Direct Processing and Analysis of Solid and Other Complex Samples with Automatic Flow Injection Systems

Abstract

The use of a suitable sampling or sample-processing unit connected to a flow injection system can significantly expand the scope of application of the flow injection technique by enabling the direct introduction and treatment of solid and other complex samples in a single automated system. In recent years various sample pretreatment techniques, including electrolytic dissolution, on-line leaching, continuous microwave digestion, on-line sterilizable membrane dialysis/filtration, pervaporation, dynamic gas-extraction, and flow-reversal liquid-liquid extraction, among others, have proven useful for solving a variety of analytical problems in conjunction with flow injection systems. The principles behind these techniques and their applications in fast assay and on-line process monitoring are reviewed and discussed. Selected major advances in this research field are outlined.

Key Words:

• automatic sample treatment
• flow injection technique
• process monitoring
• complex (solid) samples