Modern developments in gas chromatography–mass spectrometry-based environmental analysis

Abstract

Gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC–MS) continues to play an important role in the identification and quantification of organic contaminants in environmental samples. GC–MS is one of the most attractive and powerful techniques for routine analysis of some ubiquitous organic pollutants due to its good sensitivity and high selectivity and versatility. This paper presents an overview of recent developments and applications of the GC–MS technique in relation to the analysis in environmental samples of known persistent pollutants and some emerging contaminants. The use of different mass analysers such as linear quadrupole, quadrupole ion-trap, double-focusing sectors and time-of-flight analysers is examined. The advantages and limitations of GC–MS methods for selected applications in the field of environmental analysis are discussed. Recent developments in field-portable GC–MS are also examined.