Determination of Submicrogram Quantities of Mercury in Fish and Eggs by Cold Vapor Atomic Absorption Photometry

Fish fillets and eggs were ground and blended to obtain a uniform fish mush. Two different methods were used to dry the samples; both were effective. Samples were combusted in a Schoniger flask, and mercury levels were measured using cold vapor atomic absorption. Comparison checking indicated that the procedure is applicable to a wide variety of materials, and can probably be used on any material that can be burned. 2 tables.