Sample Preparation for Trace Analysis

Stabilization, Drying, and Storage.. 96 Homogenization and Aliquoting. .. 96 Requirements with Respect to 

Modern analysis begins with a definition and outline of the problem and ends only after a detailed critical evaluation of the relevant analytical data is complete, permitting the presentation of a result ( Analytical Chemistry, Purpose and Procedures). The analyst must therefore retain the ability to monitor a sample conscientiously and knowledgably throughout the analytical process. Only the analyst is in a position to assess the quality of a set of results and the validity of subsequent conclusions, although defining the problem and presenting the conclusions is almost always a cooperative multidisciplinary effort. 

Analysis, and particularly trace analysis, thus entails more than the mere qualitative or quantitative detection of a particular element or chemical compound. For example, it presupposes knowledge on the part of the analyst with respect to the origin and structure of the sample matrix. The analyst must also possess a specialist s insight into analogous problems from other disciplines in order to assure the plausibility of the questions raised and critically evaluate and interpret the results. at least in a provisional way. 

From these preliminary observations it will already have become clear that trace analysis, the focus of much concern in sample preparation, cannot be regarded as an end in itself. Rather, it is a very relevant and applications-oriented branch of analytical chemistry generally, one that, from a historical perspective, developed from within but became independent of chemical analysis as a whole, which was long regarded simply as a servant to the traditional subspecialities of chemistry and other disciplines (- Analytical Chemistry, Purpose and FTocedures). Nevertheless, the same tools, equipment, and methodological principles remain common to both general chemical analysis and modern trace analysis. 

Trace analytical efforts directed toward the determination of particular elements or compounds require the analyst steadfastly to pursue a single six-step strategy consisting of 

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Trends in element analysis are multi-element (survey) analysis, lower concentration levels, micro/local element analysis and speciation (coupling with chromatography). An overview of the determination of elements in polymeric materials is available [7], Reviews on sample preparation for trace analysis are given in refs [8-10]. Quality assurance of analytical data in routine elemental analysis has been discussed [11], Organic analysis is obviously much more requested in relation to polymer/additive matrices than elemental analysis. 

Hennion, M.-C. and V. Pichon. 2003. Immuno-based sample preparation for trace analysis. J. Chromatogr. A 1000 29-52. 

Quevauviller Ph., 2004a. In Z. Mester, B. Sturgeon (Eds.), Sample Preparation for Trace Analysis, Elsevier, Amsterdam. 

Dunneman L, Begerow J, and Bucholski A (1994) Sample preparation for trace analysis. In Ullmann s Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry. Weinheim Verlag Chemie. 

Proper preparation of the sample is the most important preliminary step in conducting any anal-y.sis (-> Sample Preparation for Trace Analysis), and this is especially true in chromatography. Of particular concern is the amount of extraneous material present in the sample solution. The greater the amount of junk, the more sample preparation that will be required. 

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