Analytical methods for arsenic speciation analysis

Abstract

Arsenic exists in the form of various chemical species differing in their physicochemical behaviour, toxicity, bioavailability and biotransformation. The determination of arsenic species is an important issue for environmental, clinical and food chemistry. However, differentiation of these species is a quite complex analytical task. Numerous speciation procedures have been studied that include electrochemical, chromatographic, spectrometric and hyphenated techniques. This review presents the relevant research in the field of arsenic speciation analysis with novel applications and significant advances. Stability of arsenic species and each of the analytical steps (sample collection, storage, preservation, extraction) of the arsenic speciation methods is particularly evaluated. Analytical validation and performance of these methods are also reviewed.