Determination of Zinc in Wort and Beer by Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

Abstract

Various techniques have been evaluated during the development of a graphite furnace atomic absorption spectroscopic (GFAAS) method for the analysis of zinc in both wort and beer. Normal flame atomic absorption spectroscopic methods when applied to wort are subject to high coefficients of variation and also lack the sensitivity required to directly determine the low levels of zinc reported to be found in beer. By combining an appropriate matrix modifier, a cool-down step prior to atomization, and gas flow during atomization, excellent spike recoveries of zinc added to wort and beer were obtained. Coefficients of variation of 5.4 and 4.2%, respectively, were recorded. A reliable and accurate GFAAS method for the analysis of zinc in wort and beer is reported.