Photochemistry-based sample treatments as greener approaches for trace-element analysis and speciation

Sample preparation and sample introduction in analytical systems are rapidly evolving towards greener, simpler and more cost-effective methodologies with subsequent achievements in analytical characteristics (e.g., improved detection limits, fewer matrix effects and higher sample throughput). Implementation of ultraviolet irradiation can provide remarkable advantages in the area of trace-element analysis and speciation, since methods for removal of organic matter, decomposition of organic-metal complexes and vapor generation (VG) can be driven by photo-oxidation or photo-reduction processes with total or partial replacement of chemicals employed in conventional approaches. New interfaces for coupling chromatographic techniques with atomic and mass detectors based on photochemical VG are emerging and expanding the scope of hyphenated techniques for elemental speciation. In this overview, we provide insight into these new developments and survey the main applications. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.