EPA-NERL: 210.1:  Beryllium by Flame AA

  • Summary
  • Analytes
  • Revision
  • Data and Sites
Official Method Name
Beryllium (Atomic Absorption, Direct Aspiration)
Current Revision
Issued 1974
Media
WATER
Instrumentation
Flame Atomic Absorption
Method Subcategory
Inorganic
Method Source
  EPA-NERL
Citation
  Methods for the Chemical Analysis of Water and Wastes (MCAWW) (EPA/600/4-79/020)
Brief Method Summary
A sample prepared according to EPA Method 200.0 is analyzed using a flame atomic absorption spectrometer. Specifications for instrument operation and preparation of standards are provided in the method.
Scope and Application
This method determines beryllium by flame atomic absorption spectrometry. Sample pretreatment according to EPA Method 200.0 determines the applicability.
Applicable Concentration Range
50-2,000 ug/L (optimal range); 25 ug/L (sensitivity).
Interferences
(A) Sodium and Silicon: Sodium and silicon concentrations in excess of 1000 mg/L severely depress beryllium absorbance.
(B) Bicarbonate ion: Bicarbonate ion can interfere, but is eliminated when samples are acidified to pH of 1.5.
(C) Aluminum: Aluminum at 500 ug/L can depress the sensitivity of beryllium.
For additional interferences see EPA Method 200.0.
Quality Control Requirements
QC requirements for drinking water procedures are provided in method 200.0.
Sample Handling
Sample handling and preservation procedures are provided in EPA Method 200.0.
Maximum Holding Time
6 months (MCAWW, Table 1).
Relative Cost
Less than $50
Sample Preparation Methods
200.0