Interest in the fluoride content of diverse components of the environment has increased in recent years. As an abundant component of the earth's crust (approx 0.075 wt%), fluorine is present to some degree in most living & non-living matter. The particular chemical & physical properties of fluorine & its compounds results in its accumulation in certain tissues and organs, e.g. bones & teeth, or the foliage of plants. Consequently, information is needed on the fluoried content of ambient air, plant & animal tissues, soil, potable and natural waters, and foods and beverages to evaluate potential environmental problems and to establish and enforce standards. This paper summarizes currently-used methods for the sampling & analysis of fluride content of both the biotic and abiotic components of the biosphere.
