temperature then leads to the release of Mg and other octahedrally coordinate ions. Storage capacity of bentonite clay for CCS should be then significantly improved by activation process performed at elevated temperature. Increasing temperature promotes the rate of incongruent leaching process. The process of activation of talc shows also significant influence of leaching bath on the process. While amount of extracted calcium remains constant or slightly decrease due to absorption phenomena, the amount of extracted calcium should be significantly improved with increasing temperature of leaching bath. The capacity for CO2 caption is at about 35 % higher for the clay of montmorillonite. This difference is decreasing with increasing temperature of leaching bath.

#### **5. Acknowledgment**

This paper is supported by the research project of ERDF no. CZ.1.05/2.1.00/01.0012'' Centres for Materials Research at FCH BUT''.

#### **6. References**


The typical results of thermal analysis shown on Fig.3.14. lead to the same conclusion. Thermal decomposition of acetates that is according to EGA connected with formation of carbon dioxide and acetone and dehydroxylation of talc are the main observed processes. With except of carbonate admixtures that were naturally dissolved, the results of SEM

The initial stage of bentonite leaching process is on exchange of Ca and K from the interlayer space of montmorillonite and illite. The dissolution of T-O-T complex that is promoted by higher temperature then leads to the release of Mg and other octahedrally coordinate ions. Storage capacity of bentonite clay for CCS should be then significantly improved by activation process performed at elevated temperature. Increasing temperature promotes the rate of incongruent leaching process. The process of activation of talc shows also significant influence of leaching bath on the process. While amount of extracted calcium remains constant or slightly decrease due to absorption phenomena, the amount of extracted calcium should be significantly improved with increasing temperature of leaching bath. The capacity for CO2 caption is at about 35 % higher for the clay of montmorillonite. This difference is

This paper is supported by the research project of ERDF no. CZ.1.05/2.1.00/01.0012''

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### *Edited by Muhammad Akhyar Farrukh*

Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy is an analytical technique used for the qualitative and quantitative determination of the elements present in different samples like food, nanomaterials, biomaterials, forensics, and industrial wastes. The main aim of this book is to cover all major topics which are required to equip scholars with the recent advancement in this field. The book is divided into 12 chapters with an emphasis on specific topics. The first two chapters introduce the reader to the subject, it's history, basic principles, instrumentation and sample preparation. Chapter 3 deals with the elemental profiling, functions, biochemistry and potential toxicity of metals, along with comparative techniques. Chapter 4 discusses the importance of sample preparation techniques with the focus on microextraction techniques. Keeping in view the importance of nanomaterials and refractory materials, chapters 5 and 6 highlight the ways to characterize these materials by using AAS. The interference effects between elements are explained in chapter 7. The characterizations of metals in food and biological samples have been given in chapters 8-11. Chapter 12 examines carbon capture and mineral storage with the analysis of metal contents.

Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

Atomic Absorption

Spectroscopy

*Edited by Muhammad Akhyar Farrukh*

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