Abstract

A novel reverse reference flow injection analysis (rrFIA) method coupled with spectrophotometric detection is described for the determination of formaldehyde in tannery effluent. The absorbance of the complex is measured at 630nm. Chemical factors and rrFIA variables affecting the system are also discussed. Under the optimal conditions, the linear range of this method is 0.005-1.0mg•L-1; the detection limit is 4.01μg•L-1; the precision is 0.583%. Comparing the method with the National Standard Method of China, the error is within ± 5% which meets the requirements. The proposed method is simple and convenient for the determination of formaldehyde in tannery effluent.