Analytical method validation for total mercury quantification in sediments using a Direct Mercury Analyzer

Authors

  • Adriana De Los Angeles Esquivel Hernandez Autor
  • Kerling Rodríguez

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21014/actaimeko.v14i4.2133

Keywords:

total mercury, DMA, sediment, validation method

Abstract

A method for quantifying total mercury (HgT) in sediment samples has been validated using a Direct Mercury Analyzer (DMA). The validation was carried out according to the Eurachem Guides and the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) validation guidelines. Linearity, limit of detection (LOD), limit of quantification (LOQ), repeatability, intermediate precision, trueness, expanded uncertainty, robustness, and matrix effects were evaluated. Certified reference materials of channel sediment and collected sediment samples were used for the method validation. The linear range was 83–4855 µg/kg, with a LOD of 27 µg/kg and a LOQ of 83 µg/kg. Repeatability was 1.7 %–2.6 % at two concentrations tested, and intermediate precision was between 0.2 % and 0.4 %. The robustness of the method was assessed using the Youden test, which demonstrated that variations in experimental factors did not significantly influence the results. Furthermore, no significant matrix effects were observed. A proficiency test was also performed, with satisfactory outcomes. The results demonstrate that the method is reliable and suitable for the quantification of HgT in sediment samples.

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Published

2025-11-28

Issue

Vol. 14 No. 4 (2025)

Section

Research Papers

License

Copyright (c) 2025 Adriana De Los Angeles Esquivel Hernandez, Kerling Rodríguez

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