Recent advances in graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry: a review of fundamentals and applications

Graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry (GFAAS) (also called electrothermal atomization [ETAAS]) is commonly used for sensitive elemental analysis. Following a summary of its principles, recent fundamental developments, and applications are reviewed. Advances in atomization mechanisms and instrumentation are discussed, followed by applications of speciation. New developments in direct solid sampling (SS) are reviewed that provide convenient, rapid, and green methodology. Novel preconcentration approaches are considered that provide reduced detection limits and removal of the sample matrix. A number of direct analyses are reviewed for clinical/pharmaceutical, food, environmental, and industrial samples. The conclusion discusses future developments in GFAAS, including the continued development of green protocols and speciation analyses.