Solid-phase extraction (SPE) assays to ascertain the mechanisms of retention of antimony species in several stationary phases

Liquid chromatography is the most suitable technique for antimony speciation in several types of samples. However, efficiency can be poor for some of these peaks, especially Sb(III) and Me3SbCl2 (TMSb). Weak and strong anion exchange stationary phases are mainly used for antimony speciation in several chromatographic conditions. The present study examines the possible contribution of the interaction between antimony species (Sb(III), Sb(V) and TMSb) and stationary phase support to the overall retention mechanism in their chromatographic separation. Several SPE cartridges, selected from those mainly used as support in anion exchange columns, were assayed. Sb (V) was quantitatively eluted from the PSDVB (polystyrene divinylbenzene) and SiO2 phases, showing the absence of interaction. Sb (III) showed some interaction with the PSDVB phase; TMSb showed strong retention with all the cartridges studied and it was only eluted from the PSDVB phase.