Aerosol dilution as a simple strategy for analysis of complex samples by ICP-MS

This study investigated the capability of High Matrix Introduction (HMI) strategy for analysis of dialysis solution and urine samples using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The use of HMI enables the direct introduction of urine samples and dialysis solutions 2-fold diluted with 0.14 mol L-1 HNO3. Bismuth, Ge, Ir, Li, Pt, Rh, Sc and Tl were evaluated as internal standards for Al, Ag, As, Be, Cd, Cr, Pb, Sb, Se, Tl, and Hg determination in dialysis solution and As, Cd, Hg and Pb determination in urine samples. Helium collision cell mode (4.5 mL min(-1)) was efficient to overcome polyatomic interferences in As, Se and Cr determinations. Mercury memory effects were evaluated by washing with 0.12 mol L-1 HCl or an alkaline diluent solution prepared with n-butanol, NH4OH, EDTA, and Triton X-100. This later solution was efficient for avoiding Hg memory effects in 6 h of analysis. Linear calibration curves were obtained for all analytes and detection limits were lower than maximum amounts allowed by Brazilian legislations. Recoveries for all analytes in dialysis solutions and urine samples ranged from 82% to 125% and relative standard deviations for all elements and samples were lower than 7%. Analysis of control internal urine samples was in agreement with certified values at 95% confidence level (t-test; p < 0.05).