Recent applications of atomic spectroscopy coupled with magnetic solid-phase extraction techniques for heavy metal determination in environmental samples: A review

Atomic spectroscopy is the most popular approach to determine the presence of heavy metals in the environment. Heavy metals are potentially toxic and have various negative effects on many living organisms, including humans. With the rapid increase in the variety of industries and human activities, large amounts of heavy metals are released into the atmosphere, water, and soil. Heavy metal analysis of environmental samples is very important for determining the exposure limits. Environmental samples are highly complex matrices, and various sample preparation techniques have been developed for the extraction of heavy metals from them, including magnetic solid-phase extraction (MSPE). The use of MSPE in heavy metal analysis has recently gained significant attention owing to a number of advantages. MSPE technique overcomes main issues such as phase separation, handling, and column packing. The use of magnetic adsorbents in sample preparation has grown over the past few years, making MSPE a promising technique for sample preparation. The objective of this review article is to provide the latest applications of MSPE coupled with atomic spectroscopy for heavy metal determination in environmental samples. In addition, new magnetic adsorbents and their analytical merits are emphasized.