Trace element analysis of steels and nickel alloys by atomic spectrometry

The determination of arsenic and antimony in electrical steel sheets and nickel-base alloys at low concentration levels using graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry was investigated. The analytical and instrumental parameters were optimized. The influence of various modifiers on sensitivity and reproducibility of analytical signal was studied. The selection of optimal temperature program with regard to volatilization of the elements under investigation, background, matrix interferences, sensitivity and reproducibility of analytical signal and the life time of graphite tube was made. Some characteristic data, such as detection limit, characteristic mass and reproducibility of results were determined. The accuracy of the method was tested with certified standard reference materials of steels and nickel alloys. The experimental results agreed closely with the certified values for the both elements.