Effects involved in ultrasound-assisted sample digestion

INFLUENCE OF ULTRASOUND ON SAMPLE DIGESTION 3.2.1. Effects involved in ultrasound-assisted sample digestion 

Concerning chemical effects, US is known to increase the reactivity of some chemicals. The high temperature and pressure within a collapsing cavitation bubble produced by US irradiation causes the formation of free radicals and various other species. The primary chemical effects are therefore the promotion and acceleration of reactions involved in sample digestion. 

The digestion approach of choice depends on particular sample composition. Provided the sample does not contain insoluble or refractary compounds, USASD may suffice to accelerate its dissolution. On the other hand, a complex matrix will normally have to be decomposed by drastic treatment, particularly if it contains refractary compounds. 

The digestion conditions to be used may aiter some species, inciuding the target analytes. Any such aiterations which may resuit in anaiyte iosses shouid be avoided. Some alterations have no effect on the finai resuit thus, atomic detectors provide the total concentrations of the target eiements irrespective of their chemical form. 

Variables affecting ultrasound-assisted sample digestion 

---