Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS)

Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS) is a technique for determination of the concentrations of individual elements in a sample by measuring the absorbed radiation by the chemical element of interest. When the sample is excited by radiation, the atoms absorb ultraviolet or visible light and make transitions to higher energy levels, with the amount of energy absorbed proportional to the number of atoms of that element in the sample. Every atom has its own distinct pattern of wavelengths at which it will absorb energy, due to the unique configuration of electrons in its outer shell. This enables the qualitative analysis of a sample. The concentration is calculated based on the Beer-Lambert law. Absorbance is directly proportional to the concentration of the analyte absorbed for the existing set of conditions. The concentration is usually determined from a calibration curve, obtained using standards of known concentration.

Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS) is useful for several types of analysis, including for:

• Trace metal analysis of a wide range of sample types in environmental sciences,food and beverage, chemical and pharmaceutical sectors
• Impurity or contamination monitoring and quality control
• Rapid assessment of raw materials
• Analysis of biological fluids such as blood and urine