Abstract

A novel, robust hydride generation system compatible with sample introduction with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry is described and applied to the determination of Se in biological tissues. A short reaction time (60 ms) and a rapid separation of the reaction products is obtained by mixing the acidified sample and the sodium borohydride reductant solution at the tip of a cross-flow nebuliser. A modified Scott spray chamber serves as a gas–liquid separator, providing 30 s wash-in and wash-out times. Analytical results generated by external calibration and isotope dilution methodologies agree well with the certified values for Se in certified biological reference materials DORM-2 and DOLT-2. Detection limits for Se and other hydride forming elements, i.e., As, Sn and Sb, are below 10 ng l⁻¹ with typical precision of 2% RSD at the 10 ng ml⁻¹ level. Volatile species of Cu, Rh, Pd, Ag, In, Au, Hg, Tl and Pb are also produced, and estimated sensitivities and detection limits for these elements are reported.