Automation of solid-phase microextraction

This review discusses developments and future challenges in the automation of solid-phase microextraction (SPME). The emphasis of the review is placed on automated SPME-GC using fibre and in-tube configurations, and includes discussion of recent developments that may have significant implications for automation such as superelastic fibre assemblies and internally cooled fibre-SPME. Existing methods used for automated SPME-LC are summarised together with a more detailed overview of recent developments such as using solvent desorption followed by syringe injection using a robotic system. Progress towards automation of other SPME configurations is also discussed. © 2005 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.