Recent applications of tetramethylammonium hydroxide (TMAH) in the sample preparation for elemental analysis by spectroanalytical techniques

Abstract

Application of tetramethylammonium hydroxide for the treatment of samples prior to elemental analysis over the last five years is approached in this review article. Characteristics and properties of this reagent are described for a better understanding of the treatment process. Its effect on analyte measurements performed by atomic spectrometry techniques (flame and graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry, atomic fluorescence spectrometry, inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry and, inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry) is discussed, mainly the possibilities of physical interferences. Ways of using the reagent in sample preparation, such as incubation at room temperature, use of ultrasound energy, microwave energy, among others, will be discussed, in addition to the use of the reagent in speciation and nanoparticles analyses. Tetramethylammonium hydroxide has proven to be a viable alternative in the treatment of samples that can improve the performance of methods based on atomic spectrometry in the determination of elements of great interest to society.