Determination of manganese,iron, cobalt and nickel in air and water by atomic absorption spectroscopy

Flames of 4 different kinds and of various compositions were studied for their suitability for atomic absorption spectroscopy for the determination of manganese, iron, cobalt and nickel. The effects of various other factors such as lamp current, slit-width and position of the burner were also investigated. Interference effects of a large number of ions and compounds were studied. Very few ions were found to interfere and means of eliminating the interferences noted are described. As a result of the investigation, sensitive and selective procedures for the determination of manganese, iron, cobalt and nickel are reported. Sensitivities are Mn, 0.01 mg/l; Fe, 0.05 mg/l; Co, 0.03 mg/l and Ni, 0.02 mg/l for 1% absorption.