21st Annual Student Research Conference
Analysis of Lead in Fish Using Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy
Kevin J. Stock* and Tony J. DeGraffenreid
Dr. David McCurdy, Faculty Mentor
One method of assessing the health of an aqueous environment such as a lake is by measuring the bioaccumulation of metals in an organism that lives in that environment. This research focuses on the determination of lead (Pb) in freshwater bass from Hazel Creek Reservoir and comparing these measured results to normal, healthy freshwater bass. Since Pb is typically found in the ppb (ng/mL) level, graphite furnace atomic absorption spectroscopy (GFAAS) is used for the determination of Pb concentrations, as it provides adequate limits of detection. Necessary sample preparation includes homogenizing fish fillets and then decomposing them using microwave decomposition to give an aqueous solution from which the Pb is measured. The development of the method and the preliminary results obtained for the bioaccumulation of Pb in freshwater bass will be presented.
Keywords:
Topic(s):Chemistry
Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: 44-5
Location: VH 1320
Time: 3:45