Automated Flow Analysis Techniques for Environmental Monitoring
Summary
Automated flow analysis encompasses a suite of continuous and segmented‐flow approaches designed to streamline the handling, reaction and detection of environmental samples. By mechanising sample introduction, reagent mixing and detection within a flowing stream, these methods achieve high throughput, reproducibility and reduced reagent consumption. Key platforms include flow injection analysis (FIA), which injects discrete sample plugs into a carrier stream; sequential injection analysis (SIA), which alternates aspirated reagent and sample zones for precise mixing; and lab-in-syringe techniques, where extraction and reaction occur within a single syringe body. Recent innovations have extended these concepts into microfluidic and multi-commuted manifolds, enabling on-line preconcentration of trace pollutants, automated detection of heavy metals and monitoring of emerging contaminants in waters and soils. The integration of membrane-based modules, evaporative preconcentration and LED-based spectrometry has further enhanced sensitivity and portability, making automated flow systems of increasing importance for real-time environmental surveillance and compliance with global water quality standards.
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Automated Flow Analysis Techniques for Environmental Monitoring publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in automated flow analysis techniques for environmental monitoring across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
Flow Injection Analysis: A technique in which a sample plug is injected into a continuous carrier stream and mixed with reagents en route to a detector.
Sequential Injection Analysis: An approach using programmable aspiration and dispensing of sample and reagents in defined zones for controlled, reproducible mixing.
Lab-in-Syringe: An automated format that performs extraction, mixing and detection inside the barrel of a syringe, minimising external tubing and dead volume.
Preconcentration: On-line enhancement of analyte concentration, typically by adsorption, membrane separation or evaporative means, to improve sensitivity.
Microfluidics: The manipulation of fluids in channels of micrometre dimensions, enabling reduced reagent use, rapid mixing and integration of multiple analytical steps.
References
- The Automation Technique Lab-In-Syringe: A Practical Guide. Molecules (2020).
- Flow Analysis: Looking Back and Forward. Journal of the Brazilian Chemical Society (2018).
- Novel Approach to Sample Preconcentration by Solvent Evaporation in Flow Analysis. Molecules (2020).
- Lab-in-Syringe, a Useful Technique for the Analysis and Detection of Pollutants of Emerging Concern in Environmental and Food Samples. Molecules (2022).
- Multi-pumping mechanised determination of selenium in natural waters by light emitting diode (LED) spectrometry. Journal of the Brazilian Chemical Society (2009).
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