APDC-MIBK extraction system for the determination of trace elements in saline waters by atomic-absorption spectrophotometry

A technique has been developed for the determination of "soluble" cobalt, copper, iron, lead, nickel and zinc in saline waters by simultaneous extraction of their complexes with ammonium pyrollidine dithiocarbamate (APDC) into methyl isobutyl ketone (MIBK) and subsequent analysis by atomic-absorption spectrophotometry. Particulate matter is analysed separately by dissolving millipore filters in an acetone-hydrochloric acid mixture. Various analytical and instrumental parameters have been evaluated. The method is selfcompensating in that it makes allowance for any incomplete extraction of the complexes. The technique has been applied to the determination of these elements in sea-water and saline lakes.