| Abstract: | The selection of the most suitable dilution methods for determination of trace elements in human serum using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry is reported. The trace elements were Al, V, Cr, Fe, Mn, Co, Cu, Zn, As, Cd, Sn, Tl, and Pb. The performance of various dilution methods was assessed by precision, linearity, detection limits, quantification limits, fortified recoveries, and the analysis of reference materials. The results demonstrate that diluted solution containing only nitric acid is most suitable for As, Cr, Mn, and Co in serum. Dilute solutions containing nitric acid and Triton X-100 were most appropriate for Cu, Zn, Cd, and Tl. The optimum conditions for Al, V, Mn, Fe, Cr, Co, Sn, and Pb used tetra-n-butylammonium hydroxide, Triton X-100, and ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid. |
