Trace Analysis of Palladium Using Electrothermal Atomization

Introduction

The Nobel Prize in Chemistry for “Palladium- Catalyzed Cross Couplings in Organic Synthesis” which was awarded in 2010 is a technique that is actually widely used in industry. The organic substances that are formed in this reaction must be analyzed to ascertain that there is no residual palladium (Pd) remaining in the substances. An atomic absorption spectrophotometer is used to measure precious metals such as palladium, but this requires that the sample be liquefied at the time of measurement. Usually, solid organic compounds are measured in aqueous solutions decomposed by addition of acid and heating for AAS. But the samples just diluted in organic solvents are also able to be measured directly. In this case, the standard solutions for calibration curve should be prepared with the same organic solvents. Here we introduce examples of Pd trace analysis using the graphite furnace atomization method with the organic solvents isopropanol (IPA) and n-methylpyrrolidone (NMP), both strongly compatible with water and easy to use.

August 23, 2011 GMT