Solid-Phase Extraction

Solid-phase extraction (SPE) is a sample preparation process that uses solid particle as sorbents, to chemically or physically separate the different components of a liquid or gas sample. It can be either used for extraction, that is, removal of sample matrix/concentrating compounds with a small volume of eluent or for cleanup that is, to remove unwanted molecules from the sample. When using SPE, the user should be aware of different strategies (extraction, fractionation, and cleanup), different interactions between components and sorbents (normal phase, reversed phase, ion-exchange, and molecular recognition), different formats (syringe barrel, disk type, packed bed, pipette tip, well-plate, and spin column), and different sampling types (online and offline SPE) for different applications.The objective of this chapter is to provide a simple explanation for SPE techniques and give some examples for new SPE materials. In the chapter, first, SPE’s development history has been explained. Furthermore, theoretical background and SPE strategies have been described with detailed figures. Second, types of SPE interactions and sample requirements are clarified using tables. In addition to that SPE formats and online SPE applications are mentioned. Finally, different sorbents used in SPE applications in the last decade have been explained by giving their advantages and disadvantages.