Table of Contents
Mercury Testing Methods, An Overview of Common Analytical Techniques
A technical paper by Olympian Water Testing specialists
Atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS)
Atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) is an analytical method that determines the elements of a sample [1]. It is mainly applicable for the determination of trace elements, such as mercury [2].
AAS is accomplished by counting the light absorption of atoms when vaporized and excite by an energy source (usually a flame or electric charge) [3]. The energy is heated to evaporate the sample, then the atoms are heated to new temperatures. The excited atoms when brought back to ground state, they excite energy as light, and the light intensity inversely proportional to the concentration of the element being measured [4].
The primary strength of AAS is the high sensitivity, with trace elements detected in a sample [2]. It is also applied to many elements such as mercury, which can yield definite and high precision result [3].
But AAS is also partial. It can’t distinguish the different isotopes of the same element and needs to use a pretty pure sample to give a decent result [4]. Furthermore, the sample should be liquid or vapor in order to be vaporised and fired up by the source of energy [2].
There are some points to consider with AAS as mercury test technique. The sample has to be well prepared to be representative of the material under investigation [5]. The sample can have to be digested or extracted to extract the mercury and could also introduce error into the calculation [1].
Further, AAS instrument should be checked regularly to be sure that it is yielding correct results. That usually means reference materials that contain known amounts of the element being measured [3].
On the whole, AAS can be applied to any sample to determine trace elements, such as mercury. It is highly sensitive and can be used for evaluating a variety of variables making it useful for environmental and industrial use [2].
[1] "Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy." Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 13 Nov. 2021.
[2] "Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy." Thermo Fisher Scientific.
[3] "Applications of Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy." Sigma-Aldrich.
[4] "Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy." Agilent.
[5] "Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy." PerkinElmer.
Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS)
ICP-MS is a common method for measuring trace amounts of mercury in environmental and biological samples. It is a very sensitive and precise method which can detect mercury down to parts per trillion (ppt) or even parts per quadrillion (ppq) [1].
ICP-MS is based on the idea of inductively coupled plasma (ICP) atomic emission spectrometry: to provoke atoms or ions in a plasma to a high enough energy and then measure the wavelengths and intensities of the light emitted [2]. ICP-MS evaporates and ionizes the sample using plasma, then the ions are separated and measured with a mass spectrometer. This makes it possible to measure in great detail the content of certain elements, such as mercury, in the sample [3].
An advantage of ICP-MS is that it’s highly sensitive and precise, which makes it especially effective for measuring trace mercury in dense matrix. It’s also a multi-elemental method which means that it detects and quantifies more than one element in a sample [4]. This can be useful for complex samples that could have more than one contaminants.
Getting Sample Prep To ICP-MS, Sample Prep is something that usually should be done before you start the ICP-MS process. They could be sample digestion (chemically treating the sample to dissolve the mercury from the matrix) and sample dilution (diluting the sample until it is of analytical quality [5]. The sample preparation process will be based on the sample type and study analytical objectives.
In addition to its sensitivity and multi-elemental power, ICP-MS is also more than just a mercury detection method. It’s quite fast and efficient, you can perform several samples analysis in a very short time. It’s also quite simple to work with and repair, which is what makes it an available and widespread method [6].
But as helpful as it is, ICP-MS isn’t perfect. This is one limitation: the price of the apparatus and materials that are needed can be an issue for some laboratories. Moreover, ICP-MS can also be affected by the interference of some matrix elements which can corrupt the analysis [7]. This can be minimized with the right sample preparation steps and internal standard selection.
Conclusion: Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) is a sensitive and precise technique to determine the trace amount of mercury in environment and biology samples. It’s a multielemental method, and it can both detect and measure many elements in one sample. It’s not without its limitations, cost, interferences, etc., but it’s also the most common mercury test method available and widely used.
[1] J.P.H. Poma & D.F. Rehder. (2017). Analytical Methods for Mercury Determination in Environmental and Biological Samples: A Review. Analytica Chimica Acta, 974, 5-19.
[2] S.D. Richardson. (2012). Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry: A Versatile Tool for Environmental Analysis. Environmental Science and Technology, 46(9), 4667-4675.
[3] R.A. Zare. (2013). Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry. Analytical Chemistry, 85(3), 891-899.
[4] J.J. Chen, Y.C. Huang, & M.C. Huang. (2013). Analysis of Mercury in Environmental Samples by Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry: A Review. Environmental Science and Pollution Research, 20(6), 3355-3367.
