Abstract
Through the development of solid phase microextraction (SPME) technologies, thin film solid phase microextraction (TF-SPME) has been repeatedly validated as a novel sampling device well suited for various applications. These applications, encompassing a wide range of sampling methods such as onsite, in vivo and routine analysis, benefit greatly from the convenience and sensitivity TF-SPME offers. TF-SPME, having both an increased extraction phase volume and surface area to volume ratio compared to conventional microextraction techniques, allows high extraction rates and enhanced capacity, making it a convenient and ideal sampling tool for ultra-trace level analysis. This review provides a comprehensive discussion on the development of TF-SPME and the applications it has provided thus far. Emphasis is given on its application to thermal desorption, with method development and optimization for this desorption method discussed in detail. Moreover, a detailed outlook on the current progress of TF-SPME development and its future is also discussed with emphasis on its applications to environmental, food and fragrance analysis.
Highlights
As the need for more sensitive and greener alternatives in analytical chemistry continues to grow [1,2,3,4,5], it is necessary for the further development of robust sample preparation technologies to meet these modern demands
N is the amount analyte extracted over the extraction time t, A is the area of the extraction phase, Ds is the diffusion constant of the analyte into the sample matrix and δs is the thickness of the boundary layer [42]
According to the principles of green analytical chemistry (GAC), the environmental impact of analytical methodologies should be minimized by reducing the amount of solvents used for sample pre-treatment and the use of toxic reagents, as well as developing alternative methodologies not requiring solvents and reagents [70]
Summary
As the need for more sensitive and greener alternatives in analytical chemistry continues to grow [1,2,3,4,5], it is necessary for the further development of robust sample preparation technologies to meet these modern demands. Novel extraction techniques must be developed to enhance analytical performance, while meeting the newfound call for greener sample preparation methods. Solid phase microextraction (SPME) is the most widely adopted as it allows solvent-less extraction that can be automated and adapted for in vivo and onsite applications [11]. The conventional configuration of SPME consists of an extraction phase coated on a solid, fiber-like support composed of fused silica, stainless steel or flexible metal alloys; this geometry allows ease of use and automated extraction and analysis [11]. As a sample preparation method, the use of SPME enables sampling and pre-concentration to be performed in one simple step, making the technique more versatile in its use and able to achieve better throughput compared to more laborious exhaustive methods such as SPE and LLE
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