New approach for determination of Cd, Cu, Cr, Ni, Pb, and Zn in sewage sludges, fired brick, and sediments using two analytical methods by microwave-induced plasma optical spectrometry and induced coupled plasma optical spectrometry

Abstract

Microwave-induced plasma optical spectrometry (MIP OES) and induced coupled plasma optical spectrometry (ICP OES) were implemented in parallel for the determination of Cd, Cu, Cr, Ni, Pb, and Zn in sediments, as well as in unexplored matrices such as sewage sludge and fired brick. Initially, a microwave-assisted digestion procedure was applied to solubilize the samples. A selective approach has recommended for the detection of elements with low and high concentration ranges in different environments to improve sensitivity. Limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) were found between 0.026-0.039 mg L −1 and 0.08-0.11 mg L −1 , respectively. Precision and trueness were controlled using certified reference materials with the same matrices for all analysts. MIP OES showed results in accordance with ICP OES and LOD in the same range (or better, i.e., Pb) than ICP OES. MIP OES found a potential alternative with comparable performance and reduced costs for the analysis of trace metals.