Abstract
In the present paper a method for direct determination of beryllium in natural waters, especially in surface waters, using atomic absorption spectrometry with graphite furnace is described. Two procedures are compared, using an ordinary graphite tube and matrix modifier Mg(NO3)2, and using a tantalum coated tube without any modifier added. The detection limit (3[sgrave]) of the proposed method using the tantalum-coated tube is proved to be 0.02 μgBe/1. With the developed method the Be content in natural water samples collected from highly polluted and reference regions of Bohemia were determined. A certified reference material (IAEA/W-4) was also analysed to prove the accuracy of proposed method.