Q1(e). Organic solvents in AAS

Answer in brief

Organic solvents change nebulisation, transport and flame chemistry and can enhance or suppress the signal.

Key points

• Lower surface tension and altered viscosity often improve aerosol formation and transport relative to water, increasing sensitivity. Volatility also affects desolvation.
• Combustible solvent changes the fuel balance, flame temperature and reducing character, which alters atom populations and oxide formation.
• Increased molecular absorption, soot or flame instability can worsen background and precision. The effect is solvent- and element-dependent.
• Match the solvent composition of standards and samples, optimise flame conditions and apply background correction. Solvent extraction can additionally preconcentrate the analyte.