Simultaneous multi-element determination of trace metals in sea water by inductively-coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry after coprecipitation with gallium

Coprecipitation with gallium hydroxide is studied for the preconcentration of trace metals in sea water before multi-element analysis by inductively-coupled plasma/atomic emission spectrometry. Gallium precipitates at pH 9 only when magnesium is present. Optimum conditions are established for multi-element preconcentration and removal of matrix elements. The method is almost free from contamination because of the use of highly pure gallium meetal and only a small amount of sodium hydroxide for pH adjustment. Spectral interferences from gallium are negligible and a concentratioin factor of more than 200 can be obtained. Detection limits range from a few ng l−1 to 150 ng l− for Al, Co, Cr, Fe, La, Mn, Ni, Ti, V, Zn, Y and Pb. Artificial and natural sea-water samples can be analyzed with adequate precision.