Application of Box-Behnken designs in parameters optimization of differential pulse anodic stripping voltammetry for lead(II) determination in two electrolytes

Box-Behnken design was advantageous to parameters optimization of differential pulse anodic stripping voltammetry (DPASV) for the analysis of lead(II) with its high efficiency and accuracy. Five Box-Behnken designs were designed and conducted in the electrolyte of 0.1 mol/L acetate buffer and 0.1 mol/L HCl without the removal of oxygen. Significant parameters and interactions in each electrolyte were found (P-value < 0.05) and their quantitative effects on lead(II) determination were classified into two categories, linear and quadratic. Though significant parameters and interactions were not similar in different kinds of electrolytes, characteristic parameters of differential pulse voltammetry, which were pulse amplitude, pulse width and interval time, were found significant in both electrolytes. After optimization, peak currents and relative standard deviation at 20 μg/L along with detection limits in both electrolytes were superior than before. With the lower detection limit and R.S.D., 0.1 mol/L HCl was a better choice for electrolytes in this work. Meanwhile, with the combination of parameters optimization and background subtraction, the interference of dissolved oxygen for lead(II) determination was eliminated. It was important and necessary to apply Box-Behnken designs in parameters optimization of DPASV for lead(II) determination regardless of the electrolyte kinds.