Solid phase microextraction (SPME) analysis of whole air samples

Air samples can be collected by a number of means and whole air sample coll ection in canisters or bags is one of the most frequently used options. How ever, whole air samples normally require preconcentration before analysis t o achieve sufficient method sensitivity for trace components and the proced ures are usually time consuming. This application note demonstrates that su ch a preconcentration for whole air samples can be done quickly with the so lid phase microextraction (SPME) technique, which is fast, simple to use, l ow in cost, solvent free, and combines the sample concentration and introdu ction procedures for whole air samples into one single step. In addition to the improved sensitivity, the SPME also provides a better precision than d irect injection of an air sample with a syringe.