Determination of trace copper in water samples by flame atomic absorption spectrometry after cloud point extraction

A new method for the determination of trace copper in water by flame atomic absorption spectrometry after cloud point extraction was proposed. The effect of experimental conditions such as pH and concentration of reagents on cloud point extraction and determination sensitivity was discussed. The chemical variables affecting the separation and extraction recovery were optimized. Under the optimum conditions, pre-concentration of only 50 mL of sample in the presence of 0.05% Triton X-114 permitted the detection of 0.35 μg/L (3σ) for copper with the enhancement factor of 71. The proposed method was applied to the determination of copper in water samples and satisfactory results were obtained.