Direct chromatographic methods in the context of green analytical chemistry

We review analytical protocols based on gas and liquid chromatography (GC and LC), but involving no sample preparation. Green analytical chemistry seeks to minimize negative impacts of analytical chemistry. Direct analytical methods ideally fulfill this requirement, as they preclude sample preparation – the most polluting step of the analytical procedure.We describe examples of GC methodologies for environmental and food analysis using on-column, programmed temperature vaporizers and injectors with sorbent-packed liners.Although LC methods are less amenable to eliminating sample pretreatment, we also present some successful applications of direct LC methods in environmental and food analysis, and bioanalysis.

► Direct chromatographic techniques meet the standards of green analytical chemistry.
► Direct chromatographic techniques can be applied in environmental and food analysis.
► Direct and indirect chromatographic methods have similar analytical performance.