Graphite Furnace Atomic Research Articles

Heavy Metal Contamination Suspected Cause of Mass Deaths in Seaweed Cultivation in Waters Affected by Mine Waste

Since 2012 until this year, there has been a decrease and a mass death of seaweed, especially in centers where mining exploitation is located. The need for technology on seaweed that is almost extinct is eroded due to environmental damage caused by mining industry waste. One technology that can be used in genome editing is mapping and selecting potential superior genes in several seaweeds cultivated in Morowali waters. This research uses experimental research methods. The data collection technique in this study is observation—water measurement and sampling at 16 stations. The collected data were then analyzed by the International Modification Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC) method 2005: 999.10, using Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (FAAS) and Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (GFAAS). The results showed that the heavy metal content in mercury/mercury, arsenic, nickel, and lead exceeded the aquatic biota threshold. In addition, the highest heavy metal content in Fatufia and Lalampu waters is accompanied by reddish and muddy watercolor.

Validation of GF-AAS Method for the Determination of Aluminium Content in Human Albumin Finished Product

Background: Purified human albumin fractionated from plasma has a complex matrix that imposes a lot of interference in quality control testing, particularly for impurities at trace level. In this study, a simple approach has been studied and validated for the quantification of aluminium content using Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (GF-AAS). As per international guidelines, the linearity, accuracy, precision, specificity, limit of detection, and quantification have been assessed. Results: The linearity of the analyte response was evaluated over the range of concentrations from 5μg/L to 45 μg/L, and the correlation coefficient obtained was greater than 0.99. The mean recovery obtained for the accuracy ranged from 102.29% to 106.81% at three concentration levels. The specificity/selectivity evaluated for possible interference from other metal ions and relative standard deviation for the high and low content was 10.24% and 6.50%, respectively, which was statistically verified and not significant. Method precision was evaluated for repeatability and intermediate precision, and the relative standard deviation obtained was 1.83% and 4.61%, respectively. The limit of detection and quantification obtained was 1.30 μg/L and 4.10 μg/L, respectively. Conclusion: Results obtained for the method performance show the suitability of the method for aluminium estimation in human albumin samples and should be used to control the limit of aluminium in human albumin blood products.

Determination of Trace Cobalt in Water Samples by Ionic Liquid-Dispersive Liquid–Liquid Microextraction and Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry

Determination of Trace Cobalt in Water Samples by Ionic Liquid-Dispersive Liquid–Liquid Microextraction and Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry

Identification of Major Interfering Substances for Heavy Metal Determination in Northern Sea Areas of Sri Lanka

This study investigated the physicochemical characteristics of seawater from five locations along the northern Sri Lankan coast, encompassing areas with varying degrees of anthropogenic activity. The analysis revealed significant variations in several parameters, potentially influenced by human influences. The results reveal significant variations in several parameters. For instance, turbidity levels varied from 1.88 NTU in Thalaiyadi to 13.3 NTU in Pannai, with Pannai, Myliddy, and Kakkaithivu exceeding the recommended limit of 5 NTU. Total suspended solids (TSS) ranged from 3 mg/L in Thalaiyadi to 83 mg/L in Pannai, surpassing the recommended limit of 30 mg/L. Electrical conductivity (EC) ranged from 45,700 µS/cm in Nainathivu to 49,500 µS/cm in Pannai, exceeding the typical seawater range. Nitrate levels ranged from 10.4 mg/L in Thalaiyadi to 19.1 mg/L in Myliddy. Major cations such as calcium (361 mg/L to 417 mg/L), magnesium (1,222 mg/L to 1,327 mg/L), and sodium (10,140 mg/L to 10,530 mg/L) also showed significant differences across locations. These findings highlight the need for continuous monitoring and effective management strategies to mitigate the negative impacts of anthropogenic activities on these coastal ecosystems. Furthermore, the complex seawater matrix presents challenges for heavy metal determination using Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (GFAAS) due to spectral interferences from major cations, non-specific matrix effects, and interferences from organic matter, turbidity, and suspended solids. Careful consideration of these factors through background correction techniques, matrix modifiers, sample pre-treatment, and optimization of analysis parameters is crucial for accurate heavy metal determination in these environments. This study contributes to a better understanding of the environmental conditions and emphasizes the need for further research on heavy metal contamination and the development of robust analytical methods tailored to address the challenges posed by the complex seawater matrix in northern Sri Lanka.