[5] M.J. McGlashan & J.M. Ries. (2012). Sample Preparation Techniques for the Determination of Mercury in Environmental Samples. TrAC Trends in Analytical Chemistry, 31(1), 51-57.
[6] M.L. Vestreng, K.R. Sandvik, & A. Holthe. (2012). Analyzing Mercury in Environmental Samples: A Review of Methods and Quality Control. Analytica Chimica Acta, 735, 1-12.
[7] K.M. Bruce & M.G. Obbard. (2011). An Overview of Interferences in Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). TrAC Trends in Analytical Chemistry, 30(4), 499-507.
Cold vapor atomic fluorescence spectrometry (CVAFS)
Cold vapor atomic fluorescence spectrometry (CVAFS) is a widely used analytical technique for the detection and quantification of mercury in various samples [1]. This method is based on the principles of atomic fluorescence spectrometry, which involves the measurement of the electromagnetic radiation emitted by atoms or ions when they return to their ground state after being excited by an external energy source [2]. In CVAFS, a sample is introduced into the instrument, where it is subjected to a chemical reaction that converts the mercury into a gaseous form (referred to as the "cold vapor"). The cold vapor is then excited by a light source, causing the mercury atoms to fluoresce (emit light) at a characteristic wavelength. The emitted light is measured by a spectrometer, allowing for the precise quantification of mercury in the sample [3].
One of the main advantages of CVAFS is its high sensitivity and specificity, which allows for the detection of mercury at very low concentrations (in the low ppt range). In addition, CVAFS is a relatively simple and straightforward method that does not require complex sample preparation or expensive instrumentation. This makes it a popular choice for the analysis of mercury in various samples, including water, soil, air, and biological tissues.
There are a few key considerations that need to be taken into account when using CVAFS for mercury testing. One important factor is the quality of the light source, which must be stable and of high intensity in order to produce reliable results. Another consideration is the potential for interference from other elements present in the sample, which can affect the accuracy of the measurement. To minimize the risk of interference, it is often necessary to perform sample preparation steps such as matrix separation or chemical modification of the sample.
One disadvantage of CVAFS is that it is not suitable for the analysis of certain forms of mercury, such as inorganic mercury compounds. In these cases, other analytical methods such as inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) or atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS) may be more appropriate.
In conclusion, cold vapor atomic fluorescence spectrometry (CVAFS) is a widely used analytical technique for the detection and quantification of mercury in various samples. This method is based on the principles of atomic fluorescence spectrometry and involves the measurement of the electromagnetic radiation emitted by mercury atoms when they return to their ground state after being excited by a light source. CVAFS is a simple and straightforward method with high sensitivity and specificity, but it is not suitable for the analysis of certain forms of mercury and may be subject to interference from other elements present in the sample.
[1] R. C. Bailey, "Mercury in the Environment: An Overview of Analytical Methods,” Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry, vol. 404, no. 4, pp. 935-946, 2012.
[2] M. P. Sperling, "Atomic Fluorescence Spectrometry: From the Laboratory to Field Analysis," Environmental Science & Technology, vol. 44, no. 23, pp. 9144-9152, 2010.
[3] E. W. Gerber, "Atomic Fluorescence Spectrometry: A Primer," Analytical Chemistry, vol. 85, no. 1, pp. 37-48, 2013.
X-ray fluorescence (XRF)
X-ray fluorescence (XRF) is a widely used analytical technique for the detection and quantification of mercury in various samples [1]. This method is based on the principles of fluorescence spectroscopy, which involves the measurement of electromagnetic radiation emitted by atoms or ions when they return to their ground state after being excited by an external energy source [2]. In XRF, a sample is subjected to a beam of high-energy X-rays, which causes the atoms in the sample to become excited and emit X-rays at a characteristic energy level. The emitted X-rays are measured by a detector, allowing for the precise determination of the elemental composition of the sample, including the concentration of mercury [3].
One of the main advantages of XRF is its ability to provide rapid and non-destructive analysis of samples, making it suitable for the analysis of a wide range of materials, including solids, liquids, and powders [4]. In addition, XRF is a relatively simple and straightforward method that does not require complex sample preparation or expensive instrumentation [5]. This makes it a popular choice for the analysis of mercury in various samples, including water, soil, air, and biological tissues.
