TRAC: Trends in Analytical Chemistry

Book excerpt: Trends in Analytical Chemistry, Volume 3 focuses on developments in analytical chemistry, including the adoption of automation in laboratory processes, chromatography, and flow analysis. The selection first underscores the effect of automation on the operations of analytical laboratories and techniques for the automated optimization of HPLC separations. Topics include initial requirements, window diagrams, and chemometric approaches. The text then ponders on generation of statistical tables by microcomputer; enzyme electrodes for continuous in-vivo monitoring; and enantiomeric analysis of the common protein amino acids by liquid chromatography. The publication takes a look at sample preparation for the analysis of heavy metals in foods and application of ion-selective electrodes in flow analysis, including dry ashing, acid extraction, and ion-selective electrodes in flowing systems. The text then examines trends in laboratory information management systems; zone electrophoresis in open-tubular capillaries; and using computers to interpret IR spectra of complex molecules. The selection is a valuable source of data for readers interested in the developments in analytical chemistry.