Abstract

The ability to extract arsenic (As) from soils and sediments, and analyze it with accuracy and precision, is of paramount importance, given the high risk that As, even in relatively low concentrations, poses to pore waters and biota. A large number of methods exist for extracting and analyzing total As, and As associated with a variety of operationally defined phase associations, in soils and sediments. We give an overview of methods used at present, and consider potential problems. We strongly recommend adoption of universal standard techniques and certified reference materials, especially for sequential extraction schemes. © 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.