Partitioning sample collection/solvent extraction cartridge packed with octadecyl-derivatized macroporous silica particles for the analysis of sesquiterpenes in air samples.

A novel sampling device based on the partition of target analytes to the extraction medium was developed for the determination of sesquiterpenes in air samples. The extraction medium was prepared by the chemical derivatization of a specially prepared macroporous silica, with a specific surface area of 2.0 m2/g. Taking advantage of the sample extraction, which was mainly based on the partition of sesquiterpenes between air and a C18-bonded phase, the extracted analytes were rapidly and quantitatively desorbed just by passing a small amount of desorption solvent for subsequent analysis by gas chromatography with mass spectrometry. Several experimental conditions, such as the sampling volume and temperature, were systematically evaluated. Under optimized conditions, desorption of the extracted analytes was completed within 1 min with a desorption efficiency of more than 99.9%, achieved using 5 mL of acetone for all the evaluated sesquiterpenes. The applicability of the developed device was confirmed by the determination of several sesquiterpenes from coniferous trees. Although further improvements of the device are required for collecting large volumes or high-temperature air samples, the potential of the developed sampling device was confirmed by determining traces of semivolatile organic compounds in air samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]