Methods to quantitate mercury in different samples

Here is a list of methods that can be used to identify mercury in different samples.

Natural waters

Chromatographic methods: 

1. Gas chromatography Volatile Hg species are stripped from the sample solution and pre-concentrated, prior to separation. The trapped mercury derivatives are then released thermally and transferred quantitatively to the GC for separation.

2. High performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) separation 
A reversed phase column based on alkyl-silica and a mobile phase containing an organic modifier, together with a chelating or ion pair reagent (and in some cases a pH buffer) are usually used. 

3. Capillary electrophoresis
Uses charge and frictional forces for the separation of Hg species.


Air

1. Selective adsorption methods

2. Chromatographic methods


Biological samples

1. Gas chromatography

2. HPLC