Multivariate optimization of a goat meat alkaline solubilization procedure using tetramethylammonium hydroxide for metals determination using FAAS

In the present work, multivariate designs were used to optimize an alkaline dissolution, assisted by ultrasound energy, procedure of goat meat using tetramethylammonium hydroxide (TMAH) aiming to determine Ca, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Na and Zn by flame atomic absorption (FAAS) and emission (FAES) spectrometry. The optimal conditions found for the dissolution were in the following ranges: 0.4-0.5 g for the sample mass, 12-15 min of sonication and using 700-1000 mu L of 25% TMAH at a temperature of 50 degrees C. The obtained limits of quantification varied between 0.221 (Mg) and 7.60 (Ca) mu g g(-1). Accuracy was assessed by comparing the results obtained by applying the proposed method with the digestion in an acid medium using a digesting block and by analyzing bovine liver certified reference material. The application of a t-test revealed that, at a 95% confidence level, there were no significant differences between the values obtained.

Automated summary

This study optimized an alkaline dissolution process with the assistance of ultrasound energy using TMAH to determine mineral elements in goat meat. The results showed that the proposed method provided accurate and stable results, with no significant differences compared to traditional digestion methods.