SOP for Calibration of Atomic Absorption Spectrometer

Objective

To check the performance of the equipment for reliable and accurate results.

Scope

This procedure is applicable to check the performance of the atomic absorption spectrophotometer installed in the quality control department.

Responsibility

Doing: Technical Assistant

Checking: Executive /Manager

Accountability

Head of the Department

Procedure

Frequency: Once in a three-month

Flame System Sensitivity Check

• Measure 2.0 ppm Copper standard solution.

Acceptance Criteria: The average of seven absorbance readings should be NLT 0.280 Abs and % RSD should be NMT 1.

Linearity in Flame Mode

• Perform Linearity with at least three calibration points for Zinc (213.9 nm), Copper (324.7 nm) and K (766.5 nm).

Acceptance Criteria: Regression should be NLT 0.99

GFAAS Sensitivity Check

• Measure 20 µL injection of 20 ppb Copper standard solution

Acceptance Criteria: The average of seven absorbance readings should be NLT 0.06 Abs and % RSD should be NMT 5.

Refer to the below chart for the temperature parameter.

ALSO READ: SOP for Operation of Atomic Absorption Spectrometer

Linearity in GFAAS Mode

• Perform Linearity with at least three calibration points for Lead (283.3 nm)

Acceptance Criteria: Regression should be NLT 0.99

VGA MODE (Hydride Generator)

Linearity:

• Perform Linearity with at least three calibration points for Mercury.

Acceptance Criteria: Regression should be NLT 0.99.

Linearity in Flame Mode

• Perform Linearity with at least three calibration points for Copper (324.7 nm)

Acceptance Criteria: Regression should be NLT 0.99

Linearity in GFAAS Mode

• Perform Linearity with at least three calibration points for Lead (283.3 nm)

Acceptance Criteria: Regression should be NLT 0.99

VGA MODE (Hydride Generator)

• Linearity: Perform Linearity with at least three calibration points for Mercury.

Acceptance Criteria: Regression should be NLT 0.99

Maintenance

• Check the exhaust system using the smoke.
• Check the acetylene cylinder pressure. Ensure that the acetylene is not drawn into the instrument.
• Inspect the gas hoses for any damage.
• Turn on the gas supplies to the instrument and check all hoses and connections for leaks.

• Check water connections for GFAAS operation.
• Check the burner for deposits. If any, soak with detergent and clean with distilled water.
• At frequent intervals inspect the inside of the graphite shroud which is mounted at the center cooling block.
• Using a cotton bud or similar material, ensure that the bore and injection hole are free from loose carbon or sample residues.

Abbreviations

AAS: Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer.

FAAS: Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer.

GFAAS: Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer.

VGA: Vapour Generation Accessory.

Abs: Absorbance

nm: Nanometer

ppb: Parts per billion

ppm: Parts per million

RSD: Relative Standard Deviation

NLT: Not Less Than.

NMT: Not More Than

QC: Quality control

QA: Quality Assurance

Annexure

Nil

Revision History

Nil

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