The analysis of solid materials by introducing solid test sampies directly into the graphite furnace of an atomic absorption spectrometer must be regarded as a powerful analytical approach. Even if it is - of course - not the "ultimate method". After three decades of development, the instrumentation and the methodology are available to apply solid sampling successfully for the analysis of almost every material. Moreover, several tasks cannot be solved using other analytical methods as neatly as they can using direct solid sampling. The conventional methods work more or less satisfactorily, so why do we sug gest applying solid sampling much more extensively than it is today? To begin with, the features pointed out time and again should be named: Rapidity of the analytical procedure, low susceptibility to analyte loss or contamination, very smallquantities can be analyzed, and expenditure on instrumentation and per sonell is also low. These properties are examined and the necessary conditions are discussed (Chapter 1) as are the analytical tasks (Chapter 6) for which use of this method is advantageous. Other features that are often overlooked are just as important: The simplicity of the analytical procedures allows the analyst to main tain an intimate relationship with the original scientific task that has to be solved with the analysis. Furthermore, the considerable reduction of working place haz ards and pollution by avoiding the use of chemical reagents must nowadays be assessed as a feature as important as the others.

Analytical Sample Preparation With Nano- and Other High-Performance Materials covers advanced sample treatment techniques and the new materials that can be used to boost their performance. The evolution of sample treatment over the last two decades has resulted in the development of new techniques and application of new materials. This is a must-have resource for those studying advanced analytical techniques and the role of high-performance materials in analytical chemistry. The book explains the underlying principles needed to properly understand sample preparation, and also examines the latest materials - including nanomaterials - that result in greater sensitivity and specificity. The book begins with a section devoted to all the various sample preparation techniques and then continues with sections on high-performance sorbents and high-performance solvents. Combines basic, fundamental principles and advanced concepts and applications for a comprehensive treatment of sample preparation with new materials Defines nano- and other high-performance materials in this context, including carbon nanoparticles, inorganic nanoparticles, ionic liquids, supramolecular solvents, and more Includes discussion of all the latest advancements and new findings in both techniques and materials used for proper sample preparation

This book aims to provide scientists with information about a series of techniques that can be used with a view to facilitating the transformation of the sample to an appropriate state for subsequent detection or quantitation of its components of interest. The techniques dealt with range from the very simple ones (e.g. freeze-drying) to other more complex ones (e.g. glow discharge and laser-induced breakdown sampling). This is the first compilation ever on the subjects of acceleration of solid sample pretreatment; automation of solid sample pretreatment; and integration of solid sample pretreatment and detection. Readers will find here the information required to compare and select the best choice for each sample treatment need and ways to facilitate or automate the most complex and time-consuming step of the analytical process when solid samples are involved.

The importance of accurate sample preparation techniques cannot be overstated--meticulous sample preparation is essential. Often overlooked, it is the midway point where the analytes from the sample matrix are transformed so they are suitable for analysis. Even the best analytical techniques cannot rectify problems generated by sloppy sample pretreatment. Devoted entirely to teaching and reinforcing these necessary pretreatment steps, Sample Preparation Techniques in Analytical Chemistry addresses diverse aspects of this important measurement step. These include: * State-of-the-art extraction techniques for organic and inorganic analytes * Sample preparation in biological measurements * Sample pretreatment in microscopy * Surface enhancement as a sample preparation tool in Raman and IR spectroscopy * Sample concentration and clean-up methods * Quality control steps Designed to serve as a text in an undergraduate or graduate level curriculum, Sample Preparation Techniques in Analytical Chemistry also provides an invaluable reference tool for analytical chemists in the chemical, biological, pharmaceutical, environmental, and materials sciences.

The relatively new technique of solid phase microextraction (SPME) is an important tool to prepare samples both in the lab and on-site. SPME is a "green" technology because it eliminates organic solvents from analytical laboratory and can be used in environmental, food and fragrance, and forensic and drug analysis. This handbook offers a thorough background of the theory and practical implementation of SPME. SPME protocols are presented outlining each stage of the method and providing useful tips and potential pitfalls. In addition, devices and fiber coatings, automated SPME systems, SPME method development, and In Vivo applications are discussed. This handbook is essential for its discussion of the latest SPME developments as well as its in depth information on the history, theory, and practical application of the method. Practical application of Solid Phase Microextraction methods including detailed steps Provides history of extraction methods to better understand the process Suitable for all levels, from beginning student to experienced practitioner

The ideas of Pierre Gy presented in lay terms, allowing concepts and principles to be easily grasped and applied.