Trace and Residue Analysis

Abstract

It is generally recognized that trace analysis implies those analyses that are carried out around 0.0001% or ppm level. Ultratrace analysis, ie, beyond what is ordinarily called trace analysis, can be then defined as analysis performed below ppm or µg/g level. Residue analysis relates to the analysis of residual materials left from an operation, eg, solvents left in pharmaceutical products or pesticides left in food. Analyses performed at or below ppm level are described. Sampling, sample preparation, sample cleanup, and method validation are discussed. In addition, a number of methodologies are covered, such as atomic absorption/emission spectrometry, neutron activation analysis, tlc, gc, hplc, hyphenated methods such as gc/ms and lc/ms, capillary electrophoresis, supercritical fluid chromatography, and immunoassays that allow analyses of both organic and inorganic samples. Applications include areas such as environment, explosives, food, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and a number of miscellaneous fields.