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.