Volatile sampling by headspace techniques

Abstract

We review the use of static headspace (S-HS) and dynamic headspace (D-HS) techniques for the extraction of volatiles from different matrices. We present fundamentals and the most relevant advances in instrumentation, together with detailed discussion on the most important parameters affecting HS sampling. We also describe some of the most recent and outstanding applications, classified according to the type of matrix – among them, the use of ionic liquids as solvents for S-HS, the coupling of D-HS to comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography, the development of novel miniaturized devices for D-HS sampling and increasing interest in approaches based on HS-mass spectrometry (HS-MS) for fast, unbiased sample classification. We also review multi-step strategies for accurate quantitation of volatiles in samples with noticeable matrix effects. To conclude, we show that HS sampling is a versatile, rapid, efficient, green technique for volatile extraction, free of interferences.