Detection of trace elements in water by spark-emission spectroscopy

Abstract

Water samples in the vicinity of Muncie were analyzed for trace elements such as cadmium, chromium, lead, titanium, iron, zinc, barium, calcium, potassium, manganese, sodium, strontium and magnesium. The analysis was made by a lower rotating graphite electrode partly submerged in the water being analyzed. The light emitted by the spark was analyzed using a Littrow Spectrograph. Water samples were taken from five stations along the White River in the Muncie area. The intensities of the spectral lines of trace elements and of standardized solutions were compared for quantitative analysis. Trace metals detected and concentrations in (ppm) found were as follows: Ba 0.04, Ca 72.6,. K 0.05, Mg 23.7, Mn 0.05, Na 27.1, Sr 0.70, Cr 0.02. The elements Ca, Mg, Na and K were expected to be found in high concentration and Ba, Sr, Mn and Cr were expected to be found in low concentration.In a previous study conducted at Ball State, neutron activation analysis was used in this area with positive results for eleven elements. The purpose of the present study was to extend this research by attempting to detect elements by spark-emission spectroscopy concentrating on elements that were difficult to detect by neutron activation analysis.