All samples were initially diluted in the ratio of 1 volume of sample to 14*2 volumes of 0-3% analytical grade hydrochloric acid on an automatic diluter.The aluminium content of samples was quantitated by the method of standard additions to allow for the variation in instrument response caused by the different sample matrices. Typically, a single random representative sample was used to generate a standard additions calibration curve for each analytical run. Subsequent samples in the run were quantitated by comparison with this curve. Samples yielding a mean peak height absorbance greater than the highest calibration point were further diluted with 0-3% hydrochloric acid until they fell within the calibration range.The analytical technique was controlled with 'in house' aqueous and serum based control materials (method coefficient of variation at 80 gg/l was roughly 10%, run to run) and by participation in a national aluminium analysis quality control survey

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