Multi-mode Sample Introduction System (MSIS) as an interface in the hyphenated system 2 HPLC-MSIS-ICP-OES in simultaneous determination of metals and metalloids species.

Abstract The paper presents a usage of a new hyphenated technique, wherein a Multi–mode Sample Introduction System (MSIS) was applied as an interface of two high pressure liquid chromatography units and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (2 HPLC–MSIS–ICP–OES). Simultaneous separation and detection of non–hydride forming and hydride forming elements was possible due to the application of two different HPLC column, cation–exchange and anion–exchange respectively. The method was able to determine 15 elements quantitatively with a distinction of three arsenic and two iron species and it was validated obtaining acceptable LODs (2.67–28.7 μg L−1) and recoveries (80–120%). The method applicability was presented and confirmed on 5 varied sample matrix types i.e. post–glacial sediments, yerba mate (Ilex paraguariensis), soil samples located in the proximity of industry wastes disposal site, river sediments, and archaeological pottery. In addition to the above, unknown Cu, Fe, Mn and Zn species were detected in real samples (qualitative speciation analysis) and the identification was attempted according to the literature.