Free Atom Production in a Stabilized dc Arc Device for Atomic Absorption Spectrometry

Abstract

A long-path stabilized dc arc device is described, and the results of an investigation of free atom production with this device reported. In all the measurements reported samples were introduced to the arc as solution aerosols. In evaluation of the arc the following aspects were examined: (1) the effect of current, (2) the effect of potassium addition, (3) the effect of hydrocarbon addition. Radial absorbance measurements are reported for Mg, Al, and W. Atomic absorption detection limits are reported for Al, B, Mg, V, and W.