Nature

th This proceedings volume of the 8 International Microchemical Symposium contains the plenary and keynote lectures delivered at the conference. Besides basic and historic aspects the following major topics are covered: "Microchemistry Arts and Archeology" in "Microchemistry in Life Sciences" "Microchemistry Sciences" in Environmental "Microchemistry in Material Sciences" "Instrumentation, Methods and Automation in Microchemistry". The papers show the present state of microchemistry and the development of this field since the pioneer days of Fritz Pregl and Friedrich Emich. Today microchemistry is a different science as compared to the Pregl and Emich days, for it combines many disciplines like chemistry, physics, mathematics, informatics, biology and does not only mean microanalysi- even if it is still predominant and the best tool for elucidation of the microcosmos. Due to this development modern microchemistry plays an important role in science and technology. It had been the intention of the Scientific th Executive Committee to demonstrate this at the 8 International Micro- chemical Symposium with the goal to encourage interdisciplinary communication and stimulate discussion.