Method development for the determination of fluorine in toothpaste via molecular absorption of aluminum mono fluoride using a high-resolution continuum source nitrous oxide/acetylene flame atomic absorption spectrophotometer

Fluorine was determined via the rotational molecular absorption line of aluminum mono fluoride (AlF) generated in C2H2/N2O flame at 227.4613 nm using a high-resolution continuum source flame atomic absorption spectrophotometer (HR-CS-FAAS). The effects of AlF wavelength, burner height, fuel rate (C2H2/N2O) and amount of Al on the accuracy, precision and sensitivity were investigated and optimized. The Al–F absorption band at 227.4613 nm was found to be the most suitable analytical line with respect to sensitivity and spectral interferences. Maximum sensitivity and a good linearity were obtained in acetylene-nitrous oxide flame at a flow rate of 210 L h−1 and a burner height of 8 mm using 3000 mg L−1 of Al for 10–1000 mg L−1of F. The accuracy and precision of the method were tested by analyzing spiked samples and waste water certified reference material. The results were in good agreement with the certified and spiked amounts as well as the precision of several days during this study was satisfactory (RSD < 10%). The limit of detection and characteristic concentration of the method were 5.5 mg L−1 and 72.8 mg L−1, respectively. Finally, the fluorine concentrations in several toothpaste samples were determined. The results found and given by the producers were not significantly different. The method was simple, fast, accurate and sensitive.

► Fluorine was determined via AlF at 227.4613 nm with HR-CS-AAS.
► A good linearity was maintained between 10 and 1000 mg L−1 of F.
► The limit of detection of the method was 5.5 mg L−1.
► The characteristic mass of the method was 72.8 mg L−1
► The fluorine concentrations in several toothpaste samples were determined.