This certified reference material (CRM) is prepared for use in evaluation of accuracy of methylmercury and selected heavy metals analysis of human hair and other samples with similar matrices. The male scalp hair of Japanese was collected in 3 barbershops located in Tokyo and Tsukuba in 1980. It was washed with non-ionic detergent, pulverized, sieved and blended. Approximately 3 g of the hair powder (<100 μm) was individually packed in acid-washed borosilicate bottles. The materials have been stored at -20℃ in the dark immediately after bottling. The homogeneity of this CRM was evaluated by analyzing 5 subsamples from 5 randomly selected bottles for total Hg and other elements contents. Analysis of variance indicated no variability in Hg content of this CRM at 20-30 mg and in other elements. (e.g., Cu and Zn) at 120 mg aliquot. Certified values for methylmercury, total Hg, Cd, Cu, Pb, Sb, Se and Zn are provided with the certificate. Certified values were determined by extensive collaboration analyses and were derived from at least 4 independent analytical methods specified in the certificate. keywords: biological materials , human tissue , hair , trace elements , heavy metals , mercury speciation , speciation analysis , organometallics |
