Improving the performance of SPME using trap‑based preconcentration with enrichment

Solid-phase microextraction (SPME) is a solventless sampling technique that is easily automated and avoids the inconveniences of solvent-based methods such as liquid/liquid extraction. However, using a standard GC injector for the fiber desorption requires careful optimisation, using a dedicated liner (<1 mm i.d) in conjunction with a high gas flow, in order to obtain optimum chromatography. In MS systems where carrier gas flow is limited, an injector split flow is therefore often used, but this reduces the quantity of analytes reaching the detector, and therefore the sensitivity of the technique.