On-line trace preconcentration / matrix separation by high-performance flow atomic spectrometry (HPF-FLAME AAS)

Summary In HPF-atomic spectrometry a high-performance flow / hydraulic high-pressure nebulization (HPF / HHPN) system is used for sample introduction and aerosol generation. By employment of techniques common in HPLC or ion chromatography, on-line trace element preconcentration / matrix separation and atomic spectrometric trace determinations can be carried out. Preconcentration of trace elements in samples of drinking water allows determinations within the lower g/L region by using flame AAS. On-line trace element preconcentration / matrix separation from aluminium leads to detection limits of approx. 0.1 to 1 g/g within less than 3 min of total analysis time. Dependent on concentration and the element involved, the relative standard deviation amounts to approx. 2 to 4% (2.5 to 25 g/g traces/aluminium).Dedicated to Professor Dr. Wilhelm Fresenius on the occasion of his 80th birthday