Applications of solid sampling plasma spectrometric technology for elemental analysis in food

Solid sampling plasma spectrometric technology without digestion treatments have some advantages for elemental analysis in food, such as higher sampling efficiency, simpler, faster and more environmental friendly, as well as wider dynamic linear range, higher sensitivity and multielemental analysis. This paper covered the current development of sample preparation, sample introduction and instrumental methods of solid sampling plasma spectrometric technologies, of which the applications of direct solid sampling and slurry sampling techniques, and electrothermal vaporization, direct sample insertion, laser ablation and laser induced breakdown spectrometry, etc. for elemental analysis in food were reviewed. In addition, the key problems of sample homogeneity, matrix interference and calibration methods were also discussed.