HYDRIDE GENERATION ICP-MS (HG-ICP-MS) FOR THE ULTRA LOWLEVEL DETERMINATION OF MERCURY IN BIOTA

Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICPMS) utilizing both hydride generation and conventional nebulization as methods for sample introduction, has been applied to the analysis of Hg in urine and biota at sub mu g/g (solid) and sub ng/g (liquid) levels. Concentrations in certified reference materials were determined by standard addition, and isotope ratio measurements were performed to evaluate the potential for applying the methods of isotope dilution mass spectrometry (IDMS) in this area.