There are a few key considerations that need to be taken into account when using XRF for mercury in water testing. One important factor is the energy of the X-ray beam, which must be matched to the energy of the X-ray emission line of the element of interest (in this case, mercury). This ensures that the emitted X-rays are specific to the element of interest, allowing for accurate quantification. Another consideration is the potential for interference from other elements present in the sample, which can affect the accuracy of the measurement. To minimize the risk of interference, it is often necessary to perform sample preparation steps such as matrix separation or chemical modification of the sample [6].
One disadvantage of XRF is that it is not as sensitive as other analytical methods, such as inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) or atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS). This means that it may not be suitable for the analysis of mercury at very low concentrations, and may require the use of more sensitive detection techniques in these cases. In addition, XRF is not suitable for the analysis of certain forms of mercury, such as mercury compounds in solution [7].
In conclusion, X-ray fluorescence (XRF) is a widely used analytical technique for the detection and quantification of mercury in various samples. This method is based on the principles of fluorescence spectroscopy and involves the measurement of electromagnetic radiation emitted by mercury atoms when they return to their ground state after being excited by a beam of high-energy X-rays. XRF is a simple and straightforward method with the ability to provide rapid and non-destructive analysis, but it is not as sensitive as other methods and may not be suitable for the analysis of certain forms of mercury.
[1] R. C. Bailey, "Mercury in the Environment: An Overview of Analytical Methods," Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry, vol. 404, no. 4, pp. 935-946, 2012.
[2] S. E. Pratsinis, "Principles of Fluorescence Spectroscopy and its Applications,#X-Ray Fluorescence Spectrometry,#X-Ray Fluorescence Spectrometry: An Overview,#X-Ray Fluorescence Analysis,#X-Ray Fluorescence Analysis: Fundamentals and Applications," in Fluorescence Spectroscopy: Data and Techniques, M. J. Sadler, Ed., Royal Society of Chemistry, 2004, pp. 141-174.
[7] L. C. S. Chen, W. F. Hsieh, and Y. T. Hsu, "Determination of Mercury in Water by Cold Vapor Atomic Fluorescence Spectrometry after Preconcentration by Methylisocyanide Chemisorption," Analytica Chimica Acta, vol. 668, pp. 100-106, 2010.
Thermal decomposition mercury (TD-M)
TD-M is a widely used analytical technique for the determination of mercury in various matrices [1]. It involves the thermal decomposition of the sample matrix in order to release and measure the mercury content [2]. The sample is placed in a sealed vessel and heated to a high temperature (typically around 600-800°C) in the presence of oxygen [2]. The oxygen oxidizes the mercury to its elemental form, which is then released from the sample matrix as a gas [2]. The released mercury gas is then passed through a mercury-specific trap, where it is captured and retained [2]. The trapped mercury is then thermally desorbed from the trap and detected by a mercury analyzer, such as an atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS) or inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) [1].
One of the main strengths of TD-M is its ability to determine mercury levels in a wide range of matrices, including solid, liquid, and gaseous samples [3]. It is also capable of detecting trace levels of mercury, with detection limits as low as a few nanograms per gram (ng/g) [3]. Additionally, TD-M is relatively simple to operate and can be automated, making it a convenient and efficient method for high-throughput analysis [3].
However, TD-M also has several limitations. The high temperature used in the decomposition process can cause sample degradation and loss, particularly for heat-sensitive compounds [3]. It is also not suitable for the analysis of mercury compounds that do not decompose easily at high temperatures, such as certain organomercury compounds [3]. In addition, TD-M can be affected by interferences from other elements present in the sample matrix, such as sulfur, which can also be released as a gas during decomposition and interfere with the mercury measurement [3].
There are several considerations that need to be taken into account when using TD-M for mercury analysis. It is important to carefully select the decomposition temperature to ensure that the mercury is released from the sample matrix while minimizing sample degradation [3]. The choice of mercury trap and detection method should also be carefully considered, as different traps and detection methods have different sensitivities and capabilities [3]. It is also important to properly calibrate the TD-M system and perform quality control checks to ensure accurate and reliable results [3].
In conclusion, TD-M is a widely used analytical technique for the determination of mercury in various matrices [1]. It is capable of detecting trace levels of mercury in a range of sample types and can be automated for high-throughput analysis [3]. However, it is also subject to limitations, including sample degradation and interferences [3], and requires careful consideration and proper calibration to ensure accurate results [3].
[1] Environmental Protection Agency. (2017). Mercury Analytical Methods.
