The Uncertainty Assessment of Arsenic Content in Drinking Water by Hydride Generation Atomic Fluorescence Spectrometry

Objectives To establish an assessment method of measuring uncertainty for arsenic content in drinking water by hydride generation atomic fluorescence spectrometry and to identify the main influencing factors.

Methods According to Standard Examination Methods for Drinking Water—Metal Parameters(GB/T 5750.6-2006), a mathematical model was set up and each of the uncertainty factor was discussed, such as repeated determination of water samples, the calibration of working curve, the dilution and preparation of standard solution and measuring the quantity of water sample.

Results When the arsenic content in drinking water was 6.12 μg/L, its expanded uncertainty was 0.42 μg/L(k=2).

Conclusion The items of the dilution and the preparation of standard solution are the major influencing factors of expanded uncertainty.