The Determination of Low Level Aluminum in Human Antihemophilic Factor Products by Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry

Abstract

A method is described for the determination of aluminum in Antihemophilic Factor (Human) (AHF) by flame atomic absorption spectrometry. Direct nebulization of diluted or undiluted AHF into the flame of an atomic absorption spectrometer offers a simple, rapid means of analysis. However, due to matrix interferences encountered with various AHF sample types, it is difficult to obtain acceptable accuracy and precision. Direct nebulization of the majority of AHF samples studied was found to result in poor recoveries of added aluminum. In many instances, sample particulates clogged the nebulizer, necessitating frequent cleaning. Matrix interferences were essentially eliminated by employing sample digestion with HNO3 prior to nebulization. Recoveries of added aluminum from such sample digests ranged from 89% to 98% at the 1 μg Al m1⁻¹ level. The limit of detection for aluminum under aqueous conditions was estimated to be approximately 0.13 μg Al m1⁻¹ while the limit of quantitation was estimated to be approximately 0.56 μg Al m1⁻¹. Butyl alcohol was used to modify sample matrices after digestion in an effort to increase the sensitivity of the assay system. An increase in the sensitivity of aluminum assay was demonstrated after addition of butyl alcohol to an AHF digest.