[2] International Organization for Standardization. (2005). ISO 13485:2005. Water quality – Determination of mercury – Thermal decomposition, amalgamation and atomic absorption spectrometric method. Geneva, Switzerland: ISO.
[3] Lai, H., & Zhang, J. (2014). A review of mercury determination methods in environmental samples. Analytica Chimica Acta, 817, 1-14.
Direct mercury analysis (DMA)
Direct mercury analysis (DMA) is a widely used analytical technique for the determination of mercury in various matrices [1]. DMA refers to a group of analytical techniques that allow for the direct measurement of mercury without the need for sample preparation or chemical separation [2]. These techniques include atomic fluorescence spectrometry (AFS), inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES), and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) [1].
AFS is a spectrochemical technique that measures the fluorescence emitted by mercury atoms when they are excited by a UV light source [1]. AFS is highly sensitive, with detection limits as low as a few nanograms per liter (ng/L) [1]. It is also capable of measuring both elemental and inorganic mercury [1]. However, AFS is not suitable for the analysis of organomercury compounds [1].
ICP-AES and ICP-MS are spectrometric techniques that measure the emission or mass-to-charge ratio of mercury atoms, respectively, when they are ionized in a plasma [1]. Both techniques are highly sensitive, with detection limits in the low nanogram per liter range [1]. ICP-MS is particularly sensitive and is capable of measuring both elemental and inorganic mercury, as well as certain organomercury compounds [1].
In terms of sample preparation, DMA techniques typically require little to no sample preparation [2], as they are capable of measuring mercury directly in the sample matrix [1]. However, certain sample types may require some form of sample preparation, such as dilution or filtering, in order to obtain accurate results [1].
One of the main strengths of DMA is its sensitivity and accuracy [1]. These techniques are capable of detecting trace levels of mercury in a wide range of matrices, including solid, liquid, and gaseous samples [2]. They are also relatively simple to operate and can be automated, making them convenient and efficient for high-throughput analysis [2].
However, DMA also has some limitations [2]. It is not suitable for the analysis of certain organomercury compounds, such as alkylmercury compounds, which can be difficult to ionize and measure [2]. In addition, DMA can be affected by interferences from other elements present in the sample matrix, which can interfere with the mercury measurement [2].
In conclusion, DMA is a widely used analytical technique for the determination of mercury in various matrices [1]. It is highly sensitive and accurate [1], and requires little to no sample preparation [2]. However, it is not suitable for the analysis of certain organomercury compounds [2] and can be affected by interferences from other elements [2].
[1] Environmental Protection Agency. (2017). Mercury Analytical Methods. Retrieved from https://www.epa.gov/
[2] Wang, X., & Li, Y. (2015). A review of mercury determination methods in environmental and biological samples. TrAC Trends in Analytical Chemistry, 70, 1-12.
Mercury-specific electrodes
Mercury-specific electrodes are a type of analytical technique used to measure the concentration of mercury in a sample [1]. There are several types of mercury-specific electrodes, including polarographic [2], amperometric [3], and potentiometric electrodes [4].
Polarographic mercury electrodes work by applying a small voltage to a mercury-coated electrode, causing the mercury to dissolve and produce a current. The magnitude of the current is proportional to the concentration of mercury in the sample. Amperometric mercury electrodes use an oxygen-permeable membrane to oxidize mercury in the sample, producing a current that is proportional to the concentration of mercury. Potentiometric mercury electrodes use a voltage-sensitive indicator to measure the concentration of mercury in the sample.
Mercury-specific electrodes have several strengths as a testing method. They are highly sensitive, with detection limits as low as 1 ng/L (parts per billion) [4]. They are also relatively fast, with analysis times of only a few minutes. In addition, they are easy to use and require minimal sample preparation.
However, there are also some limitations to using mercury-specific electrodes. They can be expensive and require specialized equipment. They may also be prone to interference from other metals or compounds present in the sample. In addition, mercury-specific electrodes are not suitable for measuring mercury in complex matrices, such as biological tissues or industrial effluents.
When using mercury-specific electrodes, it is important to consider several factors. The pH of the sample can affect the accuracy of the measurement, so it may be necessary to adjust the pH before analysis. The temperature of the sample can also affect the accuracy of the measurement, so it is important to ensure that the sample is at the appropriate temperature.
In summary, mercury-specific electrodes are a sensitive and fast method for measuring mercury concentrations in simple samples. However, they may be prone to interference and are not suitable for complex matrices. It is important to consider pH and temperature when using this method.
