A. General
Information
Microwave sample
preparation is the technology of choice for trace and ultra-trace metals
analysis. Microwave ovens began to
find widespread use in chemical laboratories
in the late 1980’s. The use of laboratory microwave units has become
increasingly popular since then.
High temperature ad/or
pressure, and closed vessel make acid digestion of solid samples
in less time than older methods (minutes rather than hours), use less acid,
and retain even volatile elements.
Microwave digestion
usually involves placing a sample in an acid solution in closed vessels and
heating to high temperatures and/or pressures. These extreme conditions
using microwave radiation can significantly improve the chemical reaction
rates and dissolve most materials.
