Multi-element speciation of trace metals in fresh water adapted to plasma source mass spectrometry (original) (raw)

A method for speciation of trace metals at natural concentration levels has been developed. The speciation is carried out in a cleanroom laboratory and the determination is performed with an ICP-MS. The method is based on fractionation of metal species on three adsorbents, Chelex-100, Sep-Pak C-18 and Fractogel DEAE. The method distinguishes between labile complexes, non-polar organic adsorbable matter and ion exchangeable substances. The filtered water samples are pumped through columns with the adsorbents. Following a prefraction, samples for determination of metal concentrations are taken. The adsorbents are not eluted. After extensive cleaning, the used adsorbents have blank values that are low enough for trace metal analysis in fresh water. Concentration and speciation data for Al, Cd, Co, Cu, Fe, Pb, Mn, MO, Ni and Zn are obtained.