A novel very sensitive and rapid analytical method was
improved
where gaseous lead formed was transported to and trapped on an externally
heated platinum-coated tungsten-coil atom trap for in situ preconcentration.
The analytical performance of the developed method with the graphite
furnace atomic absorption spectrometry (GFAAS) method was compared.
All critical parameters affecting the performance of both methods
were optimized. The limit of quantitation (LOQ) was found as 11.0
ng L–1and the precision was 2.3% in terms of percent
relative standard deviation (RSD%). Characteristic concentration (Co)
of the developed trap method was indicating a 32.5-fold enhancement
in sensitivity compared to the GFAAS method. In order to investigate
the surface morphology of the W-coil, scanning electron microscope–energy-dispersive
X-ray (SEM-EDS) analyzes were performed. The accuracy of the trap
method was tested by certified reference materials: NIST SRM 1640a
(the elements in natural water) and DOLT:5 (dogfish liver). Interferences
from other hydride-forming elements were investigated. Application
of the trap method was demonstrated by the analysis of some drinking
water and fish tissue samples. The t test was applied to drinking
water samples, and the results indicated that there was no statistically
significant error.