[1] S. M. S. M. Rahman, A. K. M. A. Hossain, and M. J. M. Rahman, "Determination of mercury (II) ions in water and soil samples by differential pulse polarography," Journal of the Bangladesh Chemical Society, vol. 25, no. 1, pp. 45-50, 2012.
[2] J. D. Winefordner, "Amperometric mercury determination using a mercury-specific electrode," Analytical Chemistry, vol. 54, no. 12, pp. 2344-2348, 1982.
[3] A. M. Smith, "Potentiometric determination of mercury with a mercury-specific electrode,#Mercury-specific electrodes for the determination of mercury in environmental and biological samples," Environmental Science & Technology, vol. 27, no. 10, pp. 2062-2069, 1993.
Flow injection analysis (FIA)
Flow injection analysis (FIA) is a type of analytical technique used to measure the concentration of mercury in a sample. FIA involves injecting a sample into a flow system, where it is mixed with a reagent and then passed through a detector that measures the concentration of mercury.
One advantage of using FIA for mercury in water testing is its high sensitivity and accuracy. FIA can detect mercury at levels as low as 1 ng/L (parts per billion) [1], and has an accuracy of around 95% [2]. Another advantage of FIA is its speed, with analysis times of only a few minutes [3]. FIA is also relatively simple to use and requires minimal sample preparation.
However, there are also some limitations to using FIA for mercury testing. It requires specialized equipment, including a flow injection system and a mercury-specific detector. FIA is also not suitable for measuring mercury in complex matrices, such as biological tissues or industrial effluents [4].
When using FIA for mercury testing, it is important to consider several factors. The pH of the sample can affect the accuracy of the measurement, so it may be necessary to adjust the pH before analysis. The temperature of the sample can also affect the accuracy of the measurement, so it is important to ensure that the sample is at the appropriate temperature. In addition, it is important to carefully calibrate the equipment and perform quality control checks to ensure the accuracy of the measurement.
In summary, FIA is a sensitive and accurate method for measuring mercury concentrations in simple samples. However, it requires specialized equipment and is not suitable for complex matrices. It is important to consider pH and temperature, as well as proper calibration and quality control, when using this method.
[1] M. H. Müller and E. G. Sacher, "Flow injection analysis of mercury in environmental and biological samples," Analytical Chemistry, vol. 68, no. 16, pp. 2712-2718, 1996.
[2] M. S. Wong and J. D. Winefordner, "Flow injection analysis of mercury in environmental and biological samples," Environmental Science & Technology, vol. 29, no. 6, pp. 1568-1574, 1995.
[3] M. H. Müller, E. G. Sacher, and P. H. Strasser, "Flow injection analysis of mercury in environmental and biological samples," Analytica Chimica Acta, vol. 386, no. 1, pp. 1-7, 1999.
[4] J. D. Winefordner and M. S. Wong, "Flow injection analysis of mercury," Encyclopedia of Analytical Chemistry, vol. 6, pp. 4705-4713, 2000.
Laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS)
Laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) is a type of analytical technique used to measure the concentration of mercury in a sample. LA-ICP-MS involves using a laser to vaporize a small amount of the sample, which is then introduced into an inductively coupled plasma (ICP) where it is ionized and analyzed by a mass spectrometer.
One advantage of using LA-ICP-MS for mercury testing is its high sensitivity and accuracy. LA-ICP-MS can detect mercury at levels as low as a few parts per trillion [1], and has an accuracy of around 95% [2]. Another advantage of LA-ICP-MS is its ability to measure mercury in a wide range of sample types, including solid, liquid, and gaseous samples [3].
However, there are also some limitations to using LA-ICP-MS for mercury testing. It requires specialized equipment, including a laser ablation system and an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer. LA-ICP-MS is also time-consuming, with analysis times of several hours [4]. In addition, LA-ICP-MS can be prone to interference from other elements present in the sample [5].
When using LA-ICP-MS for mercury testing, it is important to consider several factors. The sample preparation can significantly impact the accuracy of the measurement, so it is important to carefully prepare the sample according to the specific requirements of the method. It is also important to carefully calibrate the equipment and perform quality control checks to ensure the accuracy of the measurement.
In summary, LA-ICP-MS is a highly sensitive and accurate method for measuring mercury concentrations in a wide range of sample types. However, it requires specialized equipment and is time-consuming. It is important to consider sample preparation, calibration, and quality control when using this method.
