Optimization and Validation of a Rapid and Direct Sampling Method for the Estimation of Lead in Whole Blood Using Graphite Tube AtomizerAtomic Absorption Spectroscopy

Abstract

An extensive validation of a rapid and direct sampling method was done for estimation of lead content in whole blood
using graphite tube atomizer atomic absorption spectroscopy without pre-digestion. The sequence of sample introduction
and amount of addition of a mixed matrix modifier solution is conceded here. The current method is optimized and
rigorously validated within the commonly disseminated lead toxicity range on whole blood samples without a tedious step
of sample preparation and/or digestion. Multivariate optimization and validation were used to establish the optimal
conditions of the graphite tube atomizer and matrix modifier solution for blood lead detection. No significant differences
were found between the results obtained using the proposed method and the optimized mixed matrix modifier solution for
the lead analyte estimation in whole blood matrix.