Abstract
Atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS) has not previously been satisfactory as a method for determining tin in rocks at parts per million level because of: (a) the difficulty of dissolving the main Sn-bearing mineral (cassiterite SnO 2) and (b) the poor sensitivity of the conventional flame atomisation method. In this study, various methods of rock decomposition were examined, and fusion with LiBO 2 is recommended. Solutions prepared in this way were analysed by AAS, using gas-phase atomisation after conversion of Sn to the hydride. The procedure is outlined and optimum operating conditions discussed. Results obtained for standard rocks are higher than those obtained by other methods, which measure only silicate tin and not total tin.
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