This thesis describes novel analytical methods for the determination of trace metal ions in a variety of industrial and environmental samples. A method is described for the simultaneous determination of Cu(II) and F e (III) in anaerobic adhesive formulations by high performance liq u id chromatography with spectrophotometric detection. Limits of detection of 100 ppb and 250 ppb for Cu(II) and Fe (III) respectively were achieved. A second approach based on direct application of the adhesive formulation to the surface of a glassy carbon electrode was also developed. The chromatographic method was further developed for the simultaneous determination of F e (III) and Al(III) in soil and clay samples and information on the speciation of those metals in these matrices obtained by comparison with atomic absorption spectroscopy. Detection of metal chelates and inorganic ions was then investigated using polymer modified electrodes in flowing streams. The ruthenium polymer used i.e. [Ru(bpy)2 (PVP)5Cl]C1 was shown to enhance sensitivity over bare glassy carbon electrodes by about 3-5 orders o f magnitude. These polymer modified electrodes were then stabilised using UV ir radiation and coating with other polymeric materials for use in flow injection analysis.