Bulgarian analytical atomic spectroscopists in the new millennium—integrated in the European research area

Abstract

The studies from Bulgarian analytical atomic spectroscopists in the fields of atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS), atomic fluorescence spectrometry (AFS), inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES), inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and hyphenated atomic spectrometric methods after 2000 are reviewed with an emphasis on direct methods of analysis (slurry and solid sampling), rational sample pretreatment and trace elements enrichment, alternative pretreatments such as alkaline solubilization by tetraalkylammonium hydroxides, in situ treatment in a graphite atomizer by means of chemical modification, speciation and fractionation analysis. There is a clear focus on the development of sample preconcentration methods coupled with atomic spectrometric techniques, particularly in flow and flow injection systems to alleviate interferences and to improve limits of detection (LODs). The most notable publications concerned with methodological developments in the atomic spectroscopic analysis of environmental samples, biological and advanced materials, food and beverages, as well as speciation and fractionation studies are tabulated. Recent reviews, book chapters, bibliographies and monographs with Bulgarian authorship/co-authorship are presented. The integration of Bulgarian atomic spectroscopists in the European research area is illustrated. Some trends in the publication activities are presented.