Information on inorganic ultra-trace analysis and how to solve the different problems and difficulties which arise when the concentration of the analytes decreases are very rare. In addition they are scattered in the literature and therefore very difficult to find. This book is a very valuable contribution to overcome the severe lack of comprehensive literature and reviews on this topic.
The book concentrates on inorganic trace and ultra-trace analysis for metals and describes the thinking approach to this science, its principles, the philosophy and general strategy, handling techniques, problems and possibilities. It does not provide detailed procedures or specific details of trace analytical techniques. The emphasis in each of the 8 chapters (chapter headings: Introduction, Working Environment, Laboratory Materials, Storage, Reagents, Water Supply, Working Practices, Trouble Shooting) is on the description of the problems and errors inherent in the different sections and steps of an analytical procedure. The huge concentration of information can only be summarized by listing some of the most important key words such as hazards, gains and losses in sampling, sample pretreatment, storage, dissolution and decomposition, separation, preconcentration and determination; sources of contamination, sorption, adsorption and volatilization; materials, tools, handling, cleaning and purification.
The subjects are thoroughly treated, clearly described and illustrated by many examples. Fundamental remarks are highlighted in special text boxes.