Atomic Spectrometry Update—Environmental Analysis

Abstract

As in last year's Update, this review covers major developments in the analysis by atomic spectrometry of air, waters, soils, plants, geological materials and related substances. It is based upon the references which may be found in the 1990 issues of JAAS. As has often been the case in past Environmental Updates, sample preparation and speciation again figure prominantly. Pre-concentration techniques are frequently used to achieve lower detection limits, and ICP-MS continues to attract attention. Thus the year has been one of steady progress rather than one of major innovations.