A Unique and Green Method Designed for the Detection ofMinute Quantities of Zinc in Real and Natural Specimens

Abstract

In this study, we have developed an easy and fast spectrophotometric procedure to analyse zinc in traces using a reagent 1-(2-thiazolylazo)-2-naphthol (TAN) in surfactant cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) solution. Zinc complexes with 1-(2-thiazolylazo)-2-naphthol to give bis[1-(2-thiazolylazo)-2-naphthol]zinc. Demonstrated spectrophotometric method has been of great significance as using the micellar system instead of toxic, expensive and time taking extraction method. This method presented an improved detecting efficacy, sensitivity and coefficient of molar absorption. The Sandel's sensitivity and molar absorption coefficient were determined to be 4.5 ngcm^-2 and ε 1.96×10⁴ L mol^-1cm^-1 at λ_max 581.4 nm, respectively. The 1:2 ratio was observed for Zn-[TAN]₂ development. Linear calibration curve was obtained within 0.12-4.0 μg mL^-1. At pH 6.5, complex formation occurred and remained stable for 24 hrs. Our recommended procedure was applied successfully for the investigation of Zinc from various alloy, ecological, pharmaceutical and biological specimens.