Ultrasonic-assisted enzymatic digestion (USAED) for total elemental determination and elemental speciation: a tutorial

Due to its potential as sample treatment for Analytical Chemistry, the Ultrasonic-Assisted Enzymatic Digestion (USAED) for total elemental determination and elemental speciation is described under the most recent achievements published in literature, focusing on the variables that critically affect the performance of this relatively new sample treatment, such as the type of enzymes or the type of ultrasonic system used for the acceleration of the solid-liquid extraction process. Moreover, analytical chemists are aware of common errors produced in data interpretation concerning USAED. In addition, a guide for the rapid application of this methodology is also provided along with detailed explanations. Finally, future trends regarding USAED are also given and commented.