Editor: Royal Society of Chemistry ISBN: 978-1-78801-094-8 Authors: Lars Öhrström, Jacques Covès 2019, 212 pages

Pink warships that vanish at dusk, urinary maladies of an emperor, and a gold test for cocaine – behold the chemistry of metal ions as never before.
In this book you will learn about the sarcophagus molecule, the Chen-Kao test, and how murderers can be caught blue-handed with the wonders of glowing luminol. You will also meet the hidden chemistry of metal ions in everyday life, from the clever modern devices that measure blood-sugar levels, to the leather on your shoes and chewing gum stuck to their soles.
Expect to encounter a fair share of heroes and villains, real and fictional, scientist and layperson. Such characters include an ex-MI5 employee running a hospital ward in London amid falling German V1 rockets, a notorious racing cyclist, a proud butler and the lady who first proposed nuclear fission (it’s not who you think it is).
With engaging, humorous and intelligent prose, the reader will discover the fascinating back-stories of chemical discoveries and inventions where metal ions have played a major role.
Featuring a foreword by popular science communicator Dr Raychelle Burks of St. Edward's University, Texas.

Fantastic Metal Ions and How to Catch Them

Rhubarb, an Emperor and the Butler's Pride

Mining, Magnets and Making New Elements

On Poisoning, Self-poisoning and the Euro

Down to Earth Chemistry

Chemicals from Trees and How the Pacific Yew Was Saved

Molecules and Murderers – The Art of Detection and Measuring

Metal Medications and Metals Versus Medicines

Blood, Iron and Body Metals

Vanishing Warships and Sugary Gold