First of all, you have to ensure that your sample is homogeneous. What is the matrix? If you have precipitates, the analytical results will be highly variable. The very purpose of running the graphite furnace at temperature extremes ca. 2000 oC is to decompose everything. Most AAS come with an excellent manual with element by element discussion of operating conditions.
Thank you Mr.Farooq. My sample is homogeneous and It does not have any precipitates. For silver analysis, I did not used any matrix. How do I ensure that I do not have interference of ions during analysis.
Uthradevi, If you do not see any precipitates in your sample, chances are that you do not have chlorides or phosphates, otherwise Ag would have precipitated. What is range of Ag expected in the sample? How do you know that these anions are present?
There are couple of ways to "detect" interference, if you wish to be 100 percent sure.
1. Analyze your sample by the "standard addition method". Any text such as D.C. Harris Quantitative Analysis will discuss this in detail.
2. Analyze your sample by simple external calibration. Do you get the same Ag concentration? If yes, then there is no problem to begin with. If no, then interferences are present and use the "standard addition method".
Uthradevi... A homogeneous clear solution means that you are safe of any chloride or phosphate interference. Sulfate may also make precipitate but the ability of graphite furnace atomization is great in the decomposition of oxy salts into oxide. The oxide is a preferable form for the atomization by reduction with the graphite. I can guarantee that you are safe of any interference. Just make sure of the optimization of the ashing (charring ) step.... Good luck.
Thank you Mr.Mahmood. I have done analysis using diluted sample. But my graphite tube was fully deposited by the ashes of the salts. If we filter the sample, whether the silver will get retained onto the filter itself?