Recovery of phosphonate surface contaminants from glass using a simple vacuum extractor with a solid-phase microextraction fiber

Recovery of chemical contaminants from fixed surfaces for analysis can be challenging, particularly if it is not possible to acquire a solid sample to be taken to the laboratory. A simple device is described that collects semi-volatile organic compounds from fixed surfaces by creating an enclosed volume over the surface, then generating a modest vacuum. A solid-phase microextraction (SPME) fiber is then inserted into the evacuated volume where it functions to sorb volatilized organic contaminants. The device is based on a syringe modified with a seal that is used to create the vacuum, with a perforable plunger through which the SPME fiber is inserted. The reduced pressure speeds partitioning of the semi-volatile compounds into the gas phase and reduces the boundary layer around the SPME fiber, which enables a fraction of the volatilized organics to partition into the SPME fiber. After sample collection, the SPME fiber is analyzed using conventional gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. The methodology has been used to collect organophosphorus compounds from glass surfaces, to provide a simple test for the functionality of the devices. Thirty minute sampling times (ΔTvac) resulted in fractional recovery efficiencies that ranged from 10−3 to >10−2, and in absolute terms, collection of low nanograms was demonstrated. Fractional recovery values were positively correlated to the vapor pressure of the compounds being sampled. Fractional recovery also increased with increasing ΔTvac and displayed a roughly logarithmic profile, indicating that an operational equilibrium is being approached. Fractional recovery decreased with increasing time between exposure and sampling; however, recordable quantities of the phosphonates could be collected three weeks after exposure.

Graphical abstract.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► A field vacuum extractor (FVE) nondestructively samples surface-adsorbed organics. ► The FVE creates a modest vacuum over the surface, volatilizing surface organics. ► A solid phase microextraction fiber (SPME) collects volatilized organics. ► The SPME is easily analyzed using GC/MS. ► The FVE enables collection chemical signatures from hard-to-sample surfaces.