Spectrophotometric determination of lead with Pyrocatechol Violet and cationic surfactants

The optimum conditions for the formation of ternary lead complexes with Pyrocatechol Violet and cationic surfactants have been evaluated. The examined ternary systems form a basis for simple and sensitive spectrophotometric methods for lead (ε = 4.20−5.06 × 10⁴ liters · mol⁻¹ · cm⁻¹). Using the most sensitive method, lead content in zinc powder has been determined. Lead does not form ternary complexes with the other triphenylmethane reagents, Chrome Azurol S and Eriochrome Cyanine R, in the presence of cationic surfactants because of its too “soft” properties.