Zinc concentrations are typically quantified using instrumental methods such as atomic absorption, emission, or mass spectroscopies; x-ray fluorescence; electro-analytical techniques (e.g., stripping voltammetry); and neutron activation analysis. Inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES) is used for zinc determinations in blood and tissue samples (NIOSH Method 8005) and in urine (NIOSH Method 8310). Detection limits in blood and tissue are 1 µg/100 g and 0.2 µg/g, respectively, with recoveries of 100% (NIOSH 1994). Sample preparation involves acid digestion with concentrated acids. Detection of zinc in urine samples requires extraction of the metals with a polydithiocarbamate resin prior to digestion and analysis (NIOSH 1984). Detection limits in urine are 0.1 µg/sample.
Zinc toxicity
Lead poisoning
Mercury poisoning
Zinc deficiency
Manganese deficiency 
Iron poisoning
Copper toxicity
Mercury Poisoning