Detailed method of analysis of Pb in blood samples with the help of Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer

Abstract

The human body contains approximately 120 mg of lead. About 10-20% of lead is absorbed by the intestines. Women are generally more susceptible to lead poisoning than men. Children may absorb a larger amount of lead per unit body weight than adults (up to 40%). Consequently, children are generally more susceptible for lead poisoning than adults. Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry is a method for determining the metals that are suspended or dissolved in a solution. This technique can be used for alkalis, alkaline earths, and transition metals. It is a very sensitive form of Spectrophotometry, as it can detect lead (Pb) with a concentration of less than one part per million in a small sample of the solution. For the analysis of lead the blood is digested by acid digestion procedure. After the acid digestion lead comes in ionic form in the solution. This solution is analyzed by Flame AAS.