Solvent extraction processes oxidation state, effect

Chemical modifications can be achieved by the addition of chemical reagents to the solvent in the transport line before the sample has been injected. The analyte elements undergo reactions with the reagents during the time that they are transported to the nebulizer, the transport tube acting as the chemical reaction vessel. The length of the transport line and the flow rate of the carrier liquid control the time of the reaction. After the reaction is completed and before the sample is introduced into the plasma, separations can be carried out on the analyte species. Two examples of this process include the separation of volatile species formed by a hydride generation reaction by a gas-liquid separator and the separation of complexed analyte species by a continuous liquid—liquid solvent extraction.This procedure has been effectively used for speciation measurements to isolate a specific form or oxidation state of the analyte prior to elemental analysis. 

---