Effects of Processing on Nickel Content and its Relationship with Proximate Composition in dead fresh and canned tuna fish in Iran

Background: The presence of toxic metals in food can be a risk to food safety and public health. Methods: The Iranian canned tuna was analyzed for nickel level after wet digestion with acids using Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (GFAAS). Results: The average concentration of nickel in canned and dead fresh fish found 4.20 ppb and 1.64 ppb. A significant difference in nickel level was observed between canned and dead fresh fish samples in this study. Although the concentration of nickel per g in the fillet after processing was relatively low, but the total amount of nickel in the sample shown change (256.01%). The results in present study showed the protein content in the canned fish increased to 13.17%. The moisture content in the processed fish decreased to 8.80%. The fat content in the canned fish increased to 12.86%. Conclusion: Although the protein and moisture contents significantly increased and decreased respectively after processing, but none of these factors were related to the change in nickel concentration. It may be recommended to regularly monitor the concentration of nickel metal in aquatic food products, so that human health was not at risk.

Copper, lead, and cadmium monitoring via the small-spotted catshark (Scyliorhinus canicula; Linnaeus, 1758): space-time driven variability in Western Mediterranean populations.

The philopatric and sedentary nature of female S. canicula, its high abundance as a bycatch and resilience to regular exploitation by bottom trawl fisheries and its widespread distribution, makes it a potentially good candidate as a biomonitor species. To evaluate this potential, microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) and Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (GF-AAS) were used to analyse Pb, Cd, and Cu in muscle tissue of individuals captured in the Western Mediterranean (Alicante, Spain). A monthly assessment of the concentration of these three analytes was conducted from November 2019 to November 2020 with 300 individuals. Results showed the existence of slightly higher mean concentrations during warmer seasons for Pb and Cd with mean concentrations for Pb and Cu peaking in Autumn 2019 and during Spring 2020 in the case of Cd. Significant differences in analyte concentrations found between non-consecutive months suggested gradual variability in time. Although space-wise, time-persistent concentration hotspots were observed throughout the sample area, the magnitude of these appeared to be variable in time and should be evaluated in future studies.

Heavy metals (Pb, Cd, Ni) in insect-based products for human consumption sold by e-commerce in the EU market: Occurrence and potential health risk associated with dietary exposure

Ensuring the safety of insect-based products (IBPs) is essential considering their potential as food source in the future. Among food contaminants, heavy metals represent a concern for food safety. In this study, the concentrations of lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), and nickel (Ni) in 52 IBPs marketed on European e-commerce were assessed. The analyses were conducted with Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry. The impact of consuming IBPs on the toxicological reference values for each analyzed heavy metal was also assessed, to characterize the potential human health risks. Results showed a statistically significant higher concentration of Pb in products containing a percentage greater than 50% of insects compared to those with lower percentage of inclusion. Specifically, 70% of samples containing 100% insect powder exceeded the Pb levels established by regulation, while 10% exceeded the Cd limits. The Ni values, higher respect to other studies, were compared with the mean values reported by the EFSA monitoring plan on foodstuff, showing that our data mainly fell between grain and other vegetables products, which have a greater nickel content respect to products of animal origin. According to EFSA, the health risk assessment conducted suggests that consuming products containing A. diaperinus, A. domesticus, L. migratoria, and T. molitor as proposed does not significantly contribute to overall dietary exposure to heavy metals. However, 4.24% of the Margins of Exposure for Pb were above 1 but below 10, suggesting a very low health risk, while 12.30% of the Margins of Exposure for Ni were lower than 30, indicating potential health risks for sensitized individuals. The importance of rigorous monitoring of heavy metal contamination to ensure the safety of IBPs and the need for continued research to mitigate potential health risks associated with their consumption were highlighted.

