Solid phase microextraction was combined with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (SPME-GC-MS) for detection of hydrogen cyanide (HCN) in the headspace above deionized (DI) water samples, with linear results that were sensitive to below Department of Defense short-term drinking water standards. HCN and several common volatile organic contaminants were also detected in 3 water types in a laboratory and field setting. The method provides an advantage over the standard drinking water detection methods for HCN as it can also simultaneously detect common low molecular weight hydrocarbons. Linear results were achieved for the detection of diisopropylamine (DIPA) by SPME-GC-MS in soil from 0.72 - 3584.5 micrograms DIPA/g soil and in DI water from 0.018 - 17.9 microgram/milliliter. The methods were successfully field tested with common hydrocarbon contaminants in 3 common agricultural soil types and 3 water types. In particular, this methodology would be useful for investigation of a suspected VX nerve agent production facility. Solid phase dynamic extraction (SPDE) was compared to passive SPME for vapor sampling of DIPA and dimethyl methylphosphonate (DMMP) with analysis by fast GC-MS. Equilibrium sampling by SPDE for DIPA and DMMP vapor provided linear results at lower concentrations and gave larger extracted ion peak areas than comparable SPME sampling. This unique application has shown great potential for further laboratory and field use, both for health risk assessment and initial chemical detection employment.

A single source of authoritative information on all aspects of the practice of modern gas chromatography, from theory, to methods, to selected applications. It also provides access to core data for practical work, comparison of results, and decision making and facilitates the search for sources in related areas of study.

The threat of biological and chemical terrorism has driven the demand for timely techniques that can quickly detect the agent or agents used in an attack. The detection and/or prevention of these potential security threats provide significant scientific and technical challenges due to the combination of possible agents and modes of delivery available. This book will present a thorough look at the importance and technological challenges of mass spectrometry (MS) for the detection & identification of biological and chemical threats. This new contribution’s general aims are to draw the attention of recognized practitioners, experts and graduate students trying to grasp the latest MS developments in the cutting-edge fields of MS-biodefense technologies for the rapid/early/specific sensitive threat detection of pathogens, viruses, explosives, mycotoxins, chemical agents, and biological markers of xenobiotic chemicals.

The relatively new technique of solid phase microextraction (SPME) is an important tool to prepare samples both in the lab and on-site. SPME is a "green" technology because it eliminates organic solvents from analytical laboratory and can be used in environmental, food and fragrance, and forensic and drug analysis. This handbook offers a thorough background of the theory and practical implementation of SPME. SPME protocols are presented outlining each stage of the method and providing useful tips and potential pitfalls. In addition, devices and fiber coatings, automated SPME systems, SPME method development, and In Vivo applications are discussed. This handbook is essential for its discussion of the latest SPME developments as well as its in depth information on the history, theory, and practical application of the method. Practical application of Solid Phase Microextraction methods including detailed steps Provides history of extraction methods to better understand the process Suitable for all levels, from beginning student to experienced practitioner