Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy and Flame Photometry

Abstract

AbstractAtomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) is a technique which is employed for the determination of 70–80 elements both qualitatively and quantitatively. The methods for determination are categorized as absorption, emission, or fluorescence with the detection limit ranging to ppm levels. Atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) is a well-known and accepted technique for determining elements up to the trace (μg/ml) and ultra-trace (sub-μg/ml) levels with great accuracy and acceptable precision. In this chapter, basic principles of AAS and techniques for the processing of samples like dry ashing, wet digestion, and microwave digestion have been discussed. The design and working of various components of flame AAS have been covered. The performance of flame and graphite furnace AAS has been compared. Various practical considerations for analyzing a sample on AAS have been elaborated. Apart from this, various types of interferences like spectral and nonspectral interferences which occur in AAS have also been discussed. The principle of hydride generation AAS (HGAAS) and mercury cold vapor generation has also been explained. The basic principle, design, and working of inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES) have also been covered. Flame photometry has been compared with AAS. Applications of AAS in medicine, biochemistry, toxicology, water and air analysis, and agricultural and food stuffs have also been covered. A standard protocol for the determination of iron content by atomic absorption spectrometric method in infant milk substitute and determination of sodium and potassium content in milk samples by flame photometry have also been provided.KeywordsFlame and graphite furnace AASInductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS)Inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES)Hydride generation AAS (HGAAS)Mercury cold vapor generation