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Abstract
The importance of sample preparation methods as the first stage in an analytical procedure
is emphasised and examined. Examples are given of the extraction and concentration
of analytes from solid, liquid and gas phase matrices, including solvent phase extractions,
such as supercritical fluids and superheated water extraction, solid-phase extraction
and solid-phase microextraction, headspace analysis and vapour trapping. The potential
role of selective extraction methods, including molecular imprinted phases and affinity
columns, are considered. For problem samples alternative approaches, such as derivatisation
are discussed, and potential new approaches minimising sample preparation are noted.