Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS)

Atomic absorption units have four basic parts: interchangeable lamps that emit
light at element-specific wavelengths, a sample aspirator, a flame or furnace apparatus
for volatilizing the sample or hydride generation apparatus and a photon detector. In
order to analyze for any given element, a lamp that produces a wavelength of light that
is absorbed by the element is chosen. Subsequently, a sample solution containing the
element is aspirated into the flame. If ions of the element are present in the flame, they
will absorb light produced by the lamp before it reaches the detector. The amount of
light absorbed depends on the amount of the element presents in the sample.
Absorbance values for unknown samples are compared to calibration curves prepared
by running known standard concentrations.
An atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS) is a microprocessor controlled double
beam spectrophotometer equipped with a graphite furnace attachment which is employed for
flameless analyses. Both acetylene and nitrous oxide fuel mixtures can be used for the
analyses of a wide range of elements.

Atomic absorption spectrophotometer

provides accurate quantitative analyses
for metals in many samples, e.g. waters,
sediments, soils, etc. Samples are
analyzed in solution state, thus solid
samples must be leached or dissolved
using acid solution prior to analyses.

AAS Models Atomization method Location

PE 3100 Flame K315
AAnalyst 200 Flame K315
AAnalyst 200 with FIAS 100 Flame/Hydride 008
AAnalyst 100 with HG-850 Flame/Graphite Furnace 008

For more information and services, please contact:

Science Officer
Division of Instruments and MUPA
School Of Chemical Sciences, USM, 11800, Penang.

Tel: +60-653 4058 Fax: +60-657 4854 E-mail: MUPA@usm.my