Sorbent-phase sample preparation in environmental analysis

Abstract

With heightened concern over pollution, increasing attention is being paid to monitoring the environment. Because environmental matrices are complex and most instruments cannot handle complex samples directly, sample preparation is normally necessary for the isolation, purification, and concentration of the analytes of interest. In this respect, sorbent-phase based sample preparation is extremely important. To afford readers a practical and reliable reference, sorbent-phase based sample preparation technologies are highlighted in this chapter for environmental analysis, including solid-phase extraction, solid-phase microextraction, in-tube solid-phase microextraction, matrix solid-phase dispersion extraction, stir-bar sorptive extraction, and a variety of other related procedures. Their basic principles, properties, and applications are elaborated and compared, with a specific focus on the development of sorbent materials, obviously the most critical component of this sample preparation approach. The range of publications is extensive, therefore only the most relevant and recent ones are considered. © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.