Microcolumn Field Sampling and Flow Injection-Atomic Fluorescence Spectrometry for Speciation of Mercury in Surface Waters

A novel approach to mercury speciation in waters based on microcolumn field sampling and flow injection-atomic fluorescence spectrometry is described. Microcolumns of sulphydryl cotton are used as a new sampling tool in order to collect, enrich and immobilise organic mercury species. On return to the laboratory the microcolumns are inserted into the flow injection system for elution/quantitative analysis. The technique, applied to survey analyses of the Manchester Ship Canal, revealed relatively high concentrations of organomercury (0.006–0.058 μg Hg 1−1) and inorganic mercury (0.0038–0.530 μg Hg 1−1). The distribution profiles for the inorganic and organic fractions did not correlate well.