Exploiting Mn(III)/EDTA complex in a flow system with solenoid micro-pumps coupled to long pathlength spectrophotometry for fast manganese determination

The formation of the Mn(III)/EDTA complex in a flow system with solenoid micro-pumps was exploited for fast manganese determination in freshwater. Manganese(II) was oxidized in a solid-phase reactor containing lead dioxide immobilized on polyester. Long pathlength spectrophotometry was exploited to increase sensitivity, aiming to reach the threshold limit established by environmental legislation. A linear response was observed from 25 to 1500 μg L− 1, with a detection limit of 6 μg L− 1 (99.7% confidence level). Sample throughput and coefficient of variation were 36 samples/h and 2.6% (n = 10), respectively. EDTA consumption and waste generation were estimated as 500 μg and 3 mL per determination, respectively. The amount of Pb in the residue corresponds to 250 μg per determination and a solid-phase reactor could be used for up to 1600 determinations. Adsorption in active charcoal avoided interferences caused by organic matter and the developed procedure was successfully applied for determination of manganese in freshwater samples. Results were in agreement with those attained by GFAAS at the 95% confidence level.