Monitoring of microgram per litre concentrations of trace metals in sea water: the choice of methodology for sampling and analysis

Abstract

The methodology available for carrying out routine determinations of microgram per litre concentrations of trace metals in sea water is discussed with a view to providing suggestions on how organisations with only normal laboratory facilities at their disposal might establish worthwhile programmes in this particularly demanding area of environmental monitoring. A step-by-step approach has been taken, through sampling, laboratory cleanliness, pre-treatment, extraction, instrumental measurement and, finally, the now much emphasised areas of method validation, analytical quality control and proper reporting of results.