Clean analytical methodology for the determination of lead with Arsenazo III by cyclic flow-injection analysis

A clean analytical methodology, where the sample determined and the reagent used are both toxic, has been proposed. A cation exchange mini-column was incorporated after the flow-through cell for on-line regeneration of the main reagent and the accumulation of heavy metal ions. The method involves the spectrophotometric determination of lead with Arsenazo III, the accumulation of lead onto the cationic exchanger, and subsequent regeneration of the chromogenic reagent, which makes the system reversible and the reagents reusable. The developed method provides a satisfactory way to cut down on the toxic reagent consumption and the produced volume of waste, an important step towards the zero emissions research initiative concept. The excellent repeatability and reproducibility, and the simplicity of this method are well suited for continuous measurements. The method was successively applied to the assay of lead in high-octane gasoline.