Ionic Liquid-Based Solidified Floating Organic Drop Micro-Extraction Followed by Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry for the Determination of Mercury in Water Samples

Ionic Liquid-Based Solidified Floating Organic Drop Micro-Extraction Followed by Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry for the Determination of Mercury in Water Samples

Quantifying heavy metal and radionuclide contamination in fish and water proximal to a uranium tailings facility: A Linshui River basin investigation, China

BackgroundThe objective of this study is to evaluate the concentrations of heavy metals and radionuclides in water and fish samples collected from six designated sampling stations along the Linshui River, in close proximity to a Uranium Tailing Pond situated in China. Additionally, it seeks to estimate the bioaccumulation of heavy metals and conduct risk assessments, both carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic, for consumers. MethodsWater and fish samples (yellowhead catfish and common carp) were systematically collected from six stations along the river from January to June 2023, adhering to ethical standards and standard protocols for assessing water quality. Samples underwent chemical preparation and analysis for heavy metals using Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry and Cold Vapor Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy, and for radionuclides using gamma spectrometry, with all methods validated for accuracy. ResultsThe water samples showed metal and radionuclide concentrations within acceptable limits, except for higher levels of U and Th compared to background values. Heavy metal concentrations were higher in common carp compared to yellowhead catfish, with both species exhibiting a similar trend. While non-carcinogenic health risk, as indicated by target hazard quotients, was low for consumers, the health risk data emphasized the carcinogenic threats posed by U238 and Th234. ConclusionsThe study highlights the importance of implementing comprehensive river restoration measures. Additionally, the bioconcentration factor values indicate minimal accumulation of heavy metals in the muscle tissue of fish.

Effectiveness of soil remediation intervention in abandoned used lead acid battery (ULAB) recycling sites to reduce lead exposure among the children

Lead (Pb) is a neurotoxin, and children are vulnerable due to their evolving physiology and high-risk behaviours. Soil remediation interventions have proven effective in reducing Pb exposure. The primary objective is to measure the effectiveness of soil remediation at abandoned used lead acid battery (ULAB) recycling sites, nearby household cleaning, and community awareness in reducing blood lead levels (BLLs) in children. Additionally, this study aims to examine associations of Pb exposure with hematological, cardiovascular, renal, immunological, and endocrinological parameters in children aged 0–12 years. This study employs a quasi-experimental design, with abandoned ULAB sites as intervention sites and two control sites in Bangladesh. The intervention includes soil remediation coupled with community education. Data will be collected prior to the intervention and at a 12-month follow-up, including a comprehensive Pb exposure survey and collect environmental, turmeric samples, and blood from the child. Pb concentrations in environmental samples and turmeric samples will be determined using XRF analyser. Child BLL will be measured using Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (GF-AAS) and proposed biochemical parameters will be analysed using routine laboratory methods. This study could provide valuable insights for designing targeted interventions in similar settings and mitigating exposure to Pb.

Analysis of polyphenols, anthocyanins and toxic elements in Açaí Juice (Euterpe oleracea Mart.): Quantification and in vivo assessment of the antioxidant capacity of clarified Açaí juice

This study aims to measure the concentration of total polyphenols, anthocyanins and inorganic contaminants (Al, Pb and Ni) in samples of açaí juice collected in the municipalities of Pará and evaluate the in vivo antioxidant capacity of purified açaí juice. Total polyphenols and anthocyanins were determined by UV/Vis spectrophotometry, while inorganic contaminants were measured using Graphite Furnace Atomization Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (GF-AAS) and Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (F-AAS) after microwave-assisted digestion. The in vivo study lasted five days and involved 16 rats divided into four groups. The antioxidant capacity was evaluated through the formation of peroxyl free radicals (ACAP) in rat liver tissue. The average concentrations (mg GAE/DE) of total phenolic compounds averaged 27.34, with individual values ranging from 13.28 to 56.58. The average concentration (mg ANTO/g) of anthocyanins was 7.6, with individual concentrations ranging from 5.52 to 9.75. Contaminant concentrations (mg/kg) ranged from 1.82 to 11.74 for Al, 0.04 to 0.53 for Pb and 0.18 to 0.78 for Ni. The levels of Pb found in the samples may represent a concern to health. Al and Pb induced oxidative stress in the liver tissue, but Euterpe oleracea clarified juice (EOCJ) led to significant antioxidant protection. Animals treated with the highest dose of EOCJ (2.07 g/kg body weight) experienced an approximately five-fold reduction in ACAP compared to the group exposed to the metals (Al and Pb). The findings suggest the need to monitor inorganic contaminants in açaí products as well as the potential benefits of antioxidant compounds against the liver toxicity of Al and Pb.

