Column preconcentration of organotin with tropolone-immobilized and their determination by electrothermal atomization absorption spectrometry.

A method for the determination of total organic tin from marine water samples by electrothermal atomization absorption spectrometry (ETAAS) is described. Samples are previously preconcentrated with a chelating molecule (tropolone) impregnated on a macroporous polymer (Amberlite XAD-2). The graphite furnace programme and preconcentration parameters were optimized. Calibration and addition graphs were performed. Sensitivity obtained with this procedure was 13 ng l(-1). Relative standard deviation was always >10% and analytical recovery were satisfactory, approximately 100%. Some possible interferences were investigated, having no problems with this factor. This procedure allows the distinction between organotin compounds and inorganic tin IV, since the latter is not retained on the column.