Analysis of Trace Elements in Fish Sample with ICP-AES (ICP-OES) on ICPE-9800

Significance of the Topic

Fish is a key dietary component worldwide, valued for high-quality protein, essential minerals and omega-3 fatty acids. However, environmental pollution can lead to accumulation of toxic trace metals such as arsenic, cadmium and lead in fish tissues, posing health risks upon consumption. Reliable multi-element analysis is therefore crucial for food safety monitoring and regulatory compliance.

Study Objectives and Overview

This study aimed to demonstrate simultaneous quantitation of essential and toxic trace elements in fish protein certified reference material (DORM-4) using Shimadzu’s ICPE-9820 inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometer (ICP-AES). Key goals included achieving accurate results across a wide concentration range, minimizing analysis time and reducing operational costs.

Methodology

Sample Preparation:

• Weighed 0.5 g of DORM-4 fish protein CRM.
• Digested with 5 mL concentrated HNO₃, 2 mL H₂O₂ and 1 mL water via microwave-assisted AOAC 999.10 protocol.
• Diluted digested solution to 20 mL with deionized water.

Calibration:

• Prepared standards for As, Cd, Cr, Ni, Pb, Se (0–0.2 ppm) and Cu, Zn (0–2 ppm), Fe (0–20 ppm).
• Used multi-element standard solutions and single-element stock solutions; matched acid matrix with samples.

Used Instrumentation

Shimadzu ICPE-9820 simultaneous ICP-AES featuring:

• Mini-torch plasma torch with axial observation.
• Coaxial nebulizer and cyclone spray chamber.
• RF power 1.20 kW; plasma gas 10.0 L/min; auxiliary gas 0.60 L/min; nebulizer gas 0.70 L/min.

Main Results and Discussion

Measured concentrations of As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Ni, Pb, Se and Zn in DORM-4 closely matched certified values within uncertainty limits. Instrument detection limits ranged from 0.0002 ppm (Cd) to 0.03 ppm (Fe). Spectral profiles exhibited clear separation of sample peaks and calibration standards, confirming absence of significant spectral interferences.

Benefits and Practical Applications

Simultaneous ICP-AES analysis on the ICPE-9820 offers:

• High throughput by measuring all wavelengths in one run.
• Improved sensitivity for trace level detection.
• Reduced running costs via efficient gas usage and mini-torch design.

Ideal for food safety labs conducting routine monitoring of heavy metals in seafood.

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Advances in plasma source design and detector technology will further lower detection limits and expand element coverage. Integration with automated sample preparation and data analysis software will streamline workflows. Applications may extend to large-scale environmental surveillance and quality control in aquaculture.

Conclusion

The Shimadzu ICPE-9820 ICP-AES provides robust, simultaneous quantitation of multiple trace elements in fish samples with high accuracy and efficiency. This method supports regulatory compliance and enhances food safety monitoring.

References

AOAC 999.10. Official Method for Microwave-Assisted Nitric Acid Digestion. National Research Council Canada. DORM-4 Certified Reference Material. Shimadzu Application Note AD-0163, 2017.