ABSTRACT
The quantitation of trace and ultratrace components in complex samples of environmental, clinical, or industrial origin represents an important task of modern analytical chemistry. In the analysis of such dilute samples, it is often necessary to employ some type of preconcentration step prior to the actual quantitation. This happens when the analyte concentration is below the detection limit of the instrumental technique applied. Besides its main enrichment objective, the preconcentration step may serve to isolate the analyte from the complex matrix, and hence to improve selectivity and stability.
