Determination of microelements by ICP-OES after extraction by DGT technique

This thesis is focused on determination of microelements (Cd, Co, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb a Zn) in milk by optical emission spectrometry with inductively coupled plasma (ICP-OES) after extraction by Diffusion Gradients in Thin films technique (DGT) containing Chelex 100 resin gel and agarose diffusion gel. The optimalization of DGT in model metal solutions was verified by recommended basic tests. The performance of the DGT technique in the diluted milk matrix was verified. By DGT technique was determined only Zn in real milk matrix with concentration 3,74 ± 0,02 mg/l. The other microelements in the prepared eluate were at or below the limit of detection of the instrumental method. The obtained results were compared with the analysis of milk after microwave digestion by ICP-OES. However, these results were below the detection limit of the device too, only Zn with concentration 3,91 ± 0,16 mg/l was measured. For the future analysis of the selected microelements in milk by DGT technique, further optimization of the preconcentration technique is required, or use of a more sensitive instrumental method