Implementation of AAS methods for the quantification of Hg and hexavalent Cr in recycled paper used for food packaging

摘要

Total mercury and hexavalent chromium were determined in recycled paper samples and cardboard packages intended to come in contact with food using atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS). For the determination of mercury, the samples were digested with a mixture of concentrated HNO3 and H2O2 and determined by cold vapor generation. Hexavalent chromium was extracted directly from the paper and cardboard with a solution of NaOH and determined by electrothermal atomization AAS. The detection limits were 0.38 and 0.50 mug/L for mercury and hexavalent chromium, respectively. The determinations were performed in the linear range of 0.38-10.0. [References: 12]