Determination of bismuth, lead and tellurium in copper by atomic absorption spectrometry with introduction of solid samples into an induction furnace

Abstract

Atomic absorption spectrometry with an induction furnace is used for the determination of bismuth (0.015–10 μg g -1), lead (0.2–15 μg g -1) and tellurium (0.04–5 μg g -1) in 2–30-mg samples of copper and low-alloy copper dropped into the furnace. Calibration graphs of peak area versus mass of element were constructed by use of standardised alloys. The accuracy, precision and limits of detection of the method are described for numerous copper samples. With alloys containing more than 0.1 μg Bi g -1, 0.2 μg Pb g -1 and 0.8 μg Te g -1, average relative standard deviations are 7%, 6% and 8%, respectively. The limits of detection for bismuth, lead and tellurium are 0.01, 0.1 and 0.02 μg g -1, respectively.