Radionuclide x-ray fluorescence analysis of selected elements in agrimony tea samples with preconcentration

The contents of selected elements (Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Hg and Pb) in samples of loose tea of agrimony “Repikovy čaj” (Agrimonia eupatoria L.) were studied in this work. Identification and determination of the selected elements content were performed using X-ray fluorescence spectrometry - the nuclear analytical method based on the interaction between low-energy gamma and X radiation and analysed substance. Solid form samples were pressed in tablets and directly analysed. Prepared infusions were analysed after the preconcentration of the elements using precipitation with thioacetamide and ammonium diethyldithiocarbamate with subsequent filtration of created precipitates through a nitrocellulose filter. Detection limits obtained from both methods were compared and their suitability for elemental analysis of plant preparations was discussed.