Atomic Spectrometry Update—Atomic Emission Spectrometry

Abstract

This review describes developments in all aspects of atomic emission spectrometry, including fundamental processes and instrumentation, reported in the Atomic Spectrometry Updates References in JAAS, Volume 6 (91/C1688-91/4050) and Volume 7 (92/1-92/1447). The full references, names and addresses of authors can be readily found from the Atomic Spectrometry Update References in the relevant issues of JAAS. However, as an additional service to readers, an abbreviated form of each reference quoted (except those to Conference Proceedings) is given at the end of the review.

Emission spectrometry continues to be a growth area, but it is notable that research activity is not reflected in developments in commercial instrumentation. This is particularly true in the area of d.c. and a.c. discharges between electrodes, either free-burning or sustained inside furnaces. Although specific claims are made for the performance of many of these devices, it must be concluded that they do not have the general applicability of the established techniques. The glow discharge is an exception, with research findings being introduced into commercial instrumentation. Laser ablation is another area that is gaining in popularity and is already available in commercial format.

The electrodeless plasmas (ICP and MIP) continue to be characterized and sample introduction remains the most active research field. The comments made about electrodeless plasmas could be applied equally to the MIP, but its role as a detector for GC is now firmly established.

Developments in detectors and data processing still offer promise for the future, but are not as yet making a significant impact in applications laboratories. The high cost of bringing products to the market place and securing their acceptance within the analytical community remains a major obstacle to bringing research findings into routine analysis. The trend towards standardization and certification of analytical procedures will further inhibit such development.