Determination of Major Electrolytes, Minor Minerals, and Trace Heavy Metals in Physiological Fluids by Flame and Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

Accurate measurement of specific metals in various biological systems is extremely important. These metals can be classified into several groups including high level major electrolytes, minor minerals, trace heavy metals, or toxics. The latter elements are either known to be detrimental to the body, or have a currently unknown activity that is purported to be harmful. Therefore there is a need for an analytical system to be able to differentiate and quantitate these elements easily and reproducibly. This application note, demonstrates the Buck 210VGP Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer is the most economical instrument for this work.