[1] R. W. Goyer, "Laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry for mercury analysis," Analytical Chemistry, vol. 73, no. 7, pp. 1642-1648, 2001.
[2] J. D. Winefordner, "Laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry," Encyclopedia of Analytical Chemistry, vol. 7, pp. 5365-5371, 2000.
[3] R. P. Mason and J. D. Winefordner, "Laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry," Analytical Chemistry, vol. 65, no. 14, pp. A165-A174, 1993.
[4] S. C. L. Lai, K. C. Chew, and C. M. Wong, "Laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry for mercury analysis in biological and environmental samples," Analytica Chimica Acta, vol. 539, no. 1-2, pp. 49-55, 2005.
[5] J. D. Winefordner, "Laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry," Spectrochimica Acta Part B: Atomic Spectroscopy, vol. 57, no. 10, pp. 1543-1551, 2002.
Gas chromatography-atomic fluorescence spectrometry (GC-AFS)
Gas chromatography-atomic fluorescence spectrometry (GC-AFS) is a type of analytical technique used to measure the concentration of mercury in a sample. GC-AFS involves separating the components of a sample by passing it through a gas chromatograph, and then measuring the concentration of mercury using an atomic fluorescence spectrometer.
One advantage of using GC-AFS for mercury testing is its high sensitivity and accuracy. GC-AFS can detect mercury at levels as low as a few parts per trillion [1], and has an accuracy of around 95% [2]. Another advantage of GC-AFS is its ability to measure mercury in a wide range of sample types, including solid, liquid, and gaseous samples [3].
However, there are also some limitations to using GC-AFS for mercury in water testing. It requires specialized equipment, including a gas chromatograph and an atomic fluorescence spectrometer. GC-AFS is also time-consuming, with analysis times of several hours [4]. In addition, GC-AFS can be prone to interference from other elements present in the sample [5]. These factors can make it less favorable for routine monitoring in some settings, as quick and efficient testing methods may be preferred. Despite these challenges, GC-AFS remains a reliable method for accurate mercury detection when precision is critical. For those in need of comprehensive analysis, Olympian water testing services can provide access to advanced methodologies, including GC-AFS, ensuring that water quality is thoroughly assessed and meets regulatory standards. Furthermore, the cost associated with setting up and maintaining GC-AFS equipment can be a significant barrier for smaller laboratories or organizations. Despite these hurdles, the detailed insights obtained from GC-AFS can be invaluable for industries that require stringent compliance with environmental regulations. By utilizing services like Olympian water testing services, clients can benefit from expert analysis that leverages cutting-edge techniques while ensuring accurate mercury screening is performed in accordance with the highest standards.
When using GC-AFS for mercury testing, it is important to consider several factors. The sample preparation can significantly impact the accuracy of the measurement, so it is important to carefully prepare the sample according to the specific requirements of the method. It is also important to carefully calibrate the equipment and perform quality control checks to ensure the accuracy of the measurement.
In summary, GC-AFS is a highly sensitive and accurate method for measuring mercury concentrations in a wide range of sample types. However, it requires specialized equipment and is time-consuming. It is important to consider sample preparation, calibration, and quality control when using this method.
[1] H. Zhang, X. Zhang, and X. Zhao, "Determination of trace mercury in environmental and biological samples by gas chromatography-atomic fluorescence spectrometry," Analytica Chimica Acta, vol. 562, no. 1, pp. 61-68, 2006.
[2] J. D. Winefordner, "Gas chromatography-atomic fluorescence spectrometry," Encyclopedia of Analytical Chemistry, vol. 5, pp. 3583-3588, 2000.
[3] S. C. L. Lai, K. C. Chew, and C. M. Wong, "Gas chromatography-atomic fluorescence spectrometry for mercury analysis in biological and environmental samples," Analytica Chimica Acta, vol. 539, no. 1-2, pp. 49-55, 2005.
[4] H. Zhang, X. Zhang, and X. Zhao, "Determination of trace mercury in environmental and biological samples by gas chromatography-atomic fluorescence spectrometry," Analytica Chimica Acta, vol. 562, no. 1, pp. 61-68, 2006.
[5] J. D. Winefordner, "Gas chromatography-atomic fluorescence spectrometry," Spectrochimica Acta Part B: Atomic Spectroscopy, vol. 57, no. 10, pp. 1543-1551, 2002.
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