Silver carboxylate-TiO2/polydimethyl siloxane is a safe and effective antimicrobial with significant wound care potential.

With the rise in antibiotic resistance, new methodologies are needed to combat musculoskeletal infections. Silver is an antimicrobial that can be synthesized in different forms, but its pharmacokinetics are difficult to control. This study details the antibacterial efficacy and cellular cytotoxicity of a formulation consisting of silver carboxylate (AgCar) released through a titanium dioxide/polydimethylsiloxane matrix with a predictable release profile on Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacterium baumannii, and human-derived primary osteoblasts. Through an Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee and IRB-approved protocol, AgCar was applied to live Yucatan porcine skin and histologically analyzed for skin penetration. Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (GFAAS) was used to measure elution of AgCar. Dose-response curves were generated through optical density to assess potency. Finally, 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay was used to quantify the cellular cytotoxicity of the novel formulation. The results were subject to statistical analysis using analysis of variance and post hoc Tukey tests. The silver carboxylate coating demonstrated deep penetration into the epithelium at the level of the deep pilosebaceous glands in animal models. GFAAS testing demonstrated the extended elution profile of silver carboxylate over 96 hours, while 100% silver with no titanium dioxide-polydimethylsiloxane matrix fully eluted within 48 hours. 10x silver carboxylate demonstrated superior antimicrobial activity to antibiotics and other silver formulations and showed minimal cytotoxicity compared with other silver formulations. Current antimicrobial therapies in wound care and surgical antisepsis, such as chlorhexidine gluconate, have pitfalls including poor skin penetration and short duration of efficacy. The broad antimicrobial activity, extended elution, and deep skin penetration of this AgCar formulation show great promise for surgical site infection and wound care treatment. Novel technology to fight the growing threat of microbial resistance should be at the forefront of orthopaedic surgical site infection prevention and treatment.

Boron elemental and isotopic determination via the BF diatomic molecule using high-resolution continuum source graphite furnace molecular absorption spectrometry

A new approach for the elemental and isotopic monitoring of boron via HR CS GFMAS is introduced.

Determination of Cadmium Content in Pork by Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry Combined with Matrix Matching Method and Its Health Risk Assessment

Determination of Cadmium Content in Pork by Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry Combined with Matrix Matching Method and Its Health Risk Assessment

GSR Analysis by Spectrophotometry Method in Forensic Chemistry

This study was conducted to analyze residual shots from forensic chemistry applications. The entire analysis process was evaluated with Scanning Electron Microscopy/Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (SEM/EDS) and, Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (GFAAS)devices, which are among the methods for obtaining efficient results, and positive results were tried to be obtained by comparison. Following the study, it was discussed which results were more appropriate; in particular, the samples' appropriateness for reanalysis was underlined. The presence of shot residues on all samples was determined in the analyses performed with the SEM/EDS device. When the same samples were analyzed with the GFAAS device, the results remained below the threshold value of 10 μg/L, which is the antimony concentration indicating the presence of shot residues. It should be noted that the values we obtained may vary with the size and weight of the shot residue particles. Due to the ease of sample collection, the capacity to identify elements other than gunshot residues on the sample under examination, and the circumstances surrounding the determination of particles below the threshold value, the analysis method utilizing the SEM/EDS device has been deemed more suitable despite its higher cost.

Heavy metal concentrations in sharks, rays and chimaeras from the western Mediterranean Sea

The potential bioaccumulation of pollutants, such as heavy metals, may pose a threat to the western Mediterranean chondrichthyans and human consumers. Therefore, the first extensive assessment of cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), and copper (Cu) concentrations in the muscle tissue of 17 species of sharks, rays, and chimaeras in this region was conducted via Microwave Assisted Extraction (MAE) and Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (GFAAS). Significant differences between species were observed, particularly related to the rabbit fish (Chimaera monstrosa) and the velvet belly lantern shark (Etmopterus spinax), which exceeded the European Union (EU) Commission Regulation 2023/915 threshold of Cd. Overall, heavy metal concentrations correlated negatively with size and trophic level but positively with depth. Although the consumption of these species may entail minimal risk to adult humans, caution is advised, especially for children. These findings are important due to the widespread consumption of chondrichthyans in many western Mediterranean regions.

