The method proposed in this paper for determination of
different metallic elements in crude oil-water emulsions
has proved to be reliable. The recovery values obtained for SRMs, addition of elements to samples of Orimulsion
and comparison of some results with X-ray fluorescence
determinations show a deviation lower than + 5%. The
sample preparation method is quite simple and can be
easily handled. Its main drawback is the time required
to prepare the sample, but a number of samples can be
prepared at the same time by one operator.
As no limit exists to the amount of sample in the
preparation procedure, it is possible to determine very
low concentrations of the elements. The only limiting
factors to this are time and care against contamination from the surroundings in the sample preparation
procedure. For element determinations, flame AAS has again
proved to be a reliable technique which can be handled
by any technician with basic skills in chemical analysis
and at lower cost than other instrumental alternatives.