This paper proposes a low cost, simple, fast method for determining Ni and Cd in biodiesel samples by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry (GFAAS). The method was evaluated in biodiesel from different sources. Tungsten was used as a permanent modifier and the samples were prepared in the form of microemulsions, by mixing about 0.5 g of biodiesel with 5 g of surfactant (Triton X-100) in volumetric flasks and completing the volume with HNO(3) 1% (v/v). The detection limits obtained for Ni and Cd in microemulsions were <= 0.9 and 0.1 mu g L(-1), respectively. The relative standard deviation (% R. S. D., n = 12) was <= 8.20% for Ni (washed animal fat sample) and <= 4.71% for Cd (sunflower oil sample). Accuracy was checked based on addition and recovery experiments, which yielded recovery rates varying from 93% to 108% for Ni and from 98% to 116% for Cd. Sample preparation is rapid and easy, and the use of an inorganic standard for calibration makes this sample preparation procedure suitable for routine applications. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.