Determination of beryllium in environmental samples by electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry

The determination of beryllium in environmental samples by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry is described. No chemical separations were required. Three experimental procedures were compared: using no modifier, using magnesium nitrate as modifier and using a L'vov platform treated with thorium nitrate. Good agreement with certified values was obtained for several certified environmental reference materials. As an application, beryllium was determined in raw materials and waste products of a coal-fired power plant in order to obtain a mass balance. (author)