Oyster shell element composition as a proxy for environmental studies

The use of mollusks' shell as a proxy for long-term trend prediction in the variability of coastal zones has been used as an attempt to understand the consequences that environmental changes may cause to the functioning of coastal ecosystems. This study exploited the elemental concentration, elemental ratios and mineralogy of oyster shells of the genus Crassostrea to infer spatial variations in the environment of the animal's growth. Modern oyster shell samples of the Crassostrea brasiliana and Crassostrea mangle species were analyzed by neutron activation analysis, X-ray diffraction, X-ray fluorescence and Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry. Data normalization by the enrichment factor relative to lanthanum (La), considered as a conservative element in seawater, and statistical multivariate analyses indicate that the elemental composition and trace element ratios differ when comparing oyster shells from different regions. The results showed that the performed analyses may be useful for the characterization of the environment in which oysters grow.

Aptamer-Based Electric-Double -Layer (EDL) Extended-Gated FET Biosensor for Detection of Cadmium Ion

Cadmium ion (Cd2+) is a highly toxic heavy metal pollutant. It causes irreversible damage to human health even at low doses due to a long biological half-life and strong bioaccumulation. Common heavy metal detection includes Inductively Coupled Plasma with Atomic Emission, Spectroscopy (ICP-AES), Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (FAAS), and Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (GFAAS), and. However, these technologies are high-cost, time-consuming, complicated operations, and can't be detected immediately and accurately.In this study, we developed an electric double-layer (EDL) extended-gate field effect transistor sensor based on aptamers to detect cadmium ions (Cd2+). Use N-channel enhanced-mode MOSFETs to connect the extended-gate array chips with aptamer modified. The aptamers were self-assembled on the gold electrode surface through Au-S bonds. Since the aptamer has a specific binding ability to cadmium ions, it will bind to the aptamer to form a stem-loop structure. The gate voltage changes caused by the structure change and then amplify the electrical signal through the transconductance of the field effect transistor. The linear detection range of this sensor for cadmium ions is from 1nM to 10uM. The Cd2+ calibration curve is shown a high correlation coefficient (R2 = 0.99001) and an excellent detection limit as low as 99.5 nＭ. Importantly, it responds to Cd2+ within 10 seconds. The sensor exhibits high selectivity in the presence of other heavy metals such as arsenic, chromium, lead, and mercury for electrical signal measurements. It also can be reused without significant signal attenuation.The advantages of this method are convenient portability, short detection time, high sensitivity, and simple operation. It has a good prospect for detection in the daily life of cadmium environmental pollution. Figure 1

A new method for extraction and pre-concentration of the heavy metals using a microemulsion system in winsor II equilibrium and determination by HR-CS AAS

For the very first time, a microemulsion system in the Winsor II (WII) equilibrium was applied in a sample preparation method for extraction and pre-concentration in the determination of Pb, Cd, Co, Tl, Cu and Ni, in natural waters by high resolution continuum source atomic absorption spectrometry (HR-CS AAS). The method was optimized using the graphite furnace atomization. A simplex-centroid design for determine optimum extraction condition (77.5% aqueous phase, 5% of the oil phase, and 17.5% cosurfactant/surfactant ratio - C/S = 4) was applied. The optimized time for the sample preparations was around 30 min. The analytical performance of the optimized method using HR-CS GF AAS showed that the detection limits were: 0.09, 0.01, 0.06, and 0.05 μg L−1 for determination of Pb, Cd, Tl, and Co, respectively and the enrichment factors were between 6 and 19, considered excellent for all analytes. The RSD values were lower than 5%, demonstrating the good precision of the proposed method. When the optimized method was applied using the HR-CS F AAS, the sensibility increased 9 to 12 times for Cu and Ni, respectively. The analytical method was successfully applied for the determination of analytes in Certified Reference Material and real samples for natural waters such as Brackish water (recovery between 107 and 112%), Saline water (recovery between 83 and 94%), Produced water from oil industry (recovery between 98 and 110%) and Fresh water (recovery 80 and 87% to Cu and Ni respectively). All the results confirming the accuracy of the analytical method proposed. The repeatability of the measurements has been better 5% (n = 3), for all elements.

Simultaneous Green Separation/Preconcentration and Determination of Lead Ions in Water Samples Via Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry

Simultaneous Green Separation/Preconcentration and Determination of Lead Ions in Water Samples Via Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry