Limitations in the analytical use of invertase inhibition for the screening of trace mercury content in environmental samples.

The possibility of screening the mercury(II) content in real environmental samples based on inhibition of the activity of dissolved invertase has been examined. The extent of inhibition was measured with an amperometric glucose biosensor with glucose oxidase immobilized on a membrane. Data concerning the stability and reproducibility of measurements are provided. The effects of heavy metals on the inhibition of invertase, together with that of common anions such as chloride, nitrate and sulfate are reported. The determination of mercury using this procedure has been carried out in samples of natural and waste water samples of various origins already analyzed by ICP-AES, by spiking ppb levels of mercury(II). Differences in the inhibiting effect of the samples and in the recoveries were found and are discussed.