Abstract |
A rapid, simple, inexpensive, and relatively accurate field test method for the determination of lead (Pb) in paints, dusts, and soils has been developed. The method involves the ultrasonic leaching of 0.1g - 0.5g of the sample in 5 mL of 25% (v/v) nitric acid for 30 minutes followed by colormetric measurement with a commercially available field test kit. A variety of actual field samples and several National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Standard Reference Materials (SRMs) were tested using the proposed method. Results were compared with those obtained employing a microwave, total digestion method followed by inductively coupled plasma emission measurement. Lead recovery and method precision were better than 84% and 11%, respectively, for a variety of SRMs and field samples. No species encountered in the samples were found to interfere in the measurement. |