Atomic Absorption Standards are just one of the many product ranges provided by Reagecon and this paper provides details on the two main types of Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS), Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (FAAS) and Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (GFAAS). There are advantages both technical and commercial, attributable to each one. In this paper, we will look briefly at the underlying technology in each, how they operate and what those advantages and disadvantages are.

 What are the main types of Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS)?

The two main types of Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS) are Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (FAAS) and Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (GFAAS). While AAS is still a widely used and universal technique, it is to some extent, superceded by various ICP technologies. The decision of which technique to use, is governed by fitness for purpose.

Irrespective of choice, in terms of selection of an AAS instrument the analyst will require high quality standards. AAS is a comparative analytical method, the instrument needs calibration, the whole measurement process needs controlling, methods need validating and in a regulated industry, the system needs qualification. Although, there are many good producers of AA standards, such standards have been produced commercially in this authors laboratory for over 30 years. Therefore, because of familiarity with these products and the very considerable research and development resources, expended on their development, the features and benefits of the Reagecon standards, will be described in detail. It is our belief that the features and benefits described form a template of what to look for in an ideal AAS Standard, irrespective of source. This is the primary objective of this publication. The measurement of AAS, in particular Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption, requires some additional solutions, in the form of Releasing Reagents and Matrix Modifiers. Details of these ancillary products are also presented. To view our full range of Atomic Absorption Standards, visit our the Reagecon webshop now.

Contents

1.0 Abstract
2.0 Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (FAAS) – The Technology
2.1 Advantages and Disadvantages of FAAS
2.1.1 Advantages
2.1.2 Disadvantages
3.0 Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (GFAAS)
3.1 Advantages and Disadvantages of GFAAS
3.1.1 Advantages
3.1.2 Disadvantages
4.0 Comparison of Elemental Techniques
5.0 Atomic Absorption Standards, Matrix Modifiers and Releasing Agents
6.0 Summary
7.0 Bibliography

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