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.

The most significant developments in emission spectrometry relate to the introduction of commercial instruments that employ two-dimensional solid state detectors (CCDs or CIDs) in place of the conventional photomultiplier tubes. These instruments permit considerable flexibility in wavelength selection, allow simultaneous background correction and the use of internal standards to improve precision. Undoubtedly they will be a spur to the routine implementation of more advanced forms of spectral processing which hitherto have been only of academic interest.

The early promise of discharges in graphite furnaces remains largely unfulfilled and it seems unlikely that these devices will find the universal application of the established source such as the ICP. As mentioned last year, the glow discharge continues to be developed and undoubtedly its simplicity and modest cost have encouraged attempts to extend the range of its application. Solid sampling in general continues to be an active area and there has been renewed interest in laser ablation as a sampling technique for optical spectrometry.