ABSTRACT
Several techniques based on laser induced fluorescence (LIF) spectrometry and laser enhanced ionization (LEI) spectrometry have been investigated for ultratrace measurements of arsenic. Studies by our group in this area that have been published previously are reviewed here, and are presented along with the results of recent studies that have not yet been published. The techniques presented include LIF detection in the inductively coupled plasma atomizer, the electrothermal atomizer, the tungsten coil atomizer, the flame atomizer and LEI detection in the flame atomizer, and include approaches that utilize hydride generation or laser ablation sample introduction. Recent efforts have been directed towards developing speciation approaches for arsenic that utilize LIF spectrometric detection. The capabilities of each technique are summarized including the sensitivity and limits of detection, which range from sub-pg ml(-1) to ng ml(-1) levels. Selected applications of the techniques are presented to demonstrate their utility for environmental and biological samples, and areas for future investigation and further development are discussed.
ABSTRACT
This paper concerns risk perceptions of Swedish Saami reindeer herders in conjunction with the Chernobyl nuclear disaster. Focus is also placed upon their experiences of damage and their efforts to deal with these problems. Data relating to these social aspects of the Chernobyl event come from interviews with members of Saami herding families. The initial governmental policy of establishing a simple contamination limit for the marketability of all foodstuffs was beset with shortcomings. I propose that all contaminated foods should be labeled with contamination specifications along a fully graded scale. In addition, there should be consumer education and recommendations for the entire population, not just one segment. An absolutely necessary step in the construction of valid policies is the health calibration of low-dose radiation. Without such knowledge, any marketability limit is suspect. With such knowledge, policy can be firmly based on human health.
