Research Information System
Atomic Spectroscopy, vol.31, no.2, pp.61-66, 2010 (SCI-Expanded)
In this study, a reliable graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry (GFAAS) method for toxicological analysis of lead was established. The method was developed by a software-supported optimization procedure and validated for assessment of lead concentrations in human autopsy bone tissues as the best evidence for lifetime exposure. Costa-bone samples were obtained from 121 autopsy subjects at the age interval of 18-86. Microwave digestion was applied, and graphite furnace temperature parameters were optimized by a series of 12 runs performed by Surface Response Methodology (SRM). Ashing and atomization temperatures were set at 522 °C and 2146 °C, respectively. 1% (v/v) ammonium dihydrogen phosphate was used as modifier, and lead detection was performed at 283.3 nm. The method showed linearity in the range of 1-100 μg/L. with a detection and quantification limit equal to 2.3 μg/L and 7.0 μg/L, respectively, as well as a good repeatability not exceeding 5%. The calibration curve was characterized by a high correlation coefficient (r=0.9977). Validation was performed in terms of accuracy, precision, and recovery using a certified reference material, NIST-SRM 1400 Human Bone Ash Powder. Lifetime exposure of lead toxicity was assessed by the analysis of autopsy bone samples. The Pb levels for each subject ranged widely (from 24.48 to 4459.96 μg/kg), with an average value of 437.17±75.66μg/kg.