Prime Scientific - Application Note: Atomic Absorption Analysis of Serum Using the Enduro T2100

Introduction

Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) is widely used in clinical and biochemical applications for trace metal analysis. This application note details the quantification of copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) in serum samples using the Enduro T2100, providing precise and reliable elemental measurements.

Instrumentation

1. Instrument: Enduro T2100
2. Method: Flame Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (FAAS)
3. Elements Analyzed: Cu and Zn
4. Wavelengths:
5. Cu: 324.70 nm
6. Zn: 213.90 nm
7. 
   

Sample Preparation

Reagents

1. HCl (10%): Dilution of 37% HCl to 100 mL with deionized water.
2. Trichloroacetic Acid (19%): Dissolution of 19 g trichloroacetic acid in 100 mL deionized water.
3. Mixed Solution: 10 mL HCl (10%) + 50 mL trichloroacetic acid (19%) diluted to 500 mL.
4. Cu/Zn Intermediate Stock Solution: 1 mL of Cu and Zn standard solutions diluted to 50 mL (20 ppm).

Standard Curve Preparation

Calibration standards were prepared at 0.025, 0.050, 0.100, 0.250, and 0.500 mg/L using the Cu/Zn stock solution.

Sample Processing

1. Aliquot 0.5 mL of serum into a 10 mL graduated tube.
2. Add 0.1 mL HCl (10%) and vortex for 5 minutes.
3. Introduce 0.5 mL trichloroacetic acid (19%), vortex for 5 minutes.
4. Dilute to 5 mL with deionized water and vortex for 5 minutes.
5. Centrifuge at 3500 rpm for 15 minutes and collect the supernatant for AAS analysis.

Instrument Parameters

Results and Discussion

The measured concentrations of Cu and Zn in serum samples were as follows:

The results demonstrated reproducibility with minimal standard deviation. The instrument’s calibration curve showed excellent linearity, ensuring accuracy.

Standard Curve Performance

The calibration curve for both Cu and Zn demonstrated excellent linearity, ensuring high accuracy.

Precision and Repeatability

The relative standard deviation (RSD%) was within acceptable limits, confirming the repeatability of the method. The blank sample showed negligible absorbance, ensuring no contamination or interference.

Conclusion

The Enduro T2100 provides a reliable and efficient method for trace metal analysis in biological samples. The combination of precise flame parameters, optimized sample preparation, and robust calibration ensures accurate detection of essential trace elements such as Cu and Zn in serum.

References

1. GBC Atomic Absorption Analysis Report on ENDURO T2100 dated 10 January 2025