Comparison between hydride generation and nebulization for sample introduction in the determination of lead in plants and water samples by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, using external calibration and isotope dilution

Four inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometric methods: nebulization sample introduction with external calibration; hydride generation with external calibration; isotope dilution with nebulization; and isotope dilution with hydride generation, have been tested and compared. Multimode Sample Introduction System (MSIS™) was employed in either nebulization or hydride generation mode. Best limits of detection (below 0.1 μg L− 1) and accuracy were obtained for isotope dilution techniques in hydride generation and sample nebulization mode. A mixture of HNO3 and H2O2 served both for microwave-assisted digestion as well as a medium for subsequent plumbane generation. Optimal reagent concentrations for hydride generation stage were 0.1 mol L− 1 HNO3, 0.28 mol L− 1 H2O2 and 1.5% m/v NaBH4. Critical effects of acidity, blanks and concomitants have been discussed. Analytical methods were validated by use of plant and water certified reference materials and spiked high-salt solutions (seawater and 20% m/v NaCl) at lead levels in nanograms per gram to micrograms per gram range.