Direct atomization atomic absorption spectrometry for intact biological samples: application to trace metal analysis in silkworm eggs and their hatched worms.

Highly sensitive carbon rod atomic absorption for trace elements was observed by direct atomization of samples with no pretreatment for intact silkworm eggs, their hatched worms, or National Bureau of Standards biological samples (orchard leaves and bovine liver). Crucial temperatures for drying, ashing, and atomization processes were found to obtain accurate results. Results were consistent with those of activation analyses and of ordinary atomic absorption with wet ashing. The precision and dynamic range of this method were evaluated. The advantages and disadvantages of the present approach were critically discussed.