The first edition of our Handbook was written in 1983. In the preface to the first edition we noted the rapid development of inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry and its considerable potential for elemental analysis. The intervening five years have seen a substantial growth in ICP applications; much has happened and this is an appropriate time to present a revised edition. The basic approach of the book remains the same. This is a handbook, addressed to the user of the technique who seeks direct, practical advice. A concise summary of the technique is attempted. Detailed, theoretical treatment of the background to the method is not covered. We have, however, thoroughly revised much of the text, and new chapters have been added. These reflect the changes and progress in recent years. We are grateful to Mr Stephen Walton, Dr Gwendy Hall and London and Scandinavian Metallurgical Co. Ltd for their contributions. Chapter 3 (Instrumentation) has been rewritten by Mr Walton, the new Chapter on ICP-mass spectrometry has been written by Dr Hall, and London and Scandinavian provided much of the information for the chapter on metals analysis by ICP-AES. These chapters have been integrated into the book, and a conscious effort has been made to retain the unity of style within the book. New material has been added elsewhere in the book, archaeological materials are considered, pre concentration methods and chemometrics covered more fully.

Written for both experienced analysts and new graduates or postgraduates starting to use ICP-MS as part of their academic or industrial research, the ICP Mass Spectrometry Handbook provides a thorough description of ICP-MS instrumentation and techniques, giving the reader sufficient knowledge to approach the technique with confidence.

Since the introduction of the first commercial inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) instruments in 1983, the technique has gained rapid and wide acceptance in many analytical laboratories. There are now well over 400 instruments installed worldwide, which are being used in a range of disciplines for the analysis of geological, environmental, water, medical, biological, metallurgical, nuclear and industrial samples. Experience oflCP-MS in many laboratories is limited, and there is therefore a need for a handbook containing practical advice in addition to fundamental informa tion. Such a handbook would be useful not only to users new to the technique, but also to users with some experience who wish to expand their knowledge of the subject. Therefore we have written this book for users in a variety of fields with differing levels of experience and expertise. The first two chapters provide a brief history of ICP-MS and discussions of design concepts, ICP physical processes, and fundamental principles of instrument operation. Armed with this background knowledge, users will be better equipped to evaluate advantages and limitations of the technique. Detailed descriptions and information for instrumental components are provided in chapter 3. Subsequent chapters deal with the practical aspects of sample analysis by ICP-MS. Whether samples are to be analysed in liquid, solid ·or gaseous form is always an important consideration, and there is a wide choice of sample introduction techniques.

The first edition of Inductively Coupled Plasma Spectrometry andits Applications was written as a handbook for users who wanted abetter understanding of the theory augmented by a practical insightof how best to approach a range of applications, and to provide auseful starting point for users trying an approach or technique newto them. These objectives have been retained in the second editionbut a slight shift in emphasis gives the volume an overallperspective that is more forward looking. Structured into 11 chapters, the current edition is a thoroughrevision of the original, covering the principles of inductivelycoupled plasmas, instrumentation, methodology and applicationswithin environmental analysis, earth science, food science andclinical medicine. Each chapter, written by internationallyrecognised leaders in their specific subject areas, provides enoughdetail to be useful to both the new and experienced users. Fullaccount is taken of recent developments, such as high resolutioninstruments, novel detection systems and electrospraytechniques. Written for all analytical scientists but particularly thoseinvolved in atomic spectroscopy and in environmental, geochemical,clinical or food analysis, this timely and informative book will bean essential reference in their use of inductively coupled plasmasto achieve their own scientific goals.

It also includes information on processing and interpreting results to obtain high-quality data.".

The book provides an up-to-date account of inductively coupled plasmas and their use in atomic emission spectroscopy and mass spectrometry. Specific applications of the use of these techniques are highlighted including applications in environmental, food and industrial analysis. It is written in a distance learning / open learning style; suitable for self study applications. It contains contain self-assessment and discussion questions, worked examples and case studies that allow the reader to test their understanding of the presented material.