Atomic absorption spectrometry

The choice of an analytical assay method depends above all on the nature of the sample to be analyzed, the presumed concentration of the analyte, and potential matrix interferences. To these must be added the needs associated with the rate of analysis, and the cost and resources available for investment. No single technique can satisfy all these criteria.

Of all the techniques available to date for the inorganic analysis of elements in solution, the most widespread are atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS) and inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP/ATS), to which we can add electrochemical methods as well as ion chromatography and capillary electrophoresis.

In terms of sensitivity, electrothermal SAA (SAAE) offers performances comparable to those of electrochemistry, polarography and voltametry. In most cases, detection limits are in the µg/dm ³ range, and interference control now makes it possible to analyze highly complex, salt-laden media.

Thanks to the development of effective systems for correcting non-specific absorption (NSA), the considerable contribution of computer technology and a better understanding of the phenomena taking place before and during atomization, SAA has now reached maturity.

After a brief theoretical review, this article gives an in-depth description of the equipment, including all recent developments. This is followed by a discussion of the problems associated with interference, and how to detect and correct it. A detailed examination of the method's properties (sensitivity, detection limit, etc.) concludes the review.