Chapter 1. Introduction to vapor generation techniques, Chapter 2. Chemical vapor generation by aqueous boranes,Chapter 3. Chemical vapor generation of transition and noble metals,Chapter 4. Chemical vapor generation by aqueous phase alkylation, Chapter 5. Other chemical vapor generation techniques,Chapter 6. Chemical vapor generation in nonaqueous media,Chapter 7. Photo-sono-thermo-chemical vapor generation techniques,Chapter 8. Catalysts in photochemical vapor generation, Chapter 9. Plasma-mediated vapor generation techniques,Chapter 10. Electrochemical vapor generation,Chapter 11. Nonplasma devices for atomization and detection of volatile metal species by atomic absorption and fluoscence,Chapter 12. Dielectric barrier discharge devices.

Vapor Generation Techniques for Trace Element Analysis: Fundamental Aspects provides an overview and discussion of the fundamental aspects governing derivatization reactions of trace-level elements for analytical purposes. Vapor generation techniques coupled with atomic or mass spectrometry have been employed for over 50 years, but their popularity has dramatically increased in recent years, especially as alternative vapor generation approaches have been developed. This book bridges the knowledge gap of the derivatization mechanisms that yield volatile compounds and provides an update on recent developments in vapor generation techniques used for the determination and speciation of trace elements by atomic optical and mass spectrometry.

It will serve as a comprehensive, single-source overview of recent developments, providing readers with an understanding of the correct implementation―and limitations―of applying vapor generation techniques to everyday analytical problems facing the trace element analyst.

Covers reaction mechanisms and fundamental processes of vapor generation in detail
Includes classical and alternative vapor generation approaches: alkylation, chelation, plasma, photochemical and electrochemical
Guides the interpretation of experimental results and implementation of vapor generation techniques in the laboratory