Signal and data processing for atomic absorption spectrophotometry

Abstract The state-of-the-art of signal and data processing techniques for atomic absorption spectrophotometry is described and discussed. Aspects of optical and atomizer design of greatest importance for providing the best signal to noise S/N ratio and minimum curvature are summarized. In background corrected systems, amplifier gain and time constants must be carefully matched, especially for transient signals. A method is given for calculating the sampling time of peak search systems. Methods of signal averaging are described and the importance of precision calculations is stressed. The correct sequence of readings for calibration is discussed. The causes of curvature are shown for simple and complex curves and methods of correction are compared. Other desirable functions are calculation of sensitivity and detection limit, error warnings and external data output facilities.