Inorganic mass spectrometry (inorganic MS) has had an important presence in chemical analysis
for many years and much has been written, especially since the adoption of inductively coupled
plasma mass spectrometry, ICPMS, on a routine basis. Hence the clear need for a comprehensive
look at this field in a manner readily understandable with benefit for novice or expert. Dr J. Sabine
Becker has risen to this challenge and produced an excellent book that gives a unique perspective
through its broad coverage of the field by reviewing the important aspects of it, as we know it
today. The reader will find excellent coverage of sample preparation, sample introduction, ion
sources, ion separation, ion detection and an extensive illustration of applications. It is further
strengthened by the exceptionally high number of references. The writing is clear and concise and
even the novice can come to a working level in the subject without having to search external
references, or having to wade through heavy mathematical arguments. A very important plus with
this offering is that it is a one-author book and offers a coherence of thought and style that no
multi-authored work can achieve. Thus as one progresses through Dr Becker’s chapters, it is more
like moving through a good textbook than a series of review chapters. Beyond major libraries, this
offering is well suited for a graduate course in inorganic mass spectrometry.