[ligia]

Hey,

I'm trying to run an experiment based on the amount of potassium that is lost when broccoli is steam. I will be comparing the amount of potassium in raw vs. stream broccoli...

So I need help, I don't exactly know how to start.   I would be very thankful if anyone can help me or direct in the right path.

[Mr Peanut]

Humm, do you think K is lost?

Test steam condensate at bottom of pan also.

AOAC Methods is resource to persue.

[ligia]

Well I know for sure u lose K whrn u cook/ steam broccoli...I'm planing to use ICPMS To analyze the sample...I just don't know how to prepare the samples

[Alpha-Omega]

Microwave digestion is an option.  Here is an ICP-OES application note from Perkin Elmer for the analysis of corn.  You could apply the same procedure to broccoli.  See attachment.

[ligia]

Thank YOU SOOOOOO MUCH!

[Alpha-Omega]

You are welcome!!!  Here are the links to the Perkin Elmer ans Varian websites.  Both of these instrmentation companies specialize in AA and ICP.  They both have a huge selection of application notes that may be of use to you in the future.  Microwave digestion is commponly used for sample prep or iCP analyses.

Perkin Elmer:
http://www.perkinelmer.com/

Varian: 
http://www.varianinc.com/cgi-bin/nav?applications/aa-matrix&cid=JNMNPOPHFJ

If you click on the ICP-MS link on the left it will bring you to a list of application notes.

You can also find many application notes and reference material on the USDA website (e.g., foods):

http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/usdahome

And just a little EXTRA:

For future reference, for environmental samples you can find alot of material on the EPA website:

http://www.epa.gov/