656 JOURNAL OF ANALYTICAL ATOMIC SPECTROMETRY, OCTOBER 1987, VOL. 2 Book Review Inductively Coupled Plasma Emission Spectroscopy. Part 1: Methodology, Instrumentation, and Performance. Edited by P. W. J. M. Boumans. Pp. xiv + 584, Chemical Analysis, Volume 90. Wiley-Interscience. 1987. Price 271.75. ISBN 0 471 09686 5. With several hundred inductively coupled plasma (ICP) emission spectrometers in regular use in a wide variety of analytical applications throughout the world, there is an obvious demand for a definitive text on this popular technique for elemental analysis. P. W. J. M. Boumans, one of the greatest experts in the field has set him- self, with the aid of other leading practi- tioners, the task of fulfilling this demand. Since the original project for a single volume has expanded into a two-volume treatise, judgement must be suspended as to whether he has succeeded in his task, but this first volume can at least be described as very promising.The extent of Boumans’ personal con- tribution can be assessed by noting that of the nine chapters in this volume, five were written by the Editor himself [Introduc- tion to Atomic Emission Spectrometry (AES), Plasma Sources other than ICPs, ICPs, Basic Concepts and Characteristics of ICP-AES and Line Selection and Spec- tral Interferences]. Boumans also co- authored chapters on torches (with G. M. Hieftje) and sample introduction (with J. A. C. Broekaert). The other two chapters, on “Spectrometers” and “Detection and Measurement,” were written by J. W. Olesik, and H. Bubert and W.-D. Hagenah, respectively.The chapters Boumans has written reflect his authoritative grasp of the field. While readers may wish to argue with the weight offered to some aspects, e.g., the contri- bution of Greenfield to the evolution of ICP-AES as an analytical technique, or the benefits of rigorous optimisation strategies for ICP-AES, they will wel- come the refreshingly critical approach. These chapters show a level of expertise which on their own would justify purchase of the book. The introduction to AES is scholarly yet helpful, glimpses can be seen of the author’s original background in d.c. arc emission. Perhaps the review of other sources will be of less value to the practitioner, including as it does a number of historical curiosities. Chapter 3 intro- duces ICPs in a clear descriptive manner and includes a helpful review of reviews.The chapter on basic concepts and charac- teristics will be a boon to many new users with a wealth of advice based on fun- damental concepts. The review of torch developments will be meaningful for all readers. Given the tremendous interest in sample introduction for ICP-AES, the sixth chapter could usefully have been expanded and possibly updated to give a more critical survey of what is admittedly one of the more lively areas of current research. The treatment of spectral inter- ferences is once again soundly based on theoretical concepts and will be of imme- diate practical value. The chapters on instrumentation complete the volume adequately, although it may yet be the authors will regret not having included more on Fourier transform approaches.In summary this is an excellent volume, which can be strongly recommended to those who are interested in ICP-AES as a practical analytical tool or as a research area. Having read Part 1, this reviewer eagerly awaits Part 2. Les Ebdon Plymouth Polytechnic, UK Edited by L . Edition . Bretherick Safety Consultant m’ Hazards in the Chemical Laboratory has become established -A as an essential handbook of safe6 practices, measures and toxic effects for laboratories handling dangerous chemicals. Since the last edition was Dublished in 1981 there have been \ many changes in legishion, regulations, precautionary safety methods and toxicity assessments which warrant publication of this new 4th edition. In addition coverage has been expanded to include material relating to legislation and safety practices in the USA. Protective PVC Binding 618pp Price f 29.50 ($54.00) ISBN 0 85186 489 9 RSC Members Price f 18.00 ORDERING RSC Members should send their orders to: The Royal / . ROYAL Society of Chemistry, Membership Manager, 30 Russell Square, SOCIETY OF London WClB 5DT, UK. Non-RSC Members should send their orders ff 8 CHEMlSTRY +$ FJ;nFl;ion to: The Royal Society of Chemistry, Distribution Centre, Blackhorse Road, Letchworth, Herts SG6 lHN, UK.