Lanthanides have fascinated scientists for more than two centuries now and since efficient
separation techniques were established roughly 50 years ago they have increasingly found their
way into industrial exploitation and our everyday lives. Numerous applications are based on
their unique luminescent properties which are highlighted in this volume. It presents
established knowledge about the photophysical basics relevant lanthanide probes or materials
and describes instrumentation-related aspects including chemical and physical sensors. The uses
of lanthanides in bioanalysis and medicine are outlined such as assays for in vitro
diagnostics and research. All chapters were compiled by renowned scientists with a broad
audience in mind providing both beginners in the field and advanced researchers with
comprehensive information on on the given subject.
