US EPA

1358328 

Technical Report 

Current Capabilities In Analysis Of Trace Substances: Flame Photometry And Atomic Absorption 

Pickett, EE 

1968 

NIOSH/00151563 

pages 29 

29-36 

Methods of flame analysis used for trace substances are discussed. Atomic absorption and flame emission spectroscopy are compared. Results of studies comparing 56 elements suggest that flame emission spectroscopy is more sensitive for 24 elements while atomic absorption is more sensitive for 17. Neither method is sensitive for several elements including arsenic (7440382), boron (7440428), uranium (7440611) and zirconium (7440677). However, over 50 elements can be determined to microgram levels or below by either method. Instrumentation specifications necessary for achieving high sensitivity are described. Methods of reducing interference are discussed. Advantages of the flame methods are: sensitivity, precision, speed, and ease of use on simple inexpensive equipment. Nuclear activation analysis is expensive and does not give high degrees of precision. Arc and spark emission techniques are sensitive but are not easy nor precise. The problems of contamination are discussed. The author suggests the development of a convenient, precise flame method for such elements as boron, lead (7439921), and thallium (7440280) which are not well done by activation analysis. 

DCN-137833; Analytical instruments; Trace substances; Environmental factors; Tissue distribution; Biology; Toxic materials; Hygiene; Biological effects; Research; Environmental exposure; Health protection