Characterization of Texas home distilled alcohol using gas chromatography and flame atomic absorption spectroscopy.

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  In Poster Session: Chemistry & Biochemistry Poster Session

Abstract

Contamination of twenty home distilled alcohol samples collected in Texas were analyzed utilizing Gas Chromatography (GC) and Flame Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (FAAS). The trace content of heavy metals, copper and lead, was determined by FAAS; and the percent by volume of ethanol and volatile impurities was characterized using GC. Results were compared to OSHA and CDC standards for both incidental and chronic exposure. These findings provide a quantitative basis for determination of potential health risks due to consumption of home distilled alcohol in Texas.

Authors

• Linh Pham, Texas A&M University - Central Texas

• Randy Alan Stoneroad II, Texas A&M Central Texas

• John Grady Barber, Texas A&M University Central Texas

• Coady Lapierre, Texas A&M University - Central Texas