Determination of trace metal ions in seawater by atomic absorption spectrometry after separation/preconcentration with calmagite on Amberlite XAD-1180

Abstract

A preconcentration/separation method for the atomic absorption spectrometric determinations of Cu(II), Ni(II) and Pb(II) ions in seawater have been established by using a chromatographic column filled Amberlite XAD-1180. The recoveries of Cu(II), Ni(II) and Pb(II) ions were quantitative (> 95%) at pH 8-9. The influences of the various analytical parameters including the amount of calmagite, amount of Amberlite XAD-1180, eluent type, etc. were investigated. The influence of the seawater matrix was also examined. Simultaneous enrichment and determination of copper, nickel and lead ions in seawater are possible with satisfactory results (recoveries > 95%, RSD < 9%).