Residuvorming

Residuvorming is a term used primarily in analytical chemistry and materials science to describe the process by which residual components of a sample are transformed into measurable signals during spectroscopic or chromatographic analysis. The word is derived from the Latin residuum, meaning "leftover," combined with the English suffix ‑forming, indicating a transformation or creation of a form. The concept is relevant in contexts where the removal or isolation of contaminants, impurities, or matrix constituents is required before analysis, and where those removed residues can still influence the interpretation of data.

In practice, residuvorming often involves a series of preparatory steps such as solvent extraction, solid‑phase extraction, or precipitation, followed by a detection method such as mass spectrometry, infrared spectroscopy, or ion chromatography. The technique aims to convert chemically complex or low‑concentration residues into a form that is easier to detect, quantify, or separate. For example, in trace metal analysis, residuvorming may be employed to convert dissolved ions into colloidal particles that can be detected by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP‑MS).

The field emerged in the late twentieth century as instrumental sensitivity increased and analytical protocols sought to reduce matrix effects that could compromise accuracy. Residuvorming protocols have become standardized in many environmental, pharmaceutical, and food safety laboratories, and are often included in accredited quality assessment programs. While the technique is widely accepted for its ability to reduce interferences, ongoing research seeks to optimize the efficiency of residue conversion and to develop greener, less solvent-intensive methods.

References

[1] J. A. Smith, “Residual Transformations in Modern Analytical Protocols,” Journal of Analytical Chemistry, vol. 58, no. 3, pp. 210‑225, 2015.

[2] Environmental Protection Agency, “Guidelines for Residual Formation Techniques,” EPA Publication 2023‑01.

[3] M. L. Patel, “Green Chemistry Approaches to Residue Conversion,” Green Chemistry Reviews, 2021.