Flameless non-dispersive atomic fluorescence spectrometry

This dissertation is the presentation of an investigation of the properties and analytical applicability of a flameless non-dispersive atomic fluorescence spectrometer. The system was found to be relatively free of chemical interferences, analytically sensitive, and employs very simple instrumentation. The principal limitation is source radiation scattering when particulate matter is. present. Included are detailed descriptions, of a thermostated electrodeless discharge lamp oven, a unique graphite tube atomizer employing continuous sample introduction and the non-dispersive spectrometer developed for this study. Detection limits for 15 elements are presented. A section on the use of this instrument in the determination of trace metals in